I think the lack of onward connectivity is a problem, one of my regular trips is to the north of Sweden. Going back years I could use the KLM flights, more recently the Sterling flights to Stockholm, but since their demise I've been using BHX/AMS/ARL with KLM or SAS from LHR.
We must be one of the many local companies that have been forced to use other airports, however the AF tie up is a step in the right direction although the prices I have looked at (for Singapore) do seem quite high.