Not sure about the comment on the lack of connectivity from the regions on TA flights - a total of 10 scheduled flights out of Manchester alone to the US this morning on scheduled airlines (excluding Thomson holiday flights) - and yes, LS will also operate to NY over the Christmas period
NY : United x1, American x1, Thos Cook x 1
Orlando : Thos Cook x 1, Virgin Atlantic x1
Atlanta : Virgin Atlantic x 1
Philadelphia : American x 1
Las Vegas : Virgin Atlantic x 1
Miami : Thos Cook x 1
Chicago : American x 1
Add to this list, Singapore Airlines to Houston 4 X weekly from next week.