After investing in one of the world’s major aviation hubs since 2006, Ferrovial has now sold its stake in London-Heathrow Airport (LHR).
Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) and private equity group, Adrian, were announced as the new stake holders on November 29, 2023.
PIF will acquire 10% of Ferrovial’s shareholding and the European investment firm will take 15%.
The agreed sale is made through the purchase of shares in FGP Topco, the parent company of Heathrow Airport, and is worth £ 2.4 billion ($3 billion) to Ferrovial.
The purchase is subject to regulatory approval and will need to be authorized by FGP Topco’s additional shareholders.
According to the Financial Times, the current owners include the Qatar Investment Authority (20% stake), Singapore’s GIC sovereign wealth fund and the Australian Retirement Trust (both of which own 11.2%).
“Over the last 17 years, we have been contributing to Heathrow’s transformation, together with our fellow shareholders, achieving some excellent milestones throughout our long-term role as investor. These include overseeing an investment of £12 billion pounds, expanding its capacity with the construction of Terminal 2, and improving its operational performance. We are very pleased to have made Heathrow one of the world’s most connected airports and the busiest airport in Europe,” Luke Bugeja, CEO of Ferrovial Airports, said.
Ferrovial still holds a 50% share in Aberdeen (ABZ), Glasgow (GLA) and Southampton (SOU) airports in the United Kingdom, a 60% in Dalaman Airport in Turkey and 49% in JFK Airport New Terminal One in New York.
Among its plethora of global investments, PIF has ploughed billions into the aviation industry, most notably the yet to be launched Riyadh Air and Riyadh-based King Salman International Airport.
“PIF is pleased to be investing in Heathrow, a world-class airport, which acts as a key gateway to the world. PIF’s investment in Heathrow is in line with its strategy to support the business as a long-term partner. Heathrow is one of the largest air traffic platforms, connecting the UK with global trading partners to help stimulate economic growth,” PIF said in a statement.
Adrian has investments in London-Luton Airport (LTN) and significant stakes in six Italian Airports.