AENA partial privatisation planned for autumn 2013 with state to retain at least 50% stake

Spain's Secretary of State for Infrastructure Rafael Catala said the Government plans to partially privatise airport operator AENA during northern autumn 2013, with a final percentage still the be determined but the Government plans to retain at least a 50% stake (Europa Press, 12-Jun-2013). Mr Catala said market conditions will determine the final model of the privatisation, but that the income generated from the sale will be secondary to other factors. Mr Catala said, "We care a lot more about the model [of privatisation] and guaranteeing the connectivity of the territory, given the importance of airports for the tourism sector, to ensure the sustainability and continuity of [national airports]." Meanwhile, Spanish Development Minister Ana Pastor said the partial privatisation will not preclude having "a public company able to meet the needs of all citizens".