Union: Results prove that airline can survive alone

Impact — the largest trade union at Aer Lingus — has said the airline’s annual results prove it can exist as a strong independent business, and does not need to be taken over to remain a relevant player.

Aer Lingus yesterday reported a near 18% jump in operating profit for 2014, to €72m. Annual revenue was up by just over 9% at €1.56bn and its net cash position improved by almost 30% to €545.3m.

Short-haul revenue crept up from €789m to €791m, but the performance was mainly driven by growing cargo business and a near 30% jump in long-haul route revenue, to €490m.