Guernsey Ports has reported strong passenger growth during summer 2026, with air travel reaching its highest levels since 2019 and sea travel recording consecutive year-on-year increases.
July was Guernsey Airport’s busiest month since the Covid-19 pandemic, with passenger numbers up 10% compared with July 2025 and monthly travellers exceeding 75,000 for the first time since 2019.
That strong demand for air travel continued into August, with passenger numbers increasing by 7% year-on-year. The airport again welcomed more than 75,000
passengers during the month.
Growth has also continued across ferry services. Passenger numbers on Guernsey’s northern and southern sea routes were 3% higher than July 2025. August 2026 was a quieter month compared to 2025 but ferry travel remained ahead of 2024. Overall year-to-date passenger numbers remain 1% up on 2025, and 14% higher than 2024.
Ross Coppolo, Managing Director of Guernsey Ports, said: “It is very encouraging to see continued growth across both Guernsey Airport and Guernsey Harbours. The airport recorded its busiest July since 2019, with that strong performance continuing into August, while sea passenger numbers also continued to grow.
“These figures reflect the efforts of our teams and partners to strengthen connectivity and improve the customer experience for residents and visitors alike and demonstrates the sustained demand for travel to and from the Bailiwick.”
The positive trend extends beyond scheduled passenger services. Guernsey’s marinas continue to perform strongly in 2026, with visiting vessel and passenger numbers remaining close to the high levels achieved in 2025, which followed consecutive years of growth.
Subject to weather conditions during the remainder of the season, year-end totals for visiting leisure craft are expected to be close to those recorded in 2025, when approximately 7,800 private vessels brought around 20,000 visitors to the island.
Mr Coppolo added: “The most encouraging aspect is that we are seeing growth across multiple areas of our business following a real team effort behind the scenes. That demonstrates the continued appeal of Guernsey as a destination and underlines the importance of maintaining reliable connections for residents, visitors and businesses.
“Our focus remains on providing safe, efficient and dependable services while working with our partners to ensure the Bailiwick remains well connected throughout the year.”
