British Airways' Parent Wants Another Airline and Finnair Is the Best Target

While the CEO of IAG, British Airways' parent, Willie Walsh was circumspect answering questions from reporters in Dublin this week about the next airline buy-out for the IAG group, Skift found strong evidence, at the CAPA Summit in Helsinki, that IAG’s next smart buy could be Finnair. In fact, statements made by Finnair’s CCO, Juha Järvinen, during a panel discussion of global industry partnerships, consolidation, and joint ventures hint that preparations for such a buy-out are already underway, and could be finalized relatively soon. Easing the process of such a potential buy-out are existing joint ventures (JVs) between IAG, Finnair, and Oneworld partners. “I’d highlight the importance of joint ventures, especially since we joined the joint venture between BA and JAL on the Japan traffic, and also on the Atlantic with American, BA and Iberia,” Järvinen said. “The real value for the companies and the financial benefits comes from JVs. At least, that's how we see it at Finnair based on a two year experience.” Järvinen said Finnair has already reaped benefits of those ventures, and so has the IAG group. “Especially, on the revenue on the Japanese routes. It's 10% sold already by JAL and BA,” said Järvinen. “That's one of the enablers