Aer Lingus chief executive Stephen Kavanagh has said that the vast majority of savings identified in the confidential NYRAS report relate to contract and procurement efficiencies.

Aer Lingus’ incoming chief executive has urged those opposed to the airline’s sale to drop their sentimental stance over its change of ownership and embrace the growth opportunities such a move could present.

The incoming boss at Aer Lingus says less than 200 jobs in the proposed takeover by IAG.