News that Flybe was looking for a buyer came ‘like a bolt of the blue’ for the regional airline’s 2,300 employers, said pilots’ union BALPA.
It said that despite the warnings, which included the airline flagging up a fall in profits this year, staff would have been shocked to hear of a potential sale.
BALPA general secretary Brian Strutton said: "Flybe is the largest regional airline in Europe with 2,300 talented, committed employees in the UK who will be very worried to hear that their company is up for sale.
"Despite warnings this will still be a bolt out of the blue. BALPA believes that Flybe is fundamentally a sound airline and we will scrutinise any offers to buy Flybe very carefully to ensure continued employment is protected."
He said he expected the airline and any potential buyers to consult with staff about any future plans they have for the airline and its employess.
"We reserve our right to express our opinion and take any other steps in order to protect our members’ interests," he added.
