Which? survey names Guernsey-based carrier as top airline

A Guernsey-based airline has topped a list of the best airlines to fly with for short-haul flights – beating many of the big names in the process.

Aurigny Air Services gained four stars in a survey by Which? for categories including the boarding process, legroom and punctuality. The company has operated since 1968 and flies from Bristol, Manchester, East Midlands, Southampton, London Gatwick and Stansted to the Channel Islands.

Guernsey, Jersey and Alderney are all served by the carrier, which scored 87% thanks to several perks including an in-flight service that includes complimentary soft drinks. A 20kg hold luggage allowance is also included in the ticket price, which is particularly appreciated by passengers according to the survey.

Trumping global competitors

The relatively unknown airline beat off competition from Swiss International Airlines, Norwegian Air Shuttle ASA and Turkish Airlines for top spot in the poll.

Meanwhile, budget airline Ryanair was bottom of the pile, scoring just 32% and one star for luggage allowances, the boarding process, legroom and the quality of food and drink. However, Which? did point out that recent changes at Ryanair including allocated seating and reduced baggage fees were not taken into account.

The survey covers the period of 12 months until October 2013, meaning the latest changes have occurred since that date. For long-haul flights, Air New Zealand and Singapore Airlines shared top-spot and received five stars in a number of categories. These included in-flight entertainment, food and drink, punctuality and value for money, while Spanish airline Iberia was ranked bottom when it came to making long-haul journeys.

Around 12,000 Which? members participated in the annual service which also rated airlines by the destinations that they fly to. British Airways topped the pile for travel to France, Greece, Italy, Spain and Turkey, while Virgin Atlantic and Singapore Airlines were best when travelling to America and Australia respectively. If you are planning either a long-haul or a short-haul journey this winter, travel insurance is an important consideration whichever airline you are flying with.

Date Created: 23/12/2013