Ryanair rejects report of potential Aer Lingus takeover bid

Ryanair said there is "no substance" to a Financial Times report claiming that it could take control of Aer Lingus if EI launched a rights issue.

Ryanair is currently EI's largest shareholder with a stake of just under 30%. "Our position on Aer Lingus was recently confirmed at the Ryanair AGM, which is that we are 'highly unlikely' to make a third offer," CEO Michael O'Leary said, adding that EI "would now be profitable, growing and creating new jobs" if the Irish government had accepted either of Ryanair's two previous offers (ATWOnline, June 8).

Separately, Ryanair carried 6.12 million passengers in September, 17% more than a year ago. Load factor improved 1 point to 85%.