but did anyone not see this coming as soon as the IAG deal was struck?
Of course we did, everyone did including the "regulators". Companies don't merge for the benefit of their employees or their customers, they do it to cut costs and make more money.
Frankly I'd have a lot more respect for Aer Lingus if they'd just pulled-out straight away instead of this slow, lingering disengagement cloaked in half-truths.
And yes, I did fly with them between City and Gatwick in the A319 knee-crushers.