I like Sir Richard, but this article/intervention feels like he's just steering unnecessary trouble.
He complained, perhaps with justification, about BA monopolies for many years, and when gifted the opportunity to do something about his complaint, Little Red, quickly retreated away.
Long term, Aer Lingus needs to join one of the main players to survive, and IAG is perhaps the best place to ensure their survival as a brand.
Would Delta/Virgin benefit in the long term on trans atlantic routes from a vulnerable Aer Lingus.
Who would Delta/Virgin wish to compete with. An independent Aer Lingus or an IAG Aer Lingus.