Air France-KLM is keeping its options open regarding easyJet amidst the British low-cost carrier's ongoing takeover drama, although it is not actively pursuing an acquisition. CEO Ben Smith acknowledged easyJet possesses "amazing assets" that would interest any airline, but stated Air France-KLM has not closely studied a deal. He indicated a willingness to consider easyJet if approached.
EasyJet is currently at the center of a bidding war between US investment firms. Initially, easyJet agreed in principle to a $5.2 billion takeover offer from Castlelake, which offered $6.90 per share. However, easyJet subsequently accepted a superior offer from Apollo Global Management, valued at $5.7 billion, or $7.15 per share. Apollo's offer represented an 81% premium over easyJet's share price on May 28, before the takeover interest became public. Castlelake is now considering its options following Apollo's bid.
Air France-KLM's CEO also confirmed that Castlelake had not contacted them to form a joint bid for easyJet, nor had they reached out to other airlines like Lufthansa or IAG. While open to a potential partnership, Smith emphasized that his company's primary focus remains on securing Portuguese carrier TAP, for which they have submitted a non-binding offer.
