For the first time, German tourists will be able to visit the Island for a short break, when Eurowings begins operating weekday flights.
It comes after the market took a massive hit in 2017 when Air Berlin, which operated four direct routes to Jersey, collapsed, leading to 5,000 fewer Germans visiting the Island in the following year.
However, Adam Caerlewy-Smith, head of marketing for Visit Jersey, says that there is proven demand for the services and he is excited about the year ahead.
‘Last year it was a real challenge with Germany because of issues outside our control but we are expecting a really good year in 2018.
‘This year our capacity is up 84 per cent to 15,276 seats to Jersey compared with last year.’
Mr Caerlewy-Smith added that the establishment of a mid-week direct service from Düsseldorf opened up a new market to German travellers.
‘In the past, Germans have had to visit for seven days but this will open up a whole different market and target a different type of traveller. It is incredibly exciting,’ he said.
‘I think the reality is that in every source market, whether that is France, the UK or Germany, we have huge competition. A potential visitor can go anywhere in the world and if they have to go for a week, that is one of their main holidays.’
He added: ‘I think although Jersey does offer very good value for money it can be expensive for some German visitors so this will give them more options.’
Direct flights to the Island will begin on 24 April, with Flybe and Eurowings operating return flights to the Island from Düsseldorf. On the same day Eurowings will also begin services to the Island from Berlin-Tegel.
Lufthansa will operate the last direct service of the season from Munich to the Island on 20 October.
