Aer Lingus has officially accepted a take over offer from IAG.

In a statement released this evening International Airlines Group says the deal was agreed at lunchtime today.

IAG chief executive Willie Walsh said: “We’d like to welcome Aer Lingus into IAG.  It will remain an iconic Irish brand with its base and management team in Ireland but will now grow as part of a strong, profitable airline group.

"This means new routes and more jobs benefitting customers, employees and the Irish economy and tourism”. 

IAG says the agreement is now wholly unconditional - as Ryanair - as a major shareholder had agreed to the terms.

The company is promising that Aer Lingus will remain an iconic Irish brand with its base and management team in Ireland.