Air France-KLM raises S$1.66b, giving France a 28.6% stake

[PARIS] Air France-KLM raised 1.04 billion euros (S$1.66 billion) through a share issue that saw the French government's holding in the struggling airline increase to 28.6 per cent, more than triple that of the Netherlands.

The proceeds will be used to strengthen the balance sheet of Air France, the carrier said in a statement Monday. The Dutch state's holding stands at 9.3 per cent after the sale.

France's increased stake upsets a previous shareholding equilibrium with the Dutch state, in which both countries held about 14 per cent. The Netherlands declined to participate in the capital increase, which was part of a French rescue plan unveiled earlier this month worth about 4 billion euros.

The bailout also includes the conversion of a 3 billion-euro direct loan from the French government into hybrid instruments.

French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire has left the door open for more support to the carrier should the French arm of the struggling airline need more help before the Covid-19 crisis eases for aviation companies. Chief Executive Officer Ben Smith earlier Monday indicated a further recapitalisation could be sought later this year.

Later in 2021 Air France-KLM shareholder China Eastern Airlines also participated in the issue, with its stake now standing at 9.6 per cent, according to the statement. The two airlines reinforced their existing partnership as part of the exercise.

The Netherlands gradually acquired its stake in the carrier just over two years ago, triggering a dispute between the European nations. While that move blindsided Paris and laid bare the Dutch intention to exert more influence on Air France-KLM, it remains unclear how this will work going forward.

France and the Netherlands have often been at odds since the 2004 merger of their respective national airlines, with the Dutch arm long resenting French control. Air France also has weaker profitability than KLM and history of labor conflict.

BLOOMBERG