Aberdeen-based bmi Regional has appointed M&C Saatchi to lead its first marketing campaign since it became an independent company earlier this year. The new advertising campaign is expected to launch later this month with a new website to follow in October.

International Airlines Group has signed a binding agreement to sell bmi Regional to Sector Aviation Holdings for a total consideration of £8 million in cash. Also today, British Airways confirmed nine bmi destinations will change from a bmi (BD) to the BA code and flight number from May 23rd.

The Scottish consortium, Granite Aviation, is thought to be in advanced talks with IAG over the sale of bmi regional for £20 million, according to reports. The news comes just one week after IAG completed its puchase of bmi for an undisclosed sum.

Virgin Atlantic is set to appeal against the European Commission’s decision to allow IAG, BA’s parent company, to acquire BMI for £172.5m. Virgin boss Sir Richard Branson claims that the deal, which gained regulatory approval on 30 March, could damage the aviation industry for years to come.

British Airways’ parent IAG has secured approval for the takeover of BMI from its current owner Lufthansa. The £172.5m deal is expected to be finalised later this month.

British Airways owner International Airlines Group has agreed to purchase bmi from Lufthansa for £172.5 million. IAG chief executive Willie Walsh warned there would be job losses during the restructuring of the loss-making carrier, but said the long-term growth of its operations at London Heathrow would be of benefit to the UK.