I am very disappointed to see Aer Arann Regional drop the Waterford operation. On many occasions down the years, Aer Arann staff have told me that the WAT/LTN was the best route on their network (yield), but I am sure that this would not have been the case over the last few years due to the reduction in frequency and size of aircraft.
The Southend change was understandable given the Stobard investment in Aer Arann and Southend Airport, but should have supplemented LTN and not taken over as the primary route to London.
If Flybe take up the opportunity, perhaps we might see WAT-Edinburgh finally happening.
One of the advantages that Flybe have over Aer Arann is the ability to upgrade the aircraft from DHC8 to EMB 175/190 if summer loads permitted and this could open the door to summer destination routes during the peak.