Leeds Approach. Apologies I have just re read your post. What you state is true. Luton does indeed have slightly better LDAs as they have not been forced by the CAA to displace thresholds as part of the approval of a runway extension. Remember when 33 had the threshold on the end? With a soft RESA built the threshold on 32 could go back to its original position but 14 is stuck where it is. As you clearly know it's not landing but take off that requires the length, that's when you are heaviest. Engine out after take off is a potential problem on 32 if you are heavy. LBA is a compromise. Crosswinds become a problem when the wind is high. How many times a year is this? It happens at other airports too even when the have prevailing wind direction runways. FYI BHX is also a NW/SE runway. LBA has problems yes but it does ok and should do better. Road/Rail access improvements were promised when the Airport was sold but that money was never spent where it should have been. Leeds is now a major financial city and deserves an Airport to match. Sadly it won't get one. Live with it.