US alternative investment firm Castlelake has confirmed it is in the early stages of considering a possible takeover offer for easyJet, formally opening a regulated review period under UK takeover rules.
In a statement dated May 29, 2026, Castlelake said it is “in the early stages of considering a possible offer” for the low-cost carrier and that no approach has been made to the airline’s board. The firm added that there is no certainty any offer will be made, nor on the potential terms, and did not disclose valuation, price or financing details.
Under the UK Takeover Code, Castlelake has until 5:00 p.m. London time on June 26, 2026, to announce a firm intention to make an offer for easyJet or to state that it does not intend to proceed. This “put up or shut up” deadline follows recent market speculation around the airline.
easyJet has described Castlelake’s interest as “highly opportunistic”, pointing to the absence of any formal approach and emphasizing its own business outlook. The situation comes against a backdrop of a marked decline in easyJet’s share price over the past 12 months and renewed interest from overseas investors in UK-listed companies, as well as broader discussions about potential take-private transactions in the British market.