Aer Lingus is in the Commercial Court looking for breathing space on any further takeover bids by Ryanair.

The airline is challenging a decision of the Irish Takeover Panel, arising from Ryanair’s unsuccessful third bid for the company.

The panel ruled if Ryanair decides to make another offer for Aer Lingus it must wait until this August - a year after the last bid was put forward.

Aer Lingus says the 12-month period should last until next February - a year after the European Commission rejected the takeover bid by the low cost carrier.