Adelaide Airports register strong growth in 2013

Adelaide, November 12, Adelaide Airport Ltd (AAL) has announced continued strong growth in both its aeronautical and non-aeronautical activities on the back of record international passenger numbers and continued property development.

Releasing Adelaide Airport Ltd’s (AAL) results for the 2013/14 Financial Year, Managing Director Mark Young said international passenger numbers increased by 23 per cent –more than three times the average for Australian Airports.

“Our routes development continues to go from strength to strength. We welcomed our first international low-cost carrier,AirAsia X, providing a second Kuala Lumpur link, while Jetstar introduced its first international services out of Adelaide to Bali,” Mr Young said.

“The change to Cathay Pacific’s international schedule in April, allowing same day connections to mainland China, Japan and Korea, has already seen a significant jump in Chinese visitor numbers to South Australia.

“Overall, international passengers now account for 12 per cent of our business, and we are rapidly closing in on the 1 million passengers per year milestone.”

Domestic traffic in 2013/14 increased by 208,000 passengers, or 3.5 per cent. Significant additions included Tigerair flights to Sydney and Brisbane and expansion of Jetstar services.

Regional traffic continued to decline due in part to reduced mining and resources activity, but there were early signs of a turnaround.

Adelaide Airport Ltd has reported a net profit after tax of $13.7 million for 2013/14, on the back of revenue of $172.1 million. The result demonstratesthe company’s credentials as a growing business underpinned by a strong balance sheet.

On the ground, infrastructure improvements have included the expansion of the southern apron to accommodate more aircraft parking, and the redevelopment of international facilities to help streamline arrivals and departures.

“Our strong growth has once again been supported by strategically focussed investment in infrastructure projects, which is helping us achieve our vision of being a top tier airport business centre in the Asia Pacific,” Mr Young said.

These results have enabled us to plan for our long term future. Adelaide Airport has recently released a 30-Year Vision, unveiled a new brand identity and announced the creation of the Airport Business District with a focus on land development opportunities.