TRAVEL numbers have shown a “very encouraging” start to 2026, according to Ports of Jersey, with a 2.2% rise in the number of passengers who travelled through Jersey Airport during the first quarter of the year compared to the same period in 2025.
And the States-owned entity’s head of connectivity, Paul Holley, said that the outlook for the next quarter was “particularly positive”, highlighting the introduction of new services and returning seasonal routes.
This includes KLM’s newly-launched Amsterdam service, while Aer Lingus has restarted its Dublin flights and Loganair is set to commence routes to East Midlands, Norwich, Paris and Bordeaux.
In particular, Mr Holley hailed the introduction of “a major new carrier” in KLM as “a key milestone” for 2026.
“This, together with the introduction of new services and returning seasonal routes from our airline partners, enhances choice for Islanders and visitors alike,” he added.
“It’s very encouraging to see quarter one air passenger up 2.2% this year compared with 2025.”
Mr Holley also stated that sea passenger volumes were “showing strong signs of growth”.
“DFDS has already booked over 135,000 passengers year-to-date, with forward bookings for the remainder of 2026 indicating a continued uplift compared to last year,” he continued.
“This follows a strong start to the season in January, with February proving more challenging due to weather.
“The outlook for Q2 is particularly positive, supported by the return of Islands Unlimited’s programme from the end of March and Manche Îles Express services resuming from mid-April, further strengthening overall sea connectivity to Jersey.”
