SOLENT Airport at Daedalus could be stealing a vital Channel Island link route from Southampton Airport.

Daily flights linking Alderney to Southampton could face the Axe after Guernsey’s government said that the current losses of the route are not sustainable and as a result were looking to cut the subsidy which funds the route, operated by Air Aurigny which could result in the Island loosing its mainland link.

In a statement, the States of Alderney, the Islands Authority said: “Unquestionably, a regular and reliable UK air-link is critical to the Alderney economy.

“We are pressing the CfED and P&R to stand by their commitments to view this route as an economic enabler.”

Solent Airport at Daedalus near Fareham had been working with new airline Air Alderney to develop plans to create a daily service from Alderney although the Island States are not yet considering a route application.

David Lees, Managing Director of Southampton Airport said: “Southampton is well established link for passengers for tourists flying inbound to Alderney and with its connection to London just over 1 hour away.

“For residents, we represent the closest route on the mainland which has been operated in excess of 40 years.

“We await with interest with how the States of Guernsey will proceed with their decision.”