Aurigny and Blue Islands to share some routes to improve connectivity to and from the Channel Islands

Aurigny and Blue Islands have agreed to share some routes between the Channel Islands and the UK as a way of restoring connectivity following the pandemic.

The companies say they plan to 'harmonise' their schedules between Guernsey, Jersey, Exeter and Birmingham and offer same-day return services on certain days of the week. The agreement will be implemented in a phased approach following the easing of travel restrictions in July.

The carriers say there will be a 'collective effort' to restore regular flights between Guernsey and Southampton, an important lifeline route to the mainland. They also say measures are being put in place to provide flight options to those in Alderney, connecting in Guernsey through to Jersey.

The agreement is still subject to a consultation between the relevant authorities but both companies say they will remain independent, with pricing, promotion and customer care being managed by each airline independently.

The State's Trading Supervisory Board has welcomed the link.

Its President, Deputy Peter Roffey says "given the substantial overheads involved with operating air services, it makes good commercial sense for the airlines to work together".