The Irish Airline Pilots Association (IALPA) has said that Aer Lingus's 450 pilots have been investigating the possibility of staff involvement in any potential privatisation of the airline for well over a year.
Confirming media reports that the pilots are preparing a bid for the state airline that would rival the management buy out (MBO) being led by chief executive Mr Willie Walsh, an IALPA spokesperson said the pilots' initiative is "well known to all parties to the current discussions".
Aer Lingus passengers at Dublin Airport
IALPA has said that the pilots are working on creating an investment vehicle that would enable pilots and other Aer Lingus staff to invest in the company should an opportunity arise.
It also confirmed that contrary to reports this morning any such investment vehicle would be separate to any investment that the Aer Lingus Employee Share Ownership Trust may make.
Yesterday, the Government established a high-level sub-committee to examine all issues relating to the proposed management buy-out of Aer Lingus.
The cabinet also decided yesterday to advise senior management in Aer Lingus behind the proposed MBO to take no further action in relation to their offer for the state carrier. It is not known whether this request will be made to the pilots' bid.