half a billion bucks buying a little scandie regional outfit
Leg, you'll note that the $400m figure was for all assets (including aircraft engines, land etc.) - so Widerĝe's sale price will be significantly lower.
Incidentally, your 'little scandie regional outfit' in the form of Flybe Nordic is even smaller so don't berate them too hard!
Widerĝe's revenue is nearly £350m annually - nearly half that of the entire Flybe Group. So, given Flybe Nordic's interests I really wouldn't be surprised if they find the cash somewhere.