Virgin Atlantic Airways Limited which is partly-owned by Richard Branson, is in talks about a surprise takeover bid for Flybe Group PLC (LSE:FLYB). Sky News has learnt that Virgin Atlantic has opened discussions with Flybe's advisers about making an offer for Flybe. Sources said the Virgin Atlantic was pursuing an interest in Flybe because of the opportunities a tie-up would provide to feed passenger traffic into Virgin Atlantic's long-haul network, as well as its access to valuable take-off and landing slots at London Heathrow Airport which are ring-fenced for domestic flights. Rothschild & Co SCA (ENXTPA:ROTH) is advising Virgin Atlantic on its interest in Flybe.