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Getting There & Away

Getting There & Away

The Channel Islands

Air Travel

Jersey Airport JER

Jersey Airport (JER) is the island's only airport. Located in the parish of St Peter, it handles all commercial flights to and from the island.

Routes & Carriers

  • From the UK: British Airways, easyJet, Blue Islands, and Loganair operate regular services.
  • London: Frequent flights from London Gatwick (LGW) and London Heathrow (LHR).
  • Regional UK: Connections are available from numerous regional airports, including Bristol, Manchester, Liverpool, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Southampton, and Exeter.

International Connections

Jersey Airport does not feature direct flights from major global hubs outside of the UK, Ireland, or limited seasonal European routes.

Connecting Flights

  • International travelers connect via a major UK airport.
  • London Gatwick (LGW) and London Heathrow (LHR) serve as common connecting points due to their extensive international flight networks.
  • From Europe: Occasional seasonal flights connect Jersey with a limited number of European cities like Düsseldorf, Geneva, and Zurich.

Seasonal Availability

Flight frequency to Jersey significantly increases during the summer season (June-August). Airlines add more routes and daily flights.

Price Fluctuations

Prices are highest during peak summer months and school holidays. Shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) present more competitive prices. Low season (November-March) sees reduced schedules and lower prices.

Airport Facilities

Jersey Airport provides duty-free shopping, cafes, restaurants, car rental desks, taxi stands, ATMs, and an information desk.

Transfer Options from Airport

Public Transport

  • The LibertyBus service (Route 15) connects Jersey Airport directly to St Helier, the capital.
  • Buses operate frequently throughout the day. The journey takes approximately 25-30 minutes, a cost-effective transfer option.
  • Check the LibertyBus app for real-time schedules.
  • The airport's location offers easy access to the main road network for driving to your accommodation.

Private Transfer & Rental

  • A taxi rank operates outside the arrivals terminal. Taxis offer a quick and convenient transfer.
  • Fares to St Helier typically range from £15-£20, depending on traffic and the exact destination.
  • Car Rental: If you pre-booked a rental car, collect it from the desks in the arrivals hall.
  • Booking your rental car in advance is recommended, especially during peak season. (DiscoverCars.com)

Airport Bus Tip

Download App

If you plan to use public transport from the airport, download the LibertyBus app before you arrive.

Route Planning

It assists with route planning and real-time bus tracking.

Simplified Travel

Having the LibertyBus app ready simplifies your public transport experience from Jersey Airport.

Sea Arrivals

Ferry Services

Condor Ferries operates the main ferry services to Jersey.

Routes

  • From the UK: Poole (high-speed catamaran, ~4 hours).
  • Portsmouth (conventional ferry, ~10 hours, often overnight with cabins).
  • From France: Saint-Malo (high-speed catamaran, ~1 hour 20 minutes).

Cruise Port & Inter-Island

Occasional cruise ships call at Jersey, typically docking at the Elizabeth Terminal in St Helier. Passengers disembark directly into the town center or arrange shore excursions from there.

Inter-Island Connections

  • Daily services connect Jersey to Guernsey, the second largest Channel Island, with a journey time of approximately 1 hour.
  • Further connections to the smaller islands of Sark and Herm are available via Guernsey.
  • Immigration procedures at Jersey's Elizabeth Terminal (St Helier) are similar to those at the airport.

Immigration Procedures at Seaports

Upon arrival, Border Force officers conduct passport and ID checks. Ensure you have your valid passport or appropriate photo identification ready. Procedures are generally efficient for those with correct documentation.

Entry Flow

  • Ensure your valid passport or appropriate photo identification is ready.
  • Procedures are generally efficient for those with correct documentation.
  • Border Force officers conduct checks; answer truthfully.

Connections to Land Transportation

The Elizabeth Terminal in St Helier is well-situated for onward travel.

Onward Journey Options

  • Local Bus Services: Liberation Station, the main bus terminal, is a short walk from the ferry terminal.
  • Taxis: A taxi rank is available directly outside the terminal.
  • Walking: The terminal lies a short walk from St Helier's town center, making it convenient for those staying locally.

Departure Information

  • Flights: Arrive at Jersey Airport at least 90 minutes before your scheduled domestic (UK/Ireland) departure.
  • International (connecting via UK): Aim for 2 hours before departure.
  • Check-in: Check in online beforehand if your airline offers this option. This saves time at the airport.
  • Ferries (Foot Passengers): Arrive at the Elizabeth Terminal at least 60-90 minutes before departure.
  • Ferries (Vehicle Passengers): Arrive earlier, typically 90 minutes to 2 hours before departure.
  • Follow specific instructions from Condor Ferries for vehicle check-in and boarding.

Departure Facilities

Airport Facilities

Jersey Airport offers cafes, shops, and duty-free areas (for passengers traveling outside the Common Travel Area).

Ferry Terminal Facilities

Elizabeth Terminal (Ferry Port) provides basic waiting areas, a cafe, and restrooms for departing ferry passengers.

No Exit Fees

No specific departure taxes or exit fees apply for passengers leaving Jersey, whether by air or sea. The price of your ticket includes all applicable charges.

Departure Timing & Online Check-in

Timing Your Departure

Double-check your flight or ferry status before heading to the airport or terminal.

Weather & Travel Time

  • Delays or cancellations can occur due to weather, especially in winter.
  • Allow extra time for travel to the airport/port during peak hours.
  • Stay informed about any service disruptions.

Online Check-in

Many airlines offer online check-in. This option saves time at the airport and helps streamline your departure experience.

Benefits of Digital Check-in

  • Check in from your phone or computer.
  • Receive your boarding pass digitally.
  • Expedites your airport arrival.

General Departure Advice

Local Currency

Spend any Jersey Pound notes before you depart, as they are not generally accepted outside the Channel Islands.

Luggage Checks

Be aware of airline baggage allowances and restrictions for both checked and carry-on luggage.

Security Screening

Prepare for airport security checks. Liquids, electronics, and other items may need separate screening.

Final Check

A quick status check on your departure before leaving for the airport or terminal helps avoid unexpected waiting.