Apollo Global Management to Acquire EasyJet for $7.5 Billion

British low-cost airline EasyJet is set to be acquired by investment firm Apollo Global Management for approximately $7.5 billion (5.7 billion pounds). The deal, announced officially in August 2026, will see Apollo, through its subsidiary Eagle Bidco, purchase the airline for 7.15 pounds per share in cash. Shareholders will also have the option to convert their payment into non-tradable shares locked for three years, though the board has not recommended this alternative.

The acquisition requires approval from at least 75% of shareholders at two separate meetings scheduled for November 11. If successful, EasyJet will be delisted from the London Stock Exchange, ending its 25-year run as a public company. Apollo has stated its intention to maintain the EasyJet brand, its UK headquarters, and operating licenses, with plans to expand tourism services and renew its aircraft fleet.

The bidding process involved months of negotiations, with Castelake initially reaching an agreement before Apollo submitted a higher offer. Castelake eventually withdrew its bid, paving the way for the current deal. EasyJet, founded in 1995, operates around 1,200 routes across 35 countries and employs over 19,000 people, with key assets including landing and takeoff rights at major European airports.

EasyJet suspended all operations in Israel in April 2024 due to security concerns, including the Iranian attack, and has not resumed flights, stating it will not return until the security situation stabilizes. The current acquisition documents do not directly address the resumption of flights to Israel, and an immediate return is not expected solely due to the change in ownership. However, Apollo's financial backing may incentivize EasyJet to reintroduce profitable routes from Israel to Europe once the security and operational environment stabilizes, aligning with the acquirer's strategy to increase revenue and expand vacation package offerings.