EasyJet founder Stelios Haji-Ioannou has dampened fresh talk of a possible takeover by shareholder Icelandair, confirming that he had no intention of selling his share in the budget airline.
Reykjavik-based Icelandair yesterday increased its share in EasyJet to 13 per cent after it bought a further 1.1 per cent stake. The move once again fuelled speculation of a possible takeover.
Mr Haji-Ioannou, who founded the airline in 1995, owns 41 per cent of EasyJet along with his family. He has has consistently denied any intention of selling his stake.
Icelandair started building its stake in EasyJet in October last year, sparking talk of a takeover, but has said the move was purely a long-term trade investment.
EasyJet shares were trading at a 15-month high today, but remain below their 310 pence float price.
