Thu, 10 Jul 2025 | BUSINESS SALE
Brighton-based airline passenger communications provider 15below has completed its first acquisition since securing backing from private equity firm LDC last year. The company has acquired Airport AI, a conversational AI platform for airports.
The Airport AI platform answers questions from passengers and can help to generate sales via online chat. According to the company, it is the leading AI platform for airports and is used in more than 85 airports worldwide.
The integration of Airport AI with 15below is expected to create a more comprehensive experience for passengers, providing them with timely, relevant and accurate information updates throughout their journeys.
15below hopes that the deal will enable it to scale beyond its current portfolio of over 80 airports. 15below predominantly operates in airports within Europe, but also in the US, Australia and the Middle East.
Nicholas Key, chief executive of 15below, said that the company admires “Airport AI's unique technology and their vision for transforming passenger communications, which aligns perfectly with our commitment to delivering a seamless travel experience.”
He continued: "This partnership brings together two market leaders with deep expertise across airline and airport systems and passenger engagement, creating a powerful force for positive change across the travel industry.”
"We are now in a unique position to drive smarter, more connected journeys for passengers while helping airlines and airports work more efficiently together.”
Airport AI Chief Executive Pierre Cuquemelle described the deal as a “major milestone”, both for the company and the wider aviation ecosystem.
He added that the combination of Airport AI’s “expertise in AI-driven passenger communication with 15below's deep integration across airline systems” would help “airports and airlines collaborate seamlessly to deliver smarter services, improve operational efficiency, and make travel less stressful for millions of people around the world."
The deal is the first transaction for 15below since LDC invested in the company in February 2024, supporting the management team's five-year growth plan.
Aylesh Patel, partner and head of South at LDC, commented: "This first acquisition is a major milestone for 15below and a clear signal that Nick and the team are pursuing their ambitions at pace.”
"With Airport AI onboard, the business is more ready than ever to meet rising demand for seamless, technology-enabled communications in the aviation industry.”
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