The European Commission on Tuesday approved the purchase of Irish Airline, Aer Lingus by International Consolidated Airline Group (IAG), the owner of British Airways, after it made concessions to address competition concerns.

The EU’s executive had been concerned that the merged company would face insufficient competition on some routes, and that Aer Lingus would no longer transport passengers who have connecting long-haul flights with rival airlines.

IAG, which also owns Iberia and low-cost carrier Vueling, agreed to offer up flight slots to rivals at London’s Gatwick airport and pledged that Aer Lingus would continue to carry connecting passengers.

“By obtaining significant concessions from the airlines, the commission has ensured that air passengers will continue to have a choice of airlines at competitive prices,’’ EU Competition Commissioner Margrethe Vestager, said.

In June, IAG offered 1.4 billion Euros to buy Aer Lingus, after the Irish government approved the move.

Report says it holds a 25-per-cent stake in the former national carrier.
Irish low-cost carrier Ryanair also has a 30-per cent stake in Aer Lingus. (dpa/NAN)