Flybe in talks over bmi units

FLYBE, the UK's biggest regional airline, is in talks over the possible acquisition of bmibaby and Aberdeen-headquartered bmi regional. The two businesses, account for about 40 per cent of turnover at parent British Midland, where German carrier Lufthansa is taking majority control.

Flybe, which is part of private group Walker Aviation, is carrying out due diligence. Bmi regional operates 17 routes, mainly in the UK, while bmibaby flies 72 routes across Europe.