Travel News

Aer Lingus offers free Priority Boarding to female passengers for Women's Day 

Pól Ó ConghaileAer Lingus is marking International Women’s Day today by offering Priority Boarding to all women departing on UK and European flights.

Profit at Aer Lingus reaches €269m in 2017 

Ellie Donnelly Aer Lingus made a profit of €269m last year, up €36m in 2016.

Aer Lingus workers hit by US move vote to reject exit deal 

Fearghal O'Connor Complaints staff at Aer Lingus who face having their jobs moved to America have voted to reject a compromise plan drawn up by the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC).

Leslie Buckley 

Cork businessman Leslie Buckley (73) made his name as a restructuring expert working with companies such as Waterford Crystal plc, Irish Steel plc and Aer Lingus. A close associate of Denis O'Brien, he is estimated to have made €10m from the sale of Esat to BT in 2000 and €70m from his interests in Digicel. The chairman of INM, publishers of this newspaper, he is also co-founder with his wife Carmel of the Haven charity.

IAG picks Paris as second base for low-cost carrier 

John Mulligan Level - the low-cost, long-haul airline launched by Aer Lingus owner IAG this year - has confirmed it's to operate four routes from Paris Orly.

Aer Lingus pension funds still in escrow 

John Mulligan More than €46m of a €190.7m funding pot set aside by Aer Lingus in 2014 to resolve a pensions dispute remained in escrow at the beginning of this year.

Aer Lingus launches direct route to Seattle from Dublin - the airline's 15th route to North... 

John Mulligan Aer Lingus is launching a direct route to Seattle from Dublin next year.

Aer Lingus has 'no plans' to rejoin airline alliance 

John Mulligan Aer Lingus has "no plans" to rejoin the Oneworld global airline alliance, CEO Stephen Kavanagh has said.

Qatar swoops on Cathay Pacific 

Kyunghee Park Qatar Airways, spurned by American Airlines Group and isolated in the Persian Gulf, snapped up 9.6pc of Hong Kong-based Cathay Pacific Airways in a surprise move that extends a policy of investing in major global carriers and provides a first foothold in East Asia.

Business takes off between Europe's Brexit-chasing cities 

Mark Evans Business is booming between the Brexit job-chasing cities of Dublin, Paris and Amsterdam. Air France-KLM's new head of the UK and Ireland, Benedicte Duval, revealed that the airline's Dublin routes...

Aer Lingus eyes T2 buy as relations with DAA sour over infrastructure 

John Mulligan Relations between Aer Lingus and airport operator DAA have "soured immensely" as a result of differences over infrastructure development at Dublin Airport, according to the airline's chief...

Relations between Aer Lingus and DAA have 'soured immensely' over differences about... 

John Mulligan Relations between Aer Lingus and airport operator DAA have “soured immensely” as a result of differences over infrastructure development at Dublin Airport, according to the airline’s chief...

Businessman charged with assault of Aer Lingus air stewardess 

Ralph Riegel A businessman has been charged in relation to an alleged air rage incident on an aircraft flying from France to Ireland.

Kingspan surges 10pc but Europe indices down after Spain attack 

John Mulligan Irish insulation maker Kingspan was one of the standout performers in Europe yesterday, with more than €500m added to the company's market capitalisation as its shares soared almost 10pc on the...

Dublin Airport hits back after Walsh pans performance 

John Mulligan Dublin Airport has defended its infrastructure development programme after IAG boss Willie Walsh claimed that deficiencies at the country's biggest gateway are unacceptable and might result...

Aer Lingus warns it faces turbulent times as low-cost Norwegian and Ryanair threaten its... 

Fearghal O'Connor The honeymoon period is over. That is the stark message from a confidential document prepared by Aer Lingus management, outlining the challenges the airline faces.

Comment: It’s 2017, so why is organizing passengers after a disrupted flight still such... 

Amy Mulvaney In the past decade, we’ve seen growth and development in nearly every area of the modern world.

Aer Lingus attacks DAA over failures at Dublin Airport 

Fearghal O'Connor A major row has broken out between Aer Lingus and the DAA over what the airline's chief operating officer described as "unacceptable infrastructural deficits" at Dublin Airport.

Calling all budding filmmakers - Aer Lingus launch Irish Filmmaker Competition with Irish... 

Aoife Kelly The Irish Filmmaker competition, launched today, offers budding filmmakers the chance to have their short film screened on international Aer Lingus flights.

'Galway's style is hard to counter' - Rushe 

Michael Verney Dublin have crossed swords with Galway regularly in recent years but Liam Rushe believes their style of play has "changed drastically" under Micheál Donoghue, with the Tribesmen turning into a "tactically shrewd" outfit.

Qatar Airways boss shrugs off crisis as Dublin route launched 

John Mulligan Qatar Airways has insisted it can carve out a business on its new Dublin-Doha route amid competition from Gulf rivals Etihad and Emirates and a destabilised political backdrop that could threaten...

Level set to swoop on battered Alitalia's backyard 

John Mulligan Aer Lingus' new sister airline Level may start a transatlantic service from Rome in the latest bid by rivals to capitalise on Alitalia's insolvency.

Aer Lingus flight forced to turn back after hitting flock of pigeons 

Amy Molloy A Dublin-bound Aer Lingus flight had to turn around this afternoon after the airplane struck a flock of pigeons.

Aer Lingus customers stranded in Dublin for the Bank Holiday weekend after airline cancels... 

Sasha Brady Angry passengers face spending the weekend in Dublin after their Aer Lingus flight was cancelled on Saturday.

Aer Lingus flight bound for US forced to do U-turn after 'medical emergency' on board 

Amy Molloy An Aer Lingus flight travelling to Chicago had to do a U-turn after declaring a medical emergency on board.

Ryanair's €770,000 stockbroker Vat case is referred to Europe 

John Mulligan The Supreme Court has referred a case taken by Ryanair against the Revenue Commissioners to the European Court of Justice (ECJ).

Baggage fees soar to €240 per couple as Aer Lingus hikes prices in Europe 

Pól Ó Conghaile A couple could spend €240 bringing their suitcases on a return trip to the Canary Islands after Aer Lingus hiked its checked baggage fees by as much as 40pc.

What are my rights if my flights are cancelled? 

Pól Ó Conghaile Delays and cancellations are part and parcel of modern air travel. So what exactly are your rights if your flight is affected?

IAG to 'intensively' grow Aer Lingus as profits soar 

John Mulligan Aer Lingus has become IAG's "most profitable tool" in terms of its return on invested capital, and the airline group will be growing the carrier "intensively", according to IAG's chief financial officer,...

Aer Lingus had an epic Twitter war with Norwegian Air over their low prices 

Amy Mulvaney Aer Lingus didn't hold back when they got into an epic Twitter war with Norwegian airlines over their low prices.

Aer Lingus misses out on transatlantic route battle 

Julia Fioretti and John Mulligan The Aer Lingus brand won't be used for IAG Group's planned low-cost long-haul airline, ceo Willie Walsh said yesterday.

Flight-attendant injured during Dolores O'Riordan air-rage incident suing singer and Aer Lingus 

Independent.ie Newsdesk A flight attendant caught up in an air-rage incident which saw Cranberries star Dolores O’Riordan removed from an Aer Lingus plane is suing both the singer and the airline.

Viva Las Vegas: Aer Lingus boss to gamble on winter route on way to more growth 

There are two long-haul Airbus A330s undergoing winter maintenance in the hangar near Stephen Kavanagh's office at Dublin Airport.

Aer Lingus now planning direct flights to Las Vegas 

John Mulligan Aer Lingus is planning to launch a new direct service between Dublin and Las Vegas next winter, the Irish Independent has learned.

Viva Aer Lingus - now fly to Las Vegas 

John Mulligan Aer Lingus is planning to launch a new direct service between Dublin and the City of Sin, Las Vegas, next winter.

Low-cost carriers soar as flying's old order is toppled 

Christopher Jasper Aggressive growth strategies at Europe's low-cost carriers are poised to overthrow the region's established airline order.

Ryanair and Aer Lingus told to pay €16m to Government in 'illegal state aid' ruling 

John Mulligan Ryanair and Aer Lingus have been ordered to pay the Government what is expected to be a total of about €16m, after the European Court of Justice said the two airlines benefited from illegal State...

Ryanair and Air Lingus ordered to pay back €16m in travel tax row 

John Mulligan Ryanair and Aer Lingus have been ordered this morning to pay the Government what is expected to be a total of about €16m in illegal state aid the European Court of Justice said the two airlines...

Gold Circle veterans see no silver lining with Aer Lingus move 

Mark Evans There's an upside to being a hired gun travelling around America to fire workers, as George Clooney showed in the Hollywood hit Up in the Air.

Twink writes bizarre Facebook post about having a birthday cake flown to England in its own... 

Amy Mulvaney Twink has written a bizarre Facebook post about having a cake flown to England in its own seat for a 50th birthday and restaurant launch.

What it says in the papers: business pages 

Paul O'Donoghue Here are the main business stories from this morning's papers:

Ryanair has 'no interest' in ever flying to the US - Bonderman 

John Mulligan Ryanair won't ever fly transatlantic services, the airline's billionaire chairman David Bonderman insisted yesterday.

Ryanair shareholders in line for near €400m windfall from Aer Lingus sale 

Paul O'Donoghue Ryanair is planning to distribute the proceeds from the sale of its near 30pc stake in Aer Lingus, almost €400m, to its shareholders.

Aer Lingus delists tomorrow as finishing touch to IAG takeover 

John Mulligan In a packed ballroom at Dublin's Gresham Hotel in November 2006 - just weeks after its September debut on the stock market - then Aer Lingus chief executive Dermot Mannion urged shareholders to...

Walsh back on board at Aer Lingus after 11 years away 

John Mulligan IAG boss Willie Walsh is a director at Aer Lingus again - over a decade since he left the airline as chief executive.

Aer Lingus takeover offer closes as airline joins IAG 

John Mulligan IAG's €1.36bn offer for Aer Lingus closed yesterday, with the former State-owned carrier now a part of the British Airways owner. IAG, headed by chief executive Willie Walsh, said that it has received...

Aer Lingus now owned by IAG as offer period closes 

John Mulligan IAG's €1.36bn takeover offer for Aer Lingus has formally closed, with the British Airways owner having secured acceptances in respect of just over 98pc of shares in the former state-owned...

Aer Lingus avoids legal action from UK regulator 

Peter Flanagan and Miriam Donohoe Aer Lingus has avoided legal action in the UK after it amended its regulations for dealing with passengers who have had their flights disrupted.

What it says in the papers: business pages 

Paul O'Donoghue Here are the main business stories from this morning's papers:

Aer Lingus deal cleared for take-off as cheques wing their way to shareholders 

Peter Flanagan Aer Lingus shareholders are expected to start receiving payment for their shares in the next fortnight after IAG's deal to take over the former flag carrier cleared its final hurdle.

Aer Lingus takeover: IAG to finalise deal as Ryanair agrees share sale 

Peter Flanagan British Airways owner IAG will finalise its takeover of Aer Lingus in the coming days after Ryanair agreed to sell its shares in the company.

Aer Lingus the real winner from any Ryanair interlining deal 

Colm McCarthy Last Tuesday's announcement from Ryanair that Europe's biggest carrier may commence interlining with long-haul airlines is hugely significant for Aer Lingus and for Dublin Airport.

Ryanair in talks with IAG on being a feeder for long-haul flights 

Paul Ingrassia, Conor Humphries and Padraic Halpin Ryanair is in talks with International Airlines Group and Aer Lingus and Portugal's TAP about providing feeder flights to rivals' long-haul services for the first time, chief executive Michael O'Leary has said.

Ryanair: Three-click bookings, designer uniforms and a price war on the way this autumn 

Pól Ó Conghaile As Ryanair prepares to carry over 100 million passengers this year, we look at the changes still to come for the airline.

Revamped Knock hopes for millions of new pilgrims 

Graham Clifford In the early hours of tomorrow morning, when most of you are turning over in your beds, around 180 pilgrims will be boarding the first-ever chartered transatlantic flight from JFK airport in New...

The Punt: Dogfight set for air routes 

International aviation journal 'Flightglobal' has been busy doing its own analysis of what the IAG takeover of Aer Lingus will mean for the Ireland-UK air market.

Ryanair workers vow to stay on strike after airline wins court case in Madrid 

Paul O'Donoghue Staff employed by Ryanair in Spain have said that they will continue striking even after a labour court ruled that that their industrial action was unlawful, the Irish Independent has learned.

Ryanair's international passengers exceed 10 million in a month 

Budget carrier Ryanair said it became the first airline to fly more than 10 million international passengers in a month as its customer service overhaul continues to boost business.

Walsh will reveal Aer Lingus plans in autumn 

John Mulligan The €1.36bn sale of Aer Lingus to IAG is all but complete, with just over 62pc of shares in the Irish airline having been pledged to the takeover deal.

Flashback 1988: First all-female crew leaves Dublin 

On this day in 1988, a Shorts 360 commuter aircraft left Dublin at 3.15pm to make the short hop to Shannon. An unremarkable journey, it caused headlines because at the controls that day were Captain Grainne Cronin and co-pilot Elaine Egan: it was the first...

IAG on track to meet annual target, Aer Lingus almost in the bag 

British Airways-owner IAG reported a forecast-beating 40 percent rise in quarterly profit on Friday, putting it on track to hit annual targets and confirming its position as one of the strongest airlines operating in Europe.

IAG extends Aer Lingus offer after Ryanair's deal delay 

John Mulligan British Airways owner IAG has been forced to extend the deadline for Aer Lingus shareholders to accept its €1.36bn offer to buy the Irish airline after Ryanair confirmed that it won't formally accept the...

Ryanair misses €1.4bn Aer Lingus offer deadline – won’t formally accept until next month 

John Mulligan Ryanair hasn’t yet formally accepted IAG’s €1.36bn offer for Aer Lingus, despite the deadline for acceptances having passed at 1pm today, the Irish Independent has learned.

Aer Lingus fights back in looming winter air fares war with Ryanair 

John Mulligan Aer Lingus is squaring up to Ryanair for a winter fares showdown that will mean cut-price tickets for flyers.

Aer Lingus: IAG share cheques due within two weeks 

John Mulligan Thousands of Aer Lingus shareholders are set to receive a summer windfall as the airline's €1.36bn takeover by IAG looks set to be cemented today.

Fall in profits for Aer Lingus ahead of takeover by IAG group 

Aer Lingus turned a profit of 34.5 million euro for the second quarter of the year as the much-anticipated takeover by the International Airlines Group (IAG) nears.

Family fears gran (81) will never fly again after 'nightmare Aer Lingus experience' 

Claire Mc COrmack It was supposed to be a very happy day for 81-year-old Sheila O'Flynn.

Air travel: the end of a romantic affair 

Liam Collins Was it economics or terrorism that took the romance out of flying - or to put it another way, was it Michael O'Leary or al-Qa'ida?

Dogfight in the skies: the two men changing the face of aviation 

John Meagher IAG's imminent takeover of Aer Lingus is set to precipitate a price war with Ryanair, but while it's win-win for consumers for now, will the long-term impact be quite so rosy?

Ryanair passengers could soon earn BA air miles thanks to EC quirk 

John Mulligan Passengers who fly with Ryanair could soon be able to clock up frequent flyer air miles that they'll be able to use to jet off around the world - with British Airways.

What it says in the papers: business pages 

Gavin McLoughlin Here are the business stories you need to know about this morning:

What it says in the papers 

Independent.ie Newsdesk We take a look at the main stories in this morning’s papers.

Ryanair targets Aer Lingus routes following IAG takeover 

John Mulligan Airline passengers will benefit from a price war on flights to continental Europe as Ryanair is set to target routes operated by Aer Lingus.

Ryanair battle with Aer Lingus to spark passenger price war 

John Mulligan Ryanair is planning a winter offensive at Dublin Airport to take on IAG following its looming €1.36bn takeover of Aer Lingus.

IAG has backing of 80pc of Aer Lingus shares for €1.4bn deal 

John Mulligan IAG has secured the backing of more than 80pc of Aer Lingus shares for its planned €1.36bn takeover of the airline. It brings it close to the 90pc it needs to force remaining Aer Lingus shareholders to...

The week in Business 

A look back at the main business events of the week.

Shareholders back sale as Government formally accepts Aer Lingus bid 

Independent.ie Newsdesk The Government has formally accepted IAG's €1.36bn takeover bid for Aer Lingus.

The final shareholder meeting was extraordinarily ordinary 

A phalanx of protesters outside the Crowne Plaza hotel in Santry near Dublin Airport yesterday morning is a by now familiar scene for Aer Lingus executives arriving for the airline's shareholder meetings.

Aer Lingus executives to bag €15.6m bonus as IAG deal voted through 

John Mulligan Aer Lingus executives - including former boss Christoph Mueller - will split up to €15.6m from the sale of bonus shares following the €1.36bn takeover of the airline by British Airways owner IAG.

Government formally accepts IAG's €1.36bn takeover bid for Aer Lingus 

Mark O'Regan The Government has formally accepted IAG's €1.36bn takeover bid for Aer Lingus.

Government accepts IAG takeover of Aer Lingus 

The Government has formally accepted the International Airlines Group's takeover of Aer Lingus as the 5pm deadline passed.

Ryanair will bid for five IAG slots at Gatwick 

John Mulligan Ryanair has been given the all-clear by the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) to sell its 29.8pc stake in Aer Lingus to IAG, removing another possible hurdle to the €1.36bn takeover of the former state-owned airline.

What it says in the papers: business pages 

Paul O'Donoghue HERE are the main business stories from this morning's papers:

IAG's Aer Lingus takeover plan approved by EC 

The European Commission has approved the International Airline Group's proposed acquisition of Aer Lingus.

IAG's Aer Lingus takeover plan approved by EC 

The European Commission has approved the International Airline Group's proposed acquisition of Aer Lingus.

European Commission clears €1.36bn takeover of Aer Lingus by IAG 

John Mulligan The European Commission has cleared the €1.36bn takeover of Aer Lingus by IAG.

Ryanair sues its Spanish staff for strike action 

Paul O'Donoghue Ryanair is suing several of its Spanish staff in a Madrid court after workers went on strike in a dispute over pay and working conditions, the Irish Independent has learned.

NTMA is tightlipped about Aer Lingus fees 

John Mulligan The National Treasury Management Agency (NTMA) has refused to disclose how much it is paying advisers it hired to help the Government decide whether to sell the State's 25.1pc stake in Aer Lingus as part of a €1.36bn takeover bid by IAG.

Aer Lingus takeover saga coming to an end as O'Leary agrees to sell 

Harry Leech While Michael O'Leary finally accepted on Friday that he will now not take over Aer Lingus - when the announcement was made that Ryanair was willing to sell its shares to IAG - it was one of those...

Aer Lingus deal advisers to share €30m 

Harry Leech Bankers, corporate financiers, lawyers and other advisors are likely to share in a €30m windfall as IAG's €1.4bn takeover of Aer Lingus looks set to be approved. Last week Ryanair voted to sell its stake in Aer Lingus to IAG, essentially removing the last blockage to the deal going through.

Aer Lingus takeover: So what happens now? 

John Mulligan So what happens now?

Aer Lingus sale to IAG set to be cleared by Brussels next week 

John Mulligan IAG's €1.36bn takeover of Aer Lingus looks set to secure formal approval next week from the European Commission.

Ryanair accepts Aer Lingus deal 

Ryanair cleared the way for British Airways owner International Airlines Group to take over Aer Lingus as it accepted an offer for its 29.8% stake in the Irish carrier.

Pól Ó Conghaile: Why we keep travelling to the US, despite the exchange rate 

Pól Ó Conghaile It's July 4, and despite a punishing exchange rate (going to press, the euro was buying a miserable $1.11), our passion for US holidays seems stronger than ever.

Third runway would decrease value of Aer Lingus slots 

Paul O'Donoghue Construction of a third runway at Heathrow would reduce the value of Aer Lingus' slots to land at the airport, according to an aviation expert.

Aer Lingus competition decision due ahead of EGM 

Donal O'Donovan IAG has offered concessions to regulators in order to win European competition approval for its planned acquisition of Aer Lingus, the European Commission said.

EU watchdog expresses concern over IAG €1.4bn Aer Lingus bid 

EU officials have raised competition concerns regarding the proposed €1.4bn takeover of Aer Lingus by IAG in a move that could delay the deal, according to media reports.

Aer Lingus boss Kavanagh and CFO Bot to get bonus after €1.4bn sale 

Nick Webb Aer Lingus chief executive Stephen Kavanagh and his chief finance officer Bernard Bot may receive bonuses worth €1.31m as their long-term incentive scheme will pay out when IAG takes over the...

Aer Lingus shareholders to get offer document from IAG 

Paul O'Donoghue A document with the final terms of IAG's recommended €1.4bn of Aer Lingus is being sent out to shareholders in the Irish airline today.

Ryanair's Michael O'Leary and IAG's Willie Walsh unite over aviation costs 

Donal O'Donovan Europe's biggest airlines have set aside their usual fierce rivalries to lobby for an easier ride from European policy makers.

Watch: Aer Lingus Regional surprises five millionth passenger with a brass band 

Pól Ó Conghaile Aer Lingus Regional has greeted its five millionth passenger with a surprise performance by the Booka Brass Band.

Newsmaker: Branson's fury at Aer Lingus takeover 

Independent.ie Newsdesk There's a certain poetry in the notion that Richard Branson's Virgin Atlantic might, in theory at any rate, serve as prophylactic to the proposed IAG/Aer Lingus takeover.

Branson wants a level playing field but won't buy Aer Lingus 

James Quinn Sir Richard Branson may be many things, but he is nobody's fool. Flying to Detroit on Virgin Atlantic's inaugural flight to the Midwestern American city, he let rip about his true feelings with...

Richard Branson: IAG buying Aer Lingus is absolutely wrong 

Ben Martin Richard Branson, the founder of Virgin Atlantic, has hit out at rival International Airlines Group, claiming it is “absolutely wrong” the British Airways owner is buying Aer Lingus.

Ryanair gets final ultimatum to sell Aer Lingus stake 

John Mulligan Ryanair has been given a final ultimatum by a UK competition watchdog to sell most of its near-30pc stake in Aer Lingus.

Ryanair boss slams shares ruling 

Ryanair chief Michael O'Leary has accused the UK's competition watchdog of "false and misleading" claims over a controversial 1.4 billion euro takeover attempt at rival Aer Lingus.

Ryanair will appeal ruling by UK competition authority to slash stake in Aer Lingus 

Paul O'Donoghue Ryanair has said that it will appeal a ruling from the UK’s competition authority to sell down the majority of its near 30pc stake in Aer Lingus.

Documents reveal 'Project Egret' negotiations on Aer Lingus sale 

John Mulligan Advisers hired by the Government dubbed discussions about a possible sale of Aer Lingus as 'Project Egret', documents released to the Irish Independent under the Freedom of Information Act reveal.

Wild Atlantic Air: Aer Lingus launches branded plane on Boston route 

Pól Ó Conghaile Aer Lingus has partnered with Fáilte Ireland and Shannon Airport to launch a Wild Atlantic Way branded aircraft.

Etihad to sell 5pc Aer Lingus stake to IAG for €66m 

John Mulligan Etihad will sell its 5pc stake in Aer Lingus to IAG as part of a €1.36bn takeover bid for the Irish carrier.

Economists must learn that people - and politicians - don't always act rationally 

Jim Power The economics profession globally has attracted a lot of negative press in recent times and it has caused the profession to engage in a severe soul-searching exercise. I am not sure what is emerging...

IAG will at least have breathing room to expand Aer Lingus 

John Mulligan If IAG succeeds in buying Aer Lingus, it will have a number of years before any other European airports have US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) facilities installed.

Irish airports lose exclusivity on offering US pre-clearance 

John Mulligan Dublin's attractiveness as a transatlantic hub is under threat with plans to offer pre-clearance facilities for US travellers at 10 global airports.

IAG boss Willie Walsh wants expanded Aer Lingus to target Asian destinations 

Colm Kelpie Aviation chief Willie Walsh sees opportunities for Aer Lingus in destinations like India, Japan and China.

Ryanair and Aer Lingus to hike fees for peak summer months 

Pól Ó Conghaile Ryanair and Aer Lingus are set to raise their checked baggage fees by up to €15 for the busy summer holiday period.

Taoiseach prepares for November poll as Coalition now commands 40pc public support 

Daniel McConnell and Ronald Quinlan There was mounting evidence last night that Taoiseach Enda Kenny is clearing the decks to call a General Election in November.

Stobart Air and O'Ceidigh could gain if IAG takes over €1.4bn Aer Lingus 

Sarah McCabe Stobart, the company operating Aer Lingus Regional under a franchise agreement, expects to increase passenger numbers by two thirds if IAG gains control of Aer Lingus.

'I'm not a traitor' - Donohoe on Aer Lingus 

Daniel Mc Connell Transport Minister Paschal Donohoe has strongly rejected claims of treachery labelled at him by members of the opposition for recommending the sale of Aer Lingus to IAG.

Our pride in the airline only distorts our view of the reality 

Paschal Donohoe On May 27, 1936, Aer Lingus set off on its inaugural flight from Baldonnel to Bristol. Seventy nine years later, on that same day, the Dáil debated a motion that would approve the sale of the...

Plans for new Dublin Airport runway ready for take-off 

Jerome Reilly Plans for a €300m second runway at Dublin Airport have gained dramatic new impetus following the IAG takeover of Aer Lingus which includes plans to use Dublin airport to feed traffic from...

O'Leary chomps at the bit for French and German slots 

Richard Curran Ryanair chief executive Michael O'Leary knows a thing or two about horses for courses.

Curious behaviour may have scared off other airlines 

Colm McCarthy If the Ryanair board agrees to sell its 29.8pc stake, Aer Lingus will become the fourth member of IAG, the International Airlines Group, along with British Airways and two Spanish carriers, the former...

The Yates anthology: The minister with merit 

Ivan Yates Usually my pen is poised to critique, even savage, ministers for their stream of ministerial-speak - or waffle - to disguise fudges and indecision. It's a rarity for me to praise a minister's handling of a brief with particular precision, political skill and straight answers.

What it says in the papers: business pages 

Paul O'Donoghue HERE are the main business stories from this morning's papers:

Shareholder Etihad reports a leap in profits 

John Mulligan Gulf airline Etihad, which owns 4.99pc of Aer Lingus, has reported record profits as the number of passengers it carried jumped 22pc to almost 15 million last year.

Voters said Yes to marriage equality – but No to age equality 

Letters to the Editor Last Friday, I had the privilege of participating for the first time in the democratic process.

Burton red-faced after TD votes against sale of State's share in airline 

Philip Ryan Political Correspondent Tánaiste Joan Burton was left red-faced as Labour TD Michael McNamara refused to support the Government's decision to sell the State's share in Aer Lingus.

Politicians back Aer Lingus deal 

Ireland's parliament has voted in favour of selling off the state's share in Aer Lingus as part of a 1.4 billion euro takeover bid by British Airways owner International Airlines Group (IAG).

Labour TD Michael McNamara not willing to 'gamble' on Government sale of Aer Lingus to... 

Philip Ryan Labour TD Michael McNamara will not support the Government on the sale of Aer Lingus to international airline giant IAG.

Aer Lingus CEO: Jobs won't be cut as long as company stays efficient 

Independent.ie newsdesk The CEO of Aer Lingus has said that jobs at the airline will be maintained “as the company maintains its efficiency”.

BA owner 'won't up Aer Lingus bid' 

British Airways owner International Airlines Group (IAG) said it would not up its 1.4 billion euro offer for Aer Lingus amid speculation that major stakeholder Ryanair will play "hard ball" over the deal.

What it says in the papers: business pages 

Paul O'Donoghue HERE are the main business stories from this morning's papers:

Ryanair may not make decision for at least two more weeks 

John Mulligan Ryanair might not make a decision for at least two more weeks regarding the sale of its Aer Lingus stake, with chief executive Michael O'Leary understood to be jetting away on holidays after...

Secret Aer Lingus document reveals plans for harsh cuts 

Philip Ryan Aer Lingus needs to make "aggressive" cuts of at least €60m if it hopes to compete with its international competitors, according to a confidential presentation given to senior managers last month.

Impact on fares to be scrutinised by watchdog amid fears of price hikes 

John Mulligan The State's competition watchdog will scrutinise the likely impact on airfares if IAG buys Aer Lingus, as officials in Brussels launch a probe into the planned €1.4bn takeover.

Aer Lingus sale will give us more choice - not lower fares 

Eoghan Corry The humble consumer has not yet been heard in the chorus of opinion debating the proposed sale of the slanty shamrock. IAG is good news for the consumer at one level: choice. At another...

Aer Lingus fire sale won't benefit workers or the flying public 

Clare Daly Aer Lingus is an iconic company.

Some plane speaking in the Dáil for once, but the Aer Lingus deal is surely up, up and... 

Lise Hand Seasoned fliers know the drill: board the plane, click on the seatbelt, leaf through the duty-free mag while trying to tune out the safety song-and-dance routine taking place in the aisle.

Tanaiste Joan Burton denies government tried to 'ram' Aer Lingus deal through Dail 

Philip Ryan Tanaiste Joan Burton has denied the Government tried to “ram” the Aer Lingus deal through the Dáil.

Aer Lingus has 'secret job cuts' plan - Dail is told 

John Downing JOB guarantees for Aer Lingus workers clash with an internal company report suggesting huge job cuts, the Dail heard today.

Aer Lingus Takeover: What does it mean for Cork and Shannon? 

Pól Ó Conghaile Cork and Shannon airports have welcomed the Government's support for IAG's Aer Lingus bid. But what does it mean for their passengers?

Plea to Ryanair for Aer Lingus deal 

International Airlines Group chief Willie Walsh said he expects Ryanair to act in a "rational way" to its takeover bid for Irish flag carrier Aer Lingus.

Aer Lingus takeover: Decision to sell is 'best way to secure future of airline' - Enda Kenny 

Lise Hand The Taoiseach has strongly defended the government's decision to sell its stake in Aer Lingus, saying it would be "the best way to secure the future of the airline".

Aer Lingus takeover: Stormy scenes in Dail as government accused of trying to 'ram'... 

Niall O'Connor The Government has today been accused of trying to "ram through" the controversial Aer Lingus sale as the Opposition claims it is being kept in the dark.

Focus to switch to Ryanair as IAG makes formal €1.36bn offer for Aer Lingus 

Independent.ie newsdesk IAG has made a formal offer for Aer Lingus after Cabinet yesterday agreed to sell the State's 25.1pc stake in the airline.

What it says in the papers: business pages 

Paul O'Donoghue HERE are the main business stories from this morning's papers:

What it says in the papers 

Independent.ie Newsdesk Here are the seven stories you need to know about today.

Coalition to sign off on offer for Aer Lingus 

Philip Ryan and John Mulligan The Labour Party has capitulated to Fine Gael demands and accepted an improved offer for the State's share in Aer Lingus from airline giant IAG.

Labour's gang of eight get onboard as all doubts evaporate 

John Downing "If it were done when 'tis done, then 'twere well it were done quickly."

Guarantees on slots 'absolutely crucial' for Shannon and Cork airports 

Ralph Riegel Shannon Airport hopes that the Aer Lingus deal will herald a "new era" for both the airline and the region.

Labour capitulates to FG on Aer Lingus sale 

Philip Ryan and John Mulligan The Labour Party has capitulated to Fine Gael demands and accepted an improved offer for the State's share in Aer Lingus from airline giant IAG.

Major shift in position as Labour TDs agree to back takeover by IAG 

Niall O'Connor and John Downing The Labour Party TDs who previously opposed the sale of the Government's stake in Aer Lingus will back the deal, in a major shift in position.

Ryanair now the kingmaker in battle for airline 

John Mulligan Just as it would like to be, Ryanair has become the kingmaker in the battle for Aer Lingus. But even if Ryanair delays making a decision on a sale of its near 30pc stake in its smaller rival, the influence it wields now might quickly fade.

Aer Lingus sale will herald cash windfall for its stakeholders 

John Mulligan There will be plenty of winners from a takeover of Aer Lingus by IAG, with the €1.36bn price tag being divvied up among shareholders including the Government, Ryanair, workers and...

Unions concerned despite Kavanagh's reassurances 

John Mulligan and Emma Jane Hade Unions remain deeply concerned about the fine detail of the Aer Lingus deal, despite reassurances from chief executive Stephen Kavanagh.

Bright, personable, and well-liked: how Willie Walsh conquered Aer Lingus 

Tom Molloy Willie Walsh's life has been entwined with Aer Lingus since he was a teenager. Walsh, who grew up in north Dublin and went to school with the Christian Brothers on Griffith Avenue, joined the airline...

Cabinet approves Aer Lingus deal as 'Labour Eight' come on board 

Niall O'Connor TRANSPORT Minister Paschal Donohoe this morning defended the deal to sell the Government's stake in Aer Lingus insisting that there are guarantees in place now that didn't exist beforehand.

Aer Lingus is a unique asset - and we should not take a decision to sell it lightly 

Mike Lavery For almost 80 years, the green Shamrock of Aer Lingus has been a source of Irish pride and a key enabler of "brand Ireland."

Forget concessions canard - Aer Lingus bid is hostile takeover 

Sean Barrett Attempts by the executives of both Aer Lingus and British Airways/IAG to present the takeover as a done deal have gone on far too long.

Mike Lavery: 'Aer Lingus literally flew the flag for Ireland during the dark days of the... 

By Mike Lavery FOR almost 80 years, the green Shamrock of Aer Lingus has been a source of Irish pride and a key enabler of "brand Ireland."

Cabinet agrees to sell its 25pc stake in Aer Lingus to IAG 

Niall O'Connor, Philip Ryan, John Mulligan and Daniel McConnell TRANSPORT Minister Paschal Donohoe has revealed the new offer from airline giant IAG to buy the State's share in Aer Lingus.

Green light for Aer Lingus takeover 

British Airways owner International Airlines Group (IAG) looks set to take over Aer Lingus after the Government gave the green light to a 1.4 billion euro bid.

Aer Lingus: In ten years time, will history be kind on government decision to sell stake in... 

Mike Lavery FOR almost 80 years, the green Shamrock of Aer Lingus has been a source of Irish pride and a key enabler of "brand Ireland."

Ryanair insists UK watchdog decision forcing it to sell most of Aer Lingus stake unrelated to... 

John Mulligan Ryanair has insisted its efforts to force a reversal of a UK watchdog decision to force the airline to sell most of its near 30pc stake in Aer Lingus remains unrelated to IAG’s €1.36bn takeover approach...

What it says in the papers: business pages 

Independent.ie newsdesk HERE are the main business stories from this morning's papers:

Coalition will approve sale of Aer Lingus to IAG today 

John Downing The Coalition is expected to approve the sale of the State's 25pc stake in Aer Lingus to British Airways owners, IAG.

Ryanair tight-lipped on Aer Lingus stake as it releases full-year results 

John Mulligan Ryanair will not reveal any final decision this morning regarding the future of its near 30pc stake in Aer Lingus, the Irish Independent understands.

Aer Lingus sale near as officials tease out details of IAG's bid with EC chiefs 

Niall O'Connor Department of Transport officials have been in direct contact with the European Commission ahead of the Government's long-awaited decision over its stake in Aer Lingus.

Union wants plug to be pulled on €1.3bn Aer Lingus takeover 

Adam Cullen The Impact trade union has called on the Government to scrap plans to sell its stake in Aer Lingus to IAG amid claims that assurances offered by the aviation giant are "worthless".

The Punt: Willie Walsh wins the lotto 

It's the headline he didn't want to see. Willie Walsh spoke at length this week at the Chartered Accountants Leinster Society lunch in Dublin. It was an interesting chat about the IAG business, some insight into its accounting and how bean counters, not Masons (although perhaps they're not mutually exclusive), are ruling the world.

Walsh in 'no rush' with Aer Lingus bid 

John Mulligan IAG boss Willie Walsh has insisted he is in no rush for the Government to make a decision on a possible sale of Aer Lingus as the saga rumbles into its sixth month.

Aer Lingus sale: IAG boss Willie Walsh says he's in no rush for Government decision 

John Mulligan and Philip Ryan IAG boss Willie Walsh said he's in no rush for the Government to make a decision on a possible sale of Aer Lingus.

What it says in the papers: business pages 

Paul O'Donoghue HERE are the main business stories from this morning's papers:

Aer Lingus sale to IAG now hinges on Ryanair 

Daniel McConnell and Sarah McCabe Ryanair's intentions for its stake in Aer Lingus will have to be declared before a Cabinet decision on the sale of the airline can be made.

Aer Lingus sale: Ryanair intentions on stake key to deal 

Daniel McConnell and Sarah McCabe Ryanair's intentions for its stake in Aer Lingus will have to be declared before a Cabinet decision on the sale of the airline can be made.

Aer Lingus takeover would boost tourism 

Sarah McCabe Tourism bosses support IAG's bid for Aer Lingus, new research shows.

IAG makes seven-year pledge on Aer Lingus' Heathrow slots 

John Mulligan IAG is understood to have told the Government that it will use prized Aer Lingus slots at Heathrow to serve only routes to Ireland for at least seven years if it succeeds in buying the Irish airline.

What it says in the papers: business pages 

HERE are the main business stories from this morning's papers:

Five months on from first approach, IAG still can't get the clearance to land airline deal 

John Mulligan Five months ago today, IAG made its first approach to buy Aer Lingus, marking what would be the beginning of a political and corporate saga that has divided public opinion.

Aer Lingus sale: Government says no conflict of interest over advice 

State agency NewERA has insisted that there are “detailed provisions” in place to guard against possible conflicts of interest regarding the provision of advice in relation to a sale of Aer Lingus to IAG.

O'Leary attacks UK watchdog's decision to force Ryanair to sell most of 29.8pc Aer Lingus... 

John Mulligan Ryanair chief executive Michael O'Leary has launched a scathing attack on the UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) for its attempt to force the airline to sell most of its stake in Aer Lingus.

Aer Lingus sale: Minister 'considers draft report' as saga to hit six-month mark 

Sam Griffin and Thomas Molloy Transport Minister Paschal Donohoe is understood to be considering a draft version of a long-awaited report on the future of Aer Lingus.

Summer travel at risk as Aer Lingus staff vote on strike 

John Mulligan There are fears of summer travel chaos for thousands of holidaymakers as Aer Lingus cabin crew ballot for possible industrial action.

Airline boss claims Ethiopian is disrupting hub plans 

John Mulligan The chief executive of Aer Lingus has lashed out against Ethiopian Airways, claiming the African airline will be hogging valuable space at Dublin Airport that could be used for other carriers.

Labour and unions on guard as sale of Aer Lingus looms 

John Mulligan and John Downing The largest union at Aer Lingus says it hasn't been consulted by the Government or its advisory committee amid speculation that a sale of the airline has been agreed.

Aer Lingus sale negotiations have taken too long - chairman 

John Mulligan Aer Lingus chairman Colm Barrington has revealed his frustration at the time the Government has taken to make a decision on whether or not it will sell the State's 25.1pc stake in the airline to IAG.

IAG expects Aer Lingus decision in two weeks 

John Mulligan IAG chief executive Willie Walsh expects the Government to make a decision on the future of Aer Lingus within the next two weeks.

Aer Lingus announced as 'official airline of Irish rugby team' 

Independent.ie Newsdesk ​​A new agreement with the IRFU has seen Aer Lingus announced as 'the official airline of the Irish rugby team'.

Aer Lingus bidder IAG swings to profit in weaker season 

British Airways-owner IAG reported a quarterly profit, swinging into the black from a seasonal loss for the first time, helped by lower fuel costs and an improvement in performance across its three airlines.

Aer Lingus deal still a flyer as it records €48m first-quarter loss 

John Mulligan A Government decision on the future of Aer Lingus could still be weeks away, according to Transport Minister Paschal Donohoe, as the airline reported a loss of €48.4m during the first three...

Aer Lingus to report loss for first quarter of year 

John Mulligan Aer Lingus will highlight continuing pressure on its short-haul business this morning as it reports a loss for the first quarter of the year.

Ryanair: We'll cut fares by up to 15pc as oil gets cheaper 

Donal O'Donovan and John Mulligan Ryanair expects to cut its fares by between 10pc and 15pc over the next two years as the benefits of lower oil prices are passed on to consumers, Michael O'Leary has said.

Decision on €1.4bn takeover of Aer Lingus set to drag into May 

John Mulligan A decision by the Government on the future of Aer Lingus now looks set to be delayed until May, with no signs that the Cabinet is due to consider the issue at its meeting next Tuesday.

Kenny's message to Trump: Tourism is key to IAG talks 

Niall O'Connor Taoiseach Enda Kenny has told US billionaire Donald Trump that the Government is "very conscious" of his concerns surrounding the potential sale of the State's shareholding in Aer Lingus.

Aer Lingus report has still not gone to Paschal Donohoe 

Niall O'Connor Transport Minister Paschal Donohoe is still awaiting a report by the Government's working group into the potential sale of the State's stake in Aer Lingus.

Aer Lingus sale 'would endanger links to US' 

JOhn Drennan and Philip Ryan Leading transport economist Senator Sean D Barrett has issued a stark warning - the IAG takeover of Aer Lingus poses a clear danger to Ireland's fragile economic recovery.

Shannon businesses fear 'death knell' 

Allison Bray It made history as Europe's first transatlantic hub and has hosted the most powerful and glamorous people in the world.

O'Leary: Loss of connectivity from Aer Lingus sale a load of bull 

Ronald Quinlan Ryanair chief Michael O'Leary has dismissed suggestions that the potential sale of Aer Lingus would harm connectivity and prove detrimental to foreign direct investment into Ireland.

Jettisoning airline is as good as clipping public's wings 

It may not be obvious to you if you're, say, 40 or under, but this is a golden age for Irish air travellers. Those of us who are of a certain age remember the days before Ryanair opened up the Irish market to competition.

Ryanair will fight order to slash its Aer Lingus stake 

John Mulligan Ryanair has vowed to keep fighting against a decision by a UK watchdog to force it to sell most of its near 30pc stake in Aer Lingus.

Donohoe denies working group report on Aer Lingus sale was submitted 

Daniel McConnell Group Political Correspondent TRANSPORT Minister Paschal Donohoe has rejected suggestions that the Government’s working group has submitted a report about the sale of Aer Lingus to him.