Re Government intervention. I too see no place for the government to intervene in the plight of Monarch. The reality of it is Monarch are of no strategic importance (agreed they do support a lot of high quality/skilled jobs) to the country. Should Monarch, or any airline operating in the leisure sector for that matter, cease trading the market has so many other players in it that the capacity would easily be absorbed. In fact an over supply of seats on most of Monarchs routes is looming. If I was a competitor I wouldn't be happy if they were to receive preferential treatment. Also where was the intervention with XL, Globespan, Baby
That said, delighted that Monarch live to fight another day. A great brand and a decent employer.
Perhaps the HNA deal will be tied in to the purchase of the 737s (in an asset management role), so they will not require a majority stake.