Flybe sees flights to Jersey soar

Low-cost carrier Flybe recently announced a surge in demand for flights from Gatwick Airport to Jersey.

According to representatives from the budget airline, advanced seat sales along the route have increased by a quarter compared to the same time frame last year.

The growing popularity of the region may be due to the global credit crunch which ahs left many Britons searching for lower cost vacations closer to home. In addition, the route has always been popular for Jersey residents who connect through Gatwick for their vacation flights or conduct business and shopping trips in London.

Mike Rutter, the airline’s chief commercial officer, said: “We have been absolutely bowled over by the demand on this key route. Our decision to offer islanders the opportunity to fly to London on our brand new 118-seat state of the art Embraer 195 jet aircraft has clearly been welcomed by islanders wanting to enjoy not only an affordable service but one that is comfortable with spacious 2×2 seating configuration.”

Rutter said that the airline was committed to continuing operations along the route. “We are committed to serving the island community by providing the most affordable and convenient service on this route. It is one we recognize as being of strategic importance to both business and leisure travellers,” he said.

Flybe said that the increased popularity of the route may lead to new flights being added in the future. “We are considering increasing our daily schedule with the addition of another two flights, especially at the beginning and end of the day. With this end in view we are exploring whether slots would be available to take the service to eight a day,” Rutter commented.