Move Intended To Address Concerns Raised By The Irish Government

British Airways owner IAG says it will maintain Aer Lingus' slots at Heathrow Airport should the aviation conglomerate complete its takeover of the Irish low-cost carrier.

The promise was made to the Irish government, according to a report appearing in Buying Business Travel. IAG needs the approval of the Irish government in order for the $1.54 billion deal to go through.

IAG CEO Willie Walsh said the company is "committed to maintaining and strengthening Aer Lingus. We want to develop air services that ensure Ireland’s connectivity is enhanced. 

“In seeking the support of the Irish Government, we propose to offer it legally binding commitments that go well beyond the protections currently available to it. These commitments would give the Irish Government an important role that they do not have today in securing the future of Aer Lingus.”

Walsh also said that it would commit to operate those slots on Irish routes for five years under the Aer Lingus brand. The airline group would also leave the Aer Lingus headquarters in Ireland.

(Image from file)

FMI: www.iairgroup.com