The cuts are part of a reorganisation of BMI's operations

The Midlands-based airline BMI has announced plans to cut around 600 jobs.

The plans are part of a restructuring plan involving a reduction in the number of aircraft and the suspension of loss-making routes.

The cuts are expected to be made in all areas of the business, the airline said, although compulsory job losses would be avoided wherever possible.

BMI blamed the impact of the recession and a downturn in demand for air travel for its decision.

Routes suspended

Flights from Heathrow to Brussels, Tel Aviv and Kiev will be among those suspended from January, while the Heathrow to Amsterdam route will be suspended in March.

Germany's Lufthansa Group highlighted the need for restructuring at BMI following its takeover of the carrier in July this year.

BMI said it hoped to expand the business again "when the economic environment improves and the market demand justifies it".

The airline is the second largest operator at Heathrow and currently employs more than 4,400 people.

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