EasyJet Agrees in Principle to Castlelake’s Latest Takeover Offer

July 6, 2026 - 05:36

EasyJet has agreed in principle to a revised takeover offer from its major shareholder Castlelake, marking the fifth proposal from the investment firm. The latest bid values the airline at 6.90 pounds per share, an increase from the previous offer of 6.50 pounds per share.

The deal, which remains subject to final due diligence and board approval, would see Castlelake take full control of the budget carrier. EasyJet's board has been under pressure from shareholders to consider the offer, given the airline's ongoing recovery from pandemic-era losses and rising operational costs across the European aviation sector.

Castlelake, which already holds a significant stake in EasyJet, has been steadily increasing its offer over the past several months. The 6.90-pound proposal represents a premium of roughly 15 percent over EasyJet's average trading price over the last 30 days. Analysts note that the airline's strong summer booking figures and cost-cutting measures have made it an attractive target.

EasyJet has not set a timeline for a final decision, but sources close to the negotiations say a formal announcement could come within weeks. The deal would require approval from regulators and a majority of independent shareholders. If completed, it would mark one of the largest airline takeovers in Europe since the pandemic reshaped the industry.