It's clear that MAN's arrogant position in the past is now coming back to bite it on the backside as LCC's or at least the big boys are firmly settled down the road.
But is this entirely negative? from a strategic point of view MAN needs to clarify it's offering to world airlines and without a home based airline this needs careful planning and consideration.
It needs to make itself attractive to the internationals and give them something extra.....
As no UK airport currently has US Immigration clearance could this be somthing? I'm sure there are lots of legalities but with the amount of UK Border Agency trials the airport is involved in they surely must have the right contacts. This may not have a direct impact on LHR traffic but would give them an edge over other regionals both within the UK and the rest of Europe.
Second issue is O&D vs Connecting traffic, as the LCC "big boys" have stayed away we have ended up with a reasonable LCC alternative in the form of flybe (I Know they have their faults but which arirline doesnt!).
Flybe are in a strong position and they do already offer connections, they have experience of Code Share with BA, AF, CO and the inclusive pricing necessary for this sector of the market.
Most importantly they are not alligned to any alliance.
This could play to Manchesters perceived weakness of piecemeal operators using the airport, Flybe could become the Alaska of NW UK with codeshares to its onward network. As a result we may also eventually see new destinations and the return of old favourites which would not be relying solely on O&D traffic.
Obviously BA with its 15% stake in Flybe may not want passengers being able to conncet outside of LHR but with the right offering and potentially a two way push between flybe and MAN management this could give the airport what it craves and needs.
A three way proposal including US pre-clearance would be the icing on the cake. Even in the current economic and aviation climate this could be a win win all round.
Any thoughts (and leave the flames for someone else please)
