Ryanair has confirmed its continuing interest in a takeover of Irish rival Aer Lingus following failed bids in 2006 and 2008.
However, the budget carrier’s ambition is likely to be thwarted despite the parlous state of Irish government finances. Dublin holds a 25% stake in Aer Lingus, with Ryanair holding 29.8%.
Ryanair said it was ready to take control of Aer Lingus if the new Irish government put its shares in the carrier up for sale as recommended by a recent report commissioned by Dublin.
A Ryanair spokesman said: “If the government were selling state assets and it approached us, we would be open to that.”
The Irish government has previously opposed a Ryanair takeover of Aer Lingus, a position backed by the European Commission which blocked the most recent hostile bid in 2008 arguing it would lead to higher fares.
Aer Lingus chief executive Christoph Mueller has described Ryanair’s stake in the airline as a “poison pill”, suggesting it prevents Aer Lingus from making partnership or alliance deals with other carriers.