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The extension of Alderney’s runway appears to be the most popular choice after hundreds attended a public presentation in Alderney.
A drop-in session was held in the island this week, by representatives from Guernsey Ports, to outline three options for future-proofing Alderney’s air links.
300 islanders were presented with three options. Option A would be for the full rehabilitation of the runway, option B would be the same but with an added allowance to allow for larger aircraft in the future, and option C would be for an extension of the runway.
You can read a full breakdown of the options HERE.
Extending the runway from 877m to 1,050m would allow for larger aircraft to land in the island.
Pictured: Rehabilitating Alderney’s runway would extend its lifespan by 15 – 20 years.
The CEO of Aurigny, Nico Bezuidenhout, explained the case for extending the runway at length during the event.
He said it would allow Aurigny’s ATRs to land in the island. Morning and evening rotational flights would bring 20,000 additional seats to Alderney routes.
Utilising larger aircraft would also accrue savings down the line, making option C more financially viable.
The Chairman of Alderney’s Policy & Finance Committee, Bill Abel, said: “It was clear that those attending were given a better understanding of the options being evaluated and the potential benefits to the Island.
“States of Alderney and Chamber of Commerce Members who attended were clear that an extended, modernised and widened runway made the most sense and would future-proof the Island's air infrastructure.”
Pictured: Mr Abel said: “The displays were informative and the professional way that the Airports and Aurigny officers engaged with members of the community reflected the level of work and their understanding of the options being presented”.
The event was hosted by Guernsey Ports Managing Director, Colin Le Ray; Chief Operating Office, Ross Coppolo and States Trading Group’s Communications Manager, Jim Anderson.
The group was also joined by Mr Bezuidenhout and the Head of Flight Operations, Carl Phelan.
After the event Mr Abel said: “The payback to the Bailiwick is that option C will save money in the long-term and Alderney will benefit from increased numbers of visitors and people wanting to live here, thus benefiting the economy and contributing more in tax”.
The States Trading Supervisory Board will now put recommendations to Guernsey’s Policy and Resources Committee, along with a detailed business case.
Public meeting on options to improve Alderney’s runway
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