Aberdeen (pictured), Glasgow and Southampton airports have been sold by Heathrow Airport Holdings for more than £1 billion.
A consortium formed by Heathrow’s Spanish shareholder Ferrovial and infrastructure firm Macquarie is acquiring the three regional airports.
They will continue to operate under the ownership of Heathrow until the transaction completes, expected by no later than January 2015. The deal is subject to EU merger regulatory clearance.
The European head of Macquarie Infrastructure, Edward Beckley, said: “As the world’s leading infrastructure asset manager, Macquarie has a long and successful track record of investing in and developing airports around the world.
“We look forward to working with these airports over the long-term to support route growth and enhance the passenger experience for the communities they serve.”
Heathrow chief executive, John Holland-Kaye, said: “Aberdeen, Glasgow and Southampton airports and their people have been part of our company for a long time.
“They are great airports and we are proud of their achievements. We wish the new owners and our airport colleagues every success and are confident the airports will continue to flourish.
“This sale enables us to focus on improving Heathrow for passengers and winning support for Heathrow expansion.
“Heathrow is the UK’s only hub airport, connecting the whole of the UK to the world and bringing economic benefits locally and nationally.”
Dave Lees, managing director of Southampton airport, added: “Southampton airport has undergone a number of ownership changes during its 100 plus year history.
“During this time it has continued to go from strength to strength, becoming a leading regional airport in the UK and Europe.
“The airport is widely recognised for its important role in the regional economy and for its award winning customer service.
“I am convinced that under new ownership Southampton airport has a positive future and we will be working together to ensure a smooth transition over the coming months.”