Possibly incorrect but I am sure the Emirates CEO sure originates from Manchester (?) which may go some way to his understanding of the market.
He mentioned a massive under untapped market to the USA from the North of England as long ago as 2 years back in a media interview.
Seemingly however it appears it isn't just UK Government protectionism (Raised by Davies Commission I may add), that may come into play, but also EEC rules !
Will be interesting to see how Flynas do re Saudi , advance bookings anybody ?
(and indeed US) ...if they get rights ?