21 July 2010 Last updated at 07:54 ET

Early tests show Flybe's jets can use Guernsey's runway

Flybe announced on Tuesday that it was buying 35 of the jets

Guernsey Airport's director has said early test results show there should not be a problem with Flybe landing its new plane at the island's airport.

The airline announced on Tuesday that it hoped to put its new Embraer E175 jets on the Guernsey-London Gatwick route in April 2011.

Colin Le Ray said initial findings showed it could safely use the runway.

However, he said more tests would be undertaken before a definitive answer was given.

The tests are based upon the weight, wing span, tail height, undercarriage and tyre pressure of the E175.

Upgrade work, costing £81m, is due to take place on the airport's runway during 2011.