I like the E-Jets - it's a great platform and I know passengers like it. That said, Flybe sounds like a perfect candidate for the Bombardier C-Series for several reasons: current Bombardier customer, E-Jets are great but could be swapped out in a trade and Bombardier desperately needs the order following orders from SWISS, Air Canada, airBaltic and Delta.
Plus, the C-Series is more efficient than the E175/190 and has significantly greater range for more route versatility (including transatlantic capability on thin routes). Given the lack of recent orders, I bet Flybe could get a good deal...
Again this is pure speculation, but if Flybe is still intent on protecting its current market, growing throughout Europe and possibly further afield, maybe operating a more fuel efficient and versatile airplane like the C-Series at the right price could help...
Last edited by Iver; 18th Dec 2016 at 16:12.