This is an interesting debate, though given the references to the LHR slots, this would lead to a belief that it will be from a subset of LHR carriers.
Draw from that and couple with suggestions that it may be unlikely to be a non EU carrier the list is significantly reduced. EI may eye joining an underperforming carrier, one with opportunities to improve. Like the suggestion that VS was on the cards and thankfully that didn't come to pass as VS could bring the entired operation down ala Swiss and Sabena in a sort of way.
SAS has had its troubles and is a significant LHR slot holder, opportunity to improve.
Aegean is trying to complete the take over of OA and is meeting some hurdles, perhaps bringing EI into the mix as a joint partner could be something to consider. But what could EI bring to the table? Perhaps a replication of EI model in Greece, Aegean in and out of LHR quite a bit.
Still I see IAG as the one, despite WW's protestations to the contrary, at the end of the day if he signalled his intentions, what would this do to the valuation/ share price, could be expensive.
It would seem likely that Etihad and FR will remain on the share register, 3% for EY and potentially a 5% shareholding for FR post the wrangling with EU competition authority. I would expect that FR will hold onto to some shareholding to keep in the picture.
If we looked at this through the following filter, what EU airlines:
- Serve Heathrow
- Have challenges and perhaps need a partner
- Operate similar fleets
- Could benefit from a merger with EI given its TA operations and relatively low cost model (vis a vis other legacy carriers)
The answer possibly on this shortlist?
EI-BUD