Ardian reaches agreement over sale of its stake in London Luton Airport

Ardian Infrastructure acquired 49% of LLA in 2013. Since then, Ardian together with leading airport operator, Aena have invested heavily in developing the airport, committing over £160 million in total. As a result, the airport has been transformed and passenger numbers have increased from 9.7 million in 2013 to 15.8 million in 2017, making LLA one of the UK’s fastest growing airports. 

This increase in customer numbers has followed a focus on improving the customer experience and services at LLA. This included better harnessing technology to create a more seamless customer experience, and improving transport links and parking at the airport, as well as the quality of retail offering inside the terminal. In addition, the airport’s route network has substantially increased since Ardian and Aena invested in 2013, now serving over 140 destinations across Europe, Asia and Africa.

The strong performance of the airport over the last four and a half years has seen the creation of 3,000 direct and indirect jobs. Ardian’s work with LLA has involved close cooperation with its long term industrial strategic partner, Aena, Luton Borough Council, and an extended list of airlines, suppliers and government bodies. 

Mathias Burghardt, member of the Executive Committee of Ardian and Head of Infrastructure, said: “It has been great to see the growth and development of LLA over the last four and a half years. LLA is a perfect example of our strategy of developing airports through capacity expansion and improvement of passenger experience. Ardian’s strategy of working with industrial Partners and actively manage assets delivers superior returns to our investors.”

Andrew Liau, Managing Director Ardian and Director of LLA, added: “This success has been made possible by the hard work of everyone involved with LLA, including the employees, our industrial partner Aena, and an extended list of important stakeholders. AMP Capital will be an excellent partner for them and LLA as the airport continues its growth ambitions.”

Boe Pahari, Global Head of Infrastructure Equity at AMP Capital, said: “London Luton Airport is a high-quality capital city airport with significant further growth potential, catering for the high-volume London market, which makes it a compelling investment opportunity. As experienced owners of airports we look forward to working with Aena to further develop London Luton through supporting investment in the infrastructure and identifying opportunities for route development, as well as further improving the passenger experience and the retail offering.”