First Isolation Free Holidays Take Off

The first Aurigny flight from Guernsey Airport to the Isle of Man takes off at midday today, returning with tourists from the Isle of Man arriving in the Bailiwick at 15.50 BST.

The flights went on sale earlier this month offering people the unique opportunity to travel between the islands without the need to isolate. On the first flights 98 people will travel to the Isle of Man and the Aurigny Embraer 195 is full on its return into Guernsey with 122 Manx travellers.

The initiative for a summer airbridge ‘bubble’ offering two flights a week between Guernsey and the Isle of Man was agreed by each island Government and is unique because both islands are Covid free with no social distancing in place.

Altogether, we expect to have sold almost 5,000 seats between the two islands between 22 July and 13 September 2020.

Mark Darby, Chief Executive of Aurigny is on the inaugural flight: “I am delighted to be visiting the Isle of Man and will be meeting with government officials and some of the media during my time. However, I am also looking forward to a brief holiday and sampling some of the unique delights that the island has to offer.”

Mike Hopkins, Director of Marketing & Tourism at VisitGuernsey said: “The airbridge provides a fantastic opportunity to welcome a new visitor market from the Isle of Man, post Covid-19. The VisitGuernsey team will be ready and waiting with smiles to greet the first arriving passengers. A team will be on hand to give out literature, leaflets, Guernsey chocolates and to see the passengers safely on to their onward destination geared up with lots of information to enjoy all The Islands of Guernsey have to offer.”

Angela Byrne, Head of Visit Isle of Man said: “The Isle of Man, a UNESCO Biosphere Region, provides the perfect playground for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts of all ages. With ever changing landscapes, extensive footpaths, national glens and miles of cycle paths our visitors will not be short for ways to relax and unwind. The Island’s unique cultural identity and heritage also provides an abundance of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages as they learn about the 10,000 year story of our ancestors. We’re particularly delighted that visitors will get to experience the most impressive network of heritage railways in the British Isles and dine with a difference on board the truly unique Dining Car.  We hope the visitors take the opportunity to explore all that is on offer to make the most of their ‘Island Staycation’ with a difference and hope to welcome them again in the future.”

The new route enables Aurigny to take to the skies on a regular basis with customers once again travelling for pleasure.

Picture: Guernsey Airport.