Roy Hudd,
Do you know the reason for you being held 'unnecessarily? It was no doubt related to the ongoing runway refurbishment project - something all airports have to do from time to time. There can be unexpected problems when you are carving up a runway overnight and trying to get it back fit for use in just a few hours. In my experience MAN takes a lot of care over the safety of airfield works, and sets standards which others could usefully employ. Yes, Airfield Operations at MAN are often cautious, avoiding the 'pushing tin' mentality which can lead to mistakes being made. You would be unlikely to see MAN re-start flying just minutes after a major aircraft accident, and before everyone has a chance to properly assess the situation, as happened at a certain UK airport in January 2008. If you think the Leader vehicles are 'clueless' you ought to get out there and show them how it's done. I'm sure the Ops Manager would welcome letting you have a try at some of the things those guys and gals have to do.