Etihad Airways to buy minority stake in Darwin Airline?

Etihad Airways is reportedly in discussions with Swiss regional carrier Darwin Airline to buy a minority stake in Darwin. According to a report by the Corriere del Ticino, Darwin chief executive Maurizio Merlo has confirmed a recent visit by an Etihad delegation to Lugano.

Etihad is interested in positioning Darwin as a feeder carrier for its own flights and its European "equity alliance" partners. Darwin currently operates ten Saab 2000s and wet-leases two ATR72-200s from other carriers. It is currently reviewing potential fleet replacement options including the ATR72-600.

Source: CH-Aviation