Aurigny has confirmed details of its operating loss of £6.5 million for 2024, compared to the airline’s £1.7 million profit in the prior year.
The result was driven by extraordinary wet lease (ACMI) costs, stemming from well-documented aircraft availability challenges and global supply chain issues, which affected both Aurigny and the wider industry. £10 million of maintenance costs were avoided with the strategic sale of the Embraer aircraft.
Despite the challenges, Aurigny achieved record passenger numbers, reaching a historic high of 570,000 – a 3% increase compared to the previous year. Additionally, when adjusted for inflation, air fares fell in real terms, aided by the growth it delivered.
The increase in the overall number of journeys demonstrates that the airline played a more significant role as a social and economic enabler for the islands.
Looking forward, financially, the airline reports that wet lease flying is down by 80% (January 1 – May 31, year-over-year), meaning these extraordinary costs are unlikely to recur in 2025. Demand also remains buoyant this year, with the airline reporting a 39% increase in inbound bookings on its Paris route. Operationally, Aurigny achieved an 86% on-time performance (OTP) for flights arriving within 15 minutes of schedule to 31 May 2025, excluding delays caused by weather and air traffic control restrictions. For context, the average on-time arrival performance at London Gatwick (across all airlines, January – April 2025) was 80%.
Roger Pratt (pictured), Chief Financial Officer, said: “The short-term pressures we faced in 2024, particularly the need for significant wet leasing, are easing, and the decisions made last year – including fleet simplification – will help secure longer-term financial stability.
“Whilst this was a challenging year that in many ways both Aurigny and its passengers will wish to put behind them, we connected more people than ever before, supported the island’s visitor economy, and protected essential lifeline routes. Aurigny will always be deeply committed to serving our community with care, pride and purpose, at the best value possible.”
