Well done to bmi!!
I'm hearing today they are going to appeal. I think that is a token effort, which they don't really expect a result from. But they sure do realise the importance of establishing a long-haul presence at Heathrow, no matter how small. Especially if they gain South Africa slots as well, then they will only make they case stronger for US rights, should they ever come up for grabs.
THing is though I am worried about MAN. bmi services there are great for the region, and bmi too i believe. And although I can't doubt LHR is a more sure bet of success, MAN is worth a sweat...the potential to hub there and launch a unique operation is great..
What does everyone else think?