M&A News

Bloomberg

SpaceX and AST SpaceMobile seek spectrum valued at $6 billion for direct-to-phone satellite services

SpaceX and AST SpaceMobile are among the companies exploring a purchase of spectrum owned by Grain Management, according to people familiar with the discussions. The frequencies are considered especially valuable for connecting standard wireless phones directly to satellites, underscoring the strategic importance of spectrum access to space-based connectivity plans.

Via Satellite

High activity

Rocket Lab to Acquire Iridium in a Major Satellite-Sector Expansion

Rocket Lab announced an agreement on June 29 to acquire Iridium, a move that would significantly broaden the launch company’s position in the satellite sector. Analysts are assessing how the transaction could accelerate Rocket Lab’s strategy to build a next-generation space company.

FlightGlobal

Icelandair pays $686,000 for 49% stake in Play’s Maltese AOC holder

Icelandair Group has completed its purchase of a 49% shareholding in Fly Play Europe Holdco, Play’s Malta-based airline entity, for $686,000. The deal gives Icelandair flexibility to streamline operations through the former rival’s European operating certificate and corporate structure.

Leeham News

Turning Point: How Embraer Recovered from Boeing Merger Plans, Part 2

FlightGlobal

High activity

IndiGo’s Norse Exit Highlights a 25.8% Contraction in Europe’s ACMI Market

Norse Atlantic is seeking ACMI placements, sale or merger opportunities for up to five Boeing 787-9s returning from IndiGo after the partnership ended. The Norwegian carrier reported $132 million in second-quarter revenue but negative $8.4 million EBITDAR, citing fuel costs and lower fleet utilization.

Bloomberg

SpaceX approached Cognition AI about a potential acquisition as it expands its AI push

SpaceX approached Cognition AI, the developer of an AI coding platform, about a potential acquisition, according to people familiar with the matter. The deal would have marked SpaceX’s second large takeover in recent months as Elon Musk’s space company seeks to strengthen its position in artificial intelligence.

Space Intel Report

Intuitive Machines’ $853.3 million Maxar deal gains credibility from three-satellite order and orbital data-center potential

Intuitive Machines’ $853.3 million acquisition of Maxar Space Systems remains unproven, but a three-satellite order and potential orbital data-center applications strengthen the strategic rationale. The transaction gives Intuitive Machines exposure to large-satellite manufacturing while adding possible growth beyond its existing space businesses.

ch-aviation

CemAir opposes FlySafair takeover at South African tribunal

South African regional carrier and ACMI specialist CemAir is challenging FlySafair’s proposed takeover at a tribunal, adding an industry competitor’s formal opposition to the transaction. The case could shape the competitive landscape for South Africa’s airline market, subject to the tribunal’s review and decision.