Notes to the consolidated financial statements
I Accounting policies
General remarks
The operating licence awarded by the Federal Government authorises and obliges the airport operator, Flughafen Zürich AG, to operate Zurich Airport until 2051. In addition to combining transport services by road, rail and air, Flughafen Zürich AG also operates Zurich Airport as a shopping, entertainment and services centre.
The consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRSs) and comply with Swiss law. They have been prepared under the historical cost convention, with the exception of the financial assets of the Airport of Zurich Noise Fund, derivative financial instruments, associates and defined benefit obligations.
The single-entity financial statements of the group’s subsidiaries, which have been prepared in accordance with uniform accounting policies, have been used as the basis for consolidation. The reporting date for all subsidiaries is 31 December.
The preparation of financial statements in accordance with IFRSs requires the Management Board to make estimates and assumptions, as well as exercise its discretion, when applying the accounting policies. This may affect reported income, expenses, assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities at the time of preparation of the financial statements. In the event that such estimates and assumptions made in good faith by the Management Board at the time of preparation of the financial statements subsequently deviate from the actual circumstances, the estimates and assumptions originally made are adjusted prospectively in the financial year in which the circumstances changed.
Judgements made by the Management Board in its application of IFRSs that have a significant effect on the consolidated financial statements, and estimates and assumptions with a significant risk of adjustment in the following financial year, are discussed in “II. Judgements and significant estimates and assumptions in the application of accounting policies” and in the following notes in Notes to the consolidated financial statements:
New and amended accounting policies
CHANGES IN ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The company adopted the following new and amended International Financial Reporting Standards which are mandatory for the first time for the financial year beginning 1 January 2019:
- IFRS 16 Leases
- IFRIC 23 Uncertainty over Income Tax Treatments
- Amendments to IAS 19: Plan Amendment, Curtailment or Settlement
- Amendments to IAS 28: Long-term Interests in Associates and Joint Ventures
- Amendments to IFRS 9: Prepayment Features with Negative Compensation
-
Annual Improvements to IFRSs (2015–2017 Cycle)
Except as outlined in the following, the above-mentioned amendments did not have a significant impact on the financial position, results of operations or cash flows of Flughafen Zürich AG for financial year 2019:
IFRS 16 Leases
IFRS 16 replaces IAS 17 Leases, IFRIC 4 Determining whether an Arrangement contains a Lease, SIC-15 Operating Leases—Incentives and SIC-27 Evaluating the Substance of Transactions Involving the Legal Form of a Lease. The Standard sets out the principles for the recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure of leases and requires lessees to recognise most leases in the balance sheet.
For lessors, IFRS 16 leaves lease accounting essentially unchanged compared with IAS 17. Lessors will continue to classify leases as operating leases or finance leases, applying similar principles to those in IAS 17. IFRS 16 therefore had no impact on leases where the group is the lessor.
On initial application of IFRS 16 at 1 January 2019 (date of initial application), Flughafen Zürich AG chose the modified retrospective approach, under which the Standard is applied retrospectively by recognising the cumulative effect of initially applying the Standard at the date of initial application.
The effects of initially applying IFRS 16 at 1 January 2019 are as follows:
(CHF 1,000)
01.01.2019
Property, plant and equipment
Transfer of leased assets to right-of-use assets
–2,359
Right-of-use assets
Transfer of leased assets from property, plant and equipment
2,359
Effect of the initial application from IFRS 16
41,894
Increase in total assets
41,894
Lease liabilities (current and non-current)
Effect of the initial application from IFRS 16
41,894
Increase in total liabilites
41,894
Change in equity
0
Prior to the initial application of IFRS 16, Flughafen Zürich AG classified its leases (as lessee) either as a finance lease or an operating lease at inception of the contract. On initial application of IFRS 16, the group recognised and measured all leases (with the exception of short-term leases) by applying a single model.
The Standard contains specific transition guidance and practical expedients, which were applied in Flughafen Zürich AG’s consolidated financial statements:
- The company did not change the original carrying amounts of assets and liabilities under leases that were previously classified as finance leases.
- The company recognised right-of-use assets and liabilities for leases (with the exception of short-term leases) that were previously classified as operating leases. An amount equal to the corresponding lease liabilities was in each case recognised when measuring right-of-use assets. Initial application therefore has no effect on retained earnings. Lease liabilities were measured at the present value of the remaining lease payments, discounted using the incremental borrowing rate of 0.0% at the date of initial application.
In addition, Flughafen Zürich AG chose to apply the following practical expedients:
- The company applied the exemption for short-term leases to leases for which the lease term ends within twelve months of the date of initial application.
- The company did not include initial direct costs when measuring the right-of-use asset at the date of initial application.
Initial application of IFRS 16 at 1 January 2019 impacted on the consolidated financial statements of Flughafen Zürich AG as follows:
- Right-of-use assets amounting to CHF 41.9 million were recognised in the consolidated financial statements and presented under “Right-of-use assets”. This figure includes leased assets amounting to CHF 2.4 million that were previously recognised as finance leases.
- Additional lease liabilities totalling CHF 41.9 million were recognised as current and non-current lease liabilities.
The lease liabilities at 1 January 2019 can be reconciled to the obligations under operating leases at 31 December 2018 as follows:
(CHF 1,000)
Total
Obligations under operating leases as at 31 December 2018
0
Leases previously not recognised 1)
–41,894
Liabilities under leases previously classified as finance leases (aircraft energy supply system)
–3,010
Lease liabilities as at 1 January 2019
–44,904
1) Due to the incremental borrowing rate of 0.0% applied at the date of initial application of IFRS 16, the present value stated in the balance sheet for previously unrecognised leases is also the nominal amount of the future lease payments.
INTRODUCTION OF NEW STANDARDS IN 2020 AND LATER
The new, revised and amended standards and interpretations issued by the end of 2019 and set out in the table below are not yet effective and were not applied early in these consolidated financial statements.
Amendments to standards and interpretations
Effective date
Planned application by Flughafen Zürich AG
Amendments to IAS 1 and IAS 8: Definition of materiality
*
1 January 2020
Financial year 2020
Amendments to IFRS 3: Definition of a business
*
1 January 2020
Financial year 2020
Amendments to references to the conceptual framework in IFRS standards
*
1 January 2020
Financial year 2020
Amendments to IAS 1: Requirements for classifying liabilities as current or non-current
*
1 January 2022
Financial year 2022
* No, or no significant, impact is expected on the consolidated financial statements of Flughafen Zürich AG.
CHANGES IN THE CONSOLIDATED GROUP
On 15 March 2019, in a public tender conducted by the Brazilian government, Flughafen Zürich AG was awarded concessions for the operation and expansion of Vitória and Macaé airports in the southeast of Brazil. The wholly-owned subsidiary Aeroportos do Sudeste do Brasil S.A. based in Vitória (Brazil) was established for this purpose (see note 24.7, Concessions for the operation of foreign airports).
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
SCOPE AND METHODS OF CONSOLIDATION
The consolidated financial statements comprise Flughafen Zürich AG and all companies in Switzerland and abroad that it directly or indirectly controls. Flughafen Zürich AG controls an entity if it is exposed or has rights to variable returns from its involvement with the entity and has the ability to affect those returns through its power over the entity.
The financial statements of subsidiaries are included in the consolidated financial statements from the date on which control begins until the date on which control ceases. All assets and liabilities are therefore included in the consolidated financial statements together with all income and expenses in accordance with the principles of full consolidation. All unrealised gains and losses on intra-group transactions and all intra-group balances are eliminated on consolidation.
Business combinations are accounted for using the acquisition method at the date of acquisition. Consideration transferred in a business combination includes the fair value of the assets transferred, liabilities assumed or incurred and equity instruments issued by the group. Transaction costs incurred in connection with a business combination are recognised in the income statement. Goodwill arising from a business combination is recognised as an asset. Goodwill represents the excess of the consideration transferred, the amount of any non-controlling interests in the acquiree and the fair value of any previously held equity interest in the acquiree over the fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed. Two choices exist regarding the measurement of non-controlling interests. Non-controlling interests are measured at their fair value or at their proportionate share of the recognised amount of the identifiable net assets. When the excess is negative, a bargain purchase gain is recognised immediately in the income statement, after first reassessing the fair value of the net assets acquired.
FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSLATION
For consolidation purposes, all assets and liabilities reported in the balance sheets of companies within the group are translated into Swiss francs (functional currency of Flughafen Zürich AG) at the closing rate. Income statements and cash flow statements are translated at the average exchange rate for the period. Foreign currency differences arising on the translation of balance sheets and income statements are credited/charged directly to the translation reserve in equity. Transactions in foreign currency are translated into Swiss francs at the exchange rate in effect on the day of the transaction.
Foreign currency monetary items are translated at the exchange rate at the reporting date. Foreign exchange gains/losses that arise from the settlement or remeasurement of foreign currency items at the reporting date are recognised in the income statement.
ALTERNATIVE PERFORMANCE INDICATORS
Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA)
EBITDA comprises earnings before tax, the finance result, the share of profit/loss of associates plus depreciation and amortisation.
Earnings before interest and tax (EBIT)
EBIT comprises earnings before tax, the finance result and the share of profit/loss of associates.
Revenue recognition
Revenue is recognised by Flughafen Zürich AG when the customer obtains control of a service.
Revenue in the “Aviation” segment primarily comprises passenger and landing charges. Charges for providing assistance to passengers with reduced mobility are received by the “PRM” segment, while the “User fees” segment primarily receives fees for the use of the central infrastructure. Revenue in the “Air security” segment mainly includes security charges, and in the “Noise” segment it mainly contains noise charges. Revenue is recognised immediately on rendering the service in question. Landing charges are billed per landing according to the weight of the aircraft. Passenger charges, fees for the use of the baggage sorting and handling system and security charges are based on the number of departing passengers. Noise charges are based, in turn, on the number of departing passengers and on an emissions-based charge according to the aircraft type.
The main components in the “Non-regulated business” segment are revenue from the marketing and rental of the commercial infrastructure at the airport (retail, tax & duty free, food & beverage operations, advertising media, parking, rental and leasing agreements, and energy and utility cost allocation). The service is rendered as soon as the commercial space is made available and the revenue recognised accordingly. For fixed-rent tenancy agreements classified as operating leases, the rents are recognised on a straight-line basis over the term of the tenancy agreement. Conditional rental payments (e.g. from turnover-based tenancy agreements) are recognised on an accrual basis based on the turnover generated by the lessee, in which case a minimum rent may be applied. The company does not currently have any tenancy agreements classified as finance leases.
Finance result
The finance result comprises interest payments on borrowings calculated using the effective interest method (excluding borrowing costs relating to buildings under construction), interest expense as a result of adjusting the present value of provisions and non-current liabilities, interest and dividend income, foreign currency gains and losses, and gains and losses on financial assets.
Interest income is recognised in the income statement using the effective interest method. Dividend income is recognised in the financial statements at the due date.
Borrowing costs arising during the construction stage for movables, buildings and engineering structures are capitalised up until the date the asset is taken into use or at the date of completion, if earlier.
Property, plant and equipment
Property, plant and equipment is stated at acquisition or construction cost, less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses. The construction cost of buildings includes direct costs for labour (third-party services and internal personnel), materials and overheads, plus the borrowing costs arising during the construction stage, which are capitalised up until the date the asset is taken into use or at the date of completion, if earlier. Borrowing costs and expenditure relating to significant assets under construction are capitalised.
Components of an item of property, plant and equipment with a different useful life are reported individually and depreciated separately. Expansion and replacement expenditure is capitalised only if it is probable that future economic benefits will flow to Flughafen Zürich AG. Maintenance and renovation expenditure is charged to the income statement when incurred.
The assets (with the exception of land, which is not depreciated) are depreciated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful life or over the term of the lease, whichever is shorter. The useful life for each category of property, plant and equipment is as follows:
- Buildings: maximum 30 years
- Engineering structures: maximum 30 years
-
Movables: 4 to 20 years
PROJECTS IN PROGRESS
Projects in progress are stated at acquisition or production cost and include investments in projects that have not yet been billed. These mainly comprise assets under construction. Once a project has been put into operation and billed, the related asset is transferred to the relevant categories of property, plant and equipment and segments and depreciated over its useful life. From the date the asset is taken into use, or from the date of completion, no further borrowing costs are capitalised.
GOVERNMENT SUBSIDIES AND GRANTS
Government subsidies and grants related to investments are deducted from the carrying amount in the relevant balance sheet items and recognised in profit or loss over the useful life of the related asset. They are reported in the income statement as an adjustment to the depreciation of the related asset. All government subsidies take the form of “à fonds perdu” grants and do not have to be repaid.
LEASES AS LESSEE
At inception of a contract, Flughafen Zürich AG assesses whether the contract is, or contains, a lease. This is the case if the contract conveys the right to control the use of an identified asset for a period of time in exchange for consideration. This assessment requires a certain amount of judgement.
Flughafen Zürich AG recognises the right-of-use asset and the lease liability at the commencement date of the lease. The right-of-use asset is presented in “Right-of-use assets” and the lease liability as a current or non-current financial liability, depending on its maturity. The initial measurement of the right-of-use asset is based on the present value of the lease payments, plus any initial direct costs and costs for the obligation to dismantle and remove the asset and restore the site, less any incentives received. When calculating the present value of the lease payments, the company uses its incremental borrowing rate at the commencement date, as the interest rate implicit in the lease cannot be readily determined. The right-of-use asset is depreciated over the shorter of the lease term and the useful life of the underlying asset. The right-of-use asset is tested for impairment if there are indicators of impairment. If the lease contains an extension or purchase option that the company believes it is reasonably certain to exercise, the costs related to the option are included in the lease payments.
Flughafen Zürich AG has decided not to recognise the right-of-use asset and the lease liability if the lease term is twelve months or less or if the lease relates to IT equipment of low value (less than CHF 5,000). Payments for such leases are recognised on a straight-line basis over the term of the contract.
Investment property
Investment property (in accordance with IAS 40) is property held for the long term to earn rentals or for capital appreciation. It is measured at initial recognition at its cost and subsequently at cost less straight-line depreciation and any impairment losses in accordance with IAS 36.
JOINT ARRANGEMENTS
A joint arrangement (in accordance with IFRS 11) is a contractual arrangement between two or more parties which gives those parties joint control of an activity. Each joint arrangement must be classified as either a joint operation or a joint venture. In a joint operation, the parties that have joint control have rights to the assets and obligations for the liabilities of the joint arrangement and account for them in relation to their interest. In a joint venture, the parties that have joint control merely have rights to the net assets of the joint arrangement (the investment is accounted for using the equity method).
Intangible assets
Intangible assets are stated at cost less accumulated amortisation and accumulated impairment losses. Intangible assets are amortised using the straight-line method.
With the award of the operating licence, Flughafen Zürich AG was also granted a right of formal expropriation in respect of property owners exposed to aircraft noise. This right of formal expropriation was granted on condition that the airport operator bears the costs associated with compensation payments and is recognised as an intangible asset at the date when the probable total cost can be estimated based on final-instance court rulings, so that the cost can be reliably estimated in accordance with IAS 38.21. The timing of recognition may differ depending on the airport region. At the same time as an intangible asset is recognised at the present value of the expected future payments, an equal amount is recognised as a provision. Any future adjustments to the probable total cost already recognised as assets and liabilities will be reflected on both sides of the balance sheet. The intangible asset is amortised using the straight-line method over the remaining duration of the operating licence (i.e. until May 2051).
In the case of clearly defined projects, external and internal costs directly attributable to the development of computer software are capitalised if they will be exceeded by the future economic benefits. The useful life of software is three to five years.
Investments in airport operator projects
The concession arrangements for the operation of foreign airports fall within the scope of IFRIC 12 and are generally accounted for under the intangible asset model (IFRIC 12.17), as the company as operator receives the right to charge for usage as consideration for the obligation to pay concession fees and provide upgrade services. The obligations under the concession arrangements to pay fixed concession fees are recognised as financial liabilities. They are initially measured at the fair value of the liabilities using a discount rate appropriate to the risk. The rights to operate the airports that are received as consideration are recognised as intangible assets in the same amount and presented as investments in airport operator projects. The rights received as consideration for the upgrade services provided are recognised as an intangible asset on an accrual basis at the cost of construction. Revenues and costs relating to upgrade services are generally recognised in accordance with IFRIC 12.14. The financial liabilities recognised are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method. The rights recognised as assets are subsequently measured at cost less accumulated amortisation over the term of the concessions. In accordance with IFRIC 12.18, any minimum revenue guaranteed by the grantor is deducted from the intangible asset and accounted for as a financial asset.
Investments in associates
Associates are companies where the group is able to exercise significant influence, but not control, over the financial and operating policies (where the group holds between 20% and 50% of the voting rights). Associates are included in the consolidated financial statements by applying the equity method. Any difference between the cost of the investment and the fair value of the share of net assets acquired is determined at the time of acquisition and recognised as goodwill and included in the carrying amount of the investment. In subsequent reporting periods, the carrying amount is adjusted to recognise the share of Flughafen Zürich AG of any profit or loss and changes recognised in other comprehensive income of the investee and any dividends received.
Investments in associates where the group holds less than 20% of the voting rights, but where it nonetheless is able to exercise significant influence, are also included in the consolidated financial statements by applying the equity method.
FINANCIAL ASSETS OF THE AIRPORT OF ZURICH NOISE FUND
In accordance with the principles in IFRS 9, the financial assets of the Airport of Zurich Noise Fund are classified as at amortised cost (bonds) or at fair value through profit or loss (other financial assets).
Derivative financial instruments
Derivative financial instruments are used exclusively for the purpose of hedging interest rate and currency risks, and are recognised as other receivables or other current liabilities at fair value. Changes in fair value are recognised in the income statement.
Inventories
Inventories mainly comprise operating supplies and consumables used for the maintenance and repair of property, plant and equipment and are stated at cost or, if lower, at net realisable value. The first-in, first-out method is applied when calculating the cost.
Receivables
Receivables are measured initially at fair value and subsequently at amortised cost, which is usually their nominal value, minus individual allowances for doubtful accounts. As soon as there is sufficient evidence that a receivable will not be recoverable, it is directly written off or offset against the corresponding allowances.
Flughafen Zürich AG uses a simplified method to calculate expected credit losses on trade receivables. Changes in credit risk are not tracked; instead, a loss allowance is recognised at each reporting date on the basis of the lifetime expected credit losses. In addition to forward-looking factors specific to the borrowers and general economic conditions, credit loss experience to date is also taken into account.
The recoverable amount of receivables is the present value of the estimated future cash flows. Impairment losses on receivables are reversed if the amount of the impairment loss decreases and the decrease is related to an event that occurred in a period after the impairment loss was recognised.
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash on hand, in postal accounts and at banks and short-term investments with a maturity of 90 days or less from the date of acquisition.
Impairment
The carrying amounts of non-current non-financial assets (excluding deferred taxes) are assessed once a year for indications of impairment. If there is any indication that an asset may be impaired, the recoverable amount of the asset is calculated (impairment test).
If the carrying amount of an asset or related cash generating unit exceeds its recoverable amount, an impairment loss is recognised in the income statement.
The recoverable amount is the higher of the fair value less costs to sell and value in use. To determine value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted. The discount rate is a pre-tax rate that reflects the risks associated with the corresponding asset. If an asset does not generate cash inflows that are largely independent of those from other assets, the recoverable amount is determined for the cash generating unit to which the asset belongs.
Impairment losses on other assets are reversed if indications exist that the impairment loss has decreased or no longer exists, and if estimates that were used for calculating the recoverable amount have changed.
The increased carrying amount cannot exceed the carrying amount that would have been determined had no impairment loss been recognised in prior years.
Equity
Share capital
Shares are classified as equity since they are non-redeemable and dividend payments are at the discretion of the company.
Treasury shares
The cost (purchase price and directly attributable transaction costs) of treasury shares is deducted from equity.
Dividends
Dividends are recognised as a liability as soon as they have been approved at the General Meeting of Shareholders.
Financial liabilities
Financial liabilities are initially recognised at fair value less transaction costs. The difference between the carrying amount and the redemption amount is amortised over the term of the liability using the effective interest method.
Provisions
Provisions are recognised when the entity has a present obligation as a result of a past event that occurred prior to the reporting date, if an outflow of resources is probable and the amount of the outflow can be estimated reliably. If the effect is significant, provisions are reported in the balance sheet at their present value.
Provisions for legal and constructive obligations for sound insulation and resident protection measures are recognised on the basis of the Environmental Protection Act as soon as they can be estimated reliably.
Provisions for formal expropriations are recognised for compensation payments as soon as the probable total cost can be estimated reliably based on final-instance court rulings (see Intangible assets).
Employee benefits
For defined benefit plans, the benefit cost and the defined benefit obligation are determined on the basis of various economic and demographic assumptions using the projected unit credit method and taking into account the past years of insurance up until the measurement date. The assumptions required to be made by Flughafen Zürich AG include, among others, expectations about future salary increases, the long-term return on retirement savings accounts, employee turnover and life expectancy. The calculations are performed annually by independent actuaries. The plan assets are measured annually at fair value and deducted from the defined benefit obligation.
The defined benefit cost consists of three components:
- service cost, which is recognised in the income statement within personnel expenses;
- net interest expense, which is recognised in the income statement within the finance result; and
-
remeasurement components, which are recognised in other comprehensive income.
Service cost comprises current service cost, past service cost and gains and losses on settlement. Gains and losses resulting from curtailments are regarded as past service cost. Employee contributions and contributions from third parties reduce service cost and are deducted from it if they are set out in the formal terms of the plan or arise from a constructive obligation.
The net interest expense is the amount calculated by multiplying the net defined benefit obligation (or asset) by the discount rate, both as at the beginning of the financial year, including any changes during the period as a result of contributions and benefit payments. Cash flows and changes during the year are factored in pro rata.
Remeasurement components comprise actuarial gains and losses resulting from changes in the present value of the defined benefit obligations due to changes in assumptions and experience adjustments, the return on plan assets less amounts included in net interest expense, and changes in unrecognised assets less effects included in net interest expense. Remeasurement components are recognised in other comprehensive income and cannot be recycled.
The amount recognised in the consolidated financial statements is the surplus or deficit of the defined benefit plans (net defined benefit obligation or asset). However, the asset recognised as a result of any surplus is limited to the present value of economic benefits to the group available in the form of reductions in future contributions.
Employer contributions to defined contribution plans are recognised in the income statement as personnel expenses when the employee earns the benefit entitlement. When the benefits of a plan are changed or when a plan is curtailed, the resulting change in benefit that relates to past service or the gain or loss on curtailment is recognised immediately in profit or loss.
For other long-term employee benefits, the present value of the obligation is recognised at the end of the reporting period. Changes in the present value are recognised in the income statement as personnel expenses.
Share-based payment
Flughafen Zürich AG’s annual bonus programme provides for one-third of the allocated bonus to be paid out to members of the Management Board and eligible members of management in the form of shares. The share-based payment is recognised as an expense with a corresponding increase in equity.
Income taxes
Income taxes comprise current and deferred taxes. They are recognised in the income statement unless relating to transactions recognised in other comprehensive income or directly in equity. In these cases, taxes are also recognised in other comprehensive income or directly in equity.
Current taxes comprise the taxes expected to be payable on the taxable result, calculated using tax rates enacted or substantively enacted at the reporting date.
Deferred taxes are recognised for temporary differences between the carrying amount of assets and liabilities in the consolidated financial statements and their tax base using the balance sheet liability method. No deferred taxes are recognised for the following temporary differences: the initial recognition of goodwill, the initial recognition of assets and liabilities that affect neither accounting nor taxable profit, and differences relating to investments in subsidiaries to the extent that they will probably not reverse in the foreseeable future. Measurement of deferred taxes takes into account the expected timing and manner of realisation or settlement of the assets and liabilities concerned using tax rates that are enacted or substantively enacted at the reporting date.
Deferred tax assets are only recognised if it is probable that the deductible temporary differences can be offset against future taxable profits.
Segment reporting
Reporting of operating segments is carried out in accordance with IFRS 8 in line with the internal reporting to the company’s chief operating decision-maker. The Board of Directors has been identified as chief operating decision-maker of Flughafen Zürich AG responsible for major decisions concerning the allocation of resources and the assessment of the operating segments’ performance.
II Judgements and significant estimates and assumptions in the application of accounting policies
REPORTING OF NOISE-RELATED COSTS IN THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
With respect to formal expropriations, the reporting of noise-related costs in the financial statements is a complex matter due to a multitude of relevant legal bases, unclear or pending case law and political debate. Especially in the case of formal expropriations, this financial reporting requires significant assumptions and estimates concerning the capitalisation of such costs and the obligation to recognise appropriate provisions.
Flughafen Zürich AG has received a total of around 20,000 noise-related claims for compensation, of which around 6,300 were still pending at the end of 2019. Almost 800 of these cases are currently being examined by the Swiss Federal Assessments Commission.
The rulings by the Swiss Federal Supreme Court in the first half of 2008 on fundamental issues related to formal expropriations enabled Flughafen Zürich AG to estimate the total cost of compensation for formal expropriations for the first time, in spite of the remaining uncertainties regarding the accuracy of this estimate. In further rulings in 2010, the Swiss Federal Supreme Court definitively set the cut-off date for the foreseeability of an eastern approach as 1 January 1961 and, in 2011, it ruled definitively on the method used to calculate a decline in the market value of investment property. In 2016, the Swiss Federal Supreme Court handed down two rulings in test cases regarding claims for compensation relating to eastern and southern approach routes and, in 2018, it handed down two rulings in test cases regarding cooperative ownership. Based on these Swiss Federal Supreme Court rulings and other fundamental issues that have been decided, the company undertook a reappraisal of costs for formal expropriations at these dates, which in each case led to an adjustment to both the provision for formal expropriations and the intangible asset from the right of formal expropriation.
On 22 November 2019, the Swiss Federal Supreme Court handed down a ruling in test cases regarding the period of limitation on claims for compensation in Oberglatt. This Swiss Federal Supreme Court ruling and other fundamental issues that have been decided enabled Flughafen Zürich AG to undertake a reappraisal of the outstanding cost of compensation for formal expropriations. Based on the reappraisal, the total cost expected in relation to formal expropriations decreased from CHF 350.0 million to CHF 330.0 million, enabling the provision for formal expropriations to be reduced by CHF 20.0 million as at 31 December 2019 (see note 19, Provision for formal expropriations plus sound insulation and resident protection). At the same time, the intangible asset from the right of formal expropriation was reduced by the same amount (see note 11, Intangible assets).
As at the reporting date, the estimated costs for formal expropriations amounted to CHF 330.0 million (31 December 2018: CHF 350.0 million), of which CHF 81.9 million had already been paid out at that date. As at 31 December 2019, a provision was recognised for the outstanding costs of CHF 248.1 million (see note 19, Provision for formal expropriations plus sound insulation and resident protection).
With respect to sound insulation and resident protection measures, the Federal Office of Civil Aviation (BAZL) required Flughafen Zürich AG, in connection with its 2014 operating regulations application, to submit an extended sound insulation programme. In June 2015, based on the sound insulation programme submitted, the Board of Directors approved a further CHF 100.0 million of measures in addition to the CHF 240.0 million of costs previously estimated for sound insulation and resident protection. The company is also required to implement sound insulation measures in the area where it claims exemptions from noise limits (emission limit). In this context, the FOCA initiated a night-time noise abatement procedure. The area with exemptions under the Sectoral Aviation Infrastructure Plan adopted by the Federal Council on 23 August 2017 was extended. In this context in mid-2018, Flughafen Zürich AG recognised a provision for further costs of CHF 60.0 million, with a present value of CHF 57.6 million, in addition to the costs previously estimated for sound insulation and resident protection (see note 5, Other income and expenses and note 19, Provision for formal expropriations plus sound insulation and resident protection).
As at the reporting date, the estimated costs for sound insulation and resident protection measures amounted to CHF 400.0 million (31 December 2018: CHF 400.0 million), of which CHF 260.6 million had already been paid out at that date. As at 31 December 2019, a provision was recognised for the outstanding costs of CHF 139.4 million (see note 19, Provision for formal expropriations plus sound insulation and resident protection).
Depending on future legal judgements – including with respect to the southern approaches – noise-related liabilities may in future be subject to substantial adjustments, which would also require adjustments to the noise-related costs recognised as assets and liabilities in the balance sheet. At the present time, it is not possible to reliably estimate the total costs to capitalise as an intangible asset from the right of formal expropriation, the resulting amortisation or the corresponding provision.
Aircraft noise costs are refinanced through separate charges. As, based on current knowledge, the Airport of Zurich Noise Fund has sufficient assets to be able to finance the costs for formal expropriations as well as noise insulation and resident protection measures that can be estimated under the base case at the present time, the passenger-related noise supplement was suspended as of 1 February 2014. Aircraft noise charges based on flight movements and noise category continue to be levied.
VALUE OF PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS; RELIABILITY OF ESTIMATE OF CAPITALISED NOISE-RELATED COSTS
Flughafen Zürich AG owns property, plant and equipment and intangible assets with a total carrying amount of around CHF 3.3 billion. If there is any indication that an asset may be impaired, the recoverable amount of the asset is calculated (impairment test). On each reporting date, a check is conducted to determine whether there are any such indications and an impairment test needs to be performed. The calculation is based on the estimated future free cash flows of Flughafen Zürich AG, and a variety of assumptions have to be made in order to estimate them. Actual cash flows may be significantly negatively impacted by the risk factors described in the previous section “Reporting of noise-related costs in the consolidated financial statements”.
III Notes to the consolidated financial statements
1 Segment reporting
The following table shows the reportable segments in the current financial year:
(CHF million)
Regulated business
Noise
Non-regulated business
Eliminations
Consolidated
2019
Revenue from contract with customers (IFRS 15)
648.4
12.8
285.3
0.0
946.6
Other revenue (non IFRS 15)
0.2
0.0
263.3
0.0
263.5
Total revenue from third parties
648.6
12.8
548.6
0.0
1,210.1
Inter-segment revenue
21.4
91.9
–113.3
0.0
Total revenue
670.1
12.8
640.5
–113.3
1,210.1
Personnel expenses
–82.5
–1.9
–132.0
0.0
–216.3
Other operating expenses
–183.3
–0.9
–167.8
0.0
–351.9
Inter-segment operating expenses
–91.2
–0.7
–21.4
113.3
–0.0
Segment result (EBITDA)
313.1
9.4
319.3
0.0
641.8
Depreciation and amortisation
–139.1
–4.3
–95.4
0.0
–238.7
Segment result (EBIT)
174.1
5.1
223.9
0.0
403.1
Finance result
–14.0
Share of profit or loss of associates
–2.5
Income tax expense
–77.4
Profit
309.1
Invested capital as at 31 December 2019
1,693.0
109.6
1,951.1
3,753.7
Non-interest-bearing non-current liabilities 1)
611.6
Non-interest-bearing current liabilities 2)
228.2
Total assets as at 31 December 2019
4,593.5
ROIC (in %)
7.7
3.7
10.3
8.8
Capital expenditure
144.4
0.2
679.3
823.9
Investments in associates
9.3
9.3
1) Non-interest-bearing non-current liabilities include non-current provisions for formal expropriations plus sound insulation and resident protection, deferred tax liabilities, employee benefit obligations and non-current liabilities from concession arrangements.
2) Non-interest-bearing current liabilities include current provisions for formal expropriations and sound insulation and resident protection, current tax liabilities, trade payables and other current liabilities plus accruals and deferrals.
(CHF million)
Aviation
PRM
User fees
Air security 4)
Access fees 4)
Eliminations
Total regulated business
2019
Revenue from contract with customers (IFRS 15)
381.8
15.7
70.7
178.9
1.3
0.0
648.4
Other revenue (non IFRS 15)
0.2
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.2
Revenue from third parties
382.0
15.7
70.7
178.9
1.3
0.0
648.6
Inter-segment revenue
21.7
0.0
4.6
11.6
2.1
–18.5
21.4
Total revenue
403.7
15.7
75.3
190.5
3.4
–18.5
670.1
Personnel expenses
–69.0
0.0
–10.1
–2.5
–1.0
0.0
–82.5
Other operating expenses
–44.4
–12.3
–6.2
–73.3
–47.1
0.0
–183.3
Inter-segment operating expenses
–61.3
–1.1
–17.7
–15.4
–14.3
18.5
–91.2
EBITDA
229.0
2.4
41.3
99.4
–58.9
–0.0
313.1
Depreciation and amortisation
–103.9
–0.1
–25.1
–6.8
–3.1
0.0
–139.1
EBIT
125.2
2.3
16.1
92.6
–62.0
–0.0
174.1
Invested capital as at 31 December 2019
1,287.6
1.2
323.5
50.1
30.6
1,693.0
ROIC (in %)
7.4
43.1
4.0
92.7
–135.5
7.7
Operating assets pursuant to Ordinance on Airport Charges (OAC) 3)
1,318.6
2.3
329.2
64.4
29.4
1,743.8
ROIC (in %) pursuant to OAC
8.3
68.6
4.0
113.9
–144.7
8.5
3) The Ordinance on Airport Charges (OAC) defines operating assets, on which a reasonable rate of return forms the basis for the charges, as the sum of the “residual cost of the existing assets and net working capital”. This definition therefore results in minor deviations compared with the reported capital employed.
4) In accordance with the Swiss Ordinance on Airport Charges, the shortfall in the “Access fees” segment can be charged to the “Air security” segment. Taking the shortfall into account, the ROIC pursuant to OAC of the “Air security” segment amounts to 24.6%.
The following table shows the reportable segments in the previous year:
(CHF million)
Regulated business
Noise
Non-regulated business
Eliminations
Consolidated
2018
Revenue from contract with customers (IFRS 15)
644.9
11.6
237.6
0.0
894.1
Other revenue (non IFRS 15)
0.2
0.0
258.6
0.0
258.8
Total revenue from third parties
645.1
11.6
496.2
0.0
1,152.9
Inter-segment revenue
19.3
0.0
88.3
–107.6
0.0
Total revenue
664.4
11.6
584.5
–107.6
1,152.9
Personnel expenses
–80.1
–1.9
–129.5
0.0
–211.5
Other operating expenses
–184.3
–58.4
–127.7
0.0
–370.4
Inter-segment operating expenses
–87.7
–0.6
–19.3
107.6
0.0
Segment result (EBITDA)
312.3
–49.3
308.0
0.0
571.0
Depreciation and amortisation
–135.1
–4.8
–104.6
0.0
–244.5
Segment result (EBIT)
177.2
–54.1
203.4
0.0
326.5
Finance result
–23.1
Share of profit or loss of associates
–4.3
Income tax expense
–61.3
Profit
237.8
Invested capital as at 31 December 2018
1,901.6
109.8
1,505.4
3,516.8
Non-interest-bearing non-current liabilities 1)
617.5
Non-interest-bearing current liabilities 2)
231.0
Total assets as at 31 December 2018
4,365.3
ROIC (in %)
7.3
–32.2
11.2
7.4
Capital expenditure
128.8
0.2
231.8
360.8
Investments in associates
12.3
12.3
1) Non-interest-bearing non-current liabilities include non-current provisions for formal expropriations plus sound insulation and resident protection, deferred tax liabilities, employee benefit obligations and non-current liabilities from concession arrangements.
2) Non-interest-bearing current liabilities include current provisions for formal expropriations and sound insulation and resident protection, current tax liabilities, trade payables and other current liabilities plus accruals and deferrals.
(CHF million)
Aviation
PRM
User fees
Air security 4)
Access fees 4)
Eliminations
Total regulated business
2018
Revenue from contract with customers (IFRS 15)
380.6
15.6
69.9
177.7
1.1
0.0
644.9
Other revenue (non IFRS 15)
0.2
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.2
Revenue from third parties
380.8
15.6
69.9
177.7
1.1
0.0
645.1
Inter-segment revenue
19.2
0.0
5.2
10.7
2.2
–18.0
19.3
Total revenue
400.0
15.6
75.1
188.4
3.3
–18.0
664.4
Personnel expenses
–66.8
0.0
–10.4
–1.8
–1.1
0.0
–80.1
Other operating expenses
–44.7
–12.1
–6.3
–72.4
–48.8
0.0
–184.3
Inter-segment operating expenses
–59.5
–1.0
–16.7
–14.8
–13.7
18.0
–87.7
EBITDA
229.0
2.5
41.7
99.4
–60.3
0.0
312.3
Depreciation and amortisation
–100.6
–0.1
–24.8
–6.2
–3.4
0.0
–135.1
EBIT
128.4
2.4
16.9
93.2
–63.7
0.0
177.2
Invested capital as at 31 December 2018
1,419.2
7.1
324.2
108.8
42.3
1,901.6
ROIC (in %)
7.1
25.1
4.2
66.5
–119.3
7.3
Operating assets pursuant to Ordinance on Airport Charges (OAC) 3)
1,323.2
2.9
306.4
65.0
38.9
1,736.4
ROIC (in %) pursuant to OAC
8.5
66.8
4.5
116.0
–131.6
8.8
3) The Ordinance on Airport Charges (OAC) defines operating assets, on which a reasonable rate of return forms the basis for the charges, as the sum of the “residual cost of the existing assets and net working capital”. This definition therefore results in minor deviations compared with the reported capital employed.
4) In accordance with the Swiss Ordinance on Airport Charges, the shortfall in the “Access fees” segment can be charged to the “Air security” segment. Taking the shortfall into account, the ROIC pursuant to OAC of the “Air security” segment amounts to 23.0%.
Internal reporting of operating segments to the chief operating decision-maker is carried out in accordance with the Ordinance on Airport Charges (OAC), more specifically with regard to the regulated charges and fees affected by the Ordinance. The following segments are presented for the regulated business and submitted to the chief operating decision-maker as the basis for his significant judgements and decisions:
- “Aviation” segment
- “PRM” segment
- “User fees” segment
- “Air security” segment
-
“Access fees” segment
The “Regulated business” column presented in the segment reporting tables is not a separate segment in accordance with IFRS 8; for presentation reasons, it merely combines the reportable segments in which charges and fees are regulated by the OAC (excluding the “Noise” segment).
All regulated revenue related to aircraft noise and the corresponding expenses are reported separately in the “Noise” segment so as to ensure transparency in presenting the performance and balance of the Airport of Zurich Noise Fund in particular (note 20, Airport of Zurich Noise Fund).
In all, Flughafen Zürich AG therefore has the following reportable segments:
→ Aviation
The “Aviation” segment comprises the original infrastructure and services related to flight operations. It incorporates all the core services provided to airlines and passengers by Flughafen Zürich AG in its capacity as operator of Zurich Airport. These services include the runway system, most apron zones (including control activities), passenger zones in the terminals, freight operations, passenger handling and services, and safety. The main sources of revenue for the “Aviation” segment are passenger and landing charges. Revenue from third parties is determined by passenger volumes, flight volumes and the trend with respect to aircraft take-off weights.
→ PRM
The “PRM” (People with Reduced Mobility) segment combines the infrastructure and services related to implementing the regulation regarding the provision of support for passengers with reduced mobility. Revenue consists exclusively of the PRM charge.
→ User fees
The “User fees” segment comprises the central infrastructure, in particular the check-in areas and facilities, baggage sorting and handling system, aircraft power supply system, handling apron areas and the related services and fees.
→ Air security
The “Air security” segment comprises the equipment and services that Flughafen Zürich AG is responsible for providing for air security (passenger and aircraft security measures). This includes all systems and their operation and maintenance designed to prevent actions of any kind that affect the security of commercial civil aviation, in particular facilities for checks on passengers, hand luggage, checked baggage and freight. The security charges levied per passenger are the main source of revenue for covering the costs of the “Air security” segment.
→ Access fees
The “Access fees” segment comprises the air security-related equipment and services that have to be provided in order to allow all persons other than passengers to access the airside areas. This includes all relevant systems and their operation and maintenance. It also includes airport policing duties such as surveillance patrols and other security-related duties. Revenue in the “Access fees” segment comes mainly from the fees for issuing airport badges.
→ Noise
All revenue and expenses related to aircraft noise are reported separately in the “Noise” segment. A liquidity-based statement of noise-related data is presented in the notes to the consolidated financial statements (note 20, Airport of Zurich Noise Fund). This statement presents the accumulated surplus or shortfall as at the reporting date arising from noise charges determined on a costs-by-cause basis, less expenses for formal expropriations, sound insulation and resident protection measures, and operating costs.
→ Non-regulated business
The “Non-regulated business” segment encompasses all activities relating to the development, marketing and operation of the commercial infrastructure at Zurich Airport. This includes all retail and restaurant/catering operations at the airport, revenue from rented premises and supplementary costs (energy supply, etc.), parking charges plus a broad range of commercial services provided by Flughafen Zürich AG.
Principles of segment reporting
For reporting purposes, each profit centre has been allocated to a segment. Any internal supplies and services that have been provided to other segments have been booked as inter-segment revenue or offset against costs. For example, the “Supplementary costs” profit centre is allocated to Non-regulated business and proportionate costs are charged to the Regulated business segments on a costs-by-cause basis. Support functions are also allocated to Non-regulated business and charged on accordingly.
Invested capital is allocated to the respective operating segments based, firstly, on the allocation of the individual assets in the fixed-asset ledger and, secondly, on the pro rata allocation of the remaining assets (buildings, engineering structures and net working capital) to the respective segments. Until projects in progress have been completed, they are allocated to the segment with the largest share of the project measured by value. The definitive allocation to segments takes place after the projects have been classified into the relevant asset categories.
The identified operating segments have not been aggregated.
ADDITIONAL DISCLOSURES IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE SWISS ORDINANCE ON AIRPORT CHARGES (OAC)
In accordance with Art. 34 OAC, 30% of the economic added value in the airside area of the airport not relevant to flight operations and the area of road vehicle parking is to be used in the form of a transfer payment to finance the costs in the “Aviation” segment. Pursuant to this rule, in financial year 2019, an amount of CHF 12.7 million (2018: CHF 14.5 million) was allocated to the “Aviation” segment and is reflected in the reported return on operating assets. Moreover, in accordance with Art. 45 OAC, the shortfall in the “Access fees” segment can be charged to the “Air security” segment.
Revenue from security charges is allocated in full to the “Security” segment and revenue from PRM charges to the “PRM” segment. All other flight operations charges (with the exception of aircraft noise charges) are allocated to the “Aviation” segment. A breakdown of revenue by charge type can be found in note 2, Revenue.
Additional disclosures
Flughafen Zürich AG primarily provides services within Switzerland. In financial year 2019, external consulting services totalling CHF 6.6 million (2018: CHF 6.0 million) were provided in Brazil and Chile. Flughafen Zürich AG’s revenue with Lufthansa Group in the reportable segments amounted to CHF 445.3 million in the past financial year (2018: CHF 432.3 million).
2 Revenue
(CHF 1,000)
2019
2018
Passenger charges
253,117
251,798
Security charges
176,860
175,685
PRM charges
15,730
15,554
Passenger-related flight operations charges
445,707
443,037
Landing charges
86,903
86,838
Aircraft-related noise charges
12,827
11,629
Emission charges
4,100
4,068
Parking charges
26,641
26,257
Freight revenue
8,352
8,919
Other flight operations charges
138,823
137,711
Total flight operations charges
584,530
580,748
Baggage sorting and handling system
43,489
43,500
De-icing
12,730
11,742
Check-in
5,726
5,900
Aircraft energy supply system
3,873
3,800
Other fees
6,181
6,148
Total aviation fees
71,999
71,090
Refund of security costs
2,070
1,961
Other revenue
2,852
2,868
Total other aviation revenue
4,922
4,829
Total aviation revenue
661,451
656,667
Retail, tax & duty-free
114,211
111,379
Food & beverage operations
20,129
18,900
Advertising media and promotion
18,185
18,137
Revenue from multi-storey car parks
82,617
81,462
Other commercial revenue (car rentals, taxis, banks, etc.)
17,557
18,427
Total commercial revenue
252,699
248,305
Revenue from rental and leasing agreements
91,708
89,994
Energy and utility cost allocation
23,740
21,959
Cleaning
4,896
4,712
Revenue from services
4,913
4,686
Total revenue from facility management
125,257
121,351
Communication services
15,969
15,436
Other services and miscellaneous
17,135
17,446
Catering
2,165
2,109
Fuel charges
8,869
8,707
Total revenue from services
44,138
43,698
Revenue from consulting activities
6,577
6,048
Other revenue from international business
36,612
36,130
Revenue from construction projects as part of concession arrangements
83,350
40,698
Total revenue from international business
126,539
82,876
Total non-aviation revenue
548,633
496,230
Total revenue
1,210,084
1,152,897
Presentation of revenue from contracts with customers (IFRS 15):
(CHF 1,000)
2019
2018
Flight operations charges
584,530
580,748
Aviation charges
71,999
71,090
Other aviation revenue
4,709
4,624
Total aviation revenue from contracts with customers (IFRS 15)
661,238
656,462
Aviation revenue (non IFRS 15)
213
205
Total aviation revenue
661,451
656,667
Commercial and parking revenue
83,132
81,738
Revenue from facility management
33,013
30,763
Revenue from services
42,665
42,238
Revenue from international business
126,539
82,876
Total non-aviation revenue from contracts with customers (IFRS 15)
285,349
237,615
Non-aviation revenue (non IFRS 15)
263,284
258,615
Total non-aviation revenue
548,633
496,230
Total revenue
1,210,084
1,152,897
3 PERSONNEL EXPENSES
(CHF 1,000)
2019
2018
Wages and salaries
162,632
158,551
Pension costs for defined benefit plans 1)
19,898
21,617
Social security contributions
14,559
14,326
Other personnel expenses and employee benefits
19,242
16,989
Total personnel expenses
216,331
211,483
Average number of employees (full-time positions) 2)
1,833
1,735
Number of employees as at reporting date (full-time positions) 2)
1,909
1,757
Personnel expense per full-time position as at 31 December
113
120
1) See note 22, Employee benefits.
2) Including employees of all subsidiaries.
Staff participation programme
Flughafen Zürich AG gives those employees who have completed their first year of service a one-off gift in the form of one share free of charge. In the reporting period, 138 shares (2018: 140 shares) worth CHF 24,356 (2018: CHF 28,506) were handed out in this context.
Bonus programme for members of the Management Board and other members of management
The total annual remuneration awarded to members of the Management Board and other members of management comprises a fixed salary and a variable performance component (bonus), which is based on the consolidated result. The criterion for measuring the consolidated result is earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) excluding noise-related factors, or the difference between targeted and achieved EBIT (excluding noise-related factors). The decision relating to the degree of achievement of the consolidated result is taken in the following financial year (grant date). Two thirds of the bonus is paid out in cash and one third in shares.
2019
2018
2018 1)
Price per share 1)
(Recipient)
(CHF 1,000)
(CHF 1,000)
(Number of shares)
(CHF)
Members of the Management Board
333
390
2,245
173.50
Other members of management
667
772
4,429
173.50
Adjustment of bonus accrued in the previous year 2)
–4
–36
Total
996
1,126
6,674
1) Shares distributed in the 2019 financial year under the bonus programme for the Management Board and other members of management (number and price per share) for the 2018 financial year.
2) In the subsequent period, the accrued bonus is adjusted through personnel expenses on the basis of the actual degree of achievement of the relevant profit figure.
The equity-settled portion of the bonus for financial year 2019 was calculated and accounted for on the basis of the data available as at the reporting date regarding the degree of achievement of the consolidated result. The number of shares to be granted cannot yet be established precisely at the reporting date, as that number is determined based on the quoted price as at the payment date (mid-April 2020). If the shares had been granted as at year-end, a total of 5,662 shares would have been distributed.
Bonus programme for the Board of Directors
No bonus programme exists for members of the Board of Directors. Their remuneration comprises an annual lump sum plus payments for attending meetings.
Option programme
No option programme exists at Flughafen Zürich AG.
4 OTHER OPERATING EXPENSES
(CHF 1,000)
2019
2018
Zurich Protection & Rescue Services
21,117
20,973
PRM costs (service costs of service providers)
12,241
12,111
Other operating costs
4,960
9,235
Insurance
3,641
3,599
Cleaning by external contractors, incl. snow clearing
3,322
3,200
Costs for own car park
2,091
2,116
Communication costs
2,020
2,138
Passenger services
1,450
1,382
Total other operating expenses
50,842
54,754
5 OTHER INCOME and EXPENSES
(CHF 1,000)
2019
2018
Capitalised expenditure
15,264
14,450
Other income
1,920
1,020
Capitalised expenditure and other income
17,184
15,470
Expenses for construction projects as part of concession arrangements
–83,350
–40,698
Other expenses
–7,707
–63,841
Expenses for construction projects and other expenses
–91,057
–104,539
Capitalised expenditure of CHF 15.3 million (2018: CHF 14.5 million) primarily comprises fees for the company’s architects and engineers as well as for project managers representing the client.
In the reporting period, “Other income” included a payment in connection with the liquidation of Swissair in debt restructuring proceedings.
The expenses of CHF –83.4 million (2018: CHF –40.7 million) for construction projects as part of concession arrangements are the result of investments in airport infrastructure in Brazil and Chile. The corresponding counter-item can be found under note 2, Revenue.
In both the reporting period and the previous year, other expenses included losses on asset disposals and losses on receivables, among other items. In the previous year, this line item also contained the CHF 57.6 million increase in the provision for sound insulation and resident protection measures that was recognised in profit or loss (see note 19, Provision for formal expropriations plus sound insulation and resident protection).
6 Finance result
(CHF 1,000)
2019
2018
Interest expenses on debentures and non-current loans
–10,473
–10,960
Net interest expenses on defined benefit obligations
–1,128
–796
Interest expenses on finance lease liabilities
–72
–135
Other interest expenses
–2,828
–1,375
Adjustments to fair value on financial assets of Airport of Zurich Noise Fund
0
–6,205
Present value adjustment on provision for formal expropriations plus sound insulation and resident protection
–5,423
–1,859
Present value adjustment on liabilities from concession arrangements
–2,676
–3,123
Foreign exchange losses
–909
0
Other finance costs
–4,103
–2,694
Total finance costs
–27,612
–27,147
Interest income on financial assets of Airport of Zurich Noise Fund
765
621
Adjustments to fair value on financial assets of Airport of Zurich Noise Fund
9,103
0
Other interest income
3,530
3,255
Foreign exchange gains
0
50
Other finance income
204
157
Total finance income
13,602
4,083
Finance result
–14,010
–23,064
Interest expenses on debentures and non-current loans were down slightly on the prior-year figure to CHF –10.5 million for the reporting period.
The expense for the present value adjustment on the provision for formal expropriations plus sound insulation and resident protection rose by CHF –3.6 million year on year to CHF –5.4 million. The expense for the present value adjustment on liabilities from concession arrangements, on the other hand, declined slightly.
Positive changes in value amounting to CHF 9.1 million were achieved on the financial assets of the Airport of Zurich Noise Fund (AZNF) held at fair value in the reporting period. In the previous year, a negative change in value of CHF –6.2 million was incurred in this context. Interest income on the other assets of the AZNF rose slightly to CHF 0.8 million.
7 Income tax
(CHF 1,000)
2019
2018
Taxes for current year
–82,288
–78,175
Taxes for prior years
2,647
94
Total current income tax
–79,641
–78,081
Deferred income tax on changes in temporary differences
2,228
16,788
Total deferred income tax
2,228
16,788
Total income tax
–77,413
–61,293
Income tax can be analysed as follows:
(CHF 1,000)
2019
2018
Profit before tax
386,558
–299,134
Tax expense based on the statutory tax rate of 20.4% applicable at the parent company (2018: 20.5%)
–78,774
–61,286
Prior-period adjustments
2,647
94
Effect of share of results of associates
20
124
Non deductable losses
–493
0
Current-year losses for which no deferred tax assets were recognised
–1,377
–1,122
Effect of application of different income tax rates
778
–404
Miscellaneous items
–214
1,301
Total income tax
–77,413
–61,293
8 Property, plant and equipment
(CHF million)
Land
Engineering structures
Buildings
Projects in progress
Movables
Leased assets
Total
Cost
Balance as at 1 January 2018
118.7
1,712.0
4,311.7
122.8
273.5
21.8
6,560.5
Additions
194.7
194.7
Disposals
–3.6
–54.6
–16.3
–74.5
Transfers
50.6
59.9
–132.7
15.8
–6.4
Reclassification
–61.0
61.0
0.0
Foreign exchange differences
–0.1
–0.1
–0.2
Balance as at 31 December 2018
118.7
1,698.0
4,377.9
184.8
272.9
21.8
6,674.1
Balance as at 31 December 2018
118.7
1,698.0
4,377.9
184.8
272.9
21.8
6,674.1
Effect of initial application of IFRS 16
–21.8
–21.8
Balance as at 1 January 2019
118.7
1,698.0
4,377.9
184.8
272.9
0.0
6,652.3
Additions
10.3
210.4
233.9
0.5
455.1
Disposals
–36.8
–55.3
–14.2
–106.3
Transfers
12.1
75.0
–113.5
18.0
–8.4
Reclassification
–0.3
0.3
0.0
Foreign exchange differences
–0.1
–0.1
Balance as at 31 December 2019
129.0
1,673.3
4,607.7
305.2
277.4
0.0
6,992.6
Depreciation, amortisation
Balance as at 1 January 2018
0.0
–880.6
–2,798.6
0.0
–192.0
–18.0
–3,889.2
Additions
–62.2
–150.7
–15.2
–1.4
–229.5
Disposals
3.5
53.7
15.6
72.8
Reclassification
40.9
–40.9
0.0
Balance as at 31 December 2018
0.0
–898.4
–2,936.5
0.0
–191.6
–19.4
–4,045.9
Balance as at 31 December 2018
0.0
–898.4
–2,936.5
0.0
–191.6
–19.4
–4,045.9
Effect of initial application of IFRS 16
19.4
19.4
Balance as at 1 January 2019
0.0
–898.4
–2,936.5
0.0
–191.6
0.0
–4,026.5
Additions
–59.4
–140.3
–16.1
–215.8
Disposals
36.4
54.2
13.8
104.4
Balance as at 31 December 2019
0.0
–921.4
–3,022.6
0.0
–193.9
0.0
–4,137.9
Government subsidies and grants
Balance as at 1 January 2018
0.0
–10.9
–1.1
0.0
–0.7
0.0
–12.7
Additions
–0.7
–0.7
Disposals
0.8
0.1
0.3
1.2
Transfers
–0.7
0.7
0.0
Balance as at 31 December 2018
0.0
–10.1
–1.7
0.0
–0.4
0.0
–12.2
Additions
–0.2
–0.2
Disposals
0.8
0.2
0.2
1.2
Transfers
–0.2
0.2
0.0
Balance as at 31 December 2019
0.0
–9.3
–1.7
0.0
–0.2
0.0
–11.2
Net carrying amount as at 31 December 2018
118.7
789.5
1,439.7
184.8
80.9
2.4
2,616.0
Net carrying amount as at 31 December 2019
129.0
742.6
1,583.4
305.2
83.3
0.0
2,843.5
Projects in progress
In the past financial year, Flughafen Zürich AG invested CHF 233.9 million in projects in progress (2018: CHF 194.7 million). The biggest items comprise the following projects:
- Expansion and refurbishment of the baggage sorting system (CHF 50.2 million)
- Renovation of runway 28/10 (CHF 22.5 million)
-
Upgrading of airfield power supply systems (CHF 19.6 million)
Depreciation
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment totalling CHF –215.8 million was offset against government grants and subsidies recognised in the income statement in the amount of CHF 1.2 million.
Impairment
On a yearly basis, Flughafen Zürich AG carries out a calculation at company level to determine whether there is any indication that property, plant and equipment and intangible assets (see note 11, Intangible assets) may be impaired. The calculation is based on the expected future free cash flows of Flughafen Zürich AG and various assumptions regarding future trends (e.g. passenger and traffic volumes, investments, the hub status of Zurich Airport and the discount rate). The calculation as at 31 December 2019 did not identify any indications of impairment.
9 Right-of-use assets
FLUGHAFEN ZÜRICH AG AS LESSEE
(CHF 1,000)
Technical installations
Real estate
Total right-of-use assets
Cost
Balance as at 31 December 2018
0
0
0
Transfer of leased assets from property, plant and equipment
21,755
0
21,755
Effect of the initial application from IFRS 16
0
41,894
41,894
Balance as at 1 January 2019
21,755
41,894
63,649
Additions
0
45,403
45,403
Balance as at 31 December 2019
21,755
87,297
109,052
Depreciation, amortisation
Balance as at 31. Dezember 2018
0
0
0
Transfer of leased assets from property, plant and equipment
–19,396
0
–19,396
Effect of the initial application from IFRS 16
0
0
0
Balance as at 1 January 2019
–19,396
0
–19,396
Additions
–1,423
–4,839
–6,262
Balance as at 31 December 2019
–20,819
–4,839
–25,658
Net carrying amount as at 31 December 2019
936
82,458
83,394
technical installations
In December 2001, Flughafen Zürich AG entered into a framework lease contract to finance the aircraft energy supply system (ESS). The ESS contract has a term of around 19 years and expires on 31 July 2020. The contract does not contain any extension or termination options, and the leased asset will transfer to Flughafen Zürich AG at the end of the lease term without any further consideration.
real estate
Flughafen Zürich AG has a right-of-use asset entitling it to use space in a building that is located on Flughafen Zürich AG’s land and was constructed under a granted building right from 2005. Although its right to use the space ends on 31 January 2080, Flughafen Zürich AG has termination options, which have been taken into account. Had the termination options not been taken into account, additional liabilities of CHF 91.2 million (nominal amount) would arise in addition to the lease liabilities recognised as at 31 December 2019.
In financial year 2020, following the completion of the real estate project THE CIRCLE, Flughafen Zürich AG will move into new office premises for which the company has signed a 20-year lease (taking into account extension options) with the co-ownership structure THE CIRCLE.
Flughafen Zürich AG leases space that is subleased as car parking space. The average period of use is five years.
The following table shows the carrying amounts of the lease liabilities and the changes during the reporting period:
(CHF 1,000)
2019
Balance as at 1 January
–44,904
Additions
–45,403
Payments
5,797
Present value adjustment
–72
Balance as at 31 December
–84,582
of which current (payment within 1 year)
–6,163
of which non-current (payment from 1 year on)
–78,419
A detailed overview of the maturities of the lease liabilities can be found in note 18, Financial liabilities.
In the reporting period, the following amounts were recognised in profit or loss in connection with leases:
(CHF 1,000)
2019
Depreciation charges for right-of-use assets
–6,262
Interest expense on lease liabilities
–72
Expense relating to short-term leases
–1,111
Total amount recognised for leases in profit or loss
–7,445
The total cash outflow for leases amounted to CHF 6.9 million in the reporting period. Future cash outflows for leases not yet commenced as at the reporting date amount to CHF 23.2 million.
FLUGHAFEN ZÜRICH AG AS LESSOR
The tenancy agreements entered into by Flughafen Zürich AG as lessor may be either fixed tenancy or turnover-based agreements:
FIXED TENANCY AGREEMENTS
Fixed tenancy agreements comprise in particular agreements for office, warehouse, archive and workshop premises. They are divided into limited-term and indefinite agreements, with the latter usually being subject to either six or twelve months’ notice to be communicated in advance.
TURNOVER-BASED AGREEMENTS
Sales-based tenancy agreements primarily relate to commercial premises. These agreements between the parties generally comprise guaranteed basic rents plus turnover-based portions with a fixed term of five years and no other options. Moreover, some agreements involving basic rents and turnover-based portions exist as a function of passenger trends or prior-year sales.
Commercial revenue (retail, tax & duty free plus food & beverage) and revenue from facility management (rental and leasing agreements) contained conditional rental payments amounting to CHF 14.2 million in the reporting period (see also note 2, Revenue).
At the reporting date, minimum lease payments (fixed rents and guaranteed basic rents) under non-cancellable leases were as follows:
(CHF 1,000)
31.12.2019
31.12.2018
Due date up to 1 year
229,706
202,615
Due date from 1 to 5 years
774,776
675,995
Dute date in more than 5 years
368,050
403,071
Total
1,372,532
1,281,681
10 Investment property
(CHF 1,000)
Land
Project and construction costs
Total investment property
Cost
Balance as at 1 January 2018
950
211,309
212,259
Additions
0
95,387
95,387
Balance as at 31 December 2018
950
306,696
307,646
Balance as at 1 January 2019
950
306,696
307,646
Additions
0
125,823
125,823
Balance as at 31 December 2019
950
432,519
433,469
Depreciation, amortisation
Balance as at 1 January 2018
0
–352
–352
Additions
0
–240
–240
Balance as at 31 December 2018
0
–592
–592
Balance as at 1 January 2019
0
–592
–592
Additions
0
–120
–120
Balance as at 31 December 2019
0
–712
–712
Net carrying amount as at 31 December 2018
950
306,104
307,054
Net carrying amount as at 31 December 2019
950
431,807
432,757
THE CIRCLE project
On 5 February 2015, Flughafen Zürich AG and Swiss Life AG notarised the purchase agreement for the share of land for THE CIRCLE and registered it for entry in the Land Register, thereby establishing the co-ownership structure between the two parties provided for in the financing agreements, in which Flughafen Zürich AG has a 51% interest and Swiss Life AG a 49% interest. Flughafen Zürich AG then transferred the project costs incurred for THE CIRCLE up until that date to the co-ownership structure.
Based on the nature of the contractual arrangement, the co-ownership structure THE CIRCLE is classified as a joint operation in accordance with IFRS 11. The share of the rights to the assets and the share of the obligations for the liabilities of the co-ownership structure are therefore recognised and presented in the relevant line items in the consolidated financial statements of Flughafen Zürich AG.
The share of THE CIRCLE property under construction is classified as investment property in accordance with IAS 40. In this context, Flughafen Zürich AG has decided to apply the cost model. The land recognised for THE CIRCLE in the amount of approximately CHF 1.0 million represents the purchase cost of the share of the plot of land on which the project will be implemented. “Project and construction costs” in the amount of CHF 431.8 million (2018: CHF 306.1 million) include the share of the production costs capitalised to date.
The fair value of THE CIRCLE was CHF 530.9 million at the reporting date (2018: CHF 373.3 million). The value was calculated by an external expert using the discounted cash flow method (level 3). Under this method, the fair value is determined on the basis of the total expected future net income (before tax, interest payments, depreciation and amortisation) discounted to the present date. A risk-adjusted discount rate is set depending on the risks and rewards and in line with market rates.
11 Intangible assets
(CHF 1,000)
Intangible asset from right of formal expropriation
Investments in airport operator projects
Other intangible assets
Cost
Balance as at 1 January 2018
188,558
77,094
84,962
Additions
0
66,763
3,937
Disposals
–34,529
0
–2,142
Transfer
0
0
6,378
Foreign exchange differences
0
–13,382
–758
Balance as at 31 December 2018
154,029
130,475
92,377
Balance as at 1 January 2019
154,029
130,475
92,377
Additions
0
242,449
721
Disposals
–20,000
–211
–5,580
Transfer
0
–572
8,926
Reclassification
0
2,035
–2,035
Foreign exchange differences
0
–20,417
–295
Balance as at 31 December 2019
134,029
353,759
94,114
Depreciation, amortisation
Balance as at 1 January 2018
–56,876
–1,901
–69,950
Additions
–3,416
–5,586
–6,804
Disposals
0
0
2,142
Foreign exchange differences
0
2,644
120
Balance as at 31 December 2018
–60,292
–4,843
–74,492
Balance as at 1 January 2019
–60,292
–4,843
–74,492
Additions
–2,892
–7,808
–6,935
Disposals
0
0
5,252
Transfer
0
0
0
Reclassification
0
–486
486
Foreign exchange differences
0
2,668
108
Balance as at 31 December 2019
–63,184
–10,469
–75,581
Net carrying amount as at 31 December 2018
93,737
125,632
17,885
Net carrying amount as at 31 December 2019
70,845
343,290
18,533
INTANGIBLE ASSET FROM RIGHT OF FORMAL EXPROPRIATION
With the award of the operating licence, Flughafen Zürich AG was also granted a right of formal expropriation in respect of property owners exposed to aircraft noise. This right of formal expropriation was granted on condition that the airport operator bears the costs associated with compensation payments and is recognised as an intangible asset at the date when the probable total cost can be estimated based on final-instance court rulings, so that the cost can be reliably estimated in accordance with IAS 38.21.
On 22 November 2019, the Swiss Federal Supreme Court handed down a ruling in test cases regarding the period of limitation on claims for compensation in Oberglatt. This Swiss Federal Supreme Court ruling and other fundamental issues that have been decided enabled Flughafen Zürich AG to undertake a reappraisal of the outstanding cost of compensation for formal expropriations. Based on the recalculation, the total cost expected in relation to formal expropriations decreased from CHF 350.0 million to CHF 330.0 million, enabling the provision for formal expropriations to be reduced by CHF 20.0 million as at 31 December 2019 (see note 19, Provision for formal expropriations plus sound insulation and resident protection). At the same time, the intangible asset from the right of formal expropriation was reduced by the same amount.
In the previous year, based on Swiss Federal Supreme Court rulings in test cases regarding cooperative ownership, the company was likewise able to undertake a reappraisal of the outstanding cost of compensation for formal expropriations and reduce both the provision for formal expropriations and the intangible asset from the right of formal expropriation by CHF 34.5 million.
As at 31 December 2019, Flughafen Zürich AG has therefore recognised an intangible asset from the right of formal expropriation in the amount of CHF 70.8 million (2018: CHF 93.7 million). This is amortised using the straight-line method over the remaining term of the operating licence (i.e. until May 2051).
Investments in airport operator projects
The investments in airport operator projects in the amount of CHF 343.3 million (2018: CHF 125.6 million) consist of concession rights which, due to the application of IFRIC 12, comprise minimum concession payments recognised as assets and investments made. They relate to the expansion and operation of the Chilean airports in Antofagasta and Iquique (CHF 34.3 million; 2018: CHF 30.4 million), in which Flughafen Zürich AG holds a controlling interest via its subsidiary A-port Chile S.A., the expansion and operation of the Brazilian airport in Florianópolis (CHF 178.3 million; 2018: CHF 95.2 million) through the subsidiary Concessionária do Aeroporto Internacional de Florianópolis S.A. and the expansion and operation of the Brazilian airports in Vitória and Macaé (CHF 130.7 million; 2018: CHF 0.0 million) through the subsidiary Aeroportos do Sudeste do Brasil S.A. The obligations of CHF 26.3 million (2018: CHF 26.1 million) relating to the corresponding concessions have been recognised as current and non-current liabilities (see note 18, Financial liabilities).
Impairment
On a yearly basis, Flughafen Zürich AG carries out a calculation at company level to determine whether there is any indication that property, plant and equipment (see note 8, Property, plant and equipment) and intangible assets may be impaired. The calculation is based on the expected future free cash flows of Flughafen Zürich AG and various assumptions regarding future trends (e.g. passenger and traffic volumes, investments, the hub status of Zurich Airport and the discount rate). The calculation as at 31 December 2019 did not identify any indications of impairment.
12 Investments in associates
(CHF 1,000)
31.12.2019
31.12.2018
Sociedade de Participação no Aeroporto de Confins S.A., Belo Horizonte (Brazil)
Share capital: BRL 474 million (previous year BRL 474 million) / Equity share 25.0% (previous year 25.0%)
9,270
12,323
Administradora Unique IDC C.A., Porlamar (Venezuela)
Share capital: VEB 25 million (previous year VEB 25 million) / Equity share 49.5% (previous year 49.5 %)
0
0
Aeropuertos Asociados de Venezuela C.A., Porlamar (Venezuela)
Share capital: VEB 10 million (previous year VEB 10 million) / Equity share 49.5% (previous year 49.5 %)
0
0
Total investments in associates
9,270
12,323
Brazil
Alongside Brazilian company CCR, Flughafen Zürich AG holds a 25% interest in Sociedade de Participação no Aeroporto de Confins S.A., a private consortium which in turn controls 51% of the local airport operator Concessionária no Aeroporto Internacional de Confins S. A. The remaining 49% of the shares are held by the state-owned Infraero. As a consequence, since 2014 Flughafen Zürich AG and CCR have been responsible for the operation and expansion of the international airport in Belo Horizonte in the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais. The concession agreement is for 30 years and prescribes certain infrastructure expansion. After just 14 months’ construction time, a new terminal was put into operation in 2016. There is an Operations, Management & Service Agreement (OMSA) with the licence holder. The company receives revenue from this service agreement. Flughafen Zürich AG appoints the flight operations manager.
Venezuela
In 2010, Flughafen Zürich AG and its consortium partner Unique IDC turned to the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID) in Washington D.C. in the matter of the airport expropriated in Venezuela (Isla de Margarita). This step is in compliance with the investment protection treaty between Venezuela, Switzerland and Chile. The ICSID reached its decision in November 2014, requiring the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela to reimburse the consortium the costs incurred for the proceedings and project plus a compensation payment of around USD 19.5 million as well as interest incurred up until receipt of payment (around USD 24.7 million accrued as at 31 December 2019). Flughafen Zürich AG is entitled to 50% of the total amount of the payments. Prior to the deadline set for 18 March 2015, Venezuela appealed to the ICSID to set aside the tribunal’s decision on the grounds of an infringement of procedural rules. On 15 April 2019, the ICSID ad hoc committee rejected the application for annulment in full. This means that the tribunal’s decision is definitive and final. The value of this holding has been fully impaired.
Additional disclosures
The following table contains the summarised financial information for the associate Sociedade de Participação no Aeroporto de Confins S.A. The amounts correspond to those in the associate’s financial statements prepared in accordance with IFRSs.
SOCIEDADE DE PARTICIPAÇÃO NO AEROPORTO DE CONFINS S. A.
(CHF 1,000)
31.12.2019
31.12.2018
Revenue
95,922
96,299
Loss
–10,193
–17,316
Comprehensive income
–10,193
–17,316
Non-current assets
565,553
607,805
Current assets
27,479
31,669
Non-current liabilities
–479,506
–498,857
Current liabilities
–40,898
–44,089
Equity attributable to non-controlling interests
–35,548
–47,238
Net equity
37,080
49,290
Equity share
25.0%
25.0%
Carrying amount of interest in associate
9,270
12,323
13 FINANCIAL ASSETS OF THE AIRPORT OF ZURICH NOISE FUND
(CHF 1,000)
31.12.2019
31.12.2018
Current financial assets of Airport of Zurich Noise Fund
17,376
21,967
Non-current financial assets of Airport of Zurich Noise Fund
394,428
377,241
Total financial assets of Airport of Zurich Noise Fund
411,804
399,208
The financial assets of the Airport of Zurich Noise Fund consist mostly of CHF-denominated bonds and a mixed investment fund. The investment horizon is based on the expected obligation to make payments from the Airport of Zurich Noise Fund and averages around four years. In 2019, interest on bonds was unchanged year on year at between 0.00% and 2.625%. The funds are managed by professional financial institutions (see note 6, Finance result, and note 24.1 a) Financial risk management, i) Credit risk).
14 Trade receivables
(CHF 1,000)
31.12.2019
31.12.2018
Trade receivables, gross 1)
112,805
102,610
Allowance for expected credit loss
–616
–586
Trade receivables, net
112,189
102,024
1) Trade receivables include an amount of CHF 18.8 million due from Swiss (2018: CHF 21.8 million). In the period between the balance sheet date and the preparation of the 2019 annual report, Swiss had paid the outstanding amount arising from airport charges in full as at 31 December 2019.
Geographical distribution of trade receivables:
(CHF 1,000)
31.12.2019
31.12.2018
Switzerland
50,513
35,013
Europe
4,356
9,110
Other
809
7,670
Total aviation
55,678
51,793
Switzerland
52,545
44,918
Europe
110
67
Latin America
4,377
5,785
Other
95
47
Total non-aviation
57,127
50,817
Total trade receivables, gross
112,805
102,610
Expected credit losses on trade receivables are as follows for the reporting period and the previous year:
(CHF 1,000)
31.12.2019
Not past due
Past due, 0 to 30 days
Past due, 31 to 60 days
Past due, more than 60 days
Total
Expected credit loss rate (in %)
0.3
1.5
3.0
5.0
Trade receivables, gross
94,505
14,754
1,499
2,047
112,805
Expected credit loss
–247
–221
–46
–102
–616
(CHF 1,000)
31.12.2018
Not past due
Past due, 0 to 30 days
Past due, 31 to 60 days
Past due, more than 60 days
Total
Expected credit loss rate (in %)
0.3
1.5
2.5
5.0
Trade receivables, gross
88,039
9,683
2,050
2,838
102,610
Expected credit loss
–248
–145
–51
–142
–586
In almost all cases, receivables not past due concern long-standing client relationships. Based on past experience, Flughafen Zürich AG does not expect any additional credit losses.
15 Other receivables and prepaid expenses
(CHF 1,000)
31.12.2019
31.12.2018
Services not yet invoiced
21,388
14,686
Accrued interest on interest-bearing debt instruments Airport of Zurich Noise Fund
406
380
Prepaid services
24,888
61,712
Prepaid expenses and accruals
46,682
76,778
Tax receivables (VAT and withholding tax)
25,655
11,812
Other receivables
1,281
627
Total other receivables and prepaid expenses
73,618
89,217
of which financial instruments
21,794
15,066
of which other receivables and prepaid expenses
51,824
74,151
The interest from the liquid funds of the Airport of Zurich Noise Fund that were invested separately (see also note 13, Financial assets of the Airport of Zurich Noise Fund and note 20, Airport of Zurich Noise Fund), was recognised on an accrual basis.
All services provided in the reporting period were invoiced between the reporting date and the preparation of the annual report. There are no past due receivables reported in the above items that would require the recognition of an allowance.
16 Cash and cash equivalents and fixed-term deposits
31.12.2019
31.12.2018
(CHF 1,000)
Total
of which AZNF
Total
of which AZNF
Cash on hand
120
0
213
0
Cash at banks and in postal accounts
115,845
18,092
273,288
34,242
Fixed-term deposits 1)
16,463
0
122,371
0
Total cash and cash equivalents
132,428
18,092
395,872
34,242
Current fixed-term deposits 2)
37,500
0
149,167
0
Non-current fixed-term deposits 2)
636
0
37,500
0
Total fixed-term deposits
38,136
0
186,667
0
1) Due within 90 days from date of acquisition.
2) Due after 90 days from date of acquisition.
17 Equity and reserves
(Number of shares)
Issued registered shares (nominal value, CHF 10)
Treasury shares
Total shares in circulation
Balance as at 1 January 2018
30,701,875
2,094
30,699,781
Purchase of treasury shares
5,185
–5,185
Distribution of treasury shares to employees and third parties
–5,624
5,624
Balance as at 31 December 2018
30,701,875
1,655
30,700,220
Purchase of treasury shares
8,290
–8,290
Distribution of treasury shares to employees and third parties
–6,812
6,812
Balance as at 31 December 2019
30,701,875
3,133
30,698,742
SHARE RIGHTS
The holders of registered shares are entitled to participate at the General Meeting of Shareholders and cast one vote per share.
Treasury shares
Treasury shares are distributed to employees and third parties under the bonus programme; see note 3, Personnel expenses, and note 24.4, Related parties. Treasury shares are used for the bonus programme and are held as treasury stock.
Translation reserve
The translation reserve comprises foreign currency differences arising from the translation of the financial statements of foreign operations and associates.
Earnings per share
Basic and diluted earnings per share are calculated from the results and share data as at 31 December, which are composed as follows:
2019
2018
Profit attributable to shareholders of Flughafen Zürich AG in CHF
309,135,090
237,832,160
Weighted average number of outstanding shares
30,690,962
30,691,512
Effect of dilutive shares
7,808
8,873
Adjusted weighted average number of outstanding shares
30,698,770
30,700,385
Basic earnings per share (CHF)
10.07
7.75
Diluted earnings per share (CHF)
10.07
7.75
Dividend distribution limit
The amount available for payment as a dividend is based on the available retained earnings of Flughafen Zürich AG and is determined in accordance with the provisions of the Swiss Code of Obligations (CO). As at the reporting date, reserves amounting to CHF 154.1 million (2018: CHF 153.9 million) were subject to a restriction on distribution under the provisions of commercial law.
Major shareholders and shareholder structure
The shareholder structure as at 31 December was as follows:
2019
2018
Public sector
38.60%
38.60%
Private individuals
6.90%
6.50%
Companies
5.30%
4.60%
Pension funds
2.30%
2.09%
Financial institutions (including nominees)
22.00%
25.78%
Balance available and non-registered shareholders
24.90%
22.43%
Total
100.00%
100.00%
Number of shareholders
13,922
13,592
As at the reporting date, the following shareholders or groups of shareholders held at least 5% of the voting rights:
2019
2018
Canton of Zurich
33.33%
33.33%
City of Zurich
5.00%
5.00%
18 Financial liabilities
(CHF 1,000)
31.12.2019
31.12.2018
Debentures
750,416
1,050,244
Non-current liabilities from concession arrangements
25,256
25,711
Non-current lease liabilities
78,419
1,655
Other non-current financial liabilities
105,277
7,860
Non-current financial liabilities
959,368
1,085,470
Debentures
299,938
38,204
Current liabilities from concession arrangements
1,068
438
Current lease liabilities
6,163
1,355
Other current financial liabilities
44,383
2,660
Current financial liabilities
351,552
42,657
Total financial liabilities
1,310,920
1,128,127
The CHF 300.0 million debenture maturing in July 2020 was reclassified out of non-current and into current financial liabilities.
In connection with the initial application of IFRS 16, lease liabilities rose by CHF 41.9 million as at 1 January 2019 (see Changes in accounting policies, IFRS 16 Leases).
Other current and non-current financial liabilities primarily include bank loans taken out by the subsidiaries in Brazil and Chile. The year-on-year increase is due in particular to the expansion of the airport in Florianópolis being partly debt-financed.
Composition of non-current financial liabilities as at the reporting date:
as at 31.12.2019
as at 31.12.2019
Financial liabilities
Nominal value
Carrying amount
Duration
Interest rate
Early amortisation
Interest payment date
(CHF 1,000)
(CHF 1,000)
Debenture
400,000
399,839
2013 – 2023
1.500%
no
17.4.
Debenture
350,000
350,577
2017 – 2019
0.625%
no
24.5.
Non-current liabilities from concession arrangements
47,390
25,256
until 2047
n/a
no
n/a
Non-current lease liabilities
78,419
78,419
until 2039
0.000%
no
n/a
Other non-current financial liabilities
105,277
105,277
until 2042
3.900 – 5.500%
no
n/a
Total non-current financial liabilities
959,368
External financing is subject to standard guarantees and covenants, which were complied with as at the reporting date.
In addition, unused credit facilities at the reporting date amounted to a total of CHF 224.1 million (see note 24.1 a) Financial risk management, ii) Liquidity risk).
The maturities of financial liabilities are shown in the table below:
(CHF 1,000)
31.12.2019
31.12.2018
Due within 1 year
351,552
42,657
Due between 1 and 5 years
468,852
701,497
Due in more than 5 years
490,516
383,973
Total financial liabilities
1,310,920
1,128,127
Financial liabilities changed as follows as a result of cash and non-cash changes:
31.12.2018
Cash flows
Non-cash changes
31.12.2019
(CHF 1,000)
Initial application IFRS 16
Increase(+) / decrease(-)
Foreign exchange movements
Debentures
1,050,244
0
0
–299,828
0
750,416
Non-current liabilities from concession arrangements
25,711
0
0
1,194
–1,649
25,256
Non-current lease liabilities
1,655
0
38,063
38,701
0
78,419
Other non-current financial liabilities
7,860
108,344
0
–5,162
–5,765
105,277
Non-current financial liabilities
1,085,470
108,344
38,063
–265,095
–7,414
959,368
Debentures
38,204
–38,204
0
299,938
0
299,938
Current liabilities from concession arrangements
438
0
0
733
–103
1,068
Current lease liabilities
1,355
–5,797
3,831
6,774
0
6,163
Other current financial liabilities
2,660
40,000
0
2,052
–329
44,383
Current financial liabilities
42,657
–4,001
3,831
309,497
–432
351,552
Total financial liabilities
1,128,127
104,343
41,894
44,402
–7,846
1,310,920
Overview of lease liabilities
The lease liabilities shown below include the leases listed in note 9, Right-of-use assets. With the exception of the lease for the aircraft energy supply system (ESS), the interest rate on the future lease liabilities is 0.0%. The interest rate for the ESS lease, which expires on 31 July 2020, is 3.476%.
(CHF 1,000)
31.12.2019
31.12.2018
Future minimum lease payments
Due within 1 year
6,175
1,887
Due between 1 and 5 years
25,271
1,207
Due in more than 5 years
53,148
0
Total future minimum lease payments
84,594
3,094
Future interest payments
–12
–84
Present value of lease liabilities
84,582
3,010
Due within 1 year
6,163
1,815
Due between 1 and 5 years
25,271
1,195
Due in more than 5 years
53,148
0
19 PROVISION FOR FORMAL EXPROPRIATIONS PLUS SOUND INSULATION AND RESIDENT PROTECTION
(CHF 1,000)
Formal expropriations
Sound insulation and resident protection
Total
Balance as at 1 January 2018
316,623
102,724
419,347
Provision used 1)
–8,263
–12,617
–20,880
Release of provision
–34,529
0
–34,529
Increase of provision
0
57,556
57,556
Present value adjustment 2)
1,352
507
1,859
Balance as at 31 December 2018
275,183
148,170
423,353
of which current (planned payment within 1 year)
21,273
9,983
31,256
of which non-current (planned payment from 1 year on)
253,910
138,187
392,097
Balance as at 1 January 2019
275,183
148,170
423,353
Provision used 1)
–9,771
–11,498
–21,269
Release of provision
–20,000
0
–20,000
Increase of provision
0
0
0
Present value adjustment 2)
2,667
2,756
5,423
Balance as at 31 December 2019
248,079
139,428
387,507
of which current (planned payment within 1 year)
12,981
14,502
27,483
of which non-current (planned payment from 1 year on)
235,098
124,926
360,024
1) The amount paid for formal expropriations only includes effective payments of compensation, and excludes other associated external costs in accordance with the regulations of the Airport of Zurich Noise Fund (see note 20, Airport of Zurich Noise Fund).
2) In the year under review as well as in the previous year, a reassessment was made of the discount rates and the expected cash outflows.
Provision for formal expropriations
On 22 November 2019, the Swiss Federal Supreme Court handed down a ruling in test cases regarding the period of limitation on claims for compensation in Oberglatt. This Swiss Federal Supreme Court ruling and other fundamental issues that have been decided enabled Flughafen Zürich AG to undertake a reappraisal of the outstanding cost of compensation for formal expropriations. Based on the recalculation, the total cost expected in relation to formal expropriations decreased from CHF 350.0 million to CHF 330.0 million, enabling the provision for formal expropriations to be reduced by CHF 20.0 million as at 31 December 2019. At the same time, the intangible asset from the right of formal expropriation was reduced by the same amount (see note 11, Intangible assets).
In the previous year, based on Swiss Federal Supreme Court rulings in test cases regarding cooperative ownership, the company was likewise able to undertake a reappraisal of the outstanding cost of compensation for formal expropriations and reduce both the provision for formal expropriations and the intangible asset from the right of formal expropriation by CHF 34.5 million.
As at the reporting date, the estimated costs for formal expropriations amounted to CHF 330.0 million, of which CHF 81.9 million had already been paid out at that date. In the consolidated financial statements for the period ended 31 December 2019, a provision was recognised at present value for the outstanding costs of CHF 248.1 million (nominal amount). As the interest rate used to adjust the present value of the nominal payment flows was 0.00% at the reporting date (2018: 0.25%) due to the further fall in interest rates, the present value is the nominal amount. It is expected that the payments can be completed by the end of 2030 (previously 2025).
Provision for sound insulation and resident protection
The company is also required to implement sound insulation measures in the area where it claims exemptions from noise limits (emission limit). In this context, the FOCA initiated a night-time noise abatement procedure. The area with exemptions under the Sectoral Aviation Infrastructure Plan adopted by the Federal Council on 23 August 2017 was extended. In this context in the previous year, Flughafen Zürich AG recognised a provision for further costs of CHF 60.0 million, with a present value of CHF 57.6 million, in addition to the cost of CHF 340.0 million previously estimated for sound insulation and resident protection (see note 5, Other income and expenses).
As at the reporting date, the estimated costs for sound insulation and resident protection measures amounted to CHF 400.0 million, of which CHF 260.6 million had already been paid out at that date. In the consolidated financial statements for the period ended 31 December 2019, a provision was recognised at present value for the outstanding costs of CHF 139.4 million (nominal amount). As the interest rate used to adjust the present value of the nominal payment flows was 0.00% at the reporting date (2018: 0.35%) due to the further fall in interest rates, the present value is the nominal amount. It is expected that the payments can be completed by the end of 2030.
20 Airport of Zurich Noise Fund
Flughafen Zürich AG refinances all costs relating to aircraft noise through special noise charges based on the “costs-by-cause” principle. In the interest of transparency, costs and income relating to aircraft noise are recognised in a special statement for the Airport of Zurich Noise Fund. This is a liquidity-based fund statement. The fund statement presents the accumulated surplus or shortfall as at the reporting date arising from noise charges, less expenses for formal expropriations, sound insulation and resident protection measures, and noise-related operating costs. Its presentation is independent of the accounting policies. The key figures from the fund statement are shown in the table below.
If the fund statement shows an accumulated income surplus, this surplus is moved to a special investment account and invested by professional financial institutions, partly on the basis of a conservative, money market-oriented investment strategy and partly in a mixed investment fund. The income from these investments is credited to the fund statement.
The detailed fund statement is disclosed to a committee comprising representatives of Zurich Airport customers and the relevant authorities. The regulations of the Airport of Zurich Noise Fund and other information (including an overview of its financial performance) can be downloaded from the website.
The balance on the Airport of Zurich Noise Fund changed as follows in the reporting period:
(CHF 1,000)
2019
2018
Airport of Zurich Noise Fund as at 1 January
425,405
443,505
Revenue from noise charges
12,733
11,945
Costs for sound insulation and resident protection
–11,498
–12,617
Costs for formal expropriations 1)
–10,130
–8,629
Balance before operating costs and finance result
416,510
434,204
Operating costs
–3,469
–3,402
Interest income and adjustments to fair value financial assets Airport of Zurich Noise Fund
9,841
–5,397
Airport of Zurich Noise Fund as at 31 December
422,882
425,405
1) In addition to compensation payments for formal expropriations, this amount includes other associated external costs (in accordance with regulations of the Airport of Zurich Noise Fund; see note 19, “Provision for formal expropriations plus sound insulation and resident protection”).
Summary of assets invested for the Airport of Zurich Noise Fund:
(CHF 1,000)
31.12.2019
31.12.2018
Cash equivalents (see note 16, "Cash and cash equivalents")
18,092
34,242
Current financial assets of Airport of Zurich Noise Fund
17,376
21,967
Non-current financial assets of Airport of Zurich Noise Fund
394,428
377,241
Accrual / deferral towards Flughafen Zürich AG 1)
–7,014
–8,045
Total assets invested for Airport of Zurich Noise Fund
422,882
425,405
1) For accounting reasons, an asset or liability towards Flughafen Zürich AG arises as of the balance sheet date. This is compensated in the subsequent month, so the balance of liquid funds is restored.
The table below presents an overview of the maturities and credit ratings of the assets invested for the Airport of Zurich Noise Fund:
(CHF 1,000)
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024ff.
Total
Cash and cash equivalents
18,092
18,092
AAA
13,622
44,160
15,000
29,066
55,667
157,515
AA+ / AA / AA–
1,800
5,016
18,010
30,701
55,527
A+ / A / A–
3,900
25,030
12,982
50,847
92,759
BBB+ / BBB / BBB-
1,504
1,504
Without rating
104,499
104,499
Other 1)
–7,014
–7,014
Total assets invested for Airport of Zurich Noise Fund
28,004
48,060
45,046
60,058
241,714
422,882
in %
6.6
11.4
10.6
14.2
57.2
100.00
1) For accounting reasons, an accrual (deferral) towards Flughafen Zürich AG arises as of the balance sheet date. This is compensated in the subsequent month, so the balance of liquid funds is restored.
21 DEFERRED TAX ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
In accordance with IAS 12.47, deferred tax assets and liabilities are calculated at the rate that is expected to apply when the asset is realised or the liability settled. Flughafen Zürich AG anticipates a tax rate of 20.4% for the reporting period (2018: 20.5%). The expected tax rate is calculated on the basis of the applicable rate (rounded up or down) at the domicile of Flughafen Zürich AG and its subsidiaries.
The balance of deferred tax assets and liabilities changed as follows:
(CHF 1,000)
2019
2018
Deferred tax assets and liabilities, net as at 1 January
–42,334
–61,687
Deferred taxes on remeasurement of defined benefit obligations, recognised in OCI
6,212
2,617
Change according to income statement
2,228
16,788
Foreign exchange differences
–139
–52
Deferred tax assets and liabilities, net as at 31 December
–34,033
–42,334
of which deferred tax assets
2,121
1,950
of which deferred tax liabilities
–36,154
–44,284
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are allocated to the following items:
31.12.2019
31.12.2018
(CHF 1,000)
Assets
Liabilities
Assets
Liabilities
Property, plant and equipment & other intangible assets
–12,169
–15,011
Investments in associates and other financial assets
0
–1,321
Renovation fund
–36,495
–35,588
Aircraft noise
–26,266
–24,224
Financial liabilities issuing costs
72
50
Employee benefit obligations
38,757
31,848
Miscellaneous items
2,121
–53
1,950
–38
Deferred tax assets and liabilities, gross
40,950
–74,983
33,848
–76,182
Offsetting of assets and liabilities
–38,829
38,829
–31,898
31,898
Deferred tax assets and liabilities, net
2,121
–36,154
1,950
–44,284
22 Employee benefits
(CHF 1,000)
31.12.2019
31.12.2018
Net defined benefit obligations
–177,007
–143,466
Other long-term employee benefits
–13,197
–11,889
Employee benefit obligations
–190,204
–155,355
22.1 Post-employment benefits
Flughafen Zürich AG maintains the following employee benefit plans:
a) Defined benefit plans
Affiliation contract with the BVK Employee Pension Fund of the Canton of Zurich (BVK)
The employees of Flughafen Zürich AG are affiliated to the BVK (Employee Pension Fund of the Canton of Zurich). The BVK is a multi-employer plan for employees of the Canton of Zurich and other employers. The BVK is registered with the Pensions and Trusts Supervisory Authority of the Canton of Zurich and is monitored by the latter.
The BVK Foundation Board, comprising nine employer and nine employee representatives, is the senior executive body of the Foundation and thus responsible for the strategic objectives and principles and for monitoring its management. The management is responsible for implementing legal requirements and the instructions given by the Foundation Board and its committees.
The BVK is subject to the provisions of the Federal Act on Occupational Old Age, Survivors’ and Invalidity Pension Provision (BVG) and its implementing provisions. The BVG defines the minimum insured salary, the minimum retirement credits and the return on them, and the conversion rate. As a result of these statutory provisions and the features of the plan, Flughafen Zürich AG, as an employer affiliated to the BVK, is exposed to actuarial risks such as investment risk, interest rate risk, disability risk and the risk of longevity.
Moreover, in accordance with the statutory provisions, the management body of the pension fund is also responsible for ensuring that restructuring measures are decided and implemented in the event of a shortfall, so that complete cover for future pension benefits is restored within a reasonable period. Among other things this includes restructuring payments in the form of additional contributions.
According to the applicable Swiss accounting regulations (Art. 44 BVV2), the liabilities of the BVK were funded at an (unaudited) level of 100.5% as at 31 December 2019 (2018: 95.1%).
Employees of Flughafen Zürich AG are insured with the BVK against the risks of old age, death and disability. The retirement benefits are determined on the basis of the individual retirement savings accounts at the time of retirement and are calculated by multiplying the balance of the savings account by the conversion rate stipulated in the regulations. The statutory retirement age is 65. Early retirement with a reduced conversion rate is possible as of the time the employee turns 60. Flughafen Zürich AG pays age-related contributions for all insured persons of between 6.0% and 17.4% of the insured salary and risk contributions of 1.2%. Up to the age of 20, only the risk contribution is incurred.
The assets originate from the BVK benefit plans. The investment strategy is defined by the BVK Foundation Board, based on the proposals and recommendations of the Board’s own investment committee, which in particular is responsible for managing the BVK’s assets. It prepares all the investment-related decisions taken by the Foundation Board and manages and supervises their implementation by the management. In addition, it is supported in the monitoring of the investment strategy and the investment process by an external investment controller.
The investment strategy (asset allocation) ranges within tactical bandwidths so as to enable a flexible response to current market situations. The aim is to manage the capital investments effectively and efficiently. The assets are well diversified. Compliance with the investment guidelines and the investment results are reviewed periodically.
Because the BVK, as a multi-employer plan, does not prepare separate financial statements for Flughafen Zürich AG, the company is also liable for liabilities of other affiliated employers, in accordance with the statutory provisions.
Explanation of the amounts in the consolidated financial statements
The actuarial calculation of the defined benefit obligations as at 31 December 2019 and the service cost was performed by independent actuaries using the projected unit credit method. The fair value of the plan assets was determined as at 31 December 2019 based on the information available at the date of preparation of the annual financial statements.
As no separate information was available for the affiliation contract with Flughafen Zürich AG for the plan assets or for the breakdown of assets into asset classes at the reporting date, assumptions had to be made on the basis of the available information for these purposes.
The net defined benefit obligations recognised in the balance sheet at the reporting date are as follows:
(CHF 1,000)
31.12.2019
31.12.2018
Present value of funded defined benefit obligations
–746,572
–652,069
Fair value of plan assets
569,565
508,603
Net defined benefit obligations recognised in the balance sheet
–177,007
–143,466
The defined benefit obligations changed as follows:
(CHF 1,000)
2019
2018
Present value of defined benefit obligations as at 1 January
–652,069
–642,408
Current service costs
–19,877
–21,379
Interest expenses on defined benefit obligations
–5,121
–4,089
Employee contributions
–12,034
–11,504
Benefits paid
20,594
30,674
Gain / (loss) due to experience
–9,323
–16,181
Gain / (loss) due to financial assumption changes
–68,742
12,818
Present value of defined benefit obligations as at 31 December
–746,572
–652,069
The weighted average duration of the defined benefit obligations at 31 December 2019 was 18.1 years (2018: 17.0 years).
The plan assets changed as follows:
(CHF 1,000)
2019
2018
Fair value of plan assets as at 1 January
508,603
516,848
Employer contributions
18,009
17,198
Employee contributions
12,034
11,504
Benefits paid
–20,594
–30,674
Administration expenses
–21
–238
Interest income on plan assets
4,083
3,364
Return on plan assets excluding amounts included in interest income
47,451
–9,399
Fair value of plan assets as at 31 December
569,565
508,603
The net defined benefit obligations changed as follows:
(CHF 1,000)
2019
2018
Net defined benefit obligations as at 1 January
–143,466
–125,560
Total charge recognised in the income statement
–20,936
–22,342
Total remeasurements recognised in other comprehensive income
–30,614
–12,762
Employer contributions
18,009
17,198
Net defined benefit obligations as at 31 December
–177,007
–143,466
The company expects employer contributions of CHF 19.8 million for financial year 2020.
Analysis of the amounts recognised in the income statement:
(CHF 1,000)
2019
2018
Current service cost
–19,877
–21,379
Net interest expenses on defined benefit obligations
–1,038
–725
Administration expenses
–21
–238
Total charge recognised in the income statement
–20,936
–22,342
Analysis of the amounts recognised in other comprehensive income:
(CHF 1,000)
2019
2018
Actuarial gains / (losses) due to experience
–9,323
–16,181
Actuarial gains / (losses) due to changes in financial assumptions
–68,742
12,818
Return on plan assets excluding amounts included in net interest
47,451
–9,399
Total remeasurements recognised in other comprehensive income
–30,614
–12,762
Assumptions used in actuarial calculations:
(in % or years)
2019
2018
Discount rate as at 31 December
0.20
0.80
Consumer price inflation
0.75
0.75
Expected rate of salary increases (incl. inflation)
1.50
1.50
Expected rate of pension increases
0.00
0.00
Interest rate on retirement savings accounts
1.00
1.00
Life expectations at age 65 (years):
Female (aged 45)
26.4
25.7
Female (aged 64)
24.7
23.8
Male (aged 45)
24.4
23.7
Male (aged 65)
22.6
21.8
The discount rate is based on CHF-denominated corporate bonds with an AA rating issued by domestic and foreign issuers and listed on SIX Swiss Exchange. The future rate of salary increase is the long-term historical average adjusted for management’s current estimates for the future. Based on the current financial status of the pension fund, no future increases in pensions are anticipated.
As at 31 December 2019, the life expectancy assumption was calculated by projecting future longevity improvements in accordance with the Continuous Mortality Investigation 2016 model (CMI model), based on historically observed longevity improvements in Switzerland and a future long-term improvement rate of 1.50%.
Breakdown of plan assets by asset class:
(in %)
31.12.2019
31.12.2018
Asset category:
Cash and cash equivalents
2.0
4.7
Shares
33.0
33.3
Bonds
37.0
36.8
Property
18.0
17.0
Other
10.0
8.2
Total
100.0
100.0
Sensitivities
The discount rate, the assumption regarding future salary increases and the return on retirement savings accounts are the significant actuarial assumptions in calculating the present value of the defined benefit obligations. A change in the assumptions of +0.25% or –0.25% has the following impact on the present value of the defined benefit obligations (DBO):
2019 Effect on DBO
2018 Effect on DBO
(CHF 1,000)
+0.25%
–0.25%
+0.25%
–0.25%
Discount rate
–29,863
32,849
–24,127
26,083
Expected salary increases
2,240
–2,240
1,956
–1,304
Interest rate on retirement savings accounts
3,733
–1,493
1,956
–1,304
The above sensitivity calculations are based on one assumption changing while the others remain unchanged. In practice, however, there are certain correlations between the individual assumptions. The same method was used to calculate the sensitivities and the defined benefit obligations recognised at the reporting date.
b) Defined contribution plan
An agreement exists with Zurich Insurance Company offering benefits to the pensioners of the former Flughafen-Immobilien-Gesellschaft (FIG). This group of beneficiaries did not transfer to the BVK. This is a defined contribution plan which is fully funded. Zurich Insurance Company is responsible for providing all future benefits.
22.2 Other long-term employee benefits
Flughafen Zürich AG pays its employees loyalty bonuses on the basis of years of service, in accordance with the employment regulations of 1 January 2016. The corresponding provision of CHF 13.2 million (2018: CHF 11.9 million) was calculated based on the number of accumulated years of service which, at the reporting date, was 9.6 years (2018: 9.3 years).
23 Other current liabilities, accruals and deferrals
(CHF 1,000)
31.12.2019
31.12.2018
Expenses not invoiced
52,294
28,964
Investments not invoiced
29,152
25,882
Accrued interest on financial liabilities
7,373
7,373
Other deferred income and accruals
1,773
27,886
Deferred income and accruals
90,592
90,105
Cross currency swap
4,843
5,624
Amounts due to personnel (holidays and overtime)
4,646
4,636
Deposits and advance payments by customers
7,199
7,819
Social security contributions
241
19
Other liabilities
6,054
3,556
Total other current liabilities, accruals and deferrals
113,575
111,759
of which financial liabilities carried at amortised cost
88,819
62,219
of which financial liabilities measured at fair value
4,843
5,624
of which other current liabilities, accruals and deferrals excluding financial instruments
19,913
43,916
24 Further details
24.1 Information concerning the performance of a risk assessment
Flughafen Zürich AG has set itself the strategic goal of maintaining a comprehensive risk management system and is committed to carrying out uniform and systematic risk management.
Risk management ensures that risks are approached systematically and given due consideration. It guarantees transparency over all the risks associated with the company’s business activities as well as continuous improvement and monitoring of the risk situation.
The risk management system is the tool used to manage corporate risk and consists of the following components:
- Risk policy objectives and principles
- Risk management organisation
- Risk management process (method for managing risk)
- Risk reporting
-
Auditing and review of the risk management system
The risk management organisation forms the backbone of this system and includes the following units and functions:
Board of Directors, Management Board and Chief Risk Officer
The Board of Directors and Management Board have overall responsibility under Swiss company law for ensuring the group’s existence and profitability. The Board of Directors is responsible for overall oversight of risk management. The Chief Financial Officer also acts as the Management Board’s Chief Risk Officer.
Risk Management & Insurance department
The central Risk Management & Insurance department is run by the Risk Manager, who reports to the Chief Risk Officer. This department supports the line units in all matters relating to risk management and is responsible for risk reporting as well as the operation and ongoing development of the risk management system.
Line units (divisions and departments)
As part of their role, the line units also bear responsibility for risks in their respective division or department and manage them within the framework of the risk management system (risk owner concept).
a) Financial risk management
Due to the nature of its activities, Flughafen Zürich AG is exposed to various financial risks, including:
- i) Credit risk
- ii) Liquidity risk
-
iii) Market risk (foreign currency and interest rate risks)
The following sections provide an overview of the extent of the various financial risks and the objectives, principles and processes relating to the assessment, monitoring and hedging of risks, as well as of the capital management of the group. Further information on financial risks can also be found in the corresponding notes.
i) Credit risk
Credit risk refers to the risk that Flughafen Zürich AG could incur losses if a customer or counterparty to a financial instrument fails to meet its contractual obligations. Cash and cash equivalents, accruals, trade receivables and other financial assets are exposed to credit risk.
Flughafen Zürich AG invests its cash and cash equivalents and fixed-term deposits with major banks with a rating indicating their solvency. In addition, the company minimises other risks relating to cash and cash equivalents and fixed-term deposits in that it does not invest with a single bank, but with a variety of financial service providers.
As a rule, accruals as at the reporting date are invoiced within one month and subsequently monitored as part of trade receivables management.
With the exception of Swiss as the main client, credit risk is distributed over a broad clientele. Trade receivables include an amount of CHF 18.8 million due from Swiss (2018: CHF 21.8 million) (see note 14, Trade receivables). In the period between the reporting date and the preparation of the 2019 annual report, Swiss paid the outstanding amount arising from flight operations charges as at 31 December 2019 in full.
The exposure to credit risk primarily depends on the individual characteristics of each client. Risk assessments include a creditworthiness check, taking account of the client’s financial circumstances, past experience and other factors. The maturity structure of trade receivables is normally examined on a weekly basis. Where necessary, terms of payment aimed at minimising risk (normally proforma invoicing) are applied, or security is requested (mainly in the form of bank guarantees).
The financial assets of the Airport of Zurich Noise Fund are invested by professional financial institutions, partly on the basis of a conservative, money market-oriented investment strategy (mainly in fixed-rate debt instruments) and partly in a mixed investment fund. Here, priority is given to preservation of value and flexibility with respect to early redemption of investments. The direct use of derivative financial instruments is not permitted. The investment horizon is based on the expected obligation to make payments from the Airport of Zurich Noise Fund and averages around four years. For bonds held directly, the minimum acceptable rating is BBB+ (Standard & Poor’s) or Baa1 (Moody’s), or an equivalent rating from another recognised rating agency (see note 20, Airport of Zurich Noise Fund).
The maximum exposure to credit risk corresponds to the carrying amounts of the individual financial assets. No guarantees or similar commitments exist that could give rise to an increase in the credit exposure above the respective carrying amounts. The maximum exposure to credit risk as at the reporting date was as follows:
(CHF 1,000)
31.12.2019
31.12.2018
Cash equivalents (excluding cash on hand)
132,308
395,659
Current and non-current fixed-term deposits
38,136
186,667
Non-current financial assets of Airport of Zurich Noise Fund
394,428
377,241
Trade receivables, net
112,189
102,024
Current financial assets of Airport of Zurich Noise Fund
17,376
21,967
Other receivables and prepaid expenses
21,794
15,066
Other financial assets
7,792
6,713
Total maximum exposure to credit risk
724,023
1,105,337
ii) Liquidity risk
Liquidity risk refers to the risk that Flughafen Zürich AG may not be able to meet its financial obligations on the due date.
Flughafen Zürich AG monitors liquidity risk via a prudent liquidity management process. Here it observes the principle that it must have sufficient flexibility and room for manoeuvre with respect to the availability of liquid funds at short notice. This means maintaining an adequate reserve of liquid funds, ensuring the availability of sufficient funds for financing purposes by securing adequate credit facilities, and being able to issue financial securities on the capital market. For this purpose, the company uses rolling liquidity planning that is based on expected cash flows and is periodically updated. Treasury is responsible for monitoring liquidity risk. As at the reporting date, Flughafen Zürich AG had the following unused credit facilities at its disposal:
(CHF 1,000)
Duration
31.12.2019
31.12.2018
Operating credit lines (committed credit lines) 1)
31.12.2019
240,000
240,000
Total credit lines
240,000
240,000
Utilisation 2)
–15,904
–60
Total unused credit lines
224,096
239,940
1) The operating credit lines were extended on 18 December 2019 by a total amount of CHF 160.0 million and a six-year term from 1 January 2020 until 31 December 2025.
2) Letter of credit and bank guarantees.
The tables below show the contractual maturities of financial liabilities (including interest payments) held by Flughafen Zürich AG:
(CHF 1,000)
Carrying amount
Contractual cash flows
Due within 1 year
Due within 1 to 5 years
Due in more than 5 years
31 December 2019
Debentures
1,050,354
1,099,625
311,938
426,750
360,938
Liabilities from concession arrangements
26,324
48,458
1,068
5,575
41,815
Lease liabilities
84,582
84,594
6,175
25,271
53,148
Other financial liabilities
149,660
149,660
44,383
105,277
0
Trade payables
56,790
56,790
56,790
0
0
Other current liabilities and accruals
88,819
88,819
88,819
0
0
Total non-derivative financial liabilities
1,456,529
1,527,946
509,172
562,873
455,901
Cross currency swap
4,843
5,640
997
4,643
0
Total derivative financial liabilities
4,843
5,640
997
4,643
0
Total
1,461,372
1,533,586
510,169
567,516
455,901
(CHF 1,000)
Carrying amount
Contractual cash flows
Due within 1 year
Due within 1 to 5 years
Due in more than 5 years
31 December 2018
Debentures
1,088,448
1,149,608
49,983
736,500
363,125
Liabilities from concession arrangements
26,149
52,932
438
5,281
47,213
Lease liabilities
3,010
3,094
1,887
1,207
0
Other financial liabilities
10,520
10,520
2,660
7,860
0
Trade payables
53,625
53,625
53,625
0
0
Other current liabilities and accruals
62,219
62,219
62,219
0
0
Total non-derivative financial liabilities
1,243,971
1,331,998
170,812
750,848
410,338
Cross currency swap
5,624
5,624
1,406
4,218
0
Total derivative financial liabilities
5,624
5,624
1,406
4,218
0
Total
1,249,595
1,337,622
172,218
755,066
410,338
iii) Market risk
Market risk refers to the risk that changes in market prices such as exchange rates and interest rates could have an impact on the finance result or the value of the financial instruments.
The objective of market risk management is to monitor and control such risks in order to ensure that they do not exceed a specified limit.
iiia) Currency risk
The functional currency of the consolidated financial statements of Flughafen Zürich AG is the Swiss franc (CHF). The group is exposed to foreign currency exchange movements primarily in respect of the Brazilian real (BRL), the Chilean peso (CLP), the US dollar (USD), the euro (EUR) and the Malaysian ringgit (MYR).
An appreciation or depreciation of the Swiss franc by 5% against the relevant currencies as at 31 December 2019 would have increased or reduced equity or profit by the amounts below. This analysis assumes that all other variables - in particular interest rates - remain unchanged.
Appreciation of CHF (plus 5%)
Depreciation of CHF (minus 5%)
(CHF 1,000)
Equity
Profit
Equity
Profit
BRL
–3,267
0
3,267
0
CLP
–872
0
872
0
MYR
–11
0
11
0
USD
0
–280
0
280
EUR
0
–523
0
523
31 December 2019
–4,150
–803
4,150
803
BRL
–3,549
0
3,549
0
CLP
–921
0
921
0
USD
0
–299
0
299
EUR
0
–41
0
41
31 December 2018
–4,470
–340
4,470
340
iiib) Interest rate risk
Interest rate risk can be divided into an interest-related cash flow risk, i.e. the risk that future interest payments could change due to fluctuations in the market interest rate, and an interest-related risk of a change in fair value, i.e. the risk that the fair value of a financial instrument could change due to fluctuations in the market interest rate.
Preference is normally given to external financing denominated in the functional currency, the Swiss franc, and subject to fixed interest rates.
All non-current financing transactions have been concluded at a fixed interest rate. The interest rate risk on short-term variable advances is hedged on a case-by-case basis using interest rate swaps.
The financial assets of the Airport of Zurich Noise Fund are primarily invested in fixed-rate debt instruments and a mixed investment fund. The direct use of derivative financial instruments is not permitted in this context.
As at the reporting date, Flughafen Zürich AG’s interest rate profile was as follows (interest-bearing financial instruments):
(CHF 1,000)
31.12.2019
31.12.2018
Current and non-current fixed-term deposits
38,136
186,667
Fixed-interest financial assets of Airport of Zurich Noise Fund
307,305
303,812
Fixed-interest financial instruments (assets)
345,441
490,479
Cash and cash equivalents
114,336
361,630
Cash and cash equivalents of Airport of Zurich Noise Fund
18,092
34,242
Variable-interest financial instruments (assets)
132,428
395,872
Total interest-bearing assets
477,869
886,351
Current and non-current debentures
–1,050,354
–1,088,448
Current and non-current lease liabilities
–84,582
–3,010
Current and non-current other financial instruments
–149,660
–10,520
Fixed interest financial instruments (liabilities)
–1,284,596
–1,101,978
Total interest-bearing liabilities
–1,284,596
–1,101,978
The table below shows the sensitivity analysis for variable and fixed-rate financial instruments with a deviation of 50 basis points:
Increase by 50 bp
Decrease by 50 bp
(CHF 1,000)
Equity
Profit
Equity
Profit
Variable-interest financial instruments
0
560
0
–560
Fixed-interest financial instruments
–4,664
0
4,664
0
31 December 2019
–4,664
560
4,664
–560
Variable-interest financial instruments
0
1,574
0
–1,574
Fixed-interest financial instruments
–5,828
0
5,828
0
31 December 2018
–5,828
1,574
5,828
–1,574
B) CATEGORIES OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
The following tables show the carrying amounts of all financial instruments by category both for the reporting period and for the previous year:
(CHF 1,000)
31.12.2019
31.12.2018
Current and non-current financial assets of Airport of Zurich Noise Fund (bonds)
307,305
303,812
Total financial assets carried at amortised cost
307,305
303,812
Current and non-current financial assets of Airport of Zurich Noise Fund (mixed investment fund)
104,499
95,396
Total financial assets measured at fair value
104,499
95,396
Cash (excl. cash on hand) and cash equivalents, collateral and short-term monetary investments
132,308
395,659
Current and non-current fixed-term deposits
38,136
186,667
Trade receivables, net
112,189
102,024
Other receivables and prepaid expenses
21,794
15,066
Other financial assets
7,792
6,713
Total cash and cash equivalents, fixed-term deposits, receivables and other financial assets
312,219
706,129
Debentures
–1,050,354
–1,088,448
Total financial liabilities carried at amortised cost
–1,050,354
–1,088,448
Other current liabilities, accruals and deferrals (cross currency swap)
–4,843
–5,624
Total financial liabilities measured at fair value
–4,843
–5,624
Liabilities from concession arrangements
–26,324
–26,149
Lease liabilities
–84,582
–3,010
Other financial liabilities
–149,660
–10,520
Trade payables, net
–56,790
–53,625
Other current liabilities, accruals and deferrals (excluding derivatives and non-financial instruments)
–88,819
–62,219
Total other financial liabilities
–406,175
–155,523
c) Fair values
The carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalents, fixed-term deposits, receivables, other financial assets and other financial liabilities are a reasonable approximation of their fair values.
Financial assets in the Airport of Zurich Noise Fund: The fair value of the bonds corresponds to the market price of the securities at the reporting date (level 1). The fair value of the mixed investment fund is the unadjusted net asset value, as the units may be redeemed at that value as at the reporting date (level 2).
Financial liabilities: The fair value of the debentures corresponds to the market price (level 1).
Derivative financial instruments: The fair value of the cross-currency swap is determined using a fair value model (level 2). The key inputs are foreign exchange rates and interest rates observable in the market. Unobservable inputs are not significant to the measurement.
(CHF 1,000)
31.12.2019
31.12.2018
Carrying amount
Fair value
Carrying amount
Fair value
Financial assets of Airport of Zurich Noise Fund (bonds)
307,305
313,155
303,812
307,599
Total financial assets
307,305
313,155
303,812
307,599
Debentures
–1,050,354
–1,093,000
–1,088,448
–1,121,597
Total financial liabilities
–1,050,354
–1,093,000
–1,088,448
–1,121,597
d) Fair value hierarchy of financial instruments
Financial instruments recognised or disclosed at fair value are categorised according to the following hierarchy, reflecting the significance of the inputs used to measure fair value:
Level 1 – Quoted market prices
The inputs used to measure the assets or liabilities are quoted, unadjusted market prices determined in active markets for identical assets or liabilities at the measurement date.
Level 2 – Measurement based on observable inputs
The assets or liabilities are measured on the basis of inputs (other than the quoted prices included within level 1) that are directly or indirectly observable for the asset or liability.
Level 3 – Measurement based on unobservable inputs
The inputs for these assets or liabilities are not observable.
(CHF 1,000)
31.12.2019
31.12.2018
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Mixed investment fund of the Airport of Zurich Noise Fund at fair value
104,499
95,396
Cross currency swap
–4,843
–5,624
e) Capital management
With respect to capital management, Flughafen Zürich AG pays particular attention to ensuring the continuation of the group’s activities, achieving an acceptable dividend for shareholders and optimising the balance sheet structure, particularly in periods of major investment activity, taking account of the cost of capital. In order to achieve these objectives, Flughafen Zürich AG can adjust the amount of the dividend payment or repay capital to shareholders.
Flughafen Zürich AG constantly monitors the following key financial data: equity ratio, debt ratio and interest coverage. Here it is especially important to ensure that the ratio of debt to equity is in line with the budgetable cash flows and investments, and tends towards the conservative side. In this way a high degree of entrepreneurial flexibility can be assured at all times, including when unforeseeable events occur.
The necessary quantity of treasury shares may be held for the purpose of employee and bonus programmes. It is not permitted to accumulate several years’ worth of treasury shares for the purpose of bonus programmes, however. Neither is it permitted to hold treasury shares to use as payment for acquisitions (exchange of shares in the event of a takeover) or for the purpose of speculating on higher selling prices. Accumulated treasury shares may in no case exceed 10% of all shares issued.
24.2 CAPITAL COMMITMENTS
As at the reporting date, capital commitments for various buildings and engineering structures amounted to around CHF 330 million in total. The most significant capital commitments involved the refurbishment and expansion of the baggage sorting system (CHF 155 million), the expansion of landside passenger areas (CHF 55 million), the creation of stands in Zone West (CHF 20 million) and the renovation of runway 28/10 (CHF 10 million). In addition, the company’s share of capital commitments for THE CIRCLE amount to approximately CHF 210 million.
24.3 CONTINGENT LIABILITIES
A number of legal proceedings and claims against Flughafen Zürich AG in the context of its normal business activities are still pending. The company does not expect the amounts required to settle these lawsuits and claims to have a significantly negative impact on the consolidated financial statements and cash flow of Flughafen Zürich AG.
Depending on future and final-instance legal judgements, especially with respect to the southern approaches, in particular the new noise-related liabilities, but also the old ones, may in future be subject to substantial adjustments, which would also require adjustments to the noise-related costs recognised as assets and liabilities in the balance sheet. At the present time, it is not possible to reliably estimate the total costs to capitalise as an intangible asset from the right of formal expropriation, the resulting amortisation or the corresponding provision.
As part of its involvement in the expansion and operation of Confins International Airport in Belo Horizonte, Flughafen Zürich AG provides a guarantee as security for local debt financing, which is made available by the Brazilian development bank Banco Nacional de Desenvolvimento Econômico e Social (BNDES). As at the reporting date, the amount arising from this guarantee was CHF 25.0 million (31 December 2018: CHF 26.5 million). Moreover, the company has entered into a counterbond for a performance bond which the operator, Concessionária do Aeroporto Internacional de Confins S.A., had to submit to Brazil’s National Civil Aviation Authority (ANAC). As at the reporting date, the amount arising from the counterbond was CHF 10.6 million (31 December 2018: CHF 10.6 million).
As part of its involvement in the expansion and operation of the airport in Florianópolis, Flughafen Zürich AG provides a guarantee as security for local debt financing, which is made available by the Brazilian development bank Banco Nacional de Desenvolvimento Econômico e Social (BNDES). As at the reporting date, the amount arising from this guarantee was CHF 90.7 million (31 December 2018: CHF 0.0 million). Moreover, Flughafen Zürich AG has entered into a counterbond for a performance bond which the operator, Concessionária do Aeroporto Internacional de Florianópolis S.A., had to submit to Brazil’s National Civil Aviation Authority (ANAC). As at the reporting date, the amount arising from the counterbond was CHF 15.1 million (31 December 2018: CHF 28.8 million).
As part of the concession arrangements for the airports in Antofagasta and Iquique, the operators have entered into performance bonds for the Chilean Ministry of Public Works (Ministerio de Obras Públicas). As at the reporting date, the total amount arising from these performance bonds was CHF 5.7 million (31 December 2018: CHF 7.0 million).
For the tender regarding the airport in Jewar (Noida), New Delhi, Flughafen Zürich AG entered into a tender bond for the project company of the local Indian authority (Noida International Airport Limited). As at the reporting date, the amount arising from this tender bond was CHF 13.6 million.
As part of an invitation to tender for airport concessions conducted by the Airports Authority of India, Flughafen Zürich AG entered into tender bonds. As at the reporting date, the total amount arising from the tender bonds was CHF 2.2 million.
Flughafen Zürich AG and Swiss Life AG are jointly and severally liable in respect of third parties for the liabilities of the co-ownership structure THE CIRCLE and the ordinary partnership THE CIRCLE.
24.4 Related parties
Related parties are:
- Canton of Zurich
- Members of the Board of Directors
- Members of the Management Board
- Associates
-
BVK Employee Pension Fund of the Canton of Zurich
a) Transactions with related parties
In the reporting period, the Canton of Zurich police force was paid CHF 99.3 million (2018: CHF 98.0 million) by Flughafen Zürich AG in accordance with the applicable service level agreement. In this context, accrued expenses amounting to CHF 7.8 million at the reporting date (2018: CHF 5.8 million) were included in “Other current liabilities, accruals and deferrals”.
In financial year 2019, consulting revenue from operations and management agreements amounted to CHF 3.0 million (2018: CHF 2.7 million) for the airport in Belo Horizonte and to CHF 3.6 million (2018: CHF 3.3 million) for the Chilean airports.
In the reporting period, Flughafen Zürich AG paid employer contributions amounting to CHF 18.0 million (2018: CHF 17.2 million) to the BVK Employee Pension Fund of the Canton of Zurich for employee benefits (see note 22, Employee Benefits). As at the reporting date, CHF 2.6 million (2018: CHF 2.4 million) was still included in “Other current liabilities, accruals and deferrals”.
b) Shares held by related parties
As at the reporting date, members of the Board of Directors and related parties held the following number of shares:
Number of shares as at
Number of shares as at
Name
Function
31.12.2019
31.12.2018
Andreas Schmid
Chairman
11,115
15
Vincent Albers
Member
2,517
2,217
Guglielmo L. Brentel
Member
309
309
Josef Felder
Member; Chairman Audit & Finance Committee
25,100
25,100
Stephan Gemkow
Member; Chairman International Business Committee
100
100
Corine Mauch
Member
0
0
Eveline Saupper
Vice Chairwoman; Chairwoman Nomination & Compensation Committee
675
675
Carmen Walker Späh
Member; Chairwoman Public Affairs Committee
5
5
Total
39,821
28,421
As at the reporting date, members of the Management Board and related parties held the following number of shares:
Number of shares as at
Number of shares as at
Name
31.12.2019
31.12.2018
Stephan Widrig
5,572
4,650
Lukas Brosi
1,043
698
Stefan Gross
860
515
Daniel Scheifele
877
532
Stefan Tschudin
418
130
Total
8,770
6,525
Neither members of the Board of Directors nor the Management Board held options on the company’s shares at the reporting date.
C) REMUNERATION FOR KEY MANAGEMENT PERSONNEL
Remuneration for the members of the Board of Directors and Management Board comprises the following:
(CHF 1,000)
2019
2018
Short-term employee benefits
3,991
3,797
Post-employment benefits
543
553
Share-based payments
333
390
Total
4,867
4,740
24.5 Composition of the group
As at the reporting date, the group comprised the following companies:
Company
Domicile
Share capital
Stake held in %
Flughafen Zürich AG
Kloten
CHF 307,018,750
Parent company
Zurich Airport International AG
Kloten
CHF 100,000
100.0
Zurich Airport International Asia Sdn. Bhd.
Kuala Lumpur
MYR 1.0 million
100.0
Zurich Airport Latin America Ltda.
Rio de Janeiro
BRL 578 million
100.0
Aeroportos do Sudeste do Brasil S.A.
Vitória
BRL 571 million
100.0
Concessionária do Aeroporto Internacional de Florianópolis S.A.
Florianópolis
BRL 304 million
100.0
A-port S.A.
Santiago de Chile
CLP 16,138 million
100.0
Sociedad Concesionaria Antofagasta S.A.
Santiago de Chile
CLP 3,600 million
100.0
Sociedad Concesionaria Iquique S.A.
Santiago de Chile
CLP 600 million
100.0
Sociedad Concesionaria Aeropuerto Diego Aracena S.A.
Santiago de Chile
CLP 10,700 million
100.0
A-port Operaciones S.A.
Santiago de Chile
CLP 1,352 million
99.0
A-port Operaciones Colombia S.A.
Bogotá
COP 100 million
99.0
Unique IDC S.A. de C.V.
Tegucigalpa
HNL 0.2 million
99.0
In addition, the following associates are included by applying the equity method:
Company
Domicile
Share capital
Stake held in %
Sociedade de Participação do Aeroporto de Confins S.A.
Belo Horizonte
BRL 474 million
25.0
Concessionária do Aeroporto Internacional de Confins S.A.
Belo Horizonte
BRL 907 million
12.8
Administradora Unique IDC C.A.
Porlamar
VEB 25 million
49.5
Aeropuertos Asociados de Venezuela C.A.
Porlamar
VEB 10 million
49.5
24.6 NOTES ON THE LICENCE TO OPERATE ZURICH AIRPORT
The Swiss Federal Department of the Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications (DETEC) awarded Flughafen Zürich AG the licence to operate Zurich Airport for 50 years from 1 June 2001 to 31 May 2051.
The licence encompasses the operation of an airport in accordance with the provisions of the ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organisation) governing domestic, international and intercontinental civil aviation services. Flughafen Zürich AG is authorised and obliged to operate Zurich Airport for the entire period cited in the operating licence, and to provide the necessary infrastructure for this purpose. To accomplish this, it is entitled to collect charges from all users of the airport. Furthermore, Flughafen Zürich AG is authorised to assign specific rights and obligations arising from the operating licence to third parties. Insofar as they concern activities relating to airport operations such as aircraft handling, passenger handling, baggage sorting and handling, mail and freight handling, these rights and obligations shall be subject to the provisions of public law. Flughafen Zürich AG regulates rights and obligations it has assigned to third parties in the form of binding entitlements (concessions).
The concessionaire is obliged to grant access to the airport to all aircraft that are licensed to provide domestic and international flights. The volume of flight traffic and handling of licensed aircraft are governed by the regulations laid down in the Sectoral Aviation Infrastructure Plan (SAIP) and the provisions of the operating regulations. The concessionaire is obliged to implement all measures relating to regulations governing the use of German airspace for landings at, and take-offs from, Zurich Airport without delay, and to submit the necessary applications for approval by the authorities in good time. The concessionaire is empowered and obliged to enforce sound insulation measures and to implement them where they are not contested. The provision whereby the concessionaire shall meet all obligations to which it is bound through clauses of the civil aviation treaty between Germany and Switzerland without entitlement to compensation was declared null and void in response to an objection lodged by Flughafen Zürich AG.
As part of the bilateral agreements that came into effect on 1 June 2002, the EU ground handling directive (Council Directive 96/67/EC of 15 October 1996 on access to the groundhandling market at Community airports) also became applicable to Switzerland. The principles governing the granting of rights to carry out ground handling activities are defined in the operating regulations for Flughafen Zürich AG dated 30 June 2011. The licences for ground handling operations in areas in which the number of admissible service providers may be limited were re-awarded on the basis of tender procedures on 1 December 2018 for the period to the end of November 2025.
24.7 CONCESSIONS FOR THE OPERATION OF FOREIGN AIRPORTS
As at the reporting date, Flughafen Zürich AG was responsible, via its subsidiaries, for the operation and expansion of the following foreign airports:
Brazil
In 2017, in a public tender conducted by the Brazilian government as part of an airport privatisation programme, Flughafen Zürich AG was awarded the concession for the operation and expansion of Hercílio Luz International Airport (IATA: FLN) in Florianópolis in the south of Brazil. The airport has a catchment area of 1.1 million people and is located in Santa Catarina, a popular holiday destination for both local and international travellers. In 2019, traffic volumes reached 3.9 million passengers. Concession fees totalling BRL 241.5 million are payable as consideration for the right to operate the airport. A portion of the concession charge was paid on the day that the concession arrangement was signed (BRL 83.3 million or CHF 24.7 million). Further minimum concession payments totalling BRL 158.2 million (CHF 38.1 million) are due over the 30-year term of the concession. Following the signing of the concession arrangement in the summer of 2017, the wholly-owned subsidiary Concessionaria do Aeroporto Internacional de Florianópolis S.A., as sole holder of the concession, took over flight operations from the state-owned operator Infraero on 3 January 2018. In October 2019, the mandatory infrastructure measures provided for in the concession totalling approximately BRL 550 million (approximately CHF 132 million) were completed and a new terminal was opened.
On 15 March 2019, in a public tender conducted by the Brazilian government, Flughafen Zürich AG was awarded concessions for the operation and expansion of the airports in Vitória (IATA: VIX) and Macaé (IATA: MEA) in the southeast of Brazil. In 2019, traffic volumes at the two airports reached around 3.2 million passengers. A fixed concession fee totalling BRL 437.0 million (CHF 105.0 million), payable as consideration for the right to operate the airports for a period of 30 years, fell due when the concession arrangement was signed in September 2019. As of the sixth year of operations, variable, revenue-based concession payments will also be due. Following the signing of the concession arrangement, the wholly-owned subsidiary Aeroportos do Sudeste do Brasil S.A., as sole holder of the concession, took over flight operations in Macaé on 20 December 2019 and in Vitória on 3 January 2020.
Chile
Since 2011, Sociedad Concesionaria Aeropuerto de Antofagasta S.A., a wholly-owned subsidiary of A-port Chile S.A., has held the concession for the expansion and operation of Andrés Sabella International Airport (IATA: ANF) in Antofagasta in the north of Chile. The airport is located approximately 25 kilometres north of the city of Antofagasta. The concession has a term that is dependent upon traffic volumes and ends 36 months after the date on which 75% of the maximum aeronautical revenues are generated, but at the latest after 15 years. It is currently expected to end in 2025. No notable infrastructure investments are anticipated in the period through to the end of the concession.
In 2017, Sociedad Concesionaria Aeropuerto Diego Aracena S.A., a wholly-owned subsidiary of A-port S.A., acquired the new concession for the operation and expansion of Diego Aracena International Airport (IATA: IQQ) in Iquique in the north of Chile. The airport is located around 40 kilometres south west of the city of Iquique in the Tarapacá region. With 1.5 million passengers a year, it is the country’s fifth-largest airport. The concession commenced in April 2018 and has a variable term that is dependent upon traffic volumes and ranges from an anticipated 18 years up to a possible maximum of 25 years. As part of the concession arrangement, the company has undertaken to invest in measures to upgrade and extend the airport infrastructure, in particular to extend the existing terminal. The company is currently expecting investments in airport infrastructure of approximately USD 40 million (around CHF 39 million) during the first four years.
India
In this context, the wholly-owned subsidiary Yamuna International Airport Private Limited based in New Delhi was established in early 2020. The investments associated with the first phase of construction (construction time of around four years) amount to approximately CHF 650 million. Once the first phase of construction is in operation, the new airport will have the capacity to handle 12 million passengers a year. In addition to the necessary investments for the construction and operation of the airport, a fixed passenger fee will be payable to the state authority as of the sixth year of operations.
24.8 EVENTS AFTER THE REPORTING DATE
The Board of Directors authorised the 2019 consolidated financial statements for issue on 5 March 2020. These also have to be approved by the General Meeting of Shareholders.
On 12 February 2020, Flughafen Zürich AG issued a 15-year debenture of CHF 400 million carrying a coupon of 0.20%. This will be used to refinance property purchases and as working capital.
The coronavirus, which is currently spreading, will have a negative effect on the earnings of Flughafen Zürich AG. It is not yet possible to estimate the financial impact any more closely.