Lufthansa and Air France-KLM have both submitted offers to invest in Spanish airline, Air Europa.
According to simpleflying.com, Air France-KLM has formally bid for a 51% stake in the carrier, offering €300 million (R5,9 billion) as part of the deal. In addition, it has reportedly agreed to take on Air Europa’s €475 million (R9,4 billion) COVID-era government loan, which is due for repayment in November 2026.
Lufthansa has offered €240 million (R4,7 billion) for a 25% stake, aligning more closely with Globalia’s (Air Europa’s parent company) original plan to sell a 20% share. Lufthansa has also proposed securing an order for 10 additional B787 aircraft for Air Europa, which would significantly strengthen the airline’s long-haul fleet.
While Air France-KLM’s bid offers a controlling stake and full debt assumption, it would likely face a lengthy regulatory approval process, potentially taking a year or more. Lufthansa’s offer, being a minority investment, would avoid such regulatory hurdles.
