Air show faces concern over fuel price turbulence

The organiser of Jersey's international air show said it is facing turbulence over rising aircraft fuel costs caused by the conflict in the Middle East and uncertainty over the size of the government grant.

Mike Higgins said half of the planes have already been booked for the free show at the seafront at St Aubin's Bay but is waiting to see how big the "essential" government grant will be.

He said the show on Thursday 10 September costs £250,000 to put on and generates between £1.5m and £2m to the economy and is one of the busiest weeks for hotels.

Higgins said the Royal Air Force's aerobatic display Red Arrows want to come to Jersey and he hopes to "be able to announce that shortly".

"We are hoping for another meeting with the government," said Higgins.

He told BBC Jersey that fuel that the US war with Iran "is having an impact" with fuel costs between 20% and 25% higher than last year and aviation fuel "is at a premium at the moment".

"We are juggling constantly to see what we can put on," he added.

Higgins said: "We are constantly looking at new ways of doing things like the lottery we used last year."

Without government funding he said "it would be smaller and it may not happen.

"I've booked half the aeroplanes for display, because I don't know what's happening next.

He added without government money "we will have a display" as he has secured sponsorship.

"I believe we can put on a basic air show, it may not be as exciting as some people wish."

Higgins added: "The event helps wellbeing, it's good for families, we've got a very high cost base in the island and a lot of people are suffering.

"It's one of those events that whole families can go and see, it's good from that point of view."

In 2024 the public and additional sponsors donated £30,700 to help with costs.

The government has been approached for comment.

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