Spanish airport operator Aena is further strengthening its presence in the UK market by acquiring a majority stake in Leeds Bradford Airport, the main base of the Jet2.com and Jet2holidays group in the United Kingdom.
According to Reuters, the deal is valued at approximately £270 million and предусматривает the acquisition by Aena of a 51% stake in a newly established holding company. This holding company will own 100% of Leeds Bradford Airport and 49% of Newcastle International Airport. The remaining 49% of the holding will remain with InfraBridge, the infrastructure investment firm with which Aena already jointly manages London Luton Airport.
Despite the new ownership structure, Leeds Bradford and Newcastle International airports will continue to operate and be managed independently, with no changes to their operational models.
In a statement, Leeds Bradford Airport notes that the agreement reflects its strong performance, long-term strategic prospects, and the pivotal role it plays in connectivity, economic activity, and the growth trajectory of the wider Yorkshire region.
The airport’s Chief Executive Officer, Vincent Hodder, described the deal as “a positive development for the airport, its employees, and its passengers,” emphasizing that Aena’s entry as a majority shareholder creates strong prospects for the future.
“We are delighted to welcome Aena as our new majority shareholder. It is the world’s largest airport operator by passenger numbers, with deep operational expertise and a proven track record of investment and development of high-quality airport infrastructure on an international level,” he stated.
The agreement confirms Aena’s strategy of targeted investments in mature yet growing markets, while at the same time strengthening the role of regional airports in supporting tourism and the economy of the United Kingdom.
