Originally Posted by
orbitmic
Which simply goes to prove that both FR and BA still have quite a way to go when it comes to understanding the concept of fair and open competition. Moving from two airlines to one serving the largest ex-Ireland air route (DUB-LHR) is not typically seen as better competition by normal human beings (as opposed to all airline CEOs)
I'm not sure the deal would be good, but I think your analysis is a touch naive. It's clear that Ryanair would have to open up the LON-DUB route if it has any chance of taking over EI. FR have also said that they would not operate out of LHR. So BA know there is a prospect of of EI LHR's slots coming on to the market. It will make business sense for BA to do what it can to get those slots, as its business is constrained by the size of its operation at LHR.
In terms of competition, I think until the day where we have businessmen saying 'too much profit for me', there will always be an important role for government in ensuring competition. I am doubtful this will come off. But in defence of Ryanair it has brought more competition to the market than most other European airlines.