NEW direct flights to Paris being launched by Blue Islands have been welcomed by the Jersey Chamber of Commerce – which has described the route as “an important step forward for our local economy”.
Chamber chief executive Murray Norton said that the route would enable “improved connectivity for Islanders” as well as “an exciting opportunity for French visitors”.
On Friday, Blue Islands announced that it would operate direct flights to Charles de Gaulle Airport from 22 May, running on Mondays and Thursdays, until 30 October.
The service is also due to return in 2026.
Ports of Jersey chief executive Matt Thomas confirmed the route had been backed by a “very small proportion” of funding stemming from the government’s Better Business Support Package.
Economic Development Minister Kirsten Morel has previously stated that “up to £2m” will be spent over the next two years to assist the development of new air routes.
“Direct access to Paris’s main hub, Charles de Gaulle, is an important step forward for our local economy.”
Murray Norton
Mr Norton said: “Connectivity is critical for Jersey, for the visitor economy, Islanders and our business community.”
He continued: “Direct access to Paris’s main hub, Charles de Gaulle, is an important step forward for our local economy. The route enables improved connectivity for Islanders, both to Paris and beyond, alongside an exciting opportunity for French visitors to visit and explore the beauty of our island.”
He added: “We are particularly encouraged by the way Blue Islands, Ports of Jersey and Visit Jersey have come together, supported by government’s Better Business Support Package, to launch this route.
“New tourists will support the visitor economy and reinforce the vital role of tourism and hospitality in Jersey’s prosperity.”
Deputy Morel said the route development funding “demonstrates just how important connectivity is” for the Island’s economy.
He continued: “The two-year, £2 million funding will help Ports of Jersey to attract new airlines and secure new routes. It is being delivered in close partnership with Visit Jersey, whose two-year £4 million destination marketing grant will help them to increase Jersey’s visibility and appeal internationally.”
Deputy Morel added: “I welcome this work, and hope that this will lead the way for other airlines to establish new services to key European cities.”
