But Air is what started the better B&M Flyers off. Of course the prototype won't be the best in later years, considering the cost going into research and developing the technology. Air serves as a gentle but unique thrill for the UK, and much like Oblivion, will be renown for being the reason why we have B&M Flyers/ Dive Machines in a much bigger scale.
Regarding the refurbishment, I don't think it was crying for it, there are others parts of the park I'd rather of seen get attention but it's great to see Merlin updating one of their slightly older attractions. Hopefully it should create a bit more atmosphere around that side of the valley as well.