PF,
Yes, I know aircraft don't fly 'straight', and even your globe idea is limited - there are numerous waypoints / airspace restrictions etc.
The hub / size argument could be applied to numerous airports - FRA itself serves a relatively small metro population, but it does obviously have a large business market. In the US, ATL is quite a way down the list of largest cities by population or business, but the airport has created a transfer market, which in turn has attracted some corporates to relocate. Ditto for DEN.
However, LHR and CDG are both 'natural' hubs in that they serve large populations with substantial business markets and tourism, together with the transfer market.
BBI / BER is a new opportunity offering twice the capacity the other two terminals offered. The new rail hub under the terminal will also improve connections to other nearby cities. I know there was a lot of wrangling locally before this facility got built, and there is a €4bn investment to recoup, but there is no NRN or HHN alternative. Will this make BER an expensive white elephant, or will they be adaptable to all types of airline? Either way, there is surely more room to play with than at DUS or FRA.
Last edited by jabird; 28th Aug 2011 at 23:27.