Aer Lingus ownership - Time to revisit crippling debt

THERE are strong indications that the Government will not sell the State’s 25.1% stake in Aer Lingus to International Consolidated Airlines Group (IAG) even though the group, under former Aer Lingus chief executive Willie Walsh, has offered €1.36bn for the former national carrier.

For all sorts of reasons Aer Lingus is not seen entirely in the same hard light as other airlines in Ireland — despite the fact the carrier abused its monopoly for decades.

The carrier maintains links with Heathrow that are an essential factor in the economic development of the catchment areas of Shannon and Cork airports.