We need to look at an index of economic benefit ???? to a region, associated with given routes.
How about a log based index system (if we include LHR in this context) of perceived economic benefit/loss to an economic catchment as a metric.
The loss of a transatlantic route to a region like the West Mids is far more dramatic economically than say the loss of say 4 routes designed for "Bucket & Spade" links designed for SLF like me where they are already served.
20 Years Service: Yep: a last gasp based
PR Effort: sadly.
Now many "BHX supporters" used the service ? I used the AA 23/24 an average of a dozen times (Tourist Class) over 15 Years.
Lets look at the positive side:A peak time air-bridge slot freed up.
Less noise, less pollution locally and more room in the terminal; of course there's a loss on income to the airport/services providers and the economic utility of the facility is eroded, but every little helps more room for the hoy poly like me ! sadly.
Was this event why PK decided to errr opt for the door ?
CAT III