So why is Southampton successful with its short runway and Bournemouth not? Much of that has got to be down to public transport links and ease of access. For most people Hurn might as well be on the moon, as they can’t get to the place with any ease.
A good rail link means that the catchment area is enlarged considerably. Just look at what is happening to Southend now that they have a railway station. As the airport is miles away from the railway network, has no national coach links and just a local hourly bus service the future looks bleak.