Spanish state-owned airport operator Aena is expanding its UK footprint by acquiring a majority stake in a new company that owns Leeds Bradford and Newcastle airports from InfraBridge for £270m (€308m).
InfraBridge is selling a 51% interest in the newly formed holding company that owns 100% of Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) and 49% of Newcastle International Airport (NIAL) to Aena. InfraBridge will retain a 49% shareholding in the holding company.
LBA provides regional and international air links for West Yorkshire, while NIAL serves as a gateway to the North East of England.
The acquisition further expands the partnership between Aena and InfraBridge in the UK. The two firms already jointly operate London Luton Airport under a similar 51:49 ownership structure.
Justin Symonds, MD and head of airports at InfraBridge, said: “This agreement reflects the strong performance and long-term potential of both airports. Leeds Bradford and Newcastle are critical gateways for the communities they serve, and we are excited about their future growth prospects.
“Aena is a trusted partner with deep operational expertise, and we are very pleased to be strengthening our relationship as the airports transition into their next chapter. We look forward to collaborating on the continued development of both airports for the benefit of passengers, airlines and the wider regions.”
Maurici Lucena, chairman and CEO of Aena, said: “Our strategic plan establishes international growth in the geographies in which we are present as a lever to generate value for our shareholders.
“In addition, with this operation, we strengthen the alliance with InfraBridge as a long-term strategic partner in the UK.”
To read the latest IPE Real Assets magazine click here.
