DB6 - yes it is a lot faster from central Dundee to central London to use Dundee airport rather than any other airport. Question is more - will those passengers pay significantly more in airfares above the current level to cover passenger operation costs incurred by HIAL or is it eceonomically worthwhile Govt spending £3m+ of taxes per year on the status quo with a PSO route ? It seems to work out at Govt paying approx £100 for 1 person making a one way flight. The airport's website promotes the airport for its proximity to St Andrews - how much of the golf tourist money finds its way to Dundee based companies companies and residents ?
If having the airport generates clear economic benefits (eg jobs) for Tayside then definitely worth the cash. If not, then perhaps the money could be used in other ways such as improved skills training for the unemployed in Dundee ? Just because Govt wastes money in some areas does not mean one should possibly waste it in other areas as well