Mr Mac
The A380 is a game changer.
If you have buckets loads of cash and can fly First or business you are probably savvy enough to know the service exists and will use it !
Standards are the same in the 777 with flat beds on "our" flights but there is little doubt the 380 has the "extra pull" that makes the whole proposition more attractive.
If you live in Leeds and are doing business in China do you to fly to LHR and get on a tired BA777 or drive to Manchester and get on the 380 for at least part of your flight ?
Have a look at the CAPA report, airlines like EK, Etihad, QR have completely out manoeuvred BA,KL, AF, almost as many pax now connect via their hubs than Heathrow, Paris Frankfurt.
QF saw the light before it was too late !
The mere prestige of adding a second daily 380 will create bucket loads of publicity which can only help Manchester and enhance not detract from the offering of all these services.
Note - QR are responding with the 787 over next few days.
All these airlines see Manchester as a massive market and thee global gateway for Northern England, its just a shame the Government don't share the vision.
Last edited by Bagso; 18th May 2013 at 06:59.