International Airlines Group confirmed it bought a minority stake in low-cost carrier Norwegian. This could open the door for an eventual outright purchase.

IAG, the parent company of British Airways, said it purchased a 4.61 percent stake in Norwegian and that it’s “intended to establish a position from which to initiate discussions with Norwegian, including the possibility of a full offer” for the carrier.

IAG said it considers Norwegian “to be an attractive investment,” but has not discussed a purchase to date, saying it “has taken no decision to make an offer at this time and that there is no certainty that any such decision will be made.”

“A further announcement will be made if appropriate,” the group’s press release concluded. Norwegian issued a statement in response, “Norwegian has just been made aware that the International Airlines Group (IAG) has acquired of 4.6 percent of the shares in Norwegian Air Shuttle ASA. Norwegian had no prior knowledge of this acquisition before the media reported it mid-morning Thursday. Norwegian has not been in any discussions or dialogue with IAG about the matter.

“Norwegian believes that interest from one of the largest international aviation groups demonstrates the sustainability and potential of our business model and global growth. The company has no further comments at this stage.”