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Business Air is examining the Embraer RJ-145 as an alternative to the Saab 2000, which it had been planning to introduce as part of its expansion under British Midland (BM) ownership.

The Aberdeen, Scotland-based regional wants a 50-seater to operate alongside its Saab 340s, and was close to a deal to lease three ex-Regional Airlines Saab 2000s from Saab. The airline is now studying the ERJ-145 as an alternative and is believed to be discussing a possible deal with ERJ leasing specialist Wexford Management.

Ownership of Business Air was transferred from the British Regional Airlines group to BM this year, and the airline's role re-aligned as mainly a BM feeder at Manchester. There has been speculation that BM's Fokker 70s could be transferred to the airline.

Managing director Ian Woodley has left Business Air.