The main reason for the STN-BLK closure was because of the timings. The aircraft was due to land in STN at 9.10, which is completely unacceptable for business passengers.
If the aircraft was BLK based (which it obviously wouldn't be), then the aircraft would be able to operate early morning into STN helping business travellors get into London intime for a 9 o'clock start and it would also help increase the STN-BLK morning loads with a more attractive departure time from the capital, especially during the summer when Blackpool Pleasure beach is in it's prime.
Been discussed many times before, an aircraft could have been based at BLK successfully:
BLK-STN 06:50-07:45
STN-BLK 08:10-09:05
BLK-GRO 09:30-12:40
GRO-BLK 13:05-14:15
BLK-DUB 14:40-15:30
DUB-BLK 15:55-16:45
*** DOWNTIME *** (They do in GRO!)
BLK-STN 17:45-18:40
STN-BLK 19:05-19:55
It would have been possible, but not seen by FR and probably not economical as all of the other airports are bases, but, instead of leaving an aircraft on the ground in STN this winter, why don't they give it a try?!
Would be very surprised to see a MAN or LPL route.
MAN have tried STN with AB and it hasn't worked, mainly due to the times, FR's wouldn't be much better.
LPL is apparently in talks with BA and 'other airlines' so maybe Ryanair, but I suppose a BA route would be more successful if to LHR, not so sure about LGW.
Also, STN are currently cutting routes - not starting them!
