You have hit the nail on the head there WHBM. The old guard (not Strong, he was promoted way above his station), know all about Lucy ops, this new bunch of paper pushing monkeys, don't.
BHD will NOT work, period.
EDI will only work if the price is right, and even then it's doubtful. All the talk about code shares with BA, dream on.
INV, pissing off the Sneckies is never a good idea, flybe is now a rude word in those parts, most will now fly with the 'savour' airline, Sleazy.
EXT not sure on this one, guess it depends on what happens with the PSO from Newquay, if that goes to another operator, then maybe there is a chance.
It will be interesting for sure, but I feel for the wrong reasons.