EasyJet was in "advanced" negotiations to acquire low-cost rival Go as Flight International closed for press.
Go is majority-owned by venture capitalist group 3i, which bought Go from British Airways in June for £100 million ($142 million) - Go would probably sell for much more today. The move comes as a surprise, as both airlines are in good financial shape, with ambitious expansion plans. Taking on Go's London Stansted and East Midlands hubs would pose logistical challenges for EasyJet, and integrating the two airlines' services could take time.
The move would put EasyJet head to head with Ryanair, which shares Go's Stansted base. An EasyJet/Go merger would put the combined airline ahead of Ryanair in revenues, passenger numbers, routes and fleet size.
Meanwhile, Go is said to be finalising a $3 billion deal with Airbus for up to 80 A320 family aircraft. The Boeing 737 operator declines to comment on reports that it is in exclusive discussions with Airbus.
Source: Flight International
