BA flights to Heathrow having 'positive impact'

Passenger numbers for a recently launched airline route have been described as "encouraging".

Data released by the States of Guernsey showed 7,633 people used the British Airways (BA) route to and from the island during May, taking the total to 9,675 passengers since it launched in April.

An airport exit survey of 2,546 people also found 64% of departing passengers via Heathrow were visitors rather than residents.

Economic Development Committee President Sasha Kazantseva-Miller said it appeared the route was having a "positive impact".

"While it is too early to draw any firm conclusions, the early indications are very encouraging," Kazantseva-Miller said.

The survey results found the number of passengers using the BA Heathrow route meant the overall proportion of visitors through the airport was 60% in May compared to 45% in May 2025.

Lead marketing officer for the States of Guernsey and Visit Guernsey Zoe Gosling said being able to use BA's global reach was "like gold dust for us".

She said: "It is placing the islands in front of an audience of tens of millions who may not have considered us as a destination previously."

The data also showed seat capacity on Aurigny's Gatwick route during May was at 84%, which was a 3% passenger reduction on May 2025 - equivalent to 688 passengers.

Kazantseva-Miller added: "While there has been a small effect on Gatwick, there has been a net positive growth of passengers overall.

"The anecdotal evidence shared with me from industry leaders is suggesting that the new BA Heathrow link is already having a positive impact for business travel and bringing new business and clients."

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