Skipness..Are we saying no one connects through Heathrow from the regions then? Perhaps we should just axe all domestic access to Heathrow?
Well this would actually solve a lot of problems, no regionals thus less capacity thus no need for R3. Regional services would grow to support even better access to other Euro hubs, almost without question providing a better transit experience than that from an outdated LHR "cess pit". The result :- BAA would receive a sharp reality check. The country actually doesn't need to depend upon LHR, just the South East! & you are welcome to it. As for the unassailable position you suggest LHR occupies then is this simply because of where all the investment is being placed? IF for example one was to place the same amount of resource into LGW expansion with a second / third runway then perhaps even the South East love affair with LHR would wane. Lets face it, it is quite reasonable to accept that those who depend on LHR for their livelihood will support any form of investment creating job opportunities. This unfortunately in turn provides more voices producing an even louder shout for expansion the argument is self fulfilling. It does not make it right, nor have any bearing on the level of support from the majority of the population.