Airlines discuss flight-sharing plan

Two Irish airlines are in talks about a "commercial alliance" to operate joint flights.

Under the proposals, Aer Lingus and Aer Arann would link up on flights from smaller UK cities to Dublin and Cork, with the smaller company operating feeder serices for Aer Lingus.

But the Irish Times says the deal wouldn't see Aer Lingus take an equity stake in the smaller company.

The plan is expected to be discussed at the former national carrier's board meeting on Friday.