Fuel Stops

[MUFC_fan]

Hi,

I was just wondering why companies, when bringing in new a/c and have to make a stop on route for refuel etc, why they stop at major airfields?

For Example, Kenya Airways transit their 737s via MAN, what is wrong with other fields which have long enough runways yet would be cheaper for the companies to use them? NQY, DSA, PIK etc. etc. even BLK would be able to take one!

I just thought it would be cheaper to go via a small, cheaper field, am I wrong?

Thanks

[Ian Brooks]

Kenya used to go via LHR but have found Manchester give a good service after one was diverted in a few weeks back.
Operators try to use somewhere either they already fly or have handling contracts set up ie diversion fields, have 24 hour opening/maintenace/good overnight accommodation etc etc

Ian

[Curious Pax]

Other factors that are reputed to have come into play with other (not KQ) deliveries over the years:

deviation from the most direct route to final destination
inclination of the delivery crew to visit a location (reasons ranging from available nightlife to proximity of relatives)
publicity if a location is a new destination for the airline

plus the reasons that Ian mentions.