Flybe, the struggling UK-based regional airline which has put itself for sale, and Virgin Atlantic, a British airline, have confirmed being in talks over a possible deal, a sale or closer alliance.

• In a short statement, Virgin Atlantic “confirmed that it is reviewing its options in respect of Flybe which range from enhanced commercial arrangements to a possible offer for Flybe”.
• Despite of confirming the talks, Flybe said that there can be no certainty that an offer will be made, nor as to the terms on which any offer will be made.
• Virgin Atlantic runs long-haul routes mainly serving the US, the Caribbean and Asia, while Flybe operates from smaller UK airports, including London City, Southampton and Norwich, and flies to destinations across the UK and Europe.
• Flybe’s domestic network could be used to integrate more customers into Virgin’s international services.
• Flybe revealed earlier this month that it is considering a sale of the business as part of a wide-ranging review of strategic options.