Airport firm HIAL brings losses down

Published on 08/12/2012 00:00

THE COMPANY which operates Scotland’s network of small northern airports pared its losses last year thanks to a lack of disruption.

Highlands and Islands Airports (HIAL), which is owned by the Scottish Government, reported pre-tax losses of £426,000 in the 12 months to 31 March. The year before, harsh winter weather and the Icelandic ash cloud had pushed it to a £2.4 million deficit.

Accounts filed at Companies House show the group received a slightly smaller operating subsidy last year at £18.1m, although its capital subsidy grew to £8.7m, from £7m. Works started by HIAL last year included the £1m new runway and taxiway in Dundee and major works at Inverness and Wick.

Passenger numbers at the group’s 11 airports were up 8.7 per cent, with 9.3 per cent more aircraft passing though the sites. Freight tonnage was up 15 per cent.