CityJet is reported to be close to closing the acquisition of Stobart Air, which operates Aer Lingus regional services, according to Irish media sources. Once compete, the merged entity would create one of the largest regional airlines in Europe, and the airline will be able to finalise plans to begin daily passenger flights from Carlisle to London Southend, Belfast and Dublin.
CityJet is preparing to base aircraft at London Southend Airport, but the two airlines will continue to operate as separate entities for the time being.