‘Airline buyout makes sense’

The proposed takeover of Aer Lingus has been boosted after the airline’s board insisted the buyout made compelling commercial sense.

The move by Aer Lingus directors — who are not yet in a position to back the €1.36bn move for the carrier from British Airways parent group IAG because no formal bid has been launched — reignites the political fire over the airline’s future.

Aer Lingus chairman Colm Barrington said the link-up would make Ireland a hub for connections, and boost transatlantic traffic.