Global operator Aena to expand UK airport network

Global airport operator Aena is set to expand its UK portfolio after agreeing to acquire stakes in Leeds Bradford and Newcastle International airports.

Current owners InfraBridge today announced that it has entered into a binding agreement to sell a 51% shareholding in a newly formed holding company owning 100% of Leeds Bradford Airport and 49% of Newcastle International Airport to Aena.

InfraBridge will hold a 49% shareholding in the new holding company, where at Newcastle International Airport, between them seven local authorities will maintain a controlling 51% stake in the gateway.

Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) and Newcastle International Airport (NCL) are ‘freehold’ airports and will continue to be operated and managed independently of each other.

As usual, the transaction is subject to customary conditions to closing, including regulatory approvals, and completion will take place once all such conditions have been satisfied.

The addition of Aena as the new majority owner and the continuation of InfraBridge as a key shareholder is said to reflect the strong performance and long-term strategic potential of Leeds Bradford Airport and the critical role it plays in supporting regional connectivity, economic activity and long-term development across Yorkshire.

LBA chief executive, 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.”

While Justin Symonds, managing director and head of airports at InfraBridge, noted: “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.”

The transaction builds on the longstanding partnership between InfraBridge and Aena, established through their successful joint ownership of London Luton Airport and extends Aena’s investment in UK airport infrastructure with the addition of the stakes in Leeds Bradford Airport and Newcastle International Airport.

The chairman and CEO of Aena, Maurici Lucena, described the move as “a significant step in Aena’s commitment to markets with enormous potential, such as the United Kingdom, where we already have a long experience with 51% of Luton Airport”.

He added: “In addition, with this operation, we strengthen the alliance with InfraBridge as a long-term strategic partner in the United Kingdom and put at the service of the territory served by Leeds Bradford Airport our experience in airport management of all categories.

“Aena is looking to selectively grow in the areas where we are already present, so as to create value for public and private shareholders.”