Originally Posted by
LTNman
So the subsidy is not for Carlisle - London passengers but people living in Brentwood, Chelmsford, Southend and Upminster. Sorry I misunderstood. As for business passengers sheep farmers would be reluctant to leave Shep the dog to look after the farm. This has nothing to do with Southend but the principle of subsidising air routes for the benefit of Stobart.
All the evidence I’ve seen points to inbound tourism being the economic benefit derived from these flights. Look at the Loganair story linked above, does it mention Cumbrian sheep farmers investing in the city or does it talk about the Lake District and how many people visit? Yes I’m sure it is win-win for Stobart but it’s disingenuous to suggest its being subsidised for business pax to central London against the train.