Leeds Bradford Airport sees new airline Aurigny launch inaugural flight to Guernsey

The first flight to Guernsey by Aurigny, a newly introduced airline to Leeds Bradford Airport, took off today (May 27th).

Aurigny is the longest serving airline in the Channel Islands and in peak season will run four flights a week to the island of Guernsey on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

This inaugural flight, which was fully booked, has been organised to coincide with one of the busiest travel days across the region, as people jet off for a Bank Holiday weekend break from Leeds Bradford Airport.

Flights will depart Leeds Bradford at 14.10 and arrive in Guernsey just before 16.00. The return flights depart Guernsey at midday, arriving back in Leeds Bradford at 13.40. From October to May, the flights will operate on Mondays and Fridays, at the same times.

Tony Hallwood, Leeds Bradford Airport’s aviation development director, said: “It’s fantastic to launch this inaugural flight linking Leeds Bradford to Guernsey. We’re proud to introduce Aurigny and would like to extend a warm Yorkshire welcome to the airline. Passengers will now very much enjoy being able to travel to Guernsey directly from Leeds Bradford year round.

“This new route will also provide an important business link for the region, as businesses in Yorkshire will be able to benefit from additional connectivity with the Channel Islands. The Bank Holiday weekend is traditionally one of the busiest days of the year at Leeds Bradford and it is fitting that Aurigny are commencing their new service today.

“We are always focused on making sure we provide the very best service to our customers and a fantastic start to their travels, so our teams will be especially pleased to welcome Aurigny passengers through our doors for the first time.”

Malcolm Coupar, Aurigny’s commercial director, added: “Leeds Bradford is a welcome addition to the Aurigny network. It becomes our eighth, year round destination and customers flying to Guernsey will be able to enjoy Aurigny’s “frills” of a free 20kg hold luggage allowance and an extra 10kg as cabin baggage.

“We also serve complimentary soft drinks, or tea or coffee, en route. We started selling tickets in December and the route has generated lots of interest. We’re looking forward to providing our new customers from the Leeds Bradford area and beyond direct access to the beautiful island of Guernsey and its stunning neighbouring islands of Herm, Sark and Alderney.”

Mike Hopkins, director of Marketing and Tourism at Visit Guernsey, also commented: “The launch of the new Leeds Bradford route provides an excellent opportunity for us to target and attract additional visitor numbers from the north and north east of England. We will be working closely with Aurigny and our tour operator partners to help maximise the potential from this new route.”