Airlines back BAA against takeover

Major British airlines are set to back BAA against any bid for a Spanish takeover of Heathrow.

Spanish construction company Grupo Ferrovial is thought to be poised for a hostile takeover bid of the London airport.

However, many airlines are thought to be opposed to such a move. Other airports operated by Ferrovial are more expensive than Heathrow, with the option of increased rents, parking and other charges deterring UK airlines, the Mail on Sunday reports.

A spokesman for Richard Branson confirmed that Virgin Atlantic could well oppose any bid by Ferrovial.

Meanwhile, British Airways it thought to want reassurances that the Spanish company will continue with existing plans for new runways and terminals.

However, any bid could be subject to further complications. Because Ferrovial owns Bristol airport, the Competition Commission could first review any attempt to takeover Heathrow.

This could in turn inflict scrutiny on BAA, which currently owns seven UK airports.

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