Wotcher Robbo!
It's a crossing I do a lot, and to be honest mate, it's pretty well pot luck. I'd say Virgin are consistently better, and I've had some bad experiences with BA, Continental and AA. But also some good ones, apart from BA who I wouldn't go near again, except with possibly a chainsaw and bleach. As for price, just get the best deal you can, and hope it's Virgin.
Having said all that, I could be misreading your post and you're really one of those people blessed with a masochistic streak as long and wide as the centre line on runway 23/05. If that's the case then presumably you're looking for the roughest ride at the most extortionist price. As far as I know, most of the flights offer an enclosed passenger compartment, in fact, they tend to be pretty fussy about it, which is a shame, as a wander round an open deck during the flight would do wonders for your hair and DVT at the same time. It shouldn't be too difficult to get some gin sodden old veteran to get you there in a Messerschmitt with a smoky starboard engine. Have you tried Lydd?
H
