Lets re-read what was actually said:
After the deal with the regional aircraft support specialist was revealed by media reports in early July, Flybe has confirmed that Airbus selected it as “preferred bidder” for the contract.
Flybe Aviation Services will conduct maintenance, repair and overhaul operations at the RAF Brize Norton air base in Oxfordshire, it says.
AIRBUS selected Flybe as its local sub-contracting agent in the UK - Flybe will perform the maintenance under the guidance, supervision, and authority of Airbus.