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Over one-million passenger travelled by air and sea in 2023 compared to the previous year, but the total was still shy of pre-pandemic travel levels.
41,433 more passengers – a 6% increase - passed through the airport than in 2022, representing 81% of 2019 travel.
The most popular routes were Gatwick, Manchester and Jersey.
There was also strong growth in direct European flights which saw a large increase in non-UK passenger movements to 24,588 – up 15,759 on 2019’s numbers.
The harbour saw 35,354 additional passengers last year, representing a 16% increase.
The Jersey and Poole routes were responsible for most of the growth, while more regular services to France also boosted the numbers.
Ports bosses say they’re confident number will continue to climb this year, especially with additional routes being established in the UK and Europe.
Pictured: Flights will shortly be taking off to Paris Charles de Gaulle airport.
Managing Director, Colin Le Ray said: "International connectivity looks set to continue this year with the establishment of a direct Paris link for the first time in 15 years, while those visiting England will be able to fly into London City and London Stansted again from the end of March.
“In 2024, travellers from the Bailiwick will be better connected than they were in 2019, with direct flights to a wider range of destinations, and we hope that will stimulate further recovery while providing increasing choice.”
Attracting more visitors from the continent is a key aim of the States’ tourism bodies.
A Paris-based public relations partner has been appointed to market the islands to the French market, with emphasis being placed on the 80th anniversaries of D-Day this year, and Liberation Day next year.
An angling championship stage is being hosted locally later in the year, with Visit Guernsey hoping to capture the wide audience that carries with it.
There have also been encouraging signs for winter tourism at the end of 2023, with the shoulder colder months showing an uptick in bed occupancy compared with 2019.
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