Michael O’Leary says IAG/Aer Lingus takeover deal likely

Michael O’Leary says IAG takeover of Aer Lingus will get approval.

European and UK regulators are likely to favour the purchase of Aer Lingus by British Airways owner IAG if an offer is made, Ryanair chief executive Michael O’Leary said.

“I suspect the regulatory authorities will fall over themselves to encourage an IAG takeover,” the executive said in London yesterday. While the IAG bid “isn’t the last option for Aer Lingus,” it “clearly demonstrates that Aer Lingus has no viable independent future, the only question is, which partner?”