Qatar Airways has increased its shareholding in International Airlines Group (IAG) to 20.01 per cent, reflecting the strength of commercial and strategic ties between the companies.

Qatar’s stake in IAG is financial and the shareholding reflects the strength of commercial and strategic ties between the companies and its continued support for the ongoing strategy of IAG. IAG consists of Aer Lingus, British Airways, Iberia and Vueling.

Qatar Airways Group chief executive, Akbar Al Baker says: “The recent market valuation of one of the world’s leading airline groups has provided what we believe is an attractive opportunity to increase our shareholding in IAG.”

“We continue to be highly supportive of IAG’s strategy and management team and we do not intend to increase our percentage shareholding further unless there are material changes to the current situation.”