Aer Lingus has said it will "vigorously defend" itself against a claim for damages from Belfast International Airport.

The airline also claims a recent media report that stated the amount it is being sued for has doubled to stg£40m (€54.4m) was "materially inaccurate."

The airport has launched a court action over the airline moving to George Best Belfast City Airport in 2012.

The carrier is currently in the takeover sights of International Airlines Group (IAG). It is accused of breach of contract over its move to the other airport.

The case is due to be heard at Belfast High Court in April.

The airline began operations from Belfast International in 2007.