EU: Easyjet confirms acquisition of Air Berlin assets

EasyJet has confirmed the acquisition of part of bankrupt German carrier Air Berlin in a deal worth €40 million  (US$40.2 million).

The transaction will see the budget airline taking control of Air Berlin’s operations at the capital’s Tegel Airport, with easyJet leasing 25 of its aircraft.

The agreement also includes easyJet taking over landing slots and offering employment to the defunct carrier’s flying crews.

EasyJet chief executive Johan Lundgren said, “This move is consistent with easyJet’s strategy of purposeful investment in strong number one positions in Europe’s leading airports.

“As a result of our acquisition, easyJet will operate the leading short haul network at Tegel connecting passengers to and from destinations across Germany and the rest of Europe.

“This is in addition to easyJet’s existing base at Berlin Schonefeld and means that easyJet will be the leading airline to and from Berlin.”

The announcement comes after the European Commission last week gave the all-clear for easyJet to carry out the deal.

Pending still is European Commission approval for the purchase of the remaining assets by Lufthansa.

Full Content: RTÉ

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