Etihad Airlines A350

After months of speculation and reported talks with Ryanair, Etihad Airways has confirmed it has recently acquired a 2.987 percent stake in Aer Lingus.

Unveiled today, the airline said the purchase corresponded with plans to form a “commercial partnership” with Ireland and expects it to produce “significant commercial benefits” for both carriers.

Currently operating up to ten flights a week between Abu Dhabi and Dublin, Etihad said it has carried more than 750,000 passengers across the two capitals since commencing services in 2007.

Earlier this year the airline also renewed its Gaelic Athletic Association sponsorship for up to five years.