Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP) has announced that its Fund, Global Infrastructure Partners I, has agreed to sell its 75% interest in London City Airport to a consortium comprised of AIMCo, OMERS, Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan and Wren House Infrastructure Management Limited, the infrastructure investing arm of the Kuwait Investment Authority. Additionally, Highstar Capital has agreed to sell its 25% interest in London City Airport as part of the transaction. The transaction is expected to close on 10 March 2016.
London City Airport currently serves 12 airlines and 46 destinations across the UK, Europe and the USA. It operates an executive jet centre, and its location close to Canary Wharf and the City of London makes London City Airport particularly convenient for business travellers.
GIP acquired its 75% interest in London City Airport through two successive transactions in 2006 and 2008. Since its initial investment in London City Airport, GIP has implemented investments and operational improvements aimed at increasing capacity, improving the facility's operating efficiency and service quality, developing airline relationships and strengthening and expanding the airport's network.
London City Airport has recognised by a number of global transport organisations with awards, including ACI’s ‘Best European Airport for four consecutive years’, Air Transport News’ ‘2015 Airport of the Year under 10 million passengers’ and London Transport Awards’ ‘2015 London Airport of the Year’. Under GIP's ownership, London City Airport grew from 2.4 million passengers in 2006 to 4.3 million in 2015.
Adebayo Ogunlesi, chairman and managing partner of GIP said: "GIP's focus on operational improvements, on-time performance and airline partnerships has made London City Airport very popular with passengers. We congratulate the new owners and are sure that London City Airport will continue to flourish."
