Southend's problem is that airlines want to operate out of what they see as successful airports, as they have a proven track record. A successful airport seems to be in London's case an airport that is heaving. That shows the airlines that there is a strong demand for flights to and from that airport.
Then there is Southend, which despite its long history is actually the new kid on the block. It missed the rush and is now trying to play catch up. The problem is other airports are still trying to squeeze more business out of their asset particularly Stansted which just happens to be Southends closest neighbour and even shares a London rail terminal.
Luton is only a year away from completing its terminal extension and will be keen to fill it. Gatwick is spending £240 million in 2017/18 and £1.15 billion in the next 5 years and work on London City's expansion starts this year. Going back to Stansted they are building a new terminal for its arriving passengers in the short term and have big plans in the long term.
Despite all of this Southend does have one massive advantage over every other London airport and that it has no slot restrictions but this is something that Southend has yet to take advantage of.
Seems that the waiting airlines want other airlines to take the "risk" first and when Southend hits a sweet spot they will be prepared to jump on board. What Southend needs is a foreign airline that wants those slots to operate multiple flights in short time periods like Wizz and Blue Air do at Luton. If they want that type of operation they will have to use Southend and if deemed successful other airlines will be quick to follow.
Not sure whether Easyjet is a positive influence on other airlines as Easyjet has a long record now of starting new services and then ending them from Southend as it tries to find the right mix of routes.
Last edited by LTNman; 8th Sep 2017 at 09:41.