I was on the first HAJ flight. From memory (have slept since then!) there was 19 on the outbound and 27 on the first Inbound from HAJ, which included the Mayor of Hannover. We had a water cannon salute on arrival in HAJ! Returned the following day after a great night (thanks to HAJ airport!) and there was I think 17.
I was very impressed with BMI Regional, the service was fantastic and it had been a while since I have flown on the ERJ and I find them to be very comfortable. Especially with a flying time of 1hr10.
The 'Lounge' they have set up made it feel a little more exclusive and I have to say the new Aspire lounge is light years ahead on the one it replaced.