Blue Islands

Blue Islands serves as a vital transportation link connecting the Channel Islands with the United Kingdom and Europe. This regional airline, known for its distinctive blue livery and friendly service, operates with a deep commitment to the communities it serves, offering a travel experience that feels personal and welcoming. Whether you are planning a business trip to the financial hubs or a leisurely escape to the scenic coasts, Blue Islands ensures a reliable and comfortable journey across the English Channel. With a focus on consistent connectivity, the carrier has established itself as a preferred choice for travelers seeking efficiency and regional expertise.

Founded originally as a small operation to transport perishable goods, the airline has grown significantly over the decades. Rebranded as Blue Islands in 2006, it transitioned into a fully scheduled passenger airline. It is an independently owned carrier, which allows it to remain agile and responsive to the needs of its passengers. The airline plays a crucial role in the local economy, facilitating tourism and business links between the islands of Guernsey and Jersey, and key mainland UK destinations such as Southampton and Exeter.

The Blue Islands fleet consists primarily of ATR 72 turboprop aircraft. These planes are perfectly suited for the short-haul regional routes the airline operates, balancing fuel efficiency with passenger comfort. The cabin environment is designed to be relaxed, reflecting the laid-back yet professional nature of island life. Unlike many low-cost carriers, Blue Islands often focuses on providing value-added services, aiming to make the short hop across the water as stress-free as possible.

In terms of connectivity, the airline offers frequent flights between the islands and major UK regional airports, including Nottingham (East Midlands) and Bristol. One of its most popular routes connects Saint Helier with its hub, maintaining essential inter-island travel. The company prides itself on its "Welcome Difference" philosophy, prioritizing transparent pricing and customer care. Safety remains a paramount value, with the airline operating under strict civil aviation regulations to ensure the highest standards of maintenance and operational security.

For travelers in the United Arab Emirates, connecting with Blue Islands is primarily managed through their digital platforms and United Kingdom-based support teams. As a regional carrier centered in the Channel Islands, the airline does not maintain a local physical presence in the UAE, but their international customer care is fully accessible for your planning needs. Passengers are encouraged to use the official website or mobile app for the most efficient service.

Official Website: https://www.blueislands.com

Contact Information

• Official Website: https://www.blueislands.com
• Customer Service: +44 1234 589200 (International calling rates apply)
• Ticket Booking: +44 1234 589200
• Email: customercare@blueislands.com
• Mobile App: Blue Islands (Available for download on iOS and Android platforms)

Social Media

• Facebook
• Twitter (X)
• Instagram
• LinkedIn

Local Offices in United Arab Emirates

• Office Addresses: There are currently no local administrative offices or ticketing counters for Blue Islands in the United Arab Emirates. All inquiries should be directed to the UK headquarters.
• Airport Desks: The airline does not operate direct flights from UAE airports; therefore, there are no dedicated check-in or service desks available locally.

Emergency & Support

Customer support is available during standard United Kingdom business hours. Travelers from the UAE should be aware of the time difference (Gulf Standard Time is typically 4 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time). For urgent matters outside of these hours, please utilize the "Manage My Booking" feature on the official website or the mobile app.

Traveling with Blue Islands is designed to be simple and efficient, but understanding the baggage policy is essential for a smooth journey. Whether you are flying to St Peter Port or hopping across to Saint Helier, the airline’s allowances are tailored to the regional aircraft they operate. Passengers are advised to review their fare type carefully, as allowances differ significantly between the standard and flexible ticket options.

Carry-on Baggage Allowances

All passengers are typically entitled to bring one piece of cabin baggage on board. This bag must not exceed the maximum dimensions of 55 x 36 x 20cm and should weigh no more than 10kg. In addition to the main cabin bag, you may also carry a small personal item, such as a handbag, laptop bag, or briefcase. This smaller item must fit comfortably underneath the seat in front of you. Due to the compact overhead lockers on the ATR turboprop aircraft used for routes to Southampton and Exeter, larger cabin bags that are within the size limits may occasionally need to be placed in the hold at the aircraft steps (a service often referred to as "Delivery at Aircraft") and collected upon arrival.

Checked Baggage Limits

Checked baggage allowances depend on the specific ticket purchased, but Blue Islands offers generous inclusions across its primary fares. The Blue Fly fare, designed for value, conveniently includes one checked bag weighing up to 23kg. For those requiring more flexibility and capacity, the Blue Plus fare includes an allowance of two checked bags, each weighing up to 23kg. It is important to note that the maximum weight for any single piece of luggage must not exceed 32kg due to health and safety regulations for baggage handlers.

Excess Baggage and Fees

If your luggage exceeds the weight or piece limit of your fare allowance, excess baggage fees will apply. These charges are usually calculated per kilogram or per additional bag and can be paid at the airport, although it is often cheaper to arrange this online in advance. Space in the hold is limited on regional flights, so arriving at the airport early is recommended if you are traveling with excess weight to ensure it can be accommodated.

Special Items and Sports Equipment

Blue Islands welcomes passengers traveling with sports equipment, such as golf clubs, surfboards, or bicycles, as well as musical instruments. These items are considered "out of gauge" and generally incur a fixed handling fee per sector. Because hold space is limited, you must pre-book these items through the airline’s customer service center before travel. Small musical instruments that fit within the cabin baggage dimensions can usually be taken on board as your carry-on allowance.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

For the safety of all passengers and crew, standard international restrictions apply. Prohibited items in both cabin and checked luggage include explosives, flammable liquids, and compressed gases. In your carry-on, liquids, gels, and pastes must be in containers of 100ml or less and packed in a single, transparent, resealable plastic bag. Sharp objects, tools, and lithium batteries (which must be in the cabin, not the hold) are also subject to strict regulation. Always verify the latest list of restricted items on the official website before packing.

Tips for Packing Efficiently

To make your trip as stress-free as possible, consider using soft-sided luggage. These bags are much easier to stow in the cargo holds of regional aircraft compared to rigid, hard-shell suitcases. Always label your bags clearly with your name, phone number, and email address, both inside and out. Finally, if you are connecting to onward flights in the UK, such as at Bristol or Nottingham, check with ground staff whether your bags will be checked through to your final destination or if you need to collect and re-check them.

Pet Travel Rules

Blue Islands recognizes that pets are beloved family members and offers the option for cats and dogs to travel on flights between the United Kingdom and the Channel Islands. Whether you are flying to St Peter Port or returning to the mainland, it is important to understand that the airline has specific policies to ensure the safety and welfare of all animals on board. Unlike some carriers, Blue Islands does not permit pets to travel in the passenger cabin, with the sole exception of recognized assistance dogs. All other pets must travel securely in the aircraft's hold.

Travel in the Cargo Hold

For the safety of your pet and other passengers, all cats and dogs traveling with Blue Islands must be transported in the aircraft's hold. While this area is safe, space is strictly limited on the regional ATR aircraft that serve routes such as Southampton and Saint Helier. Therefore, it is crucial to book your pet's travel at the same time you book your own ticket to guarantee availability.

• Mandatory Hold Travel: Pets are not allowed in the cabin as carry-on luggage. They must be checked in and transported in the cargo section.
• Safety and Comfort: The hold is suitable for animal transport, but owners should be aware that the loading environment can be noisy. Preparing your pet in advance can help reduce stress.
• Weather Restrictions: To protect animal welfare, the airline may restrict pet travel during periods of extreme heat or cold.

Approved Travel Crates

To ensure your pet is accepted for travel, you must provide a suitable travel container that meets IATA (International Air Transport Association) regulations. Soft-sided bags are not permitted for hold travel; the crate must be robust and secure.

• Construction: The container must be rigid, leak-proof, and have a secure locking mechanism that cannot be opened accidentally.
• Size Requirements: The crate must be large enough for the animal to stand up, turn around, and lie down in a natural position. However, due to the cargo door dimensions of the aircraft, very large crates may not fit. It is vital to check the maximum dimensions with customer service before purchasing a crate.
• Ventilation and Amenities: The container must be well-ventilated and equipped with accessible food and water containers.

Service Costs and Booking

Pet travel is an additional service and incurs a fee per sector (flight leg). These fees are separate from your personal baggage allowance.

• Charges: A fixed fee per sector applies for transporting pets in the hold. As rates are subject to change, passengers are advised to consult the official Blue Islands website for the most current pricing information.
• Booking Process: You cannot add a pet to your booking online. You must contact the customer service team directly to check availability and make the reservation.

Assistance Dogs

The only exception to the "hold-only" rule is for recognized assistance dogs. These highly trained animals are permitted to travel in the cabin with their owners free of charge.

• Documentation: Passengers traveling with assistance dogs must provide valid identification and training documentation from an accredited organization (such as Assistance Dogs UK or equivalent).
• Restraints: The dog must remain on the floor and be secured with a safety harness during take-off, landing, and turbulence.

Required Documentation

Traveling between the UK and the Channel Islands is generally more straightforward than international travel, but adherence to specific health guidelines is essential for your pet's well-being.

• Identification and Fitness: While a pet passport is not mandatory for these routes, your pet should be microchipped for identification. It is the owner's responsibility to ensure the animal is healthy and fit to travel.
• Health Declarations: Although you do not need to present a passport, we strongly advise you to check with Blue Islands customer service before you fly to see if any specific health declaration forms are currently required for your journey.
• Vaccinations: Keeping your pet's vaccinations up to date is recommended as a standard precaution, even if strict border checks differ from those in continental Europe.

Important: Failure to provide the correct crate or adhere to safety requirements will result in your pet being refused travel. Always verify the latest requirements with Blue Islands support before your trip.

Loyalty Program: Blue Skies Club

Blue Skies Club is the airline's straightforward and rewarding loyalty program designed to keep travel simple for frequent flyers. Unlike legacy carriers with complex status requirements, Blue Islands focuses on a transparent "earn and burn" model that allows passengers to accumulate points quickly on flights across the Channel Islands and the UK. The program is free to join and offers a direct path to complimentary travel without hidden hurdles.

Membership Levels

Blue Skies Club operates with a single, inclusive membership tier, ensuring that every traveler enjoys the same potential for rewards immediately upon joining.

• Blue Skies Club Member: The primary status for all registered users, offering equal access to earning rates and redemptions.
• Fare-Based Benefits: While there are no elite tiers (Silver/Gold), benefits such as increased baggage allowances are tied to the ticket type purchased.

Earning Points

Members earn "Blue Skies Points" based on the type of fare booked rather than the distance flown, making calculations effortless.

• Blue Fly Fares: Earn 250 points for every one-way flight segment flown.
• Blue Plus Fares: Earn 500 points per one-way flight (effectively double points).
• Speed of Earning: A free flight can be earned after as few as 10 one-way trips on Blue Plus fares.
• Route Coverage: Points are earned on all scheduled services, including routes to Saint Helier and Southampton.

Redeeming Points

The redemption structure is designed for simplicity, with a fixed point requirement for flights to any destination in the network.

• Standard Redemption: Redeem 5,000 points for a one-way flight to any destination.
• Fixed Costs: A flat fee of £20 is payable per passenger to cover taxes and charges.
• Inclusive Perks: All reward flights are booked as "Blue Plus" tickets, including 23kg of checked baggage.
• Flexibility: Reward tickets include free flight changes (fare difference may apply) and seat selection.

Alliance Membership

Blue Islands is an independent regional carrier and does not belong to a major global airline alliance.

• Partner Airlines: Maintains a strategic partnership with Loganair to enhance connectivity across the UK.
• Interline Connectivity: facilitating smoother travel between the Channel Islands and the wider UK regional network.

How to Join

Joining the program is digital and instant, allowing you to start earning on your very next trip.

• Online Registration: Sign up for free via the official Blue Islands website.
• Account Management: View your balance and book reward flights directly through the member portal.

Service Classes and Cabin Experience

As a regional airline utilizing a fleet of turboprop aircraft, Blue Islands operates a single-class Economy cabin designed for efficiency and short-haul comfort. Unlike larger international carriers, there are no separate Business or First Class sections on board. However, the airline differentiates its service through ticket types—Blue Fly and Blue Plus—which allow passengers to tailor their experience based on their needs. While every passenger enjoys the same comfortable seating, the "Blue Plus" fare offers added value similar to a premium economy product, including increased baggage allowances, complimentary seat selection, and greater flexibility with ticket changes.

Seating and Comfort

Flights are operated primarily by ATR 72 aircraft, which feature a 2-2 seating configuration. This layout is a significant advantage for travelers, as it eliminates the dreaded middle seat entirely; every passenger has either a window or an aisle seat. The cabin is compact yet comfortable, with leather seating designed for the short duration of flights between the Channel Islands and UK destinations like Southampton and Exeter. Legroom is standard for regional aircraft, adequate for journeys that typically last around an hour.

In-Flight Dining

One of the defining features of the Blue Islands experience is the "Welcome Difference." In an era where many short-haul carriers charge for every item, Blue Islands continues to offer complimentary in-flight refreshments. Passengers traveling on routes such as Saint Helier to Bristol can enjoy complimentary tea, coffee, water, and a sweet snack (typically a cookie or biscuit). While hot meals are not served due to the short flight times and limited galley space, the provision of free drinks and snacks provides a welcoming touch that sets the airline apart from many low-cost competitors.

Entertainment and Connectivity

Given the short flight times and the regional nature of the aircraft, there are no seatback entertainment screens or Wi-Fi connectivity on board. The airline encourages a "digital detox" approach, inviting passengers to enjoy the views of the English Channel or catch up on reading. Travelers wishing to watch movies or listen to music are advised to download content to their personal devices prior to boarding. In-flight magazines are often available, providing local news and lifestyle content relevant to the Channel Islands and the UK.

Special Services and Assistance

Blue Islands is committed to making travel accessible for everyone. The airline offers dedicated assistance for Passengers with Reduced Mobility (PRM), ensuring support from the check-in desk at St Peter Port through to boarding and disembarkation. Due to the smaller size of the aircraft, passengers requiring special assistance or wheelchair services must notify the airline at least 48 hours in advance to ensure the ground crew can accommodate their needs safely. For families, the airline permits infants (under 2 years) to travel on a parent's lap for a nominal fee, though car seats generally cannot be used on board due to seat dimensions.

Unaccompanied Minors

The airline has specific policies regarding children traveling alone. Generally, children under the age of 12 are not permitted to travel unaccompanied. Young persons aged 12 to 15 may travel alone on direct flights, such as those to Nottingham, provided the parent or guardian has completed the necessary consent forms. However, it is important to note that Blue Islands does not offer a chaperoned "unaccompanied minor service" where staff supervise the child throughout the journey; the child must be capable of traveling independently.

Blue Islands facilitates convenient travel across the English Channel with a network rooted in its home base of St Peter Port. The airline provides frequent scheduled services connecting the islands of Guernsey and Jersey with popular destinations in the south of England and the Midlands, ensuring vital links for both business and leisure travelers.

Planning a trip to the Channel Islands? Booking a flight with Blue Islands is a straightforward process, but a few strategic moves can help you secure the best value and a smooth journey. Whether you are flying into their hub at St Peter Port or connecting through Southampton, here are some practical tips for your travel preparations.

To secure the most attractive fares, it is highly recommended to book well in advance. Flights between the mainland and the islands, especially popular routes to Saint Helier, can see prices rise as the departure date approaches. Being flexible with your travel dates can also reveal cheaper options, particularly if you avoid peak holiday weekends or school breaks.

Keep an eye out for seasonal promotions and fare deals. Signing up for the airline's newsletter is often the best way to receive alerts about flash sales or special offers on routes from cities like Exeter or Bristol. Comparing fares across different days using flexible search tools can also help you spot the lowest prices.

Save time at the airport by utilizing online check-in. This service typically opens 48 hours before your scheduled departure. By checking in digitally, you can confirm your details and download your boarding pass directly to your mobile device, allowing for a more relaxed arrival at the terminal.

Seat selection is an important consideration for a comfortable flight. If you prefer a window seat to enjoy views of the English Channel or an aisle seat for extra space, consider selecting your seat during the booking process or check-in. Be aware that depending on your ticket type, selecting a specific seat in advance might incur a small fee.

Finally, don't forget to arrange comprehensive travel insurance before you fly. While Blue Islands strives for punctuality, weather in the Channel Islands can occasionally be unpredictable. Having insurance covers you for unexpected delays or changes. Additionally, ensure your mobile phone is fully charged to access your digital boarding passes and flight updates easily on the go.

Founding and Early Years

The story of Blue Islands began in 1999, not as a passenger airline, but as a small cargo operation known as Le Cocq's Airlink. Founded with a primary mission to transport perishable goods and daily newspapers between the United Kingdom and the Channel Islands, the company quickly established a reputation for reliability. Based in St Peter Port, the carrier recognized the growing demand for passenger travel and gradually began introducing scheduled services. In 2006, a significant transformation occurred when the airline officially rebranded as Blue Islands, marking its transition into a full-service regional passenger carrier dedicated to serving the unique needs of the island communities.

Fleet Evolution and Modernization

As the airline expanded its network, its fleet underwent a significant evolution to meet the demands of modern regional travel. In its earlier years, the company operated smaller aircraft such as the Britten-Norman Islander and the Handley Page Jetstream, which were agile but limited in capacity. To improve passenger comfort and operational efficiency, Blue Islands strategically transitioned to a fleet of ATR turboprop aircraft. Today, the airline primarily operates the ATR 72 variant. These aircraft are perfectly suited for the short hops across the English Channel, offering a balance of speed, fuel efficiency, and reduced environmental impact compared to regional jets.

Strategic Partnerships and Independence

A pivotal chapter in the airline's history began in 2016 when Blue Islands entered into a franchise agreement with Flybe, then one of Europe's largest regional airlines. For several years, Blue Islands flights operated under the Flybe brand, adopting its purple livery and booking systems while maintaining its own crew and aircraft. This partnership significantly boosted connectivity for travelers. However, following the collapse of Flybe in early 2020, Blue Islands demonstrated remarkable resilience. The airline swiftly re-established itself as an independent brand, repainting its fleet in its distinctive blue colors and stepping in to safeguard essential routes that were vital for the local economy.

Connecting the Islands and the UK

Throughout its history, the carrier has focused on strengthening the links between the Channel Islands and key UK destinations. The restoration of its independence allowed for the launch of new direct services and the solidification of existing ones. The airline now provides frequent and essential connections to major regional hubs, including Southampton, which serves as a primary gateway for island residents visiting the mainland. Additionally, the network has grown to include vital routes to Saint Helier, facilitating seamless inter-island business and leisure travel.

Recent Developments

In recent years, Blue Islands has continued to innovate by focusing on customer-centric services dubbed "The Welcome Difference." This philosophy emphasizes transparent pricing and inclusive luggage allowances, setting it apart from many low-cost competitors. The airline has also expanded its footprint in the UK, offering regular services to cities such as Exeter and Bristol. Furthermore, the addition of routes to Nottingham (East Midlands) demonstrates the airline's commitment to connecting the Channel Islands with the wider UK network, ensuring that both tourists and residents enjoy accessible and reliable air travel.