BA considers bid for Iberia

British Airways today said it had approached a number of private equity companies about the possibility of making an offer for Spain’s Iberia airline.

BA already has a 10% stake in the firm and is reviewing its holding in light of earlier news that Iberia had received a takeover approach.

The company said one option involved forming a consortium with a private equity group and possibly including “one or more” partner from Spain. It ruled out going it alone in a bid for Iberia.

The airline added: “British Airways has not made a final decision about the future of its shareholding in Iberia and continues to examine numerous options including full disposal. However, it has ruled out an independent bid for the airline.