Airlines hint at cutting services

Airport authorities believe an open skies policy could reduce fares

Two airlines which fly to Jersey say they may be forced to cut routes in the winter if a new policy is adopted by Jersey States.

The open skies policy would mean airlines would not have to apply for licences to operate in the island.

The airport authorities believe that, by allowing any airline to fly any route to and from Jersey, it will open up competition which will in turn make fares cheaper for passengers.

But Flybe's Ian Taylor and Aurigny's Malcolm Hart said it might not serve islanders' best interests in the long term.

While they agreed there could be more competition in the summer, they claimed that, without a licence, many operators might stop flying in the unprofitable winter months.

Both companies admitted it was possible they would pull out of routes which were not making money, although both stressed their long-term commitment to the island.