Deputy Alan Maclean's comments follow claims noxious air is leaking into the cabins of Flybe's British Aerospace 146 fleet.

A former pilot said the fumes had caused headaches and impaired his judgement and some crew members are now refusing to fly in the 146 planes.

But Deputy Alan Maclean said he is satisfied the fleet is safe.

The assistant minister for economic development said there was no evidence passengers flying to and from the island were at risk.

Flybe said its aircraft are operated and maintained to the highest industry standards.

The company decided several years ago to reduce the 146 fleet and said the entire fleet will have been withdrawn by February 2008.