Aer Lingus has denied there is any significant problem with its long-haul fleet following the decision to withdraw one of its Airbus aircraft from service for two weeks.
One of the airline's A330s was recently taken off the trans-atlantic for repairs after it developed a "fuel related issue", said a spokeswoman.
The aircraft returned to service last weekend, she added. The airline hired a replacement aircraft for the period of maintenance, she said.
Aer Lingus currently operates seven A330s out of four US airports: New York, Boston, Chicago and Los Angeles. It also offers a charter service to Orlando. A few months ago it announced the cancellation of its Washington service.
The airline's long-haul fleet requirements are currently before the Cabinet.
Last week executive chairman John Sharman said the company may need between €1 billion and €1.5 billion to renew the long haul fleet. The Cabinet meets today, but a decision to sell 51 per cent of the airline is not likely to be taken.
South African Airways, which is seeking to return to profit after two loss-making years, has appointed a former Aer Lingus manager, Mr Kyrl Acton, as chief operating officer.
Mr Acton began his career with Aer Lingus, rising to chief executive of passenger services, and spent seven years with LanChile before joining Unisys.
