Meridiana formerly Alisarda commenced flying into London Gatwick in September 1991 with Bae146-200 from Florence with two flights daily later expanded to three flights daily from early 1992. The airline is privately owned by HH the Aga Khan as majority shareholder with the balance held by employees and an Italian investment group. I believe it has been flying now for over fifty years. At one time they served 24 cities in 6 European countries with MD-82 and Bae 146 aircraft.The airline is headquartered in Olbia Sardinia with Florence as its main international base. The Bae146 aircraft were returned to the manufacturer when the A319 aircraft arrived in 2005.Yes Florence has a short runway comparable to London City but it only takes 15-20 minutes by taxi from the airport into the city so why go to Pisa, miss the train connection then have to pay a fortune in Euros for a taxi to Florence and take over one hour getting there! Go non-stop to Florence. Incidentally Meridiana operates business and economy class. Have a great trip Ciaoooo.