The owners of Carlisle airport say a deal to sell the site to a new operator is now in doubt due to funding concerns.
Esken, the aviation and energy infrastructure group, revealed its intentions to sell its shareholdings in Stobart Air (UK) Limited, the owner of Carlisle Lake District Airport, to Ettyl Limited, on April 20.
This also affects the proposed sale of its shareholdings in Stobart Air Unlimited Company, which operates regional flights under a franchise agreement for Aer Lingus.
In a statement to the London Stock Exchange today, Esken said: “Since Esken’s last update, Esken has become aware that Ettyl’s proposed financing for the transaction is no longer available and understands that Ettyl is progressing discussions with another potential financing source.
“Esken is investigating these matters and seeking further information, including with regard to the impact this may have on the ability of Ettyl to finance the transaction and obtaining the change of control consents required in order to complete the transaction.
“Esken is discussing this matter with its lending banks given banking facility consent for the sale has been obtained.”
