IAG, the Anglo-Spanish multinational airline holding company (British Airways/Iberia/Aer Lingus/Vueling/Level) is in pole-position to acquire Niki, the airline founded by three-time Formula 1 champion Niki Lauda, in 2003. But was forced to cease operations mid-December.
After the European Commission disallowed the take-over by Lufthansa, IAG has now been granted exclusivity in the race to acquire Niki. Most likely Niki will be merged into Vueling.
