FlyBE were on the LBA route much the same time as KLM UK were on the MAN route - both struggled and both pulled off of it.
The thing is, VLM have addressed why it didn't work for KLM UK and this is reflected in their performance. bmi on the other hand have just come onto the LBA route with FlyBe's old schedule, fare structure and stand-offish approach to promoting the thing and are probably scratching their heads, wondering why only 13 punters turned up this morning and why the booked loads for the off-peaks would fit into a taxi.
So bmi, look and learn at the timings of VLMs 5 x day service from LPL. Remember that the business punter is probably not interested in a £60 return restricted ticket no more than he is prepared to pay £300 for flexibility. And most of all, remember that you need to tell people about the service, preferably at both ends of the route.
loco