EasyJet has agreed to a £5.7bn takeover by U.S. investment firm Apollo, after rival Castlelake stepped back from the bidding battle.
EasyJet, the United Kingdom‑based airline that operates roughly 1,200 routes across 35 European countries, has been the focus of several potential investors. Castlelake had made a series of offers but ultimately decided to withdraw, clearing the way for Apollo.
The Apollo proposal values each share at £7.15, giving shareholders a premium over the previous bid. The transaction is expected to conclude within the next year.
Founder Sir Stelios Haji‑Ioannou, who still owns about 15% of the company, remains a long‑term shareholder and has expressed support for Apollo’s growth plans. Chief Executive Kenton Jarvis welcomed the investment firm’s commitment, noting its aviation expertise as a strong partnership advantage.
“Apollo is highly supportive of EasyJet’s existing strategy and sees a substantial opportunity to accelerate the group’s operational and commercial ambitions,” said Alex van Hoek, Apollo’s European private equity lead. The takeover signals a new chapter for EasyJet as it seeks to further expand its network and enhance services across Europe.
