They were very successful Zooker.
In their time.
But like all things, the world changes and moves on.
I'm only voicing my opinion but listening to other ATCOs from other ANSPs and to friends in NATS, it does sound to me like NATS is falling behind and relying on the past to sell their product.
Why shouldn't Gatwick or Birmingham go elsewhere for the provision of ATC if they think they can get a better deal? We all do it in everyday life.
Hopefully NATS management will learn some lessons very quickly and keep hold of their remaining contracts, then come back stronger when Gatwick is tendered again in years to come.
If they want it that is.
Maybe I'm a cynic but part of me thinks, as I mentioned previously, that there's a bigger game at play here and we'll see a gradual dismantling of the airport side of the business with the exception of Heathrow. Then NATS will concentrate on the enroute and oceanic side and on growing overseas.
Or I could be talking out of my ar*e completely.
Will be interesting to see what the next 5-10years bring.