Hueymeister - might it not be the case that they want to close a tranpsort base anyway (let's face it, everyone is doing it) and that it therefore makes sense to close the one with the LOWEST load bearing capabilities?
If it's too weak to support an A400M then it is too weak to support any really large aeroplane and therefore makes sens to close that one.
BEagle - could you enlighten us as to the max weight (sorry, MASS) and mass footprint of the A400M relative to say a 777, 747, C5 etc.?
Edit: Sorry BEagle - crossed posts and you pretty much answered my question!