The Max-8 is perfectly capable of operating in and out of GIB.
As for this Monarch "shorthaul" sell off, it's completely sad times for the consumer as well as of course for all the staff if and when it is confirmed... At best we can hope for a tie-up rather than a take over and see the Monarch brand and operation continue. I have a feeling we will have to wait until October to see what plans they finally reveal.