Walsh admits '˜admiration' for Ryanair's O'Leary

Willie Walsh paid tribute to his fellow Irishman whom he said had managed to turn a profit while expanding his budget carrier in a rare airline business feat.

Mr Walsh leads the International Airlines Group (IAG), one of the world’s largest airline groups with 525 aircraft flying to 255 destinations and carrying almost 95 million passengers each year.

His airlines have faced stiff competition from low-cost operators including Ryanair.

“I have huge admiration for him but I would not necessarily do things the way he does.”

As CEO, Mr Walsh brought Irish flag carrier Aer Lingus from the verge of bankruptcy following the 9/11 terror attacks to one of the most profitable airlines in Europe - with massive job losses.

He was head hunted by British Airways but his tenure there was combative, clashing repeatedly with unions over issues such as staff perks.

He is presently chief executive of BA owner IAG group which now also owns Aer Lingus , Iberia and several other airlines.

During that time, Mr O’Leary’s Ryanair has been a formidable competitor for business.

Mr Walsh told an audience in Belfast: “You have to admire his results, he is a true leader and I have grudging admiration for the guy.”

When Mr Walsh started out as a pilot with Aer Lingus, the retirement age was 55.

Ahead of reaching that milestone this year, he said he had no plans to step down.

“I see myself probably doing a few more years.

“If I can get up in the morning and look forward to going to work, then that is what I do.

“If I get up one morning and feel I don’t want to do this, then I will finish.”

He has faced challenges with BA, taking personal responsibility for the fiasco surrounding the opening of Terminal 5 at Heathrow when the baggage handling system broke down and flights had to be cancelled.