State-owned Spanish company Aena — the world’s largest airport operator by passenger numbers — said it signed a contract to purchase 51% of the new holding company which owns and manages 100% of Leeds Bradford Airport and 49% of Newcastle Airport for £270 million.
“With this transaction, Aena is reinforcing its position in the United Kingdom, where it already manages London Luton Airport with a 51% stake,” said Aena.
“Leeds Bradford and Newcastle airports recorded around 9.5 million passengers last year, which, when added to Luton’s 17 million passengers, gives a total of 26.5 million passengers in the United Kingdom.
“InfraBridge, which is the seller, will hold 49% of the new holding company and is also the owner of the other 49% of Luton Airport, consolidates itself as Aena’s strategic partner in the United Kingdom with this transaction.”
Aena chairman and CEO Maurici Lucena said the transaction was “a significant step for Aena in countries with enormous potential such as the UK, where we already have a great deal of experience.”
Lucena added: “Aena is looking to selectively grow in the areas where we are already present, so as to create value for public and private shareholders.”
Leeds Bradford Airport CEO Vincent Hodder said: “This agreement is a positive development for Leeds Bradford Airport, for our employees and customers and for Yorkshire. We are excited about the future as we welcome Aena as our new majority shareholder.
“Aena is the world’s largest airport operator by passenger numbers and brings deep operational expertise, and a strong track record of investing in and developing high quality airport infrastructure around the world.”
Justin Symonds, Managing Director and Head of Airports at InfraBridge, said: “This agreement reflects the strong performance and long-term potential of Leeds Bradford Airport as a critical gateway for the communities it serves, and we are excited about its future growth prospects.
“Aena is a trusted partner with deep operational expertise, and we are very pleased to be strengthening our relationship as the airport transitions into its next chapter. We look forward to collaborating on the continued development of Leeds Bradford Airport for the benefit of passengers, airlines and the wider region.”