Aurigny Air Services, a relatively unknown small airline, has surprised the aviation industry by being named the world's best carrier.

Guernsey-based Aurigny received the recognition after a survey of 12,000 passengers by UK consumer site called, "Which?". The small airline operates services between the Channel Islands, the UK and France. The airline was rated the best carrier for short-haul category while the bigger rival Ryanair was rated the worst short-haul carrier.

Aurigny received a satisfaction score of 87 per cent compared to just 32 per cent for Ryanair. Aurigny spokesman Mel Rees welcomes the news saying that it is a good development especially as many people have not heard about the airline.

Agnes Perry, 48, described what it is like flying with Aurigny: "If it's a short flight, you do not get any food. The planes are so small there's no central alleyway and there's enough room for two people to be side by side and one pilot."

Among the long haul airlines, Singapore Airlines and Air New Zealandwere rated the world's best airline.