On 7 November 2017, the European Commission received the notification of a proposed concentration between EasyJet and Air Berlin. More specifically, EasyJet intends to acquire control of parts of Air Berlin pursuant to Article 3(1)(b) of the Merger Regulation.

The concerned business activities consist in assets that previously formed part of Air Berlin’s operations at Berlin Tegel Airport, including slots and overnight parking stands. With the acquisition EasyJet could enter into leases for up to 25 Airbus A320 aircraft and to offer employment to Air Berlin flying crews.

The proposed merger is consistent with EasyJet’s strategy of purposeful investment in Europe’s leading airports and will enable the airline to operate the leading short haul network at Tegel connecting passengers to and from destinations across Germany and the rest of Europe.

The purchasing price of the transaction is approximately 40 million euro, excluding potential start-up and transitional operating costs.

The Commission found that the notified transaction could fall within the scope of the Merger Regulation and invites interested third parties to submit their observations. If approved, the acquisition is expected to close in December 2017.

Sara Capruzzi