CATIII-NDB, echo the thanks to Pete, always a fascinating insight. I've often thought the same as you with regards to services to the US from the 'regions' as the vast majority of the UK is referred to by the London media. Continental to a oint are doing this but they're not (with respect) the biggest name and best marketers to really put a dent in the overall operation that BA have. If an airlines of the stature of say Virgin were to work out an interline agreement I'm sure they could do damage, not sure it would ever happen as they to are never going to gamble their LHR operation in this way.