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EasyJet acquires GB Airways

EasyJet has announced a deal with British Airways for the acquisition of Gatwick-based carrier GB Airways.

Low-fares airline easyJet has announced the acquisition of GB Airways, a move that will strengthen its position at Gatwick airport and offer more services to passengers.

GB Airways, a point-to-point carrier operating to destinations across southern Europe and north Africa, was acquired, excluding its Heathrow slots, from British Airways for £103.5 million.

The airline operates a total of 39 routes, 28 of which run through Gatwick, with a further six from Manchester and five operating out of Heathrow.

As a result of the acquisition easyJet will operate 24 per cent of the slots at Gatwick and fly approximately eight million passengers on 62 routes.

Chief executive Andy Harrison said: "This is an acquisition which both strengthens our customer offering at London Gatwick, our biggest base with an attractive catchment area, and allows us to fully capitalise on the potential of the airport through a larger number of slots.

"The deal will bring major benefits to both easyJet and GB Airways customers, delivering a wider choice of destinations at easyJet's great prices, and creating clear value for our shareholders."

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