Lets face it, the reason BA want to buy BMI is SOLEY for market share, lucrative slots and so they can raise fares on some routes. I must say I can't blame them - business is business!
Virgin are also after the slots but I think they are willing and ready to take on BA on a hub centre at Heathrow.
There were also talks of Etihad being interested in BMI but is it not the case that only 49% of a carrier can be owned by a non-EU registered company or did I dream that?
Thanks!