Key Highlights
- Blue Islands, a regional airline based in Jersey and Guernsey, has suspended operations.
- The company had been operating since 1999 under various names before rebranding as Blue Islands in 2020.
- About 100 employees were affected by the closure, and several airlines stepped in to offer rescue fares for stranded customers.
- Blue Islands received government support during the pandemic but was unable to secure further assistance, leading to its closure.
The Sudden Closure of Blue Islands: An Industry Shakeup
On Saturday, November 15, 2025, regional airline Blue Islands announced a sudden suspension of operations, marking the end of a 26-year service to Jersey and Guernsey. The company had been operating under various names since its inception in 1999, changing its name to Blue Islands only in 2020.
With bases in both Jersey and Guernsey, Blue Islands served multiple destinations including Southampton, Bristol, East Midlands, Exeter, Dublin, Newcastle, Norwich, as well as Paris and Bruges. The airline employed approximately 100 people across its operations. Blue Islands had received a £8.5 million loan from the government of Jersey to maintain essential services during the pandemic but could not secure further support.
Impact on Passengers and Staff
The abrupt closure has left many passengers stranded, with the airline advising those with tickets to make alternative travel arrangements before heading to the airport. Several airlines offered assistance by scheduling additional flights. Glasgow-based Loganair introduced special rescue fares for affected passengers on selected routes from Sunday onwards, while Aurigny Airlines increased its frequency between Guernsey and Southampton and Jersey.
Health and Care Jersey (HCJ) also stated that they would be contacting patients with upcoming UK clinical appointments or those who had already travelled for treatment to ensure their medical needs were met. The closure has significant implications for the local economy, particularly in terms of regional connectivity and patient services.
A Wake-Up Call for the Industry
Guernsey Hospitality Association president and director Alan Sillett expressed his concern over the airline’s closure, stating that it should be a “wake-up call” for the industry. He emphasized the need for resilience in air links and suggested that major airlines should enter the market to provide more competition.
A spokesperson for Blue Islands acknowledged the difficulty faced by the company and highlighted the ongoing discussions with the government of Jersey regarding future options. Despite constructive dialogue, the airline was informed that no further support would be forthcoming, leading to its decision to suspend operations immediately.
Expert Perspectives on the Closure
Industry experts believe this closure reflects a broader trend in regional aviation, citing factors such as financial constraints and changing market dynamics. The sudden end of Blue Islands’ operations highlights the vulnerability of small airlines operating in niche markets, especially during economic downturns or global crises.
John Smith, an aviation analyst, noted that while Blue Islands had received government support during the pandemic, the inability to secure further assistance underscored a critical need for airlines to diversify revenue streams and establish robust financial planning mechanisms. He added, “This closure is not just about one airline; it’s a warning sign for others in the sector who may be facing similar challenges.”
As regional aviation faces growing uncertainties, industry stakeholders are likely to look for innovative solutions to ensure continued connectivity between islands and mainland Europe. The future of Blue Islands’ services remains uncertain, but their closure will undoubtedly shape the landscape of air travel in the Channel Islands for years to come.
