Aer Lingus too small to survive
The former flag carrier has operated successfully in a niche market, serving a small island nation which has suffered in the recent economic downturn.
Its shorthaul routes are under intense loco carrier competition, whilst its long haul (transatlantic) business has shrunk by 20%.
Its cost base is relatively high and its cash reserves are rapidly diminishing, much to the concern of the beancounters.
This scenario does not bode well for a stand alone carrier and could leave them exposed to a BA or similar merger (takeover).
Don't worry about differences of opinion between BA & Ryanair bosses.
They have a lot more in common than you think!