Guernsey’s first visitors using the Isle of Man ‘air bridge’ arrived today and it is a fantastic opportunity, according to VisitGuernsey’s director of marketing and tourism.
It will be the first time since March that Guernsey has opened its borders to holidaymakers and passengers arriving at the airport will be warmly welcomed by tourism representatives.
‘The airbridge provides a fantastic opportunity to welcome a new visitor market from the Isle of Man, post Covid-19,’ said Mike Hopkins of VisitGuernsey.
‘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.’
On the inaugural outbound flight to the Isle of Man was Aurigny’s chief executive, Mark Darby. Since tickets went on sale, the airline more than doubled the number of seats available due to demand. Nearly 5,000 seats have been sold so far between 22 July and 13 September.
‘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,’ said Mr Darby.
The initiative for an air bridge ‘bubble,’ offering two flights a week between Guernsey and the Isle of Man, was agreed by the islands’ governments because both jurisdictions are Covid-19 free. No social distancing is required on either island and travellers between the two do not have to self-isolate.
‘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,’ said Angela Byrne, Head of Visit Isle of Man.
‘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.’
