The UK's biggest low-cost airline is heading into private ownership after EasyJet reached an agreement in principle with US investment firm Castlelake for a £5.5 billion takeover.

The deal comes after Castlelake's previous offers were rejected, signaling a shift in negotiations between the investment firm and the budget carrier. Going private could reshape how EasyJet operates, potentially freeing it from quarterly earnings pressures and allowing for longer-term strategic planning. Read the full story →

Today's takeaway: Major consolidation in aviation could signal new opportunities for restructuring and growth in Europe's competitive budget airline market.