EasyJet calls US investment firm Castlelake's takeover bid opportunistic

US investment firm Castlelake is considering a takeover of budget airline EasyJet. EasyJet management has indicated that such an offer would be considered opportunistic.

British budget airline EasyJet has responded to reports that US investment firm Castlelake is considering a takeover of the company, calling the potential offer opportunistic.

Castlelake is a known alternative asset management firm that manages billions of dollars in assets and has previously invested in aviation and transport sector companies. EasyJet's response suggests that management does not regard the proposed terms as reflecting the company's true value.

EasyJet is one of Europe's largest budget airlines, operating over 300 aircraft and serving tens of millions of passengers annually. In recent years, the airline has sought to recover from damage sustained during the COVID-19 pandemic and strengthen its market position alongside competitors Ryanair and Wizz Air.

The consolidation of the aviation sector in Europe has accelerated in recent years, as high fuel prices and operating costs put pressure on smaller airlines. However, investment firms' interest in the aviation sector reflects the recovery of the travel industry following the pandemic.