Originally Posted by
pamann
A virtually unknown airline here in the U.K. no chance.
Aer Lingus have more awareness In the U.K. and even they couldn’t make LGW work a few years back.
Citing Aer Lingus Gatwick operation as a comparator is nonsense. Aer Lingus has a robust business model but clearly easyJet made a concerted effort to see them off.
The more general issue is that an airline with a name that has a geographical significance (Aer Lingus - Ireland, Air France - France etc) rarely has success in markets unrelated. Therefore, in the UK Aer Lingus would be thought of an airline that flies to Ireland and potentially to North America.
Volotea is a great suggestion. The Southend Market is heavily reliant on the catchment, so a big marketing bang could hit the spot together with some lead in price activity. Beyond its own marketing they could use tour operators and online travel agents who serve a strong market segment eg Expedia, Edreams, Kayak. Clearly the timing is not right now, but potentially mid 21 or when we see the back of this virus.
A 2 aircraft base in time wild be sensible and starting out of Ryanair's way, Southend could provide a niche away from the other London airports.