The situation worsened on Saturday afternoon when one man reported sick and the airport had to reduce the level of fire cover.

This led to the cancellation of all Flybe's flights because large aircraft were not allowed to use the airport.

Firefighters want a pay increase in line with the cost of living. They are not working overtime although medical emergencies will be covered.

Flybe says Guernsey has made a rod for its own back by turning recommendations into regulations.

Although the Civil Aviation Authority recommends full fire cover for aircraft above a certain size it does give airlines the discretion to accept reduced cover, but not in Guernsey.