Originally Posted by
shamrock7seal
No - they do not own them. The slots were part of the BA and BMI merger. A certain number of slots were ring-fenced for a domestic 2nd airline. But not sure how one goes about applying to operate them or indeed whether they have to re-apply from time to time.
my understanding was that the routes need to be operated for a period of three routes on the specifics routes, at which time they can be used for whatever the airline want. I'd be amazed if Flybe are making a good return on these. The three year thing was pedalled online when Virgin little red was operating..
With fuel prices so high Flybe will need rapid and effective action in their current situation. Some serious network pruning I imagine will come ...