BLUE ISLANDS

[Geo73]

ATR 42 G-ZEBS c/n 066 ex F-HBSO registered to Blue Islands yesterday.

[guern123]

Are we presuming the G-DRFC that collapsed earlier this year is beyond repair / being replaced?

[GCI10]

In Blue Islands' recent GCI-BRS route applicate it stated under contingency plans that the airline will have 2 ATR 42-320s and one -500 to cover operations by winter 2011 should the Jet stream fleet be unavailable. So, perhaps expansion?

[Jerbourg]

Once again Blue want a slice of someone elses route, GCI-BRS will not support two carriers. It is about time this self proclaimed CI airline tried to grow the GCI market with some NEW routes instead of try always to nibble at GR. I bet GCI-MAN is net on the shopping list.

[J-Guy]

To be fair towards Blue Islands, they have done well between Jersey and Bristol and passenger numbers are up by quite a significant amount. I would imagine Blue Islands want to replicate this success in Guernsey.

I agree there are other options for route growth from Guernsey that could be explored – perhaps Cardiff, Leeds/Bradford or London City – but if Blue Islands operate the route twice daily as they do from Jersey, I am sure it will be popular with business people and locals.

Of course, Jersey was underserved from Bristol, with Flybe only operating a 5 times a week service, however, passengers numbers on the Guernsey to Bristol route have been declining for a number of years, and if Blue Islands can increase demand then I think competition should be welcomed.

[GAMPY]

You would probably have a shock if you knew how many GCI people elect to fly to/from BRS via JER with Blue Islands!

[tin canary]

No. 66

Another "new" old a/c.

And if they don't get the Bristol route? Put it on the Southampton or how about GCI to LCY?

Ooh no that would be a new route for Guernsey, shock horror!

[guern123]

It's great hearing everyone talk about "NEW" Guernsey routes but you are forgetting 1 major factor. The states of Guernsey control who flies where and OWN Aurigny !! On the grape vine ive heard that Blue Islands considered applying for LCY but were basically told don't bother you wont get the slots. Have a look on the BI booking page you can book flights from GCI to Man,LCY,Bristol but all via Jersey as BI only have the licence for GCI to Jersey. Any route that takes passengers from the Aurginy routes will be turned down IE LCY as all companies at the moment have to use Gatwick (Aurginy or Flybe) to get to london. When Flybe tried to renew their GCI - Manchester licence it was not renewed as Flybe wanted a summer only service. Yet when Air Berlin apply to fly from Europe to Guernsey Summer only they are allowed. Could this be as Aurigny dont operate to German etc.. yet do fly to Manchester.
What Guernsey need to do is have an open skies policy. If enough people want a route run and it makes money then it will work. If that airline then charges to much people wont use it and the airline will pull out so it will be in the best intrest of the airlines to keep prices fair. Lets see easy jet and BA come to Guernsey.
A lot of talk is about runway lenght etc.. but Guernseys runway can already handle the E175's that Flybe have started to get, have had 737's and Airbus A319's land here in the past and once the runway re surfacing and strenghtening is finished next year will be able to take the E195's in wet and dry (currently restricted to dry conditions only).
Oh and 1 last note in the new "States of Guernsey" the Treasury Minister who controls the purse strings is also a Director of Aurigny so guess where all states members have been told to book business travel with !! Not sure if a states member would spend our taxes on a £250 Aurigny ticket or £125 flybe one ? I dont work for the airlines and have no preference when flying except which ever is cheapest but to keep prices down the more competion the better it works fine in Jersey they have an amazing flight network set up lets see it over here.

[quazz]

BA pulled out of Guernsey. Don't you remember why Aurigny ended up being owned by the states? And if Easyjet had even hinted at the possibility of operating into GCI, do you not think we would have heard about it.
Even with an open skies policy, I doubt we will get any of the major carriers bothering to turn up because the passenger numbers just would not be there.

[guern123]

If i remember BA didn't quite pull out. If i remember correctly at the time BA had Gatwick slots and Aurigny flew to Amsterdam. A deal was done to swap slots between the 2. Even back then Flybe / British European / JEA what ever they were then were flying GCI - LGW. What we also have to remember is Gatwick is under new mangerment and it wont be long before they squeeze the smaller airlines out like Aurigny. As you quite rightly say Easyjet / BA may not be interested on GCI-LGW on its own but what about a triangular route with Jersey to increase the load factors. Soon airports are only going to want bigger aircraft earning them more money - its sad to say but small regional airlines have had their time. I cant see Aurigny / BI ever running 737's / A319's just to keep gatwick slots. Guernsey need bigger aircraft from bigger airlines which can fit Guernsey into their flight network.

[LGS6753]

Around 63,000 people live on Guernsey. The idea that it can sustain much traffic, or on large aircraft, is fanciful. The low population is the reason why Aurigny exists, and is in the hands of the States Government.
Tourism would be insufficient to support more than a weekly summer service from most places.

[Jerbourg]

Guern123 - Blue Islands would have been awared the LCY route if they had bothered to apply, The States Of GCI will give a licence to any new route - FACT. However at the time Mr Coates thought his airline was above having to bother with that sort of thing (route applications) & hence LCY out of GCI was a non starter. I also seem to remember him stating that he wouldn't start any "new" routes out of GCI until it had an open skies policy & now here we have him applying for BRS!

[putneyuk]

G-ZEBS the new (old) ATR arrived in Bournemouth this afternoon for painting

[adfly]

Is this an addition or a replacement? If so, where will it be used?

[shamrock7seal]

Any indication that Blue Islands will consider increasing frequency/or aircraft size on the BOH-JER/GCI route?

Surely it isn't sustainable to have tu,th,sa flights (possibly the weakest days of the week in terms of demand) on these services. They don't compete at all with Flybe at SOU.

[rareair]

"They don't compete at all with Flybe at SOU."

They don't need the BOH flights to compete at SOU, since they fly 3 x daily to both islands from SOU.

[9287Excellent]

How is the Blue Islands service to/from Bournemouth doing?? Is it likely to get any increase in frequency??

[adfly]

If the 'new' ATR is an addition to the fleet then I could see it maybe going onto the SOU routes to improve SI's product and number of seats vs Flybe which in turn could free up a J32 to operate BOH daily from JER or 4 weekly/3 weekly alternating with GCI. Alternatively the route could stay around 3/4 weekly but on an ATR or even a Daily ATR in the Summer.

So many possibilities! Although I would consider them to be fairly realistic assuming there is space/capacity to do so.

[MARKEYD]

Loads average about 10 / 13 on the Bournemouth flight using a 19 seater aircraft so i would not imagine its up for an increase just yet

[adfly]

That is a good point but a daily service does add some flexibility and makes the service more attractive to customers who would otherwise fly from SOU and in the summer at least I very much doubt they would struggle to get reasonable loads on a 19 seat J32.

[tin canary]

If they put it on the GCI-SOU or JER-sou i think that FLYBE will have a sense of humour failure and that will cost Derek a whole lotta wonga. Bring it on asap!:E

[Nakata77]

Operating a 2-4-6 service from BOH will limit overall demand.

Plus the fares that are necessary to make a J-31 worthwhile are also steep.

If you were to add aircraft size, with a corresponding lower increase in cost you get cheaper seats. This then stimulates demand. It might be possible to achieve better results with an ATR-42 on this route. OR improved schedules for a J-31 operation will have a beneficial effect on demand.

They are more than covering their costs with a 55-60% load factor and average fares of 75GBP

[Jerbourg]

Operating GCI-JER to Chambrey this winter in conjunction with ski specialist Inghams.

Also rumoured -

to be looking at operating JER to Paris & Amsterdam,

decreasing the Jetstream fleet to 1 or 2 examples by year end

& putting an ATR42 on the GCI-Southampton.

***********

ATR42 G-DRFC has been written off.

[macuser]

Certainly FC has been sitting at JER with a wrap around the port engine minus prop since the incident. The mangled port gear was probably the main problem.

[MKY661]

According to Jethros it has now been written off.

[Jerbourg]

Looks like all inter-island flights cancelled for this afternoon & already one for tomorrow morning.


More tech issues one wonders?

[harriewillem]

Noticed this morning at LCY that Denim Air was operating with the Fokker 50 for Blue Islands registration was PH-JXN if I'm correct

BCI problems again on their ATR fleet?

[Barling Magna]

JER-LCY-JER last night operated into SEN. Why was that....?

[Expressflight]

I wondered if it was either aircraft or crew not LCY certificated as the FPL was JER-SEN-JER so not a diversion. It looks as if the flight was delayed 2 hours out of JER so maybe an aircraft change was required?

[Expressflight]

Today's JER-LCY-JER is operating to SEN again. Presumably the same problem as existed on Friday when this happened.

[Barling Magna]

So Blue Islands is taking on Easyjet on the SEN-JER route...... :)

Actually a SEN-GCI route might work for Blue Islands....

[harriewillem]

Two More Direct European Services - Blue Islands (http://www.blueislands.com/flying-blue/news/news-stories/two-more-direct-european-services)

[guern123]

any idea on what ac will be used

[J-Guy]

New routes are always welcome; I just hope the passenger numbers are there to support these routes. Paris has a good chance of working out; numbers were not great with Flybe, but Blue Islands' prices, frequency, capacity etc might suit the route better. I suspect Amsterdam will rely on the support of tour operators although February doesn't seem a great time to start.

Having said that, a trip around the Benelux region seems tempting for next summer:ok:

[jimmer79]

According to southampton airports scheduled timetable page there will be weekend runs to the channel islands on Blue islands F-100 equipment. Now this could be an error but would they get the equipment wrong on 2 routes? Anybody else heard about them getting jets?

[rareair]

E-Newsletter | Blue Islands (http://blueislands.createsend3.com/t/ViewEmail/r/24333903704516C2/335D94389A37FB8FA4A88C2FAEAC43DE)

Look at the email version of the Paris and Amsterdam press release, spot the error - or maybe they do have transatlantic ambitions!

[akerosid]

If they could get interline or codeshare deals with AF and/or KL, things could get very interesting; CDG alone has far more intl connections than LHR, let alone LGW and would probably steal quite a few pax.

I'd be very surprised if they started this route with anything but an ATR42. There were rumours a while back of a third ATR42, so maybe it's in connection with this?

Scheduling will be very important; as far as possible, they'll need to try and feed into/out of AF's or (preferably!) KL's hub timings at CDG/AMS. It would be great to get through fares from here (JER) to various international destinations - DXB, HKG, JNB etc.

[SWBKCB]

As they're advertising

No Air Passenger Duty (APD) – connect via Europe rather than the UK and save hundreds

they can't looking to interline or that would be a single ticket and thus subject to APD.

Think they're being a bit disingenuous and trying to have their cake and eat it...

[Jerbourg]

I can't see anyone wanting to code share with Blue Islands.

[PeteAndre]

As the flights are from the CI (self-governing and outside UK parliamentary jurisdiction) and they arrive in Continental Europe they will not be subject to UK APD.

Only flights between UK and CI are subject to APD - even flights originating in the CI to the UK are not. Blue Islands are correct in their claim.

Pete

[Yak97]

Bit of a flog in a J32?

http://www.caa.co.uk/docs/213/2072.pdf

[Aero Mad]

To be operated for Channel Islands Travel Service (once weekly, Saturdays) next summer using an ATR42.

[putneyuk]

Blue Island today announced they are to pull out of Bournemouth and Isle of Man from February 2013

[tin canary]

Isn't that the second pull out from BOH?

Third time lucky...

I hear a third ATR42 and the Jetstreams down to one as a backup.

Can that really be true?

[putneyuk]

Yes second time Blue Island have pulled out of Bournemouth. Thought the loads hadnt been too bad considering time of day and frequency of the flight,
but like many have said am not sure Blue Island know who or what they are.

[globetrotter79]

I would guess that the introduction of revised APD which will include the Jetstreams for the first time was always going to kill the BOH route.

Assuming SI are going to stay on the BRS route, I assume this is going onto the ATR in future?

[Feet on ground]

With AMS and CDG starting in February and being on sale, there must be a third ATR coming soon. Strange that BRS-JER is still showing as a Jetstream.

[MerchantVenturer]

JER-BRS is supposed to be an ATR from February:

140% more seats on Bristol service – Bristol Airport (http://www.bristolairport.co.uk/media-centre/news-releases/2012/12/blue-islands.aspx)

However, a test booking for May still shows the aircraft as a Jetstream.

[Jerbourg]

Merchantventurer - Another ATR42 is due to join the fleet next week, so this would seem correct.

Are the Trislanders still in "store" at EXT or have they been sold does anyone know? (If still at EXT SI could make a bit of free publicity by donating one to the IWM collection at Duxford I'm thinking)

[PlymouthPixie]

There is atleast still 1 Trislander in store at Exeter. Doing think they're going anywhere soon.

[J-Guy]

This is not really news, but an observation.

The Cityjet charter flight, which has for many years operated from Rotterdam to the Channel Islands in the summer, will this year be replaced by the Blue Island service to Amsterdam. This is flown 3x a week, including a Saturday service. Passengers to Guernsey will transfer in Jersey.

It is an obvious move to ensure that the flight has tour operator backing (like Zurich). With the flights operating more frequently, it makes the option of short-breaks more appealing, which has been tried before with a mid-week service to Rotterdam.

In addition, Blue Islands will fly to Cambridge and Dundee as it did for the first time last year.

[GAMPY]

Denim Air will operate all services JER SOU for a fortnight beginning 18 March using a Fokker 50 as a trial to see if loads increase wth the introduction of a larger aircraft.

[putneyuk]

Blue Island have registered ATR42-320 G-ISLG ex F-HAAV

[GAMPY]

FC is to be parted out in Jersey starting next week

[propblade]

Any news RE routes / A/c?

Also With Flybe not doing so well, will Blue Islands save the day for CITS?

[propblade]

http://www.skyworld.co.uk/Portals/0/pdf/BAE%20Jetstream%2032%20sn%20871%20JH.pdf

[propblade]

What's next for Blue Islands?

[propblade]

EZY rumoured to be bidding for JER - BRS
Another ATR rumoured to be around before new year?

[airhumberside]

Bidding? I thought Jersey was open skies?

[propblade]

Depends who you are, like everything in the Channel Islands

[Geo73]

Jersey is open skies.

[kcockayne]

Another, small, nail in BEE's coffin.

[macuser]

I mentioned on another thread about a year ago, EZY for JER-LGW, then BRS, MAN and EDI. Missed BFS though!

[tin canary]

Advertising for cabin crew in GCI.
A second a/c to be based there?
Is it another 42 or a 72 maybe?
Guess we'll know soon enough on the thread.

[Ayline]

Probably another ATR42 to operate Guernsey-Southampton.

[propblade]

I would suggest an ATR72, 5 crew intake for 3 flights a day (SOU) seems over the top.
GCI-LCY on the cards?
If so a 72-500, not sure a 200 would cut it.

[Expressflight]

Recently there was some talk of GCI-SEN next summer but whether or not there is any substance to that I don't know.

[GAMPY]

It's a 72 for inter-island and JER SOU. GCI SOU is a dead loss for them so once the JS fleet goes the few GCI SOU passengers will go via JER. A 42 will open GCI LCY. Aurignyflot has got its own way as well I hear and have got a guaranteed monopoly on GCI LGW.

[GAZMO]

Mac user

If a little late EZY starting BFS to JER in summer 14, flights on sale from this Wednesday

Oops sorry mac user I misinterupted your comment ....please ignore

[propblade]

72-500 or 72-200?

[Jerbourg]

I can't see GCI pax wanting to travel via JER to get to SOU, you looking at nearly an extra hour in travelling time. Flybe will rightly get all the GCI pax.

[hapzim]

GCI-LCY that is good competition for Aurigny unlike a head to head on LGW. It also give us the paying passengers a better choice of destinations and will keep the prices honest on other routes.

Shame there is not an ATR.. GCI-JER-AMS-GCI-JER early morning prior to 07:30 and late afternoon JER-GCI-AMS-JER-GCI landing about 20:30 for the business / leisure (code share) world to connect with KLM/AF long haul traffic. Better than LHR to transfer from. Would also give an early G-J and late J-G hop for local traffic.

Lets wait and see ...please :hmm:

[akerosid]

Has SI entered into interline agreements either KL, LX or AF at AMS, ZRH or CDG, respectively?

Will they check bags through to final destinations to/from JER?

[macuser]

Jerbourg - Agreed. There is something wrong about going South first to then go North, apart from the time taken.

[Saab2000 Freak]

Confirmed in an advert in todays press and on their website, ATR 72 to operate GCI-SOU 3 x daily direct departing at 07:15, 13:25 and 18:00 starting mid December. Taking FlyBE head on!

[kcockayne]

Someone is going to lose a lot of money !

[Jerbourg]

A previous MD of Blue liked to describe Blue Islands on the SOU route as "the itch that Flybe couldn't scratch." I think now with the introduction of an ATR72 Flybe will be getting the back scratcher ready for use.

[MKY661]

Blue Islands are to Aquire another ATR. Unsure when :)

[GAMPY]

er try today! G-ISLI ATR72 on its way

[MKY661]

er try today! G-ISLI ATR72 on its way

Oh Wow Thank You :)

[kcockayne]

An extra 220 seats per day. Who's going to fill them. And, to who's cost ?

[GAMPY]

Wait and see what further announcements come from Flybe's new management in early December! Also, Blue Islands' pricing policy is more transparent and much more user-friendly that the BE convolutions/rules and regulations.

[lwaw1uk]

were is the ATR72 coming from !! ex !!

[kcockayne]

I'm not favouring either operator; my point being that there is simply not the demand for 450+ seats per day between EGJB & EGHI.
Someone is going to get badly burned !

[GAMPY]

c/n 529 - a/c heading to Billund first....

[GAMPY]

You missed my point which was rather vague I admit........wait and see what BE has to say when the new management makes public its strategy in early December.

[kcockayne]

OK. Will wait with baited breath !

[BOHEuropean]

Flybe's plan is currently due to be announced along side their results, which I think is something like the 11th November

[propblade]

MSN 529. Ex American Eagle

[propblade]

Rumour of another ATR in March.
J32's therefore to be retired.
Would GCI-LCY work and would it be able to sustain adequate traffic numbers?

[MKY661]

G-ISLI Delivered Yesterday :)

[Jerbourg]

I wonder if Blue would look at SOU-LBA a route being dropped by BE, seems logical to me to try and increase their presence at SOU.

[wallp]

Could Blue Islands be a potential future operator of the now axed Flybe services from Luton?

[RexBanner]

If they fancy ferrying 12/13 people to and from Luton in the height of summer. But then again they may price it more sensibly than Flybe.

[wallp]

Was that a typical load factor on Flybe?


The route has done well previously so perhaps pricing was the issue in which case Blue Islands could perhaps make it work

[virginblue]

Why should they cannibalize the LCY service? In fact, any seasonal summer service to London that is axed could potentially shift passengers to the LCY service. As that service probably sees less demand during the summer than at other times of the year, it appears to be more sensible to make some cheaper tickets available on those flights than run a dedicated LTN service that leaves both services with half empty planes. It is not as if JER passengers could go for a LHR service instead of LTN anymore....

[ATPLwhoops]

I think they could really up their game now, but depends what's viable. I mentioned in the Cardiff thread that they could do well serving the CWL CDG route in a W pattern from JER. That could work i think. Not really many regional operators left.

[virginblue]

To me the problem is that BE was not able to operate the Q400 profitably despite the fact that a Q400 can break even with less than 50 per cent load. (at least that is what was always said about the great economics of the Q400). How could SI expect to operate an ATR42 profitably given that the trip costs are not much different from the Q400 and the typical SI fare is much higher, meaning that they will only be able the non-price sensitive part of the market and the higher fares are waterred down by less passengers?

[GAMPY]

Eastern are takin it on

[GAMPY]

Eastern is taking it on - this was referring to Jerbourg's suggestion that BCI would maybe like to do LBA SOU!

[Yak97]

Isn't there a problem with the likes of Blue Island, Aurigny operating UK internal services as they do not hold an EU Operating Licence only a CAA Air Transport Licence?

From CAA website

Air Transport Licences

Air Transport Licences are similar both in their scope and their effect to Route Licences, but are granted to air carriers that are either registered or based in the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man, both of which are outside the EEA. These companies are unable to hold Operating Licences and are therefore also excluded from holding Route Licences, which may only be granted to holders of Operating Licences. Air carriers in the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man, which operate UK registered aircraft, are therefore required to hold Air Transport Licences.

1. Air operators which are registered or have their principal place of business in the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man, both of which are outside the EEA, are not eligible under the Council Licensing Regulation to hold Operating Licences and do not benefit from the general access to intra-EEA routes conferred by the Licensing Regulation.

Air Transport Licences | Airline Licensing | Operations and Safety (http://www.caa.co.uk/default.aspx?catid=576&pagetype=90&pageid=2310)

[OntimeexceptACARS]

Blue Islands operated summer ATR42 charter services to Glasgow last year, anyone know if they are doing the same this year?

[propblade]

Seems Blue Island have let the cat out of the bag with regard their next aircraft they will receive.
With a 30 minute turnaround scheduled on the freshly announced Saturday service it would seem they are heading in the direction of ATR72, let's hope it's another 72-500.
Good luck to them!

[GAMPY]

I hear that CITS has asked them to repeat the entire charter programme and also add OXF JER to the mix.....

[GAMPY]

Which Saturday service is this then?

[bmaviscount]

Does anyone understand why blue islands haven't jumped at a GCI -LCY service after the flybe LGW debacle. Could also now add LTN into the mix.

[propblade]

Gampy check the BCI website, Saturday lunchtime service to BRS

[propblade]

Any news on the SI/GR inter island front?

[Matt7504]

Rumour has it that SI are getting in a second ATR 72-500 to be based at EGJJ, would it be a wise assumption to say that this will operate on the Jersey-Southampton just like the Guernsey based ATR?

[Geo73]

With Flybe closing its base in Jersey there will be no early morning departure to Southampton or a late evening return to Jersey so I would say your assumption is correct.

[Geo73]

Guernsey-Jersey air route 'codeshare' deal takes off as airlines granted permission


AURIGNY and Blue Islands have been granted permission to codeshare on the Guernsey-Jersey route after the airlines applied for an exemption under the islands’ competition laws.

Having taken into account responses to a consultation on the issue, the Channel Islands Competition and Regulatory Authorities has granted the exemption providing certain conditions are observed by the airlines.
Under the codeshare agreement, which will run initially for two years, Aurigny will take a fixed block of seats on flights operated by Blue Islands between Guernsey and Jersey using the 46-seat ATR42 aircraft, with ground support at the airports in both islands for those flights provided by Aurigny.
Aurigny will pay Blue Islands a fixed charge for the seats.
Cicra chief executive Andrew Riseley said the authority had ultimately concluded that the interests of customers would be best-served by allowing the airlines to codeshare.

[Cloud1]

Is Blue Islands using their 'new' ATR72 yet? I thought it was due to start ops in December but I have not seen any online photos or vids of it yet. A couple of youtube videos say -72 when actually its the -42s featured.

Did Blue Islands decide against the larger aircraft or is it in operation on their network?

[BOHEuropean]

It entered service almost immediately, and is used on the GCI-SOU route everyday... think there's a few photos on flickr.

[Geo73]

G-ISLI Aerospatiale ATR 72-212A | Flickr - Photo Sharing! (http://www.flickr.com/photos/guernseyairportphotography/11238007234/)

[CabinCrewe]

"Blue Islands operated summer ATR42 charter services to Glasgow last year, anyone know if they are doing the same this year?"
Been canned. Wasn't bookable after last summer. Quite a long stretch for BI. Surprised its didn't do well as was reported to have reasonable loads.
Would be perfect for a Aurigney leased Emb !

[wallp]

Could Blue Islands take on the LTN-JER route? Luton needs a new operator & I wondered if Blue Islands might be tempted, particularly at weekends when their London City service only has a single Sunday service.

[fjencl]

I see Dundee airport is looking for an airline to operate services from Dundee to London, maybe blue islands could be interested ?????

[Aero Mad]

Heard nothing solid either way (to dispel rumour) but SI has operated Dundee - Jersey before as a weekly seasonal charter for CI Travel in 2012 and 2013.

Blue Islands ATR 42 G-ISLF taking off from Dundee | Flickr - Photo Sharing! (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dramofwhisky/7276187606/)

[Cyrano]

I see Dundee airport is looking for an airline to operate services from Dundee to London, maybe blue islands could be interested ?????

As an operator from the Channel Islands (UK Crown Dependency rather than UK if I recall correctly, but happy to be corrected), does Blue Islands have the right to operate UK-domestic services?

[Jerbourg]

Jersey European were a Channel Island registered company & used to fly UK domestic services if that helps..


I doubt Blue would be interested in UK internal flights as they seem only to be focused on the CI - mostly Jersey services.

[bean]

Jersey European domestic services in the UK were operated after JEA became a UK registered company. to operate Dundee to London Blue Islands would have to form a UK company and I can't see them being remotely interested in operating DND-LON

[bean]

Jersey European domestic services in the UK were operated after JEA became a UK registered company. to operate Dundee to London Blue Islands would have to form a UK company and I can't see them being remotely interested in operating DND-LON

[guern123]

Anyone noticed that since they announced GR/BI sharing aircraft from mid march on GCI-JER route how much BI prices have gone up. BI use to be between £37 and £45 for decent times of day flights. Now even booking months in advance they are £52.00 (granted a few during the crap times are £40.00). I thought this joint venture was agreed by the states to keep costs down yet they have gone up !!!

[JetJamie]

Rumours out of the Blue hangar is that they are set to announce a 4th rotation to SOU daily starting next month. Does this move mean a Flybe pull out on the route or merely just an escalation in hostilities?! No idea what the loads are. Anyone got any clues?

[cobopete]

BBC CI confirmed today that BI will operate an extra rotation on the route, confirming the above post. A quick look at their website suggests that loads are good. The BBC item states that BI have experienced a 44 percent increase in PAX year on year.


Pete

[Matt7504]

Blue Islands recently announced on their website that they are due to get another ATR-72 in October for their Southampton rotation. Though, I wonder, will this be based in Guernsey or Jersey?

[cobopete]

BBC CI stated tonight that Blue is dropping its Soton -Jersey route as it withdraws Jetstream from service. FlyBe agree to accommodate PAX who had booked BCI - opposite to what has happened on GCI route!

[Jerbourg]

According to this news article Blue claim they could return to the route next summer..




Blue Islands is suspending its Jersey to Southampton route - ITV News (http://www.itv.com/news/channel/story/2014-11-06/blue-islands-is-suspending-its-jersey-to-southampton-route/)

[rob39]

Do we know who they sold the 2 j32's to??? Linksair would be a good contender

[Jerbourg]

Blue have today announced that they will cease flying direct European services from Jersey, the exception being winter ski flights. They have also signed a codeshare deal with Cityjet and are hoping to feed passengers to ZRH/CDG/AMS via LCY.


Blue Islands enters codeshare with Cityjet - Business News | businesslife.co (http://www.businesslife.co/BusinessNews.aspx?id=blue-islands-enters-codeshare-with-cityjet)

[Aero Mad]

Not a good day for SI.

Zurich, Amsterdam and Paris closing today along with Geneva going winter only and Southampton from Jersey in late October bringing the total to four routes gone and one seriously reduced within just over a month. But then old habits die hard, and SI management have always (even right back before the days Slasher Sabin) had a tendency to slash and burn. Grand total now up to 21 since 2001...

At least growth of JER-LCY to 3x daily is something of a boon, and loads/yields seem positive. Whether pax buy into the codeshare remains to be seen, but what has been sacrificed in direct connectivity has at least been replaced by regularity.

We know the Wetdreams are off (at last) - but an ATR is now liberated. All I know is there's a DAT AT7 sitting in GCI on ACMI currently keeping up the SOU route during fleet maintenance downtime, and that must be costing a penny or three. Bets on what will happen to spare capacity? To cull or not to cull?

[HWY4A]

Aero Mad, what on earth are you going on about? You are a self confessed ACI/Aurigny Aviation Historian that hasn't even got off the rock to go to university yet. But you are the expert on how SI are doing?!

As much as I'm rather annoyed that they've cut the continental direct flights (I had a Disney return flight booked) I have used their services several times, and the loads were generally not great on the continentals.

As a historian, how many direct continental routes have survived from various airlines over the years? As a historian, running a small regional airline with several types works does it? As an Alderney resident, how's it going with your lifeline routes with GR after the vast majority of rock residents told SI to go jump?

[Aero Mad]

HWY4A, if you want to know what I'm on about then re-read my post. Incidentally, if you'd even bothered to do the slightest bit of research before suggesting that I 'hadn't even got off the rock yet' then you'd have found out I am not a resident of Alderney, and never have been. I've actually gone straight into a job and intend to go to university next year - but as an aside, frankly it's news to me that the many people on PPRuNe and elsewhere who haven't been to university ('yet' or otherwise) are not entitled to hold opinions?? Nope, actually it's not news - it's just a tad offensive.

Indeed, I'm no 'expert' on SI, nor on GR or anything to do with the Channel Islands. I just sit down and chronicle to the best of my ability what others don't bother to whilst there are still enough people around to remember what's worth recording. If you'd prefer to do that yourself and give me a few weeks of my life every year back which I could be using scoffing Dominos while watching films with friends then you're quite welcome to.

As an Alderney resident, how's it going with your lifeline routes with GR after the vast majority of rock residents told SI to go jump? Ignoring the initial premise, DC on the one hand declared four years ago (19 Jul 2010, BBC) that there was 'currently no realistic alternative aircraft' to the Trislander whilst on the other spending most of another interview (16 Jul 2010, Alderney Journal) describing the Tris as 'OAPs of the sky... they might only have three years left'. Even if he didn't mean to scaremonger unnecessarily, insodoing he far from helped his case. I think most people in Alderney see GR as no angel; no charity but much prefer the devil they've known for just a little over 45 years. Today, the lifelines are seeing unprecedented investment and although transition has obviously been very poor, things are looking very positive in the medium-term. Old ground.

As a historian, how many direct continental routes have survived from various airlines over the years? As a historian, running a small regional airline with several types works does it?
I wasn't criticising the decision to sell the Jetstreams (not quite sure you reached that conclusion), nor the decision to cut the continental routes - but merely commenting on SI's well-proved propensity to do so. It's because I'm not an 'expert' that I wrote to ask what the consensus was on what was to happen to spare capacity released from the dropping of these routes. So shall we get back to thread?

[HWY4A]

Aero Mad, you have a propensity to treat anything SI with disdain and you obviously bleed yellow. This is easily proved by looking at your post history.

You are correct that this is a rumour network, and to be honest, I usually stay away from it for the following reason. It's a professional pilots rumour network, especially the threads to do with specific airlines. You are not a professional pilot and have absolutely no experience regarding what is involved in running a successful airline. You should be on the spotters forum and leave it to the professionals. I am a pilot (and no, I don't work for either airline) and I'm involved in operational management. I happen to live in Jersey and commute to work. I've used both airlines in the past, and prefer SI. The fact that GR have literally no presence left in Jersey also helps. Blue Islands have come a long way in a short space of time and should be congratulated for that and supported as a local business in the CI's.

As I stated in my earlier post, several CI airlines have attempted direct continental services over the years. They don't work as the market isn't big enough to sustain regular services. SI have attempted them, and have now done the next best thing, agreeing a codeshare with City Jet, and there is more to follow apparently. As stated, this affects me directly as I use them to commute. Annoyed? I am a bit. Understanding? Yes I am.

If you are offended by this post, or my previous one, that wasn't my intention. However, you have a tendency to literally 'chuck a grenade' into a forum just to stir trouble. Certainly not expert status.

[virginblue]

With the JER-AMS/ZRH/CDG/GVA/SOU routes axed or about to be axed, how many aircraft are kept busy with the remaining schedules? If I haven't missed one, I think we are now down to just four routes:

- JER-GCI 6x/d.
- JER-LCY 3x/d.
- JER-BRS 2x/d.
- GCI-SOU 4x/d

Looks like 3 aircraft schedule to me - with, IIRC, five ATR on strength, is one destined to go?

[Aero Mad]

Thanks virginblue, despite other distractions that was my original question! If RV acts on his hints (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-jersey-29944171) when JER-SOU was suspended initially, it's possible that it will go towards head-to-head competition on the route with BE eventually?

[HWY4A]

Virgin, SI always keep a spare operational a/c. In fact, it may be a requirement of the codeshare agreement with GR, but don't quote me on that. Therefore, 4 required, 5 in the fleet.

[virginblue]

Thanks. If I am not mistaken, the ATR72 does GCI-SOU, so the four ATR42s share JER-GCI/LCY/BRS between them.

One does five GCI rotations, the second BRS plus the first/last GCI/JER of the day (overnighting in GCI) and the third does LCY. So indeed there is one spare - plus two sitting idle on the ground at JER for a number of hours each day.

Good that SI operates some written down early ATR42-320 that allow for such a lenghty parking exercise.:ok: One has to wonder if they are looking for a noon-time flight to somewhere in the south of England to keep the BRS aircraft a bit busier.

[gkmeech]

If they now have a spare AT42 they could restart JER- SOU

[virginblue]

Don't think Blue Islands would be able to fill an ATR42 on JER-SOU, given that BE is also on that route with a Q400.

[adfly]

Don't forget they managed to squeeze BE from 4x daily to once a day on SOU-GCI when they introduced the ATR 72 to the route, I wouldn't put it past them!

[propblade]

Rumor have it the fools at BCI are considering self handling (again)!

Any thoughts on the idea, my opinion is it cannot be cost effective.

Back to Servisair?

[Jerbourg]

I heard that rumour from a member of blue staff a week or two back, I doubt they will ever get the high calibre of staff they had before they dumped them in favour of a handling agent. Blue Islands once good customer service is a thing of the past & RV and his merry men have only themselves to blame.

[cobopete]

Island FM news webpage has story that BI has good news for GCI but can't say what it is yet. Anyone know anything or can speculate what?

Pete

[GCILover]

They've been talking of opening a customer care desk in the terminal similar to what they have in JER. They were waiting on space. There's plenty now that the Flybe ticket desk has gone. Perhaps this could be it. Either that or a decent new route.

[kcockayne]

What's your idea of "A Decent New Route" ? And, which one would be viable ?

[Jerbourg]

Could it be that they are taking over the ever decreasing handling business of Menzies & thus have their own GCI ground handling unit once again?

[rikesh]

BBC News - Plane makes emergency landing at Southend Airport after fire (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-essex-30656026)

[Cloud1]

Believe it was the Blue Islands JER-LCY

Not sure if it was the ATR or jetstream?

[Sop_Monkey]

Now that is a "crew well done" if ever there was.

Give me engines on a pylon any time. Spars do lose strength very quickly when exposed to the heat of an uncontained fire!

[dontdoit]

ATR42 G-ISLF.

[joy ride]

Good job by flight and ground crew.

Interesting to learn that the engines are "propeller-powered", I always thought that engines were fuel-powered !

[TOWTEAMBASE]

Good shot of the Vulcan in the background too when you open up the BBC link :)

[Jerbourg]

BBC News - Plane fire fear forces emergency landing at Southend airport (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-essex-30656026)

[Cloud1]

Fascinates me that an engine fire on a Flybe flight warrants it's own thread in the rumours and news section but Blue Islands? No we will just merge it in to the Blue Islands thread thus in effect removing the story and subject of conversation.

It's getting a little selective as to what is left and what isn't now a days and that is rather disappointing.

[gkmeech]

What fascinates me is the way this event has been sensationalised as an engine fire when in fact the crew reported and engine fire INCDIATION, shut down the engine, triggered the engine fire retardant, and diverted. On inspection the engine showed no sign of a fire, so it points to an erroneous indication.

[desk_bound]

Well said gkmeeh sounds like a professional job done by the crew

[bmaviscount]

Just how old are these ATR 42s? Presumably they are more prone to faults like these

[NickBarnes]

They range from 17 years - 28 years through the fleet, aircraft involved was the youngest

[NickBarnes]

blue islands ATR-42 G-ISLG is squawking 7700 looks to be diverting to SEN

[Cloud1]

Lightning strike

BBC News - Lightning strike forces Blue Islands plane diversion to Southend (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-essex-30804369)

[litefoot1]

Does anyone on the inside have the latest on Blue Islands? A source close to me suggested they have had half a dozen engine shut downs this calendar year alone all with low crew moral. Are they ever going to launch the long promised JER-SOU?

I'm guessing you're referring to these, all engine problems.

3 Jun 2015
City-bound flight lands at Southend Airport after fault (From Echo) (http://www.echo-news.co.uk/news/13309734.City_bound_flight_lands_at_Southend_Airport_after_f ault/)

4 May 2015
Small plane develops minor glitch on approach to Bristol Airport | Bristol Post (http://www.bristolpost.co.uk/Small-plane-develops-minor-glitch-approach/story-26438337-detail/story.html)

9 April 2015
Guernsey Airport emergency as pilot reports engine trouble | Channel - ITV News (http://www.itv.com/news/channel/update/2015-04-09/guernsey-airport-emergency-as-pilot-reports-engine-trouble/)

7 Jan 2015
Southend airport plane diversion 'not because of fire' - BBC News (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-essex-30708409)

[Jerbourg]

The morale has always been low, so no change there.


The local press reports Blue as being interested in a code share with BE on the SOU route.

[Matt7504]

I have heard Flybe crew say the same in the past. Though, who do we think would operate it?

[Hotel Tango]

A source close to me suggested they have had half a dozen engine shut downs this calendar year alone all with low crew moral

Ah yes, low crew moral plays havoc with engines ;)

[Jerbourg]

SI are advertising for cabin crew in the local press using the tag line (again) 'Due To Continued Expansion'. I can't see any sign of expansion with this airline,(indeed this last year they have only contracted their route network)
unless someone knows something different?

[Matt7504]

Who knows? What and where would be a sensible means of expansion?

[cobopete]

Guernsey Evening Press states today that Blue have applied to operate a summer Saturday service between GCI and Liverpool using ATR 72 or 42 in conjunction with a Travel Agent.

Pete

[KJpassenger]

Suspect that is in replacement for planned charter to Cambridge

[cobopete]

From May Blue will join Stobart and Loganair as a franchise of FlyBe, with a/c in FlyBe colours and ticketing through the FlyBe site............hence the resumption of GCI / Jer services by Aurigny at the same time.

[kcockayne]

Interesting, Pete ? Does that mean that AUR will resume inter island flights &, if so, with what ? Bearing in mind that I rarely, if ever, see the Dornier operating on FR24.
By the way, did you live in the shadow of Le Guet as a child ?

[cobopete]

Aurigny' s booking engine shows 4 flights each way from 9 May, not Sats and Sun.......... presume they intend to have pilots trained and operate with the Dorniers. That was me under the Guet at the farm!
Pete

[kcockayne]

Know who you are now. Don't worry, I won't tell ! Where are you now ?

[Wycombe]

Presumably this will mean some consolidation, particularly on SOU-GCI?

At the same time it should also help BI with people who want to hub through SOU (and LCY) onto other parts of the Flybe network.

Guess it also means the Flybe livery will be seen once again at BRS.

[cobopete]

I wonder if this will mean an end to the codeshare with VLM? Does anyone know if Stobart or Loganair have any third party codeshares?

Pete

[Jerbourg]

Will this apply to all currently operated Blue Islands routes or just selected ones?

[cobopete]

Jerbourg,
Looks like all 5 routes.......... aircraft are to be repainted into FlyBe colours. In other words end of Blue visibly as a trading airline and will MayBe seen as a seamless piece of FlyBe.

Kcockayne - please see your PPrunet mailbox for response to your questions

Pete

[Jerbourg]

Thanks cocbopete. .

I'm not a Blue Islands fan & would rather travel to LGW than give them my hard earned cash. I wonder if this attempt at using someone else's marketing is the last throw of the dice for Blue in the hope that they can make a decent profit...

[cobopete]

Jerbourg,
I agree with your statements entirely.....sound observations

[EI-BUD]

BIue Islands is a small airline, from a market and distribution point of view this makes a lot of sense. BI gets access to an existing airline and brand, but potentially more importantly it may just result in a more secure future with less potential for intense competition with Flybe. Reminds me of when BA exited Scottish Highlands and Islands and instead adopted Loganair as a franchise partner.

It may also open up new opportunities for BI, just as Loganair and to a lesser extent Stobart have.

Good luck to BI...

[gkmeech]

Under this agreement are BI going to be operating all of Flybe's current route network to and from the Channel Islands? If so I guess they may have to acquire more aircraft.

[kcockayne]

Possible "last throw of the dice" from Blue Island ?

[cobopete]

Unlikely they would take on XTR, BMH, and other BE routes such as Jer to Doncastor, Belfast,Manchester, E Midlands?, Aberdeen etc.

Kcockayne.....Msg received, thanx for reply you have guessed right who I am, will try to post a sensible reply...pse keep an eye on the mailbox.


Pete

[cobopete]

Summer charter service between Liverpool and Guernsey announced today, planned to operate 4 June to 17 September
Dep GCI 1050 Arr LPL 1220
Dep LPL 1250 Arr GCI 1420
Pete

[cobopete]

Blue have announced today that their franchise agreement with FlyBe has been signed and all flights will be
flown under the arrangement from beginning of June with ticketing through the FlyBe website and Aircraft repainted into FlyBe colours

[cobopete]

Blue Islands first franchise route with FlyBe announced today, a 'new' Jersey - SOU service with up to 4 flights a day departing -
Jersey 0700;1100;1340;1830
SOU 0820;1220;1500;1950
FlyBe are also timetabled to fly from
Jersey 1455;1735
SOU 1345;1625

Info on other routes is stated to be available shortly, with GCI -SOU next.

Pete

[bmaviscount]

I see now Flybe have taken over all of Blue Islands bookings
They seem to have dropped all their Europen routes; is this true?

[welkyboy]

Blue Islands haven't operated Continental flights for some time, occasional Geneva winter ski flights and a weekly Zurich charter this summer

[Richard Le page]

Now that you have to book through Flybe you also have to pay for hold luggage,seat selection,credit card charge, change of booking,name changes and refreshments on board.
All of which were free when you booked through Blue Islands. All of their unique selling points are now gone
Base fares arn't cheap either.
Very much a downward step for the customer and were gonna pay more in the end,much the same as the scottish highland routes.
Blue Islands always prided there selves in doing their best to get people home in bad weather where as Flybe cancel at the slightest incling of fog and there customer service is appalling.
Be interesting to see how this pans out

Regards

[virginblue]

Blue Islands always prided there selves in doing their best to get people home in bad weather where as Flybe cancel at the slightest incling of fog and there customer service is appalling.

I don't see how this will change, given that it is a simple franchise with operations staying in Blue Islands' hands. Only the branding and product follow Flybe rules under the franchise.

[SealinkBF]

Now that you have to book through Flybe you also have to pay for hold luggage,seat selection,credit card charge, change of booking,name changes and refreshments on board.

That will be a Blue Islands decision.

Loganair still include a free checked bag, hot drinks and a snack on their flights.

Very much a downward step for the customer and were gonna pay more in the end,much the same as the scottish highland routes.

I fly to Wick and Kirkwall a lot, and since FlyBe took over marketing from BA, I've had some of the cheapest fares ever.

[Richard Le page]

[QUOTE][/Loganair still include a free checked bag, hot drinks and a snack on their flights.
QUOTE]
Hopefully that will be the case with BI but when I tried to book a BI flight on the flybe website it was going to charge me if I took hold baggage,maybe it was a glitch in the system or maybe I was doing something wrong.
Also read a report on the Jersey Evening post website a few weeks ago reporting that all the Blue Island perks will be lost.Hopefully I got my information wrong and things will stay the same.

[Jerbourg]

Flew Blue yesterday from SOU (as I now have no choice) announcements used a mix of Blue Islands & Flybe ( "Your Flybe flight to GCI.." "thank you for flying Blue Islands") Inflight snacks/drinks were on a Flybe titled card - all charged for, Headrest covers & safety cards still the old Blue Islands ones. I would have expected everything to be BE branded. Oh & only one ATR painted up so far. :)

[Richard Le page]

So they have started charging for snacks then. Anyone know if there charging for hold baggage.
when making a booking it appears that they are.
What about the free name changes and flight changes?
Also do you still have access to the Blue Island lounge at Guernsey and Jersey and is there still the dedicated express security line for BI passengers at SOU.
regards

[Geo73]

They are charging for hold baggage and the free changes are gone.

[Richard Le page]

As I suspected and originally posted in post 190. Every thing that separated them from other airlines now gone.
Gone are the days when they first started, when they were self handling with friendly staff that went out of their way for there customers now gone. Completely lost there identity. Were now going to have to suffer flybe's rip off pricing strategy and appalling customer service.
Very disappointing

[Jerbourg]

Richard, Blue Islands will be setting the fares as they always have done & their fares haven't exctly been cheap for a long time. As for customer service that went out the window about 5 years ago when they ditched their own ground staff & went to handling agents.

[litefoot1]

As mentioned above:

Anger after airline ditches passengers? bonus points « Jersey Evening Post (http://jerseyeveningpost.com/news/2016/05/31/anger-after-airline-ditches-passengers-bonus-points/)

[cobopete]

Summer charter service on Sats between Liverpool and Guernsey was due to operate 4 June to 17 September
Dep GCI 1050 Arr LPL 1220
Dep LPL 1250 Arr GCI 1420
Does not seem to have flown. Does anyone have any info?

[Ayline]

The Liverpool flights have been quietly dropped as have some charters from Jersey.

[JetJamie]

The Liverpool flights have been quietly dropped as have some charters from Jersey.

Liverpool was cancelled some months ago and was in the press and CI travel didn't sell enough seats. As for 'some in Jersey' charters are operating to Zurich and Dundee. The only one that didn't happen was the Cambridge as its no longer open to commercial traffic or something along those lines

[Jerbourg]

What's going on at this airline? They have cancelled many inter-island (Flybe franchise) services in the last few days & have said there will be more in the coming days. The SOU route has also had to have some flights rescheduled with the last flight tonight requiring an extension to airport opening hours. The official press release from the MD blames technical issues & the late delivery of a 'new' aircraft. I suspect crew shortage may be the more likely cause as many seem to be jumping ship to pastures new. Can anyone on the inside update/correct this?

[Trihandle]

Two of the ATR 42-300 are due to fly to Kemble tomorrow one for scrapping and the other for an engine change from the scrapped frame. Apparently the new ATR 42 has been delayed or even cancelled. Leaving Blue Islands with just the three operational aircraft this week.

[Jerbourg]

More delays/cancellations then or have they secured a leased machine to cover?

[PlymouthPixie]

GISLJ (ex HRAXN) registered to Blue Islands on the 15th, so can't be long from delivery?

[AdamThePassenger]

Two of the ATR 42-300 are due to fly to Kemble tomorrow one for scrapping and the other for an engine change from the scrapped frame. Apparently the new ATR 42 has been delayed or even cancelled. Leaving Blue Islands with just the three operational aircraft this week.

If anyone is interested, the aircraft in question are G-ISLG (being scrapped) and G-ZEBS (engine change).

Adam :)

[LGS6753]

...and both arrived at Kemble late this morning.

[kcockayne]

An engine from a 30 year old a/c going onto an a/c which is 29! How long will they both (BS & engine) remain in service ?

[Hermite]

G-ZEBS is back in Guernsey this evening.

[Jerbourg]

I heard that ISLJ will not now be joining the fleet but a 'new' 72 maybe..

[Michael111]

Blue Islands are receiving so much bad press in the Islands at present they are giving Condor ferries a run for their Money. I cant help thinking that thrashing around the sky's in Aircraft approaching 30 years old which were probably been disguarded by African carriers years ago! I was on the 42-500 last week which was covering all routes due to the others going tech, it looks OK from outside due to new paint job but really showing age inside and this is one of their newer ones. Rob Veron said all would be ok from 1 August - delays and cancellations again yesterday with the last SOU - JER passing overhead around 23:30.

I know we want a service at a certain price which means that new equipment may be out of the question but surely using these ancient Aircraft is false economy in the long run?

111

[kcockayne]

As far as I know, Blue Island has never operated at a profit, & it would appear that Derek Coates is running out of options; & would probably like to divest himself of the airline - if he could. Is the BEE franchise the "last throw of the dice" by Derek ?

[Jerbourg]

Have applied to operate GCI-CWL.

A member of BI staff recently told me that the airline 'has a feeling of neglect & lack of interest from the management'.

I wouldn't be surprised if Coates tries to flog it off in the near future.

[Letsflycwl]

[QUOTE=Jerbourg;9459541]Have applied to operate GCI-CWL.

Where did you get this information from ?

[Jerbourg]

The Guernsey Press - The official application to the relevant authorities is listed today on page 43.

[AirGuru]

Interesting info, presumably something linked with the BE base at CWL, could provide some through traffic, plus it appears GCI has been on the hitlist for a while.

Spells the end of their BRS route perhaps ?

[MerchantVenturer]

Why would you say that Air Guru? Blue Islands doesn't have a BRS-GCI route. Aurigny operates that.

Blue Islands operates to Jersey from BRS, now as a Flybe franchise.

[AirGuru]

Why would you say that Air Guru? Blue Islands doesn't have a BRS-GCI route. Aurigny operates that.

Blue Islands operates to Jersey from BRS, now as a Flybe franchise.

Apologies MV, i thought it was BI GCI-BRS. I'm incorrect.

[MerchantVenturer]

Blue Islands did apply for a route licence a few years ago to operate GCI-BRS against Aurigny but it never went through. I think the Guernsey licensing authorities rejected it and then the application was withdrawn.

[caaardiff]

A very interesting move if it happens. I didn't think SI had much slack in the schedule since the BE franchise and various schedule changes.
Also a bold move to go up against Aurigny's daily GCI-BRS

I share Airguru's thoughts. Could this just be a codeshare for BE's CWL-JER and onwards to GCI. Would you need a route application for such a setup?

SI did operate GCI-CWL on J32 back in the mid 2000's which certainly didn't last long. One summer season I think. I suspect GR's service to BRS will out perform GCI-CWL

[Aero Mad]

The GCI-CWL application is not yet available to view on the States of Guernsey website. This would be operated by Blue Islands aircraft and crew (rather than Flybe); if a mere extention of the latter's CWL-JER then it would be the BE which would need to apply for the licence. Unlikely, therefore, that the service would form part of BE's CWL-JER service - although it might replace it. The publication of the application will clarify the nature of the intended service.

However, an earlier application made in April by Blue Islands to operate a 4x weekly seasonal GCI-LTN service is still available (https://www.gov.gg/CHttpHandler.ashx?id=101713&p=0). I do not recall this being widely reported, and it seems not to have made it onto this forum. The licence itself does not appear to have been issued, although the list of licences currently in force (https://www.gov.gg/article/152730/Licences) on the website is not up-to-date. Worth noting that Flybe already holds such a licence (https://www.gov.gg/CHttpHandler.ashx?id=97295&p=0) (issued Jan 2014); albeit with the conditions that the service must operate year-round at given frequencies. Hitherto, it has yet to operate; this may be because the conditions are restrictive or (more likely) because the application was made prior to the GCI base closure.

[Jerbourg]

I think ( note think) I read some time ago that the LTN application had been granted.
Maybe someone can confirm this?

[Rivet Joint]

What's with the obsession in flying second rate routes? There is a reason why these routes have never historically been operated to any great success.

Do they not realize how lucky they lucky they are being given the chance to be the sole operator on the SOU routes? Outside LGW, these routes must be the biggest gold mine going and they are screwing it up. If BE didn't have bigger fish to fry they would be kicking them off these routes and out of business. Shocking airline, and the yellow lot are no better.

[Jerbourg]

Whilst not being a BI fan I have to say that I don't think that if they want new routes from GCI that there are any first rate ones left.

[kcockayne]

Jerbourg, you are correct. In fact, there are very few routes from Guernsey which could be "money spinners" !

[Rivet Joint]

Agreed. All the more reason to make a success of the ones that are. I mean they don't even have enough planes (not to mention the ones they do have would look out of place operating in Iran) to operate the SOU route let alone a nonsense route like GCI-CWI.

[kcockayne]

You have to go back to the days of Cambrian Air Services to find Guernsey to Cardiff operating profitably; & that was as part of the Cardiff-Jersey route. Since then, the route has operated intermittently & limped along, financially. I think that, overall, it only supports an a/c of DC3 size (which was why it was successful with Cambrian). Even with an AT42 it probably cannot be run daily - or year round. The financial situation at Blue Island does not appear to be that rosy; so I have to agree with Rivet Joint that the airline should concentrate on their main cash generators ie Guernsey to Southampton & Jersey, & Jersey to Southampton. It is certainly true that they are short of a/c, & those that they have are very old. I would not be surprised to see the airline disappear if it cannot operate inter island & C.I.- Southampton flights profitably. Word is that the Jersey - London City flights are not doing that well, either.

[cornishsimon]

Really wouldn't be surprised if BA decided to add LCY-JER to the network via cityflyer. They have everything set up at both ends and to my mind it's just a matter of time until it happens.


cs

[Donkeygone]

As a Guernseyman living in Cardiff, of course I'd be very happy to see this actually happen. As for 'second-rate', my impression is that there are substantial numbers of Welsh people already trekking over to BRI for the Aurigny service or driving to Poole for the ferry, so my gut feeling is that there is quite a lot of potential for this route.

[Jerbourg]

Interview with Coates & Veron - additional ATR72 arrives soon.

https://www.periscope.tv/w/1kvJppaPYemJE

[kcockayne]

Donkeygone

I hope you get your route. I am sure that there is the traffic to justify it, but not on a daily, all year round basis. As far as Blue Island is concerned, they may not be around to operate it - which might be a good thing (except for them !). If the BEE franchise doesn't work, they may face major difficulties. Keep your fingers crossed.
On the a/c front, they are due to get an AT42 on a short lease & then get a "new" 72 later on in the summer. They also promise an improvement in their service performance. We shall see.

[Plastic787]

Cornishsimon, I would venture there is little chance of a Cityflyer LCY-JER. If it was going to happen it would have happened a long time ago. BA know their market and the numbers will have been crunched many times.

[Skipness One Echo]

Markets change at LCY, both GLA and DUB were introduced, dropped and then came back later, IOM was a surprise to me. If and when SI gives up, and they've never made money, either CFE or BE will likely pick it up.

[Plastic787]

The market for LCY-JER today is the same market today as it was five years ago, ten years ago and twenty years ago. It is predominantly business based and will be the same ten years from now (depending on Brexit effect on the City of London). It has never been made a success by any operator and BA get far more mileage out of their Gatwick route than they ever would out of City. I'll say it again, if BA were interested in it, it would have been tried already.

[Jerbourg]

The CI regulator isn't happy with the BE franchise agreement & wants some answers - as do the travelling public!

CICRA Writes To Flybe & Blue Islands - Island FM (http://www.islandfm.com/cicra-writes-flybe-blue-islands/)

[HWY4A]

The CI regulator isn't happy with the BE franchise agreement & wants some answers - as do the travelling public!

CICRA Writes To Flybe & Blue Islands - Island FM (http://www.islandfm.com/cicra-writes-flybe-blue-islands/)

Based on stats from March 16 before the franchise even began! Wonderful stuff!

[Jerbourg]

It maybe based on stats from before the franchise began but there's been no change since so very relevant methinks. I'll be perfectly honest & admit I'm no fan of Blue Islands & the sooner Coates, Veron & their merry band stop playing at airlines and call it a day the better.

[HWY4A]

Fair enough Jerbourg. You're entitled to your opinion, as are CIRCA. However, it's only an opinion and not based on facts

[kcockayne]

Fair enough Jerbourg. You're entitled to your opinion, as are CIRCA. However, it's only an opinion and not based on facts

The stats may be from the period before the BEE/Blue Islands agreement , but the absolutely pathetic service which the islands have suffered has occurred since the tie up. The service has been diabolical & an inquiry is absolutely essential !

[HWY4A]

Again Nick, that's an opinion based on media/social media perception. Where's the actual stats to back up the diabolical claim? Do u know what the OTP of the inters has been since the start of the demon franchise? I don't, so until those facts are known (CAA stats are months out of date) it's just opinion. I haven't been delayed once in the last six months (twice a week on average) apart from that two week period end of July when it went pear shaped. Maybe I've been lucky but my opinion is that it's working fine.

[kcockayne]

Again Nick, that's an opinion based on media/social media perception. Where's the actual stats to back up the diabolical claim? Do u know what the OTP of the inters has been since the start of the demon franchise? I don't, so until those facts are known (CAA stats are months out of date) it's just opinion. I haven't been delayed once in the last six months (twice a week on average) apart from that two week period end of July when it went pear shaped. Maybe I've been lucky but my opinion is that it's working fine.

Yes, it's opinion, as you say. But, the opinion of a vast number of islanders is that the service in June, July & August was extremely bad. It merits an inquiry. What is NOT "opinion" are the experiences of pax at Blue Island's hands; where they could not get on their flights, or had them cancelled, or very seriously delayed. What is also not "opinion" is the apology issued by Blue Island's owner & chief executive for these extensive & ongoing problems. It sounds like they actually agree with the " opinions" of their disappointed customers; which is at least somewhat reassuring to those pax who have these "opinions".

[Jerbourg]

Sounds to me like HWY4A is a Blue Islands Goblin who's fighting his company's corner.

[HWY4A]

Jerbourg I don't work for Blue. Did a few moons back but not anymore.

Kcockayne, not denying they had a bad few weeks in August which they acknowledged and took steps. June was very foggy if I recall rightly. Something like 21 days affected by fog but that's CI life. Again let's see some stats/facts. I could be wrong and have been very lucky.

What's the answer then? States grant another license to GR to operate inters on a market that has huge capacity? Can GR do it and if so with what? Something would have to give on their existing network

[kcockayne]

The answer is to have the inquiry by the Regulator; a proper , extensive & exhaustive inquiry- not the usual cursory, or even useless, Channel Island type of thing ! But, I make the point again; you cannot dismiss what people experienced simply as "opinions". These were REAL experiences which thoroughly peed them off. What also occurred was the fare hikes (even compared to the unreal prices which existed before the link up). I was quoted £160 Jersey-Guernsey return. In my "opinion", that was far too high. I went by boat instead.

[Jerbourg]

Another ATR is being disposed of.

[kcockayne]

Best, I suppose - before it falls apart !

[Dontgothere]

Being roughly 30 years of age, I can't imagine that it'd be of much use to any other regional airlines (despite good check status). If you consider how the AT43 is now something of a dying breed, I can only foresee G-ZEBS heading off to St. Athans to be scrapped.

[GCILover]

According to todays Guernsey press, Blue Islands have been granted a licence to operate GCI-LTN. This means that Flybe, Aurigny & Blue Islands have all applied and been granted permission to operate this route. I wonder if any of them will actually start it and just how much demand there is for this route.

[kcockayne]

One thing is absolutely certain. There are NEVER going to be scheduled ops between GCI & LTN by 3 different airlines. Personally, I don't ever see more than one operator; & , even then, it won't be daily (maybe two or three times weekly); & it will only be a summer operation. Moreover, it won't last for much more than one season - IF it ever operates at all.
Could be wrong though. Although, I don't think so.

[jijpc]

Presumably, if there is a GCI -LTN operation any Flybe branded service will actually be operated by Blue Islands under the franchise agreement. This could be the reason that Blue Islands have made the application.