The French government has announced its intention to relinquish its 60% stake in Nice Côte d’Azur and Lyon-Saint-Exupery airports. Reports state that interest has been particularly high due to the continued increase in air traffic, which translates to relatively stable assets.
The value of Nice and Lyon airports is estimated at €1.5bn and €900m respectively.
Macquarie, Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP) and Industry Funds Management have been reported as interested in the stake sale, while Ferrovial, AENA, Singapore Airport and Malaysia Airport are also reported to be considering the sale.
Other investors linked with the deal include: Atlantia, Ontario Teachers and Canadian Pension Plan (CPP), Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA), GIC, Kuwaiti pension fund Wren House and Vinci with a joint bid in conjunction with Caisse des Depots et Consignations and insurer Predica. Aeroports de Paris is also reported to have expressed interest.