IAG Considered Frontrunner in TAP Air Portugal Acquisition

IAG, the owner of British Airways, is seen as a leading contender to acquire a $1 billion stake in Portuguese airline TAP, signaling further consolidation in the European aviation market. The Portuguese government is expected to initiate formal sale discussions within the year, possibly selling either a minority or majority stake. Major European carriers, including IAG, Air France-KLM, and Lufthansa, have shown interest in TAP, particularly due to its potential to strengthen their presence in the South American market. Political instability in Portugal and regulatory hurdles could delay proceedings.