The potential sale of Aer Lingus to International Airlines Group (IAG), managed by former Aer Lingus pilot and CEO, and previously a management buy-out suitor, Willie Walsh, is raising alarm bells for anyone with anything to do with the airline business.

Ryanair’s failed third bid to take over Aer Lingus begs the question whether the move would be allowed under any circumstances.

Ryanair has vowed to fight in court a rejection by European officials of its renewed takeover bid for rival Aer Lingus.

Ryanair has today welcomed the announcement by IAG/Iberia that it intends to acquire Vueling, comparing it to its own bid for Aer Lingus.

The controversial takeover of UK airline bmi by British Airways’ parent company was approved by the European Commission this afternoon – but with conditions attached.