O’Leary says ruling will not prevent third bid for former state airline
Its chief executive Michael O’Leary said, however, that the airline has “no immediate plans” to make an offer for Aer Lingus, which he added would be unlikely to succeed unless the Irish Government decides to sell its 25% stake. Mr O’Leary said: “We note the court’s decision on our appeal against the EU Commission’s ruling on our 2006 offer for Aer Lingus. This will not prevent Ryanair making a future offer for Aer Lingus, but... any such offer will have to take account of the court’s detailed ruling.”
Ryanair shares were up 2.1% to €3.75 yesterday while Aer Lingus jumped 2.6%. Mr O’Leary said the long-term viability of Aer Lingus can only be secured as part of one strong Irish airline group, “particularly when the rest of Europe’s airlines are consolidating to three main flag carriers”.
