The States said Aurigny operates independently of it

Rockhopper says the decision to double the winter subsidy to two other airlines, including States-owned Aurigny, raises serious questions.

Eight air routes into Guernsey will receive a double passenger subsidy this winter of �2 per traveller.

Rockhopper will receive no extra subsidy from the States of Guernsey because the Guernsey to Bournemouth route is not regarded as a "major" route.

Rockhopper chairman Noel Hayes says the decision is an example of a conflict of interests, a situation which was feared when the island's government bought its own airline.

Guernsey's States acquired Aurigny in May, saying it wanted the airline to be owned by it but to continue to operate independently.