I was always impressed at how much traffic we're able to attract that is destined for Sunderland (and not just the current freight flights), I'm told it's easier to get to Sunderland from us than it is from Newcastle despite being further away due to better roads. We've had these flights before they'll dry up before much longer no doubt.
Sharklet_321, as much as is possible which is not a lot. They're always talking to airlines* but there are a lack of options, and with City, Gatwick and Heathrow all slot constrained there isn't sufficient point-to-point demand to go to Stansted, Luton or even Southend.
*Probably not at the moment due to on-going takeover efforts by the Mayor; if people think that by following the progress of this airport they know what quiet is then I suspect the next few months will make them realise they don't!