Alderney Airport (ACI/EGJA): Your Comprehensive Guide to the Channel Islands Gateway
Alderney Airport (IATA: ACI, ICAO: EGJA) is not just a small regional airport; it is a vital lifeline and the scenic gateway to the Channel Island of Alderney. Established in 1935, it holds the distinction of being the oldest civil airport in the Channel Islands. Located just 2 km from the main town centre, the airport provides essential connectivity for both residents and a growing number of tourists drawn to the island’s pristine beaches and historical sites.
The airport is owned and operated by the States of Guernsey. As a crucial regional hub, it handled approximately 47,700 passengers in 2024, showcasing its importance in the Bailiwick of Guernsey’s transport network.
Terminals and Passenger Facilities
Alderney Airport operates through one modest terminal building designed to manage regional inter-island and UK flights efficiently. While compact, it offers foundational services for travellers:
- Services: Passengers can access free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal. A small café provides refreshments and light snacks. While general amenities are present, both retail options and facilities for disabled access are limited due to the airport’s size.
- Accommodations: For visitors seeking immediate proximity to the coast and amenities, popular hotel options nearby include the Braye Beach Hotel and The Georgian House.
Essential Infrastructure and Runways
Uniquely among many modern airports, Alderney features one asphalt and two grass runways, catering specifically to the type of regional aircraft that serve the island.
| Runway Designation | Type | Length (approx.) | Primary Use |
| 08/26 | Asphalt | 877 metres (2,877 ft) | Main paved runway for commercial services. |
| 03/21 | Grass | 497 metres (1,631 ft) | For smaller aircraft, often utilized during crosswinds or for general aviation. |
| 13/31 | Grass | 733 metres (2,405 ft) | For smaller aircraft, often utilized during crosswinds or for general aviation. |
Airlines and Destination Routes
The airport’s connectivity is centred on providing a vital service to the wider Bailiwick and the UK mainland.
- Main Carrier: The primary and year-round operator is Aurigny, which uses the robust Dornier 228 aircraft, specifically suited to the airport’s runway length and operational requirements.
- Key Destinations: Alderney Airport offers regular scheduled services to:
- Guernsey (GCI): The essential inter-island link.
- Southampton (SOU): The island’s only direct air link to the UK mainland.
Future Connectivity Developments
Discussions are currently underway regarding Alderney’s future air services. Proposals have been put forward to potentially introduce smaller, more efficient aircraft (such as the Tecnam P2012) to serve the island. This could open up the possibility of re-establishing direct, unsubsidised routes to destinations such as Jersey and Cherbourg, enhancing tourism and connectivity across the Channel Islands and to the continent.
Major Infrastructure Update: The Runway Rehabilitation Project
The physical infrastructure of the airport is undergoing a period of significant review and planned rehabilitation, a key topic for the island’s future.
- Initial Plan: In late 2022, the States of Guernsey approved a £24 million project (Option C+) to extend, widen, and strengthen the paved runway (from 877m to 1,050m) and construct a new terminal and fire station. This was intended to allow the use of larger, Code C aircraft like the ATR 72, offering increased seat capacity.
- Current Status: Due to significant increases in construction costs, with project tenders coming in well above the budgeted £24 million, the original plan has been paused.
- New Direction: The focus has shifted to a more pragmatic, functional solution that meets current safety standards (Code B) while remaining within a financially viable budget. This includes urgent works to ensure the runway pavement, taxiway, and apron remain safe and operational for the current fleet. The current plan prioritises the necessary airside works, with landside upgrades (terminal) to follow. A recent £460,000 patching and refurbishment project has already been completed on the existing asphalt surfaces.
Ground Transportation and Parking
Getting to and from the town centre is quick and simple.
- Taxi: Taxis are the recommended and primary mode of transport. A dedicated taxi rank is situated immediately outside the terminal. The short journey to the city centre typically takes only 5 minutes, with a fare generally ranging from £5 to £10 GBP.
- Bus: There is currently no regular, scheduled bus service operating from the airport.
- Car Rental: Limited car rental options are available through local operators and should be booked in advance.
- Parking: A dedicated, small parking area is provided at the airport and is free of charge for users.
Contact Information
For general enquiries and operational information, you may use the following contact details:
Address: The Blaye, Alderney, GY9 3XX, UNITED KINGDOM
Phone: +44 1481 822851
Official Website: www.alderney.gov.gg/Airport