Airlines

Irish budget carrier Ryanair has attracted negligible formal interest in its takeover bid for Aer Lingus, but is nevertheless extending the offer period for acceptance.

At the original closing point of the offer, 5 January, the airline had secured acceptances for an additional 22,300 shares - less than 0.01% of Aer Lingus' total share capital.

Despite the poor response to the offer, Ryanair is extending the deadling for acceptance until 13 February.

Ryanair, which already holds 29.82% of Aer Lingus, is offering €1.40 per Aer Lingus share but this has been rejected by the Aer Lingus board.