With regards to Manx and IOM base. I continue to say (and sit to be corrected) that this was purchased as they wanted the six slots at LHR.
They promptly moved the primary and 'flagship' route to LGW, as they did with Brymon years ago. When main line are reducing their interest in regional fields, I cannot see what in heck they saw in a tiny dedicated location carrier. Except six slots for long haul.