Some good points there by tigertanka but regarding your observations in the Travel Agent's Windows, just where could prospective customers fly to from the airport 10 minutes drive away. "Our" airport is in a seriously bad place at the moment. Imagine two supermarkets, one is bulging at the seams with customers, shelves are overflowing with goods, with loads of choice and a vibrant atmosphere. The other one down the road has empty shelves, a glum atmosphere, entry by the back door and charges more for everything than the bright and cheery place up the road. It's not rocket science. Our saviour (KLM) consistantly charges a lump more for tickets from Teesside compared to Newcastle.