APD Only part of the equation
The APD question is only one of many considerations in the contemplation of CO (United) about this route, but has certainly been a headline grabber for some of NI politicians. The question which has not been answered by Jeff Smisek is simply this "Was APD the only factor influencing the retention of this route?" I suspect the strategic rationlisation that is currently being undertaken includes a number of other factors which will result in this route having a very short lifespan.