Aer Lingus supports IAG offer

THE BOARD of Irish flagship airline Aer Lingus said yesterday it was willing to accept and recommend the third and improved takeover offer – worth about £1 billion – from British Airways owner, International Airlines Group.

The Irish airline Aer Linguss board is backing latest offer. Picture: PA

The sweetened offer is worth €2.55 a share from International Airlines Group (IAG), although progress now hinges on major shareholders Ryanair and the Irish government.

Willie Walsh. chief executive of IAG, which also owns Spanish airline Iberia, said a deal would secure and strengthen Aer Lingus’s brand and long-term future, while offering “significant benefits” to both the Irish company and its customers.

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IAG has said it plans to operate Aer Lingus as a separate business with its own brand, management and operations.

The Aer Lingus board had previously rejected proposals from IAG worth €2.30 and ­
€2.40 a share.