The CEO of Air France-KLM, Benjamin Smith, stated that the company’s interest in TAP remains, but discussions and negotiations with the airline’s owners are too early to be commented on. He expressed this during a press conference call on the results of the Franco-Dutch group.
When asked about the conditions outlined in the privatization terms, expected to be revealed next week, Smith mentioned that the decision to proceed with a proposal is complex. He emphasized that any investment in TAP should lead to an improvement in margins, which is the decisive factor.
Air France-KLM’s interest persists regardless of the conditions set by the Portuguese Government and the European Commission, provided the group believes the business will be advantageous.
“If there is too much risk concerning the business, then obviously we are not interested,” Smith underscored.
Regarding the acquisition of a stake in the private Spanish airline Air Europa, Air France-KLM has decided to withdraw from the deal. Smith explained that reaching a majority position was crucial, but since that doesn’t seem feasible, discussions with Air Europa have ceased.
The Air France-KLM group reported a profit of 401 million euros in the first half of the year, compared to a loss of 314 million euros in the same period of 2024.
