Castlelake confirms interest in a potential approach to UK low-cost carrier.
US-based investment firm Castlelake has confirmed it is exploring a possible offer for UK budget carrier EasyJet.
Castlelake, which is based in Minneapolis, says its consideration is “in the early stages”.
“No approach has been made to the board of EasyJet,” it states.
“There can be no certainty that any offer will be made, nor as to the terms of any offer.”
Castlelake has not indicated the extent of any potential investment.
EasyJet’s current market capitalisation is around £3 billion ($4 billion). The airline has declined to comment on the situation.
Castlelake specialises in asset-based investing and already has interests in the air transport sector.
It notably participated in the rescue of Scandinavian carrier SAS, holding a large interest in the consortium which took over the airline during its Chapter 11 restructuring.
Castlelake has deployed over $5 billion to airlines and leasing companies since 2020.
Last year it established a new separate aviation lending division, Merit AirFinance, aimed at providing debt capital for new and used aircraft.
Castlelake leasing division, Castlelake Aviation, was acquired by lessor Avolon last year, a transaction which involved the transfer of more than 100 aircraft.
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