The largest stakeholder in Heathrow is exploring options to sell its 25% stake in the London airport, Reuters reported.
Madrid-listed infrastructure group Ferrovial (BME: FER) is said to be in early talks over a possible sale of its stake, estimated to be worth €1.6bn - but this could rise given past interest in airport infrastructure.
Private-equity firm Ardian is reportedly in discussions with advisers around a possible joint bid for the stake alongside the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia.
The discussions come after Heathrow was forced to cap flight numbers until October after widespread chaos caused staff shortages.
Ferrovial’s share price rose as much as 4% yesterday but has since edged back down 0.30% this morning to €26.43.