Could IAG/BA takeover Virgin like they did with bmi?
This may seem like a crazy idea, but could IAG takeover Virgin within the next few years? If they can’t get government support and start to edge nearer to failure, could a deal be struck similar to the bmi one where it’s integrated into British Airways?
It would give BA lots more slots at LHR and possibly allow them to move all LGW long haul routes to LHR. Operationally, BA already operate from T3 so no problems there.
Fleet wise, the 787s and A350s would fit into the fleet nicely and even make a good 777 replacement. The A330s and A330neo orders could be transferred to IB, EI or LEVEL too.
The competition authorities would probably have a thing or two to say though.