Ryanair to appeal blocking of takeover

Ryanair has instructed lawyers to appeal against the European Commission’s decision to block its takeover of Aer Lingus before the commission has even ruled.

Ryanair spokesman Robin Kiely said the airline had not received fair hearing from the European Competition Commissioner, Joaquín Almunia.

“Given Ryanair’s remedies package clearly addresses every issue raised in the EU’s statement of objections, any decision to prohibit would be manifestly unfair and in contravention of EU competition rules,” Ryanair said.