The European commission yesterday blocked the €1.5bn (£1bn) merger between Ryanair and Aer Lingus but left Michael O'Leary's low-cost carrier open to submit a fresh bid if he offers more slots to rival airlines at Dublin Airport. Ryanair said it would appeal against the ruling to the court of first instance (CFI). Neelie Kroes, EU competition commissioner, insisted the decision was "legally sound" and would bear scrutiny by Europe's second-highest court. "Airline consolidation has to be achieved in a way that benefits consumers," she said. "There can't be change at their expense."