Guernsey’s government has granted an airline a licence to fly between the island and Jersey.

The Transport Licensing Authority (TLA) said it had granted States-owned Aurigny a licence after receiving the company’s application on 17 November.

The TLA said it had received three applications in total to operate flights with the other two set to be considered “as soon as possible”.

The States of Guernsey said the flight path between the island and Jersey would be designated an “essential air route” from January following the collapse of Blue Islands last month.

Guernsey’s Committee for Economic Development introduced the idea of a licence in an effort to increase resilience on the route.

Licences are required for airlines to fly on routes deemed as “essential” for Guernsey to destinations including Jersey, Southampton, Alderney and Gatwick.

Deputy John Gollop, president of the TLA, said “a rigorous process” had been followed to appoint Aurigny.

“Members of the TLA are grateful for the engagement it received from members of the public and interested parties,” Gollop said.