Yeah Air Atlantique really ran the place down didn't they!
They only spent their own money resurfacing 02/20 to double the number of runways available at the airport and to make sure one of threm was (nearly) always into wind. They only spent their own cash on improving the navaids and had plans to put in lights when they pulled out.
They had the restaurant done up tastefully and the museum had a genial and knowledgable curator.
They used their experience and know-how to ensure the airport was run efficiently and safely by workers who were happy in their jobs.
They ensured that the paying public were welcome and encouraged visitors to flyin, chat, eat and watch other aircraft come and go.
They added to the fun by bringing in aircraft from their vintage flight and regularly brought in their larger types. Even the DC-6 made a spirited fly-past once.
Air Atlantique pulled out after Alastair was killed and we got BP instead.
BP wants public money to upgrade the facilities, £500,000 of taxpayers cash, but no details of what he wants to do have emerged nearly a year later.
BP wants to start up scheduled services to Cardiff and Ireland but he doesn't have a suitable aircraft let alone an AOC.
BP has systematically sacked or got rid of those staff who had the experience who dared challenge the changes and replaced them with Boy Scouts.
The BP welcome to most flyers get is cool - its only a bit warmer if they actually spend money.
BP is not the only chancer like this in aviation. They usually have their wings clipped, or fingers burnt, after a short time.