Lufthansa is examining the potential sale of software businesses within its Lufthansa Systems division in a transaction that could be worth close to €1 billion. The aviation IT provider’s assets under review include flight-planning, navigation, crew-management and scheduling products, while investment banks have reportedly been engaged to assess the opportunity. Lufthansa has not confirmed the plan, and no sale decision has been made.
The businesses reportedly being considered include Lido and NetLine, as well as Sirax, Lufthansa’s revenue-accounting software. The transaction could cover most of Lufthansa Systems, excluding a unit that provides specialised bespoke services to the airline.
The assets generate substantially more than €200 million in annual revenue and about €50 million in EBITDA, potentially attracting private-equity buyers. Discussions remain at an early stage, with the final scope, valuation, buyer and timetable unresolved.
Headquartered in Raunheim near Frankfurt, Lufthansa Systems employs approximately 3,100 people and provides IT services to airlines. A disposal would fit Lufthansa’s broader strategy of selling non-core activities while concentrating on passenger and cargo operations and maintenance. Lufthansa declined to comment on the reported review.