Etihad Airways (EY, Abu Dhabi International) has confirmed it has acquired a stake of just under 3% in Irish national carrier Aer Lingus (EI, Dublin International). The two carriers are reportedly discussing a potential codeshare partnership and Aer Lingus flights to Abu Dhabi International. Etihad is widely expected to eventually make an official bid for the 25% stake in Aer Lingus the Irish government still holds.