JERSEY (BBC) — Air connectivity across the Channel Islands is set to expand in 2026, with regional carrier Blue Islands announcing a significant increase in scheduled flights for next year.
Blue Islands Expands Its Route Network
The airline confirmed it will be adding new services from Jersey to several major destinations, including Dublin, Newcastle, Norwich, and Paris.
Additionally, the Norwich route will operate non-stop from Guernsey, complementing Blue Islands’ existing flights to Southampton, Jersey, and Newcastle.
This expansion comes after a turbulent summer for the airline, which faced scrutiny following the cancellation of 28 scheduled flights and a report naming it the least punctual airline operating in the UK, according to an aviation regulator.
New European Destination Announced
In August 2025, Blue Islands launched new direct flights from Jersey and Guernsey to Belgium, aimed at travelers visiting European Christmas markets.
Despite the new additions, the airline emphasized that it remains committed to its core routes from Jersey, including services to:
- Southampton
- Bristol
- East Midlands
- Exeter
CEO: Investing in the Channel Islands’ Connectivity
Chief Executive Officer Rob Veron said that flights from Jersey to Paris will begin seven weeks earlier in 2026, starting in early April.
“This summer we launched new flights to Newcastle and Paris, and with a busy summer coming to a close, we know many customers are already looking ahead to summer 2026,” Veron said.
“We’re continuing to invest in the Channel Islands’ connectivity — adding more flights from Jersey to Paris, with up to three per week over an extended season, and introducing an extra Norwich service non-stop from Guernsey.”
Supporting Island Life and Travel
Veron emphasized that expanding regional air access is vital for both residents and visitors.
“Supporting travel for business, leisure, family visits, sport, and healthcare — together with our visitor economy — is essential to the socio-economic wellbeing of our islands,” he said.
With the 2026 expansion, Blue Islands aims to strengthen its role as a key link between the Channel Islands and mainland Europe, ensuring that both tourism and local communities continue to thrive.
