Loganair Steps In to Run Jersey Services After Blue Islands Collapse

Image credit: Unsplash

In a rapid-response move following the abrupt shutdown of Blue Islands, Loganair, Scotland’s largest regional airline, has announced it will take over key air routes to and from Jersey starting 16 November 2025. The deal ensures continuity of vital island connectivity and introduces “rescue fares” for stranded passengers.

This development follows Blue Islands’ shock suspension of operations on 14 November, which left hundreds of travelers stranded and raised concerns about the future of transport links in the Channel Islands.

Why Loganair’s Move Is So Important

1. Preserving Vital Connectivity for Jersey

Blue Islands, based in Jersey, had long served as a bridge between the island and the UK mainland, operating routes such as Jersey–Bristol, Jersey–Exeter, Jersey–Southampton, and Jersey–Guernsey.

When Blue Islands ground all flights, residents would have lost critical connectivity — including for medical travel and island commerce. Loganair’s prompt entry prevents a communications and transport vacuum.

2. Rescue Fares to Help Stranded Passengers

To support those impacted by Blue Islands’ collapse, Loganair is offering special “rescue fares” for the affected routes, available now via its website. These fares are designed to be affordable and give travelers a path forward without exorbitant costs.

It’s a critical short-term measure that also helps Loganair rapidly scale up operations during a turbulent moment in the Channel Islands aviation market.

3. Establishing a Permanent Base in Jersey

Loganair doesn’t just see this as a stop-gap solution. According to the airline and Ports of Jersey, these rescue routes will lead to the establishment of a permanent Loganair base in Jersey.

Having a base on the island could significantly strengthen Loganair’s commitment to serving the Channel Islands long-term and reinforce its role as a stable regional operator.

4. Leveraging Regional Strength & Financial Stability

Loganair’s CEO, Luke Farajallah, emphasized the airline’s financial resilience and unique business model:

“Uniquely, Loganair has no debt. We have no doubt in our business at all. No government debt, no bank debt … We understand the island communities … especially those who travel for medical reasons … We will establish a base in Jersey.”

Loganair’s long experience in serving island communities — such as Orkney, Shetland, and the Isle of Man — gives it valuable operational insight. It knows how to manage the economics and logistics of remote and lower-density routes.

The Fallout from Blue Islands’ Collapse

Blue Islands’ Sudden Shutdown

Blue Islands announced on 14 November that it had suspended trading with immediate effect, cancelling all flights.

The airline cited inability to secure further financial support from the Government of Jersey, despite months of dialogue.

According to reports, Blue Islands employed about 100 people; the sudden halt has created disruption for staff, local infrastructure, and passengers.

Passenger Disruption & Recovery Efforts

The collapse left many passengers stranded or without flights. As reported by the BBC, over 1,000 travelers were affected and urged to rebook with Loganair or Aurigny, which is also deploying extra flights.

Jersey Airport praised Loganair’s swift engagement, calling it a “critical moment” for island connectivity.

Regulatory & Licensing Challenges

Loganair’s move is not without complexity. According to Guernsey Press, the airline initially paused ticket sales for the Guernsey–Southampton route after realizing it lacked a valid license for that “lifeline” connection.

Loganair stated that it submitted the license application and hopes for approval soon, emphasizing its commitment to provide a “resilient operator” for the route.

Strategic Implications & Industry Perspective

A Test for Regional Airline Resilience

The episode underscores how fragile regional aviation can be. With Blue Islands gone, Loganair’s scale and financial health allow it to step in — something smaller or weaker airlines may not manage.

Loganair’s base in Jersey could reshape competitive dynamics: an established, debt-free operator now anchoring in a crucial island hub.

Government & Policy Risks

The need for a “lifeline” operator reveals a gap in how regional routes are regulated and subsidized. Island communities often rely on essential air links for healthcare, business, and social infrastructure. Without robust and financially stable carriers, regulators and governments face pressure to ensure continuity.

Growth Opportunity for Loganair

This sudden expansion may be transformative for Loganair. If the Jersey base materializes, the airline gains access to a new market, potential government support, and strong brand visibility. For passengers, it means improved choice and reliable connectivity.

Competition & Market Rebalancing

With Blue Islands out, other airlines (like Aurigny) are also stepping in to serve key routes. The scramble for routes may lead to price competition, but also could stabilize once Loganair establishes its Jersey base.

What to Watch Next

1. Jersey Base Launch: When will Loganair formally open its operating base, and how many aircraft will it station there?

   
   

2. License Approval: Will Loganair successfully obtain the required licenses (such as for Guernsey–Southampton)?

   
   

3. Rescue Fare Performance: How are the rescue fares selling? Do they attract many displaced Blue Islands customers?

   
   

4. Long-Term Schedule: What will the new flight schedule look like once the immediate rescue phase ends?

   
   

5. Staffing & Recruitment: Will Loganair hire former Blue Islands employees?

   
   

6. Regulatory Framework: Will the Channel Islands or UK government rethink financial support or subsidy models for regional airlines?