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Establishing Jersey’s airport as a regional hub is an interesting idea but would be dependent on developing a reliable ‘feeder’ airline, according to an industry leader.
The President of the Guernsey Hospitality Association spoke to Express after Jersey re-iterated its intention to position Jersey's airport as a regional hub for the Channel Islands.
The States of Jersey recently published its Visitor Economy Strategy which identifies how the island will be promoting itself around the world.
In the document there’s the suggestion that Jersey will look to develop its airport as a focal point for Jersey, and the entire Bailiwick of Guernsey.
“Growing Jersey as a regional hub has the potential to impact tourism from neighbouring areas, grow inter-island travel and to be able to work more as ‘destination Channel Islands’ with the potential for greater international reach.”
Alan Sillett is the President of the GHA, he said the idea is dependent on affordable and reliable inter-island travel.
“This sort of collaborative effort between Jersey and Guernsey aims to boost the visitor economy of the entire Channel Islands region and is a step in the right direction in fostering a more unified approach to tourism and travel,” said Alan Sillett.
“The potential of Jersey emerging as a key hub for Channel Islands travel is an interesting idea, however, it's important to acknowledge that currently inter-island air travel remains far too costly."
Pictured: Mr Sillett.
“For the hub concept to succeed, affordable airfares would be essential, alongside establishing a reliable 'feeder' airline operation reminiscent of Aurigny's past services. Such an arrangement would facilitate smoother travel across the islands," continued Mr Sillett.
“Jersey’s airport runway enables industry-standard airplanes to operate there, and has a route map featuring nearly four times as many destinations as Guernsey, so is well-positioned to lead this initiative in improving inter-island air travel.
“While the prospect of using Jersey as a regional hub is noted,it's equally crucial for Guernsey to explore independent solutions to strengthen its own visitor economy. The question arises whether the local government and deputies share this ambition. Recent decisions, such as the States' rejection of installing EMAS last September, indicate a lack of vision and ambition concerning air link improvements within Guernsey.
“The GHA has faith and ambition for the future potential of our visitor economy, but if our government does not share that faith and ambition then perhaps this idea is an alternative option for our air links?”
Express reached out to the States of Guernsey for comment on the Strategy and were provided this statement from the Chair of the Tourism Management Board, Hannah Beacom:
"I don’t think it’s appropriate for me to comment on any specifics within Jersey’s strategy. We are currently focused on developing our tourism strategy, with this work progressing well. We’re on course to publish it in the first quarter of 2024 as planned.
"Speaking generally, we are open to working with Jersey on any areas where collaboration is possible and beneficial."
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