Aside from their wider problems and challenges, I'd imagine that RE have their hands full establishing a reliable IOM-LCY and trying to fill the 3000+ seats a week they are offering there right now. (3000 if, and when, the big ATR arrives).
There may well be a question mark over how committed FlyBe really are to LPL, (IOM is their only LPL route) and I'd imagine they only started it originally as part of their strategy of putting the squeeze on Euromanx.
However, taking FlyBe on would be a massive risk for RE, as a large part of the combined LPL/MAN market from IOM is pretty fluid and pax will go to either, depending on the fares, so by flying to both FlyBe effectively keep control of the significant overall IOM - NW market. If anyone challenged that 'monopoly' they'd no doubt respond aggressively. There is plenty of slack in the roster for the IOM based aircraft to go to DUB and back a few times a week and p!ss in RE's backyard.
Also, RE have a pretty poor record on IOM routes down the years.......LPL, MAN, LTN and PIK have all been and gone, so it would be disappointing if anyone gave them any encouragement with this rumour.
Last edited by Tonyq; 21st Jan 2009 at 17:21.