EasyJet future plunged into uncertainty after US firm accused of 'highly opportunistic' action

Budget airline EasyJet has criticised a potential takeover approach from American private equity firm Castlelake, describing the timing as "highly opportunistic".

Shares in the airline jumped by as much as 16 per cent on Monday morning after the company confirmed it was considering a possible acquisition proposal.

In a statement issued to shareholders, EasyJet said the approach came at a time when the airline’s share price had been heavily affected by conflict in the Middle East and rising fuel prices.

The board said: "The board notes the highly opportunistic timing when EasyJet's share price is temporarily depressed due to the current situation in the Middle East and its impact on customer confidence and jet fuel prices."

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Before news of the potential bid emerged, EasyJet shares had fallen by almost 25 per cent since January.

Investors have grown increasingly concerned about rising crude oil prices and the possibility that holidaymakers could reduce or delay travel plans during the summer season.

The airline warned last week that booking levels were running behind the same period in 2025.

Management has also been forced to increase ticket prices in response to higher fuel costs.

Disruption to oil supplies moving through the Strait of Hormuz has contributed to increased pressure on global energy markets.

Chief executive Kenton Jarvis said the airline could face an additional £175million in fuel costs across the summer if prices remain at current levels.

Castlelake separately disclosed on Monday that funds managed by the company already own 16.2 million EasyJet shares, representing around 2.1 per cent of the airline.

No formal takeover offer has yet been submitted to EasyJet’s board.

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Under British takeover rules, any formal offer would need to be worth at least 403.23 pence per share.

Castlelake now has until June 26 to either announce a firm intention to make an offer or walk away from the process.

Despite confirming it would consider any approach, EasyJet’s board also questioned whether a takeover could be successfully completed.

The company pointed to what it described as "considerable regulatory, financial and other execution challenges" associated with any potential transaction.

The takeover speculation comes amid wider operational pressures affecting parts of the aviation sector.

Flights departing from Edinburgh and Glasgow airports experienced delays over the weekend due to shortages of aviation fuel.

Some aircraft were forced to refuel at alternative airports, with certain Glasgow flights stopping at Prestwick and some Edinburgh departures routing through Manchester.

The fuel supply disruption highlighted the continued pressure facing airlines and airports as instability in the Middle East affects global energy supplies.

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