Irish flag-carrier Aer Lingus is exploring the potential for introducing regional jets to its network to operate routes which do not justify the use of larger types.
The carrier uses a fleet of Airbus A320 and A330 aircraft, and also serves UK regional connections with turboprops through a franchise arrangement with Aer Arann.
But a spokesman for Aer Lingus says that the carrier is "investigating the business case for smaller jets", adding that these would fit the 100- to 150-seat sector.
He says the jets would not necessarily be used on UK services, but be deployed on routes unsuitable for turboprops, to feed Aer Lingus' hub.
While the spokesman says that the study is at a "very early" stage, the airline has undertaken initial discussions with manufacturers.
Aer Lingus declines to give further details of the talks, and has not identified specific parties.
But the sector in which it has expressed interest includes types such as the Embraer 195, Bombardier CSeries and the Airbus A318 or A319.