flybe are positioning themselves nicely for much bigger things...
With BAs initial investment and possible further, flybe will continue to grow and operate more and more of the domestic routes and possible European routes. They have the aircraft, crews and backup ready to roll.
For BA to invest in a 'new type' for LCY (Dash8, ERJ Series....) its a hell of an investment, for a niche market - albeit a money maker on EDI - LCY at least for the time being...
To save time, money and heeps of hassel, flybe could jump in and operate with 'minimal' disruption. Orders for the 190 can be switched to the 170 at flybes request.
Its not impracticle - not impossible and may just be what BA see as the answer to a prickly thorn in the mainline side.