Notes to the consolidated financial statements
I Accounting policies
General remarks
The consolidated financial statements of the Zurich Airport Group – comprising Flughafen Zürich AG and its subsidiaries – have been 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 Zurich Noise Fund, derivative financial instruments, associates and defined benefit obligations.
The single-entity financial statements of the Group companies, which have been prepared in accordance with uniform accounting policies, have been used as the basis for consolidation. The reporting date for all Group companies is 31 December. The consolidated financial statements are prepared in Swiss francs (CHF). Unless indicated otherwise, amounts are stated in millions of Swiss francs (CHF million). Due to the rules on rounding up or down, individual figures may not add up to precisely the sum total stated. This may also mean that individual amounts round to zero.
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of the financial statements subsequently deviate from the actual circumstances, the estimates and assumptions originally made are adjusted prospectively in the financial year in which the circumstances changed.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 as well as in note 8, Property, plant and equipment and note 11, Intangible assets in the notes to the consolidated financial statements.
New and amended accounting policies
Changes in accounting policies
The company adopted the following relevant amendments to International Financial Reporting Standards which are mandatory for the first time for the financial year beginning 1 January 2022:
- Amendments to IAS 16 Property, Plant and Equipment: Proceeds before Intended Use
- Amendments to IAS 37 Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets: Onerous Contracts – Cost of Fulfilling a Contract
- Amendments to IFRS 1 First-time Adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards: Subsidiary as a First-time Adopter
- Amendments to IFRS 3 Business Combinations: Reference to the Conceptual Framework
- Amendments to IFRS 9 Financial Instruments: Fees in the ‘10 per cent' Test for Derecognition of Financial Liabilities
The above-mentioned amendments did not have a significant impact on the financial position, results of operations or cash flows of the Zurich Airport Group for financial year 2022.
Introduction of new standards in 2023 and later
The following new or amended standards and interpretations issued by the end of 2022 and relevant to the company are not yet effective and were not applied early in these consolidated financial statements.
Amendments to standards and interpretations
Effective date
Planned application by the Zurich Airport Group
Amendments to IAS 1 and IFRS Practice Statement 2: Disclosure of Accounting Policies
*
1 January 2023
Financial year 2023
Amendments to IAS 8: Definition of Accounting Estimates
*
1 January 2023
Financial year 2023
Amendments to IAS 12: Deferred Tax related to Assets and Liabilities arising from a Single Transaction
*
1 January 2023
Financial year 2023
Amendments to IAS 1: Classification of Liabilities as Current or Non-current
*
1 January 2024
Financial year 2024
Amendments to IFRS 16: Lease Liability in a Sale and Leaseback
*
1 January 2024
Financial year 2024
* No, or no significant, impact is expected on the consolidated financial statements of the Zurich Airport Group.
Changes in the consolidated Group
There were no changes in the consolidated Group in financial year 2022.
Summary of significant accounting policies
Scope and methods of consolidation
The consolidated financial statements of the Zurich Airport Group 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 intragroup transactions and all intragroup 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 Group companies that have been prepared in foreign currency are translated into Swiss francs (functional currency of the consolidated financial statements of the Zurich Airport Group) 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, 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 the Zurich Airport Group when the customer obtains control of a service.
Revenue in the “Aviation” segment primarily comprises passenger and landing charges as well as noise 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. 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. If lessees are granted significant lease incentives (e.g. rent-free periods or other rent concessions), the equivalent value of the incentive is recognised on a straight-line basis over the original or remaining lease term as an adjustment to the rental income. Any lease credit losses suffered as a consequence of lockdowns in connection with the Covid pandemic were recognised in profit or loss when incurred.
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 the Zurich Airport Group. 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 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 category of property, plant and equipment and segment 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 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 “a fonds perdu” grants and do not have to be repaid.
Leases as lessee
At inception of a contract, the Zurich Airport Group 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.
The Zurich Airport Group 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.
The Zurich Airport Group 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.
In the case of projects, the costs incurred are billed and allocated to the relevant categories of investment property at the date when the related assets are brought into use. The assets are then depreciated over their useful lives.
The useful life for each category of investment property is as follows:
- Buildings: maximum 40 years
- Engineering structures: maximum 50 years
- Movables: 4 to 20 years
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 for Zurich Airport, 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
If concession agreements for the operation of foreign airports fall within the scope of IFRIC 12, they are generally accounted for under the intangible asset model (IFRIC 12.17). In this case, the concessionaire 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 agreements 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 Zurich Airport 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 Flughafen Zürich AG’s share 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 Zurich Noise Fund
In accordance with the principles in IFRS 9, the financial assets of the Airport 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 of assets
The carrying amounts of non-current non-financial assets (excluding deferred taxes) are assessed once a year for indications of impairment. If such indications exist, impairment tests are performed for cash-generating units (CGU) and non-financial assets in accordance with IAS 36.
An impairment exists if the carrying amount of a CGU or a non-financial asset exceeds its recoverable amount (higher of fair value less costs of disposal and value in use).
Value in use is calculated using the discounted cash flow (DCF) method, where the discount rate applied is a post-tax rate that reflects the risks associated with the relevant 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 are recognised in profit or loss. They may be reversed if there are indications that the impairment loss has decreased or no longer exists and if there has been a change in the estimates used to determine recoverable amount.
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 Annual General Meeting.
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 note 11, 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 the Zurich Airport Group 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 finance costs; 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 liability (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 liability or asset). However, the asset recognised as a result of any surplus is limited to the present value of economic benefits 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 temporary differences in the following cases: the initial recognition of goodwill, the initial recognition of an asset or a liability in a transaction that affects 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 of Flughafen Zürich AG has been identified as chief operating decision-maker of the Zurich Airport Group 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 consolidated 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 slightly more than 5200 were still pending at the end of 2022. Around 560 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. In 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. 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.
As at the reporting date, the estimated costs for formal expropriations remained unchanged at CHF 330.0 million, of which CHF 86.6 million had already been paid out at that date. As at 31 December 2022, a provision was recognised for the outstanding costs of CHF 243.4 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 at Zurich Airport, 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.
With respect to sound insulation and resident protection measures, the Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA) 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, in addition to the costs previously estimated for sound insulation and resident protection.
As at the reporting date, the estimated costs for sound insulation and resident protection measures remained unchanged at CHF 400.0 million, of which CHF 300.4 million had already been paid out at that date. As at 31 December 2022, a provision was recognised for the outstanding costs of CHF 99.6 million (see note 19, Provision for formal expropriations plus sound insulation and resident protection).
Impairment of assets in accordance with IAS 36
The coronavirus pandemic and its repercussions caused a fall in demand for air travel and the related commercial activities, which also impacted on the Zurich Airport Group. As these circumstances continue to indicate that the carrying amount of assets could be impaired, the company performs an impairment test for its cash-generating units (CGUs) and non-financial assets in accordance with IAS 36.
An impairment exists if the carrying amount of a CGU or a non-financial asset exceeds its recoverable amount (higher of fair value less costs of disposal and value in use).
Value in use is calculated using the discounted cash flow (DCF) method. In doing so, cash flows are derived for the CGU Zurich Airport site from the long-term budget approved for the period to 2032 and in the case of investments in airport operator projects from the budget over the remaining terms (4 to 27 years) of the concession agreements. These budgets and forecasts are based on past experience and expected market trends and take into account the effects of the pandemic. The key assumptions used to determine recoverable amount for the different CGUs and non-financial assets are disclosed and explained in further detail below:
Zurich Airport site
Recoverable amount was determined for the CGU Zurich Airport site as at 31 December 2022 based on a value in use calculation using cash flow forecasts derived from the long-term budget approved for the period to 2032. The post-tax discount rate (WACC) applied to the cash flow forecasts was 5.5% (previous year: 5.5%) and the cash flows were extrapolated beyond the forecast period using a real growth rate of 0.5% (previous year: 0.5%).
Investments in airport operator projects
Recoverable amount was determined for investments in airport operator projects as at 31 December 2022 based on value in use calculations using cash flow forecasts from the financial budgets for the remaining terms of the contractually agreed concessions (4 to 27 years). The country-specific WACC applied to the cash flow forecasts ranged from 9.0% to 10.5% (previous year: 9.0% to 10.3%).
Result
As at 31 December 2022, an impairment loss of CHF 4.3 million was required to be recognised for the airport operator project in Iquique (Chile) as a result of the impairment test on the CGUs and non-financial assets (see note 11, Intangible assets). This impairment loss was recognised through profit or loss in the reporting period. No impairment arose on the other assets.
Accounting treatment of agreements for airport operator projects
In the case of agreements where the airport premises can be used both for the provision of regulated services and for the provision of non-regulated services, management must assess whether IFRIC 12 is applicable. If the unregulated business activities make a significant contribution to revenue, IFRIC 12 does not apply to that agreement. Instead, agreed payments for the use of the airport premises are recognised and measured as leases in accordance with IFRS 16 and revenue from the use of the airport premises is recognised and measured in accordance with IFRS 15. These assessments involve judgements by management.
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
International
Eliminations
Consolidated
2022
Revenue from contract with customers (IFRS 15)
490.9
0.0
157.8
80.6
0.0
729.4
Other revenue (non IFRS 15)
0.2
0.0
294.0
0.0
0.0
294.2
Total revenue from third parties
491.1
0.0
451.8
80.6
0.0
1,023.5
Inter-segment revenue
27.9
0.0
84.6
0.0
–112.5
0.0
Total revenue
519.1
0.0
536.4
80.6
–112.5
1,023.5
Personnel expenses
–76.0
–1.8
–107.6
–11.6
0.0
–196.9
Other operating expenses
–157.3
4.0
–77.2
–40.5
–0.0
–271.1
Inter-segment operating expenses
–83.8
–0.9
–26.7
–1.2
112.5
0.0
Segment result (EBITDA)
202.0
1.4
324.8
27.3
–0.0
555.6
Depreciation and amortisation
–148.4
–3.4
–128.9
–14.6
0.0
–295.3
Segment result (EBIT)
53.6
–2.1
195.9
12.8
–0.0
260.2
Finance result
–20.0
Share of result of associates
–0.0
Income tax expense
–33.3
Consolidated result
207.0
Invested capital as at 31 December 2022
1,971.5
101.4
1,950.1
599.2
4,622.2
Non-interest-bearing non-current liabilities 1)
355.0
Non-interest-bearing current liabilities 2)
238.6
Total assets as at 31 December 2022
5,215.8
ROIC (in %)
2.3
–1.6
8.2
2.1
4.7
Capital expenditure
150.3
0.1
51.2
131.7
333.4
Investments in associates
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
1) Non-interest-bearing non-current liabilities include non-current provisions for formal expropriations plus sound insulation and resident protection, deferred tax liabilities and employee benefit obligations.
2) Non-interest-bearing current liabilities include current provisions for formal expropriations plus sound insulation and resident protection, current tax liabilities, trade payables and other current liabilities plus accruals and deferrals.
In the “International” segment, “Depreciation and amortisation” includes an impairment loss of CHF 4.3 million that arose on investments in international airport operator projects as a result of impairment calculations (see also note 11, Intangible assets).
(CHF million)
Aviation
PRM
User fees
Air security 4)
Access fees 4)
Eliminations
Total regulated business
2022
Revenue from contract with customers (IFRS 15)
297.4
11.2
53.3
128.2
0.9
0.0
490.9
Other revenue (non IFRS 15)
0.2
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.2
Revenue from third parties
297.6
11.2
53.3
128.2
0.9
0.0
491.1
Inter-segment revenue
28.5
0.0
5.8
11.9
2.8
–21.1
27.9
Total revenue
326.2
11.2
59.1
140.1
3.6
–21.1
519.1
Personnel expenses
–62.3
–0.0
–9.9
–2.7
–1.0
0.0
–76.0
Other operating expenses
–39.6
–10.3
–5.4
–58.4
–43.7
0.0
–157.3
Inter-segment operating expenses
–59.4
–1.1
–16.6
–13.9
–13.9
21.1
–83.8
EBITDA
164.9
–0.2
27.2
65.0
–54.9
0.0
202.0
Depreciation and amortisation
–107.7
–0.2
–31.6
–5.7
–3.2
0.0
–148.4
EBIT
57.2
–0.3
–4.4
59.3
–58.1
0.0
53.6
Invested capital as at 31 December 2022
1,343.4
10.8
450.5
138.8
28.0
1,971.5
ROIC (in %)
3.5
–2.8
–0.8
37.7
–183.6
2.3
Operating assets pursuant to Ordinance on Airport Charges (OAC) 3)
1,160.6
3.0
415.8
57.0
20.2
1,656.6
ROIC (in %) pursuant to OAC
4.8
–8.3
–0.9
76.9
–232.4
3.3
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 OAC, the shortfall in the “Access fees” segment can be charged to the “Air security” segment. Taking the shortfall into account, the ROIC pursuant to the OAC for the “Air security” segment amounts to 1.2%.
The following table shows the reportable segments in the previous year:
(CHF million)
Regulated business
Noise
Non-regulated business
International
Eliminations
Consolidated
2021
Revenue from contract with customers (IFRS 15)
240.4
0.0
109.0
55.4
0.0
404.8
Other revenue (non IFRS 15)
0.2
0.0
275.0
0.0
0.0
275.2
Total revenue from third parties
240.6
0.0
384.0
55.4
0.0
680.0
Inter-segment revenue
22.8
0.0
66.8
0.0
–89.6
0.0
Total revenue
263.4
0.0
450.8
55.4
–89.6
680.0
Personnel expenses
–61.2
–1.7
–97.9
–10.5
0.0
–171.3
Other operating expenses
–128.6
–0.9
–52.7
–27.3
0.0
–209.5
Inter-segment operating expenses
–70.2
–0.8
–18.6
0.0
89.6
0.0
Segment result (EBITDA)
3.5
–3.3
281.5
17.6
0.0
299.2
Depreciation and amortisation
–144.7
–3.6
–124.2
–7.6
0.0
–280.2
Segment result (EBIT)
–141.2
–6.9
157.3
9.9
0.0
19.1
Finance result
–29.1
Share of result of associates
–3.7
Income tax expense
3.6
Consolidated result
–10.1
Invested capital as at 31 December 2021
1,869.6
110.3
1,937.2
384.9
4,302.0
Non-interest-bearing non-current liabilities 1)
449.5
Non-interest-bearing current liabilities 2)
211.7
Total assets as at 31 December 2021
4,963.2
ROIC (in %)
–6.1
–4.9
6.6
2.2
0.4
Capital expenditure
84.2
0.0
97.3
38.1
219.6
Investments in associates
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
1) Non-interest-bearing non-current liabilities include non-current provisions for formal expropriations plus sound insulation and resident protection, deferred tax liabilities and employee benefit obligations.
2) Non-interest-bearing current liabilities include current provisions for formal expropriations plus 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
2021
Revenue from contract with customers (IFRS 15)
149.4
4.6
31.4
54.4
0.6
0.0
240.4
Other revenue (non IFRS 15)
0.2
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.2
Revenue from third parties
149.6
4.6
31.4
54.4
0.6
0.0
240.6
Inter-segment revenue
21.3
0.0
4.6
9.0
2.5
–14.6
22.8
Total revenue
170.9
4.6
36.1
63.4
3.1
–14.6
263.4
Personnel expenses
–51.7
0.0
–6.7
–2.1
–0.7
0.0
–61.2
Other operating expenses
–35.3
–7.1
–4.0
–40.2
–42.0
0.0
–128.6
Inter-segment operating expenses
–50.8
–0.8
–12.7
–8.4
–12.0
14.6
–70.2
EBITDA
33.0
–3.2
12.7
12.6
–51.7
0.0
3.5
Depreciation and amortisation
–105.4
–0.2
–29.1
–6.8
–3.3
0.0
–144.7
EBIT
–72.4
–3.4
–16.4
5.8
–54.9
0.0
–141.2
Invested capital as at 31 December 2021
1,315.2
7.9
407.0
116.2
23.3
1,869.6
ROIC (in %)
–4.4
-36.8
–3.4
4.1
–195.0
–6.1
Operating assets pursuant to Ordinance on Airport Charges (OAC) 3)
1,210.3
3.4
387.1
67.9
20.3
1,689.0
ROIC (in %) pursuant to OAC
–4.6
–87.7
–3.5
7.0
–206.9
–6.6
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 OAC, the shortfall in the “Access fees” segment can be charged to the “Air security” segment. Taking the shortfall into account, the ROIC pursuant to the OAC for the “Air security” segment amounts to -44.5%.
Internal reporting of operating segments to the chief operating decision-maker is carried out in accordance with the Swiss 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).
In all, the Zurich Airport Group 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” (Passengers 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
Since 1 January 2021, revenue from aircraft noise charges has been allocated to the “Aviation” segment as, according to current knowledge, the Airport Zurich Noise Fund (AZNF) has sufficient resources to cover the known costs for sound insulation, resident protection and formal expropriations. The related expenses continue to be presented separately in the “Noise” segment. A liquidity-based statement of all noise-related data is presented in the notes to the consolidated financial statements (see note 20, Airport 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.
→ International
The “International” segment comprises the income and expenses of the subsidiaries and equity investments in the Zurich Airport Group’s international operations. This includes the income and expenses of the consolidated concessionaires in India, Brazil and Chile from the operation of the relevant airport infrastructure and income from consulting services. This segment also captures income and expenses from construction projects as part of concession agreements that are accounted for in accordance with IFRIC 12.
Principles of segment reporting
For internal reporting purposes, each profit center 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 center 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 individual 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 Zurich Airport not relevant to flight operations and in 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 2022, an amount of CHF 13.8 million (previous year: CHF 1.3 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 are allocated to the “Aviation” segment. A breakdown of revenue by charge type can be found in note 2, Revenue.
Additional disclosures
The Zurich Airport Group primarily provides services within Switzerland. In financial year 2022, consulting services totalling CHF 2.5 million (previous year: CHF 5.4 million) were provided abroad, more specifically in Brazil and Chile.
Flughafen Zürich AG’s revenue with Lufthansa Group in the reportable segments amounted to CHF 339.3 million in the past financial year (previous year: CHF 177.2 million).
2 Revenue
(CHF million)
2022
2021
Passenger charges
181.7
77.9
Security charges
126.5
53.5
PRM charges
11.2
4.6
Passenger-related flight operations charges
319.4
136.0
Landing charges
65.5
35.2
Aircraft-related noise charges
12.1
6.5
Emission charges
3.0
1.8
Aircraft parking charges
25.0
18.9
Freight charges
7.5
6.8
Other flight operations charges
113.1
69.2
Total flight operations charges
432.5
205.2
Baggage sorting and handling system
35.1
18.9
De-icing
6.9
5.1
Check-in
4.0
2.3
Aircraft energy supply system
4.1
2.8
Other fees
3.9
3.2
Total aviation fees
54.1
32.3
Refund of security costs
1.7
0.8
Other revenue
2.9
2.3
Total other aviation revenue
4.5
3.1
Total aviation revenue
491.1
240.6
Retail, tax & duty-free
108.5
107.4
Food & beverage
21.6
13.3
Advertising media and promotion
17.7
16.2
Revenue from car parks
76.3
51.4
Other commercial revenue
15.9
10.9
Total commercial and parking revenue
239.9
199.2
Revenue from rental agreements
128.1
123.6
Energy and utility cost allocation
34.8
23.5
Cleaning
2.4
2.3
Other real estate revenue
3.0
3.6
Total real estate revenue
168.3
153.0
Communication services
14.9
14.1
Fuel charges
6.3
3.6
Catering
1.4
0.6
Other revenue from services
20.9
13.5
Total revenue from services
43.5
31.8
Revenue from international airport concessions
61.2
39.3
Revenue from consulting activities
2.5
5.4
Revenue from construction projects as part of concession arrangements
16.9
10.7
Total revenue from international business
80.6
55.4
Total non-aviation revenue
532.4
439.4
Total revenue
1,023.5
680.0
The rent concessions granted in connection with the coronavirus pandemic (rent waivers and contractual amendments such as staggered rents or lease term extensions) were recognised as assets in accordance with IFRS 16 and are being amortised on a straight-line basis over the remaining term of the relevant contracts. This reduced revenue by CHF 4.7 million in the reporting period (previous year: increased revenue by CHF 29.3 million).
Presentation of revenue from contracts with customers (IFRS 15):
(CHF million)
2022
2021
Flight operations charges
432.5
205.2
Aviation charges
54.1
32.3
Other aviation revenue
4.3
2.9
Total aviation revenue from contracts with customers (IFRS 15)
490.9
240.4
Aviation revenue (non IFRS 15)
0.2
0.2
Total aviation revenue
491.1
240.6
Commercial and parking revenue
75.9
49.5
Real estate revenue
39.7
28.7
Revenue from services
42.2
30.8
Revenue from international activities
80.6
55.4
Total non-aviation revenue from contracts with customers (IFRS 15)
238.4
164.4
Non-aviation revenue (non IFRS 15)
294.0
275.0
Total non-aviation revenue
532.4
439.4
Total revenue
1,023.5
680.0
3 Personnel expenses
(CHF million)
2022
2021
Wages and salaries
150.5
125.2
Pension costs for defined benefit plans 1)
19.7
23.6
Social security contributions
14.1
14.1
Other personnel expenses and employee benefits
12.7
8.4
Total personnel expenses
196.9
171.3
Average number of employees (full-time equivalents) 2)
1,790
1,708
Number of employees as at reporting date (full-time equivalents) 2)
1,886
1,694
Personnel expense per full-time equivalents as at 31 December (in CHF)
104,369
101,092
1) See note 22, Employee benefits
2) Excluding apprentices and trainees
In the past financial year, short-time working compensation of CHF 12.0 million (previous year: CHF 29.5 million) was offset against personnel expenses (wages and salaries).
Staff participation programme
Employees of Flughafen Zürich AG who have completed their first year of service receive one share free of charge as a one-off payment in kind. In financial year 2022, 54 shares (previous year: 82 shares) worth CHF 8645 (previous year: CHF 13,024) were handed out.
Variable remuneration 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 remuneration component, which is based on the consolidated result. EBIT according to the budget (excluding the influence of aircraft noise) has been adopted as the target. The decision relating to the degree of achievement of the relevant target is taken in the following financial year (grant date). Two thirds of the variable remuneration is paid out to the members of the Management Board and members of the most senior management in cash and one third is paid out in shares.
The equity-settled portion of the bonus for financial year 2022 is 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.
2022
2021
2021 1)
Price per share 1)
(Recipient)
(CHF)
(CHF)
(Number of shares)
(CHF)
Members of the Management Board
502,138
360,698
2,130
169.00
Other members of management
831,048
598,365
3,543
169.00
Adjustment of variable remuneration accrued in the previous year 2)
–326
–12,357
Total
1,332,860
946,706
5,673
1) Shares distributed in the 2022 financial year under the variable remuneration programme for the Management Board and other members of management (number and price per share) for the 2021 financial year.
2) In the subsequent period, the accrued variable remuneration is adjusted through personnel expenses on the basis of the actual degree of achievement of the relevant profit figure.
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 (April 2023). If the shares had been granted as at year-end, a total of 9,316 shares would have been distributed.
Remuneration of the Board of Directors
The remuneration awarded to the Board of Directors comprises an annual lump sum plus payments for attending meetings.
Option programme
No option programme exists at the Zurich Airport Group.
4 Other operating expenses
(CHF million)
2022
2021
Zurich Protection & Rescue Services
21.5
22.0
PRM costs (service costs of service providers)
10.3
7.1
Other operating costs
3.5
3.8
Insurance
4.7
4.5
Cleaning by external contractors, incl. snow clearing
4.4
3.7
Costs for own car park
3.2
1.9
Communication costs
1.7
1.4
Passenger services
0.8
0.7
Total other operating expenses
50.1
45.2
5 Other income and expenses
(CHF million)
2022
2021
Capitalised expenditure
13.0
10.8
Other income
8.0
7.0
Capitalised expenditure and other income
21.0
17.8
Expenses for construction projects as part of concession arrangements
–16.8
–10.6
Expenses for construction projects as part of concession arrangements
–16.8
–10.6
Other expenses
–3.6
–2.7
Other expenses
–3.6
–2.7
Capitalised expenditure of CHF 13.0 million (previous year: CHF 10.8 million) consists mainly of fees for the company’s architects and engineers as well as for project managers representing the client. In the reporting period, other income included CHF 7.4 million (previous year: CHF 0.0 million) resulting from the adjustment of the discount rate used to calculate the present value of provisions for sound insulation and resident protection. In the previous year, this line item consisted primarily of compensation payments of CHF 5.0 million for projects written down in the past.
The expenses of CHF –16.8 million (previous year: CHF –10.6 million) for construction projects as part of concession agreements are the result of investments in airport infrastructure in Brazil and Chile. The corresponding counter-item can be found under note 2, Revenue.
As in the previous year, the items recognised in other expenses in the reporting period primarily included losses on asset disposals and losses on receivables.
6 Finance result
(CHF million)
2022
2021
Net interest expenses on debentures and non-current loans
–11.3
–10.8
Net interest expenses on defined benefit obligations
–0.2
–0.3
Interest expenses on finance lease liabilities
–0.1
0.0
Other interest expenses
–10.9
–12.9
Adjustments to fair value on financial assets of Airport Zurich Noise Fund
–11.8
0.0
Present value adjustment on provision for formal expropriations plus sound insulation and resident protection
–0.8
0.0
Present value adjustment on liabilities from concession arrangements
–1.0
–4.9
Foreign exchange losses
–0.8
–1.1
Other finance costs
–5.2
–2.0
Total finance costs
–42.2
–32.1
Interest income on financial assets of Airport Zurich Noise Fund
0.6
0.5
Adjustments to fair value on financial assets of Airport Zurich Noise Fund
0.0
2.0
Other interest income
4.9
0.4
Other finance income
16.7
0.1
Total finance income
22.2
3.0
Finance result
–20.0
–29.1
Due to the deflationary environment in Brazil in the second half of the year, both other interest expenses and expenses for the present value adjustment on liabilities from concession agreements were down year on year. Conversely, after the income generated in the previous year, negative fair value changes at the Airport Zurich Noise Fund resulted in additional expenses.
Other finance income consisted mainly of two one-time items: the repurchase of own debentures and the prepayment of the future fixed concession payments in Florianópolis resulted in gains of CHF 8.4 million and CHF 8.0 million, respectively (see note 18, Financial liabilities).
7 Income tax
(CHF million)
2022
2021
Taxes for current year
–21.3
–0.7
Taxes for prior years
0.7
–2.1
Total current income tax
–20.7
–2.8
Deferred income tax on changes in temporary differences
–12.6
2.2
Change in tax rate
0.0
4.2
Total deferred income tax
–12.6
6.4
Total income tax
–33.3
3.6
Income tax can be analysed as follows:
(CHF million)
2022
2021
Result before tax
240.3
–13.7
Income tax based on the statutory tax rate of 19.0% applicable at the parent company (2021: 19.0%)
–45.7
2.6
Effect of application of different income tax rates in foreign countries
–2.8
1.0
Prior-period adjustments
0.7
–2.1
Effect of tax rate changes on deferred taxes
0.0
4.2
Effect of share of results of associates
–0.2
0.0
Effect of solely tax-deductible income and expenses
–0.5
0.0
Current-year losses for which no deferred tax assets were recognised
0.0
–2.0
Recognition of tax effects of previously unrecognised tax losses
14.2
0.0
Tax incentives
1.1
0.0
Foreign exchange differences
0.0
–0.1
Miscellaneous items
–0.1
0.0
Total income tax
–33.3
3.6
In the reporting period, a positive effect of CHF 14.2 million was recognised in connection with the restructuring of the subsidiary Zurich Airport International AG. This effect is attributable to the recognition of previously unrecognised tax loss carryforwards.
8 Property, plant and equipment
(CHF million)
Land
Engineering structures
Buildings
Movables
Projects in progress
Total
Cost
Balance as at 1 January 2021
138.1
1,684.1
4,703.2
280.5
390.3
7,196.2
Additions
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
141.6
141.6
Disposals
0.0
–3.2
–124.1
–15.3
0.0
–142.6
Transfer and reclassification
0.0
23.2
220.2
15.0
–263.4
–5.0
Foreign exchange differences
0.0
0.0
–0.1
–0.2
0.0
–0.3
Balance as at 31 December 2021
138.1
1,704.1
4,799.2
280.0
268.5
7,189.9
Balance as at 1 January 2022
138.1
1,704.1
4,799.2
280.0
268.5
7,189.9
Additions
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
200.6
200.6
Disposals
0.0
–45.7
–17.0
–12.4
0.0
–75.1
Transfer and reclassification
0.0
103.7
64.0
11.4
–183.9
–4.8
Foreign exchange differences
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
–3.4
–3.4
Balance as at 31 December 2022
138.1
1,762.1
4,846.2
279.0
281.8
7,307.2
Depreciation and impairment
Balance as at 1 January 2021
0.0
–978.4
–3,165.8
–197.8
0.0
–4,342.0
Depreciation
0.0
–60.1
–155.1
–17.3
0.0
–232.5
Disposals
0.0
3.2
123.6
15.3
0.0
142.1
Foreign exchange differences
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.1
0.0
0.1
Balance as at 31 December 2021
0.0
–1,035.3
–3,197.3
–199.7
0.0
–4,432.3
Balance as at 1 January 2022
0.0
–1,035.3
–3,197.3
–199.7
0.0
–4,432.3
Depreciation
0.0
–64.1
–153.5
–17.2
0.0
–234.8
Disposals
0.0
45.0
16.1
12.3
0.0
73.4
Foreign exchange differences
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
Balance as at 31 December 2022
0.0
–1,054.4
–3,334.7
–204.6
0.0
–4,593.7
Government subsidies and grants
Balance as at 1 January 2021
0.0
–8.5
–3.4
0.0
–0.3
–12.2
Additions
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
–0.7
–0.7
Disposals
0.0
0.8
0.3
0.0
0.0
1.1
Transfers
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
Balance as at 31 December 2021
0.0
–7.7
–3.1
0.0
–1.0
–11.8
Balance as at 1 January 2022
0.0
–7.7
–3.1
0.0
–1.0
–11.8
Additions
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
–0.9
–0.9
Disposals
0.0
0.8
0.2
0.0
0.0
1.0
Transfers
0.0
–0.5
–0.8
–0.3
1.6
0.0
Balance as at 31 December 2022
0.0
–7.4
–3.7
–0.3
–0.3
–11.7
Net carrying amount as at 31 December 2021
138.1
661.1
1,598.8
80.3
267.5
2,745.8
Net carrying amount as at 31 December 2022
138.1
700.3
1,507.8
74.1
281.5
2,701.8
Projects in progress
In the past financial year, the Zurich Airport Group invested a total of CHF 200.6 million in projects in progress (previous year: CHF 141.6 million). The largest investments at Zurich Airport are attributable to the following projects:
- Expansion and refurbishment of the baggage sorting system (CHF 56.4 million)
- Renovation of runway 10/28 (CHF 32.3 million)
- Development of the landside passenger zones (CHF 11.1 million)
In the reporting period, capitalised development, planning and implementation costs relating to the construction and operation of Noida International Airport in New Delhi, India amounted to CHF 25.3 million (previous year: CHF 21.7 million). This amount includes the capitalised ongoing depreciation charges on the right-of-use asset relating to the land on which the airport is being built (see note 9, Right-of-use assets) and any interest expenses incurred on the corresponding lease liabilities (see note 18, Financial liabilities).
Depreciation
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment totalling CHF –234.8 million was offset against government grants and subsidies recognised in the income statement in the amount of CHF 1.0 million.
Impairment
As in previous years, an impairment test was performed for items of property, plant and equipment due to the coronavirus pandemic and its effects (see Impairment of assets in accordance with IAS 36).
9 Right-of-use assets
The Zurich Airport Group as lessee
(CHF million)
Land
Real estate
Movables
Total right-of-use assets
Cost
Balance as at 1 January 2021
0.0
92.9
0.0
92.9
Additions
0.0
0.5
0.0
0.5
Transfer and reclassification
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
Balance as at 31 December 2021
0.0
93.4
0.0
93.4
Balance as at 1 January 2022
0.0
93.4
0.0
93.4
Additions
83.5
13.4
0.0
96.9
Transfer and reclassification
0.0
–0.5
0.5
0.0
Foreign exchange differences
–7.2
0.0
0.0
–7.2
Balance as at 31 December 2022
76.3
106.3
0.5
183.1
Depreciation and impairment
Balance as at 1 January 2021
0.0
–12.2
0.0
–12.2
Depreciation
0.0
–7.3
0.0
–7.3
Transfer and reclassification
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
Balance as at 31 December 2021
0.0
–19.5
0.0
–19.5
Balance as at 1 January 2022
0.0
–19.5
0.0
–19.5
Depreciation
0.0
–8.7
–0.1
–8.8
Transfer and reclassification
–2.6
0.0
0.0
–2.6
Foreign exchange differences
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
Balance as at 31 December 2022
–2.6
–28.2
–0.1
–30.9
Net carrying amount as at 31 December 2021
0.0
73.9
0.0
73.9
Net carrying amount as at 31 December 2022
73.7
78.1
0.4
152.2
Land
Via its operator Yamuna International Airport Private Limited, Flughafen Zürich AG holds the right-of-use asset relating to the land on which Noida International Airport, New Delhi, India will be built and operated in future. The right-of-use asset was recognised as an asset and a liability (see note 18, Financial liabilities) at the present value of the future lease payments (interest rate: 9.0%) of CHF 83.5 million and will expire at the end of the concession in 2061. The depreciation charges arising on the right-of-use asset in this context up until the date in 2024 when the airport is brought into use and any interest expenses incurred on the corresponding lease liabilities (see note 18, Financial liabilities) are capitalised as projects in progress (see note 8, Property, plant and equipment).
Real estate
The Zurich Airport Group 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, the Zurich Airport Group has termination options, which have been taken into account. The undiscounted potential future lease payments for periods after the exercise date of the termination options that are not included in the lease term amounted to CHF 91.2 million as at 31 December 2022 (previous year: CHF 91.2 million).
In financial year 2020, following the completion of the real estate project the Circle, Flughafen Zürich AG moved into new office premises for which the company signed a 20-year lease with the co-ownership structure the Circle. Taking into account the extension option, the lease ends in October 2039. The company has also signed a management agreement with the co-ownership structure for the parking area in the Circle. Disregarding the extension option, this ends in 2031.
In addition, the Zurich Airport Group leases further 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 million)
2022
2021
Balance as at 1 January
–76.3
–83.3
Additions
–96.9
–0.5
Payments
8.9
7.5
Interest expense on lease liabilities
–9.6
0.0
Foreign exchange differences
8.3
0.0
Balance as at 31 December
–165.6
–76.3
of which current (payment within 1 year)
–9.1
–7.5
of which non-current (payment from 1 year on)
–156.5
–68.8
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 million)
2022
2021
Depreciation charges for right-of-use assets
–8.8
–7.3
Interest expense on lease liabilities
–0.1
0.0
Expense relating to short-term leases
–0.1
–0.1
Total amount recognised for leases in profit or loss
–9.0
–7.4
The total cash outflow for leases amounted to CHF 9.0 million in the reporting period (previous year: CHF 7.4 million). Future cash outflows for leases not yet commenced as at the reporting date amount to CHF 0.0 million (previous year: CHF 13.8 million).
The Zurich Airport Group as lessor
The tenancy agreements entered into by the Zurich Airport Group as lessor may be either fixed tenancy agreements or commercial leases:
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.
Commercial leases
Commercial leases consist primarily of leases of commercial space. 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 real estate revenue (revenue from rental agreements) contained conditional rental payments amounting to CHF 11.5 million (previous year: CHF 6.1 million).
At the reporting date, minimum lease payments (fixed rents and guaranteed basic rents) under non-cancellable leases were as follows:
(CHF million)
31.12.2022
31.12.2021
Due date up to 1 year
269.3
239.5
Due date from 1 to 5 years
826.7
800.7
Due date in more than 5 years
373.8
377.0
Total
1,469.8
1,417.2
10 Investment property
(CHF million)
Land
Project costs
Buildings and engineering structures plus movables
Total investment property
Cost
Balance as at 1 January 2021
1.0
176.2
395.2
572.4
Additions
0.0
61.8
0.0
61.8
Disposals
0.0
0.0
–0.7
–0.7
Transfer
0.0
–237.4
237.4
0.0
Balance as at 31 December 2021
1.0
0.6
631.9
633.5
Balance as at 1 January 2022
1.0
0.6
631.9
633.5
Additions
0.0
12.6
0.0
12.6
Disposals
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
Transfer
0.0
–12.5
12.5
0.0
Balance as at 31 December 2022
1.0
0.7
644.4
646.1
Depreciation and impairment
Balance as at 1 January 2021
0.0
0.0
–5.5
–5.5
Depreciation
0.0
0.0
–22.8
–22.8
Disposals
0.0
0.0
0.7
0.7
Balance as at 31 December 2021
0.0
0.0
–27.6
–27.6
Balance as at 1 January 2022
0.0
0.0
–27.6
–27.6
Depreciation
0.0
0.0
–26.9
–26.9
Disposals
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
Balance as at 31 December 2022
0.0
0.0
–54.5
–54.5
Net carrying amount as at 31 December 2021
1.0
0.6
604.3
605.9
Net carrying amount as at 31 December 2022
1.0
0.7
589.9
591.6
The Circle
In 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 Circle 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.
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 the Zurich Airport Group.
The share of the property is classified as investment property in accordance with IAS 40. In this context, the Zurich Airport Group has decided to apply the cost model.
The Circle was opened in November 2020 even though not all of the construction work had been completed. In the course of 2021, the handover of the space to the lessees was largely completed, enabling most of the share of the project costs to be billed and allocated to the relevant categories of investment property.
The share of the fair value of the Circle was CHF 794.1 million at the reporting date (previous year: CHF 759.9 million). The value was determined by an external expert using the discounted cash flow method (level 3) and taking into account the highest and best use. 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 million)
Investments in airport operator projects
Intangible asset from right of formal expropriation
Other intangible assets
Total intangible assets
Cost
Balance as at 1 January 2021
299.6
134.0
77.1
510.6
Additions
16.2
0.0
0.1
16.3
Disposals
–0.9
0.0
–3.8
–4.7
Transfer and reclassification
–4.6
0.0
9.6
5.0
Foreign exchange differences
–22.1
0.0
0.0
–22.1
Balance as at 31 December 2021
288.2
134.0
83.0
505.1
Balance as at 1 January 2022
288.2
134.0
83.0
505.1
Additions
22.5
0.0
0.0
22.5
Disposals
–1.1
–17.7
–5.1
–23.9
Transfer and reclassification
0.0
0.0
4.8
4.8
Foreign exchange differences
14.6
0.0
0.0
14.6
Balance as at 31 December 2022
324.2
116.3
82.7
523.1
Amortisation and impairment
Balance as at 1 January 2021
–17.4
–65.4
–59.7
–142.6
Amortisation
–7.2
–2.3
–9.2
–18.7
Disposals
0.2
0.0
3.8
4.0
Foreign exchange differences
4.9
0.0
0.0
4.9
Balance as at 31 December 2021
–19.5
–67.7
–65.1
–152.4
Balance as at 1 January 2022
–19.5
–67.7
–65.1
–152.4
Amortisation
–9.9
–2.1
–9.6
–21.6
Impairment
–4.3
0.0
0.0
–4.3
Disposals
1.0
0.0
5.0
6.0
Foreign exchange differences
–1.1
0.0
0.0
–1.1
Balance as at 31 December 2022
–33.8
–69.8
–69.7
–173.4
Net carrying amount as at 31 December 2021
268.6
66.3
17.9
352.8
Net carrying amount as at 31 December 2022
290.3
46.5
13.0
349.8
Investments in airport operator projects
The investments in airport operator projects in the amount of CHF 290.3 million (previous year: CHF 268.6 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 mainly to the expansion and operation of the Chilean airports in Antofagasta and Iquique (CHF 66.4 million; previous year: CHF 56.4 million), the expansion and operation of the Brazilian airport in Florianópolis (CHF 127.6 million; previous year: CHF 122.0 million) and the expansion and operation of the Brazilian airports in Vitória and Macaé (CHF 96.3 million; previous year: CHF 90.2 million).
The obligations of CHF 6.6 million (previous year: CHF 24.7 million) relating to the relevant concessions have been recognised as current and non-current liabilities (see note 18, Financial liabilities).
Intangible asset from right of formal expropriation
With the award of the operating licence for Zurich Airport, 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 (see Reporting of noise-related costs in the consolidated financial statements). This is amortised using the straight-line method over the remaining term of the operating licence (until May 2051).
As at 31 December 2022, the Zurich Airport Group has recognised an intangible asset from the right of formal expropriation in the amount of CHF 46.5 million (previous year: CHF 66.3 million).
Impairment
As in previous years, an impairment test was performed for investments in airport operator projects due to the coronavirus pandemic and its effects (see Impairment of assets in accordance with IAS 36).
An impairment loss of CHF 4.3 million was required to be recognised as a result of the impairment test on the non-financial asset relating to the investment in the airport operator project in Iquique (Chile) due in particular to the delays and increases in costs in finishing the new terminal (bankruptcy of the general contractor engaged). This impairment loss was recognised through profit or loss in the “International” segment in the reporting period. Recoverable amount was determined for the investment based on value in use calculations using cash flow forecasts from the financial budgets for the remaining term of the contractually agreed concession (18 years) and applying a country-specific WACC of 9.3%.
12 Investments in associates
(CHF million)
31.12.2022
31.12.2021
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%)
0.0
0.0
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
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
0.0
Total investments in associates
0.0
0.0
Brazil
Alongside Brazilian company CCR, the Zurich Airport Group holds a 25% interest in Sociedade de Participação no Aeroporto de Confins S.A., Belo Horizonte, a private consortium which in turn controls 51% of the airport operator Concessionária no Aeroporto Internacional de Confins S. A. The remaining 49% of the shares are held by the state-owned Infraero. The Zurich Airport Group and CCR have therefore been responsible for the expansion of the international airport in Belo Horizonte in the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais since 2014 and for its operation since 2016. The concession agreement is for 30 years and prescribes certain infrastructure expansion. The Zurich Airport Group appoints the flight operations manager.
Venezuela
In 2010, the Zurich Airport Group 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. The Zurich Airport Group is entitled to 50% of this. After an application for annulment was rejected, 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 million)
31.12.2022
31.12.2021
Revenue
133.1
50.2
Loss
–3.5
–33.1
Comprehensive income
–3.5
–33.1
Non-current assets
501.5
360.5
Current assets
33.1
31.4
Non-current liabilities
–482.2
–359.3
Current liabilities
–60.0
–36.7
Equity attributable to non-controlling interests
3.8
2.0
Net equity
–3.8
–2.1
Equity share
25.0%
25.0%
Carrying amount of interest in associate
0.0
0.0
13 Financial assets of the Airport Zurich Noise Fund
(CHF million)
31.12.2022
31.12.2021
Current financial assets of Airport Zurich Noise Fund
60.1
45.3
Non-current financial assets of Airport Zurich Noise Fund
301.0
327.7
Total financial assets of Airport Zurich Noise Fund
361.1
373.0
The financial assets of the Airport 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 Zurich Noise Fund and averages around four years. In 2022, interest on bonds was between 0.00% and 2.125% (previous year: 0.00% and 0.875%). The funds are invested by professional financial institutions (see note 6, Finance result, and note 24.1 a) Financial risk management, i) Credit risk).
14 Trade receivables
(CHF million)
31.12.2022
31.12.2021
Trade receivables, gross 1)
93.8
79.1
Allowance for expected credit loss
–0.5
–0.5
Trade receivables, net
93.3
78.6
1) Trade receivables include an amount of CHF 14.7 million due from Swiss (2021: CHF 9.1 million). In the period between the reporting date and the preparation of the 2022 consolidated financial statements, Swiss paid the outstanding amount arising from flight operations charges as at 31 December 2022 in full.
Geographical distribution of trade receivables:
(CHF million)
31.12.2022
31.12.2021
Switzerland
39.1
33.2
Europe
4.0
2.8
Other
1.2
0.9
Total aviation
44.3
36.9
Switzerland
38.1
34.2
Europe
0.0
0.1
Latin America
11.1
7.7
Other
0.3
0.2
Total non-aviation
49.5
42.2
Total trade receivables, gross
93.8
79.1
Expected credit losses on trade receivables are as follows for the reporting period and the previous year:
(CHF million)
31.12.2022
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
83.0
6.0
1.6
3.3
93.8
Expected credit loss
–0.2
–0.1
–0.0
–0.2
–0.5
(CHF million)
31.12.2021
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
68.2
6.6
2.8
1.5
79.1
Expected credit loss
–0.2
–0.1
–0.1
–0.1
–0.5
In almost all cases, receivables not past due concern long-standing client relationships. Based on past experience, the Zurich Airport Group does not expect any additional credit losses.
15 Other receivables and prepaid expenses
(CHF million)
31.12.2022
31.12.2021
Prepaid expenses and accruals
103.6
115.2
Accrued interest on interest-bearing debt instruments Airport Zurich Noise Fund
0.4
0.3
Prepaid services
74.9
20.5
Tax receivables (VAT and withholding tax)
27.0
26.2
Other receivables
4.5
2.3
Total other receivables and prepaid expenses
210.3
164.5
of which financial instruments
104.0
115.5
of which other receivables and prepaid expenses
106.3
49.0
As at the reporting date, “Prepaid expenses and accruals” contained accruals for rent concessions in the amount of CHF 50.9 million (previous year: CHF 55.6 million) (see also note 2, Revenue).
The interest from the liquid funds of the Airport Zurich Noise Fund that were invested separately (see also note 13, Financial assets of the Airport Zurich Noise Fund, and note 20, Airport Zurich Noise Fund) was recognised on an accrual basis.
As at the reporting date, “Prepaid services” included prepayments of CHF 69.1 million (previous year: CHF 0.0 million) to the general contractor engaged for the construction of Noida International Airport in New Delhi, India.
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
31.12.2022
31.12.2021
(CHF million)
Total
of which AZNF
Total
of which AZNF
Cash on hand
0.3
0.0
0.2
0.0
Cash at banks and in postal accounts
147.6
17.3
301.3
29.8
Fixed-term deposits 1)
113.4
0.0
107.8
0.0
Total cash and cash equivalents
261.2
17.3
409.3
29.8
Current fixed-term deposits 2)
401.1
0.0
121.3
0.0
Non-current fixed-term deposits 2)
8.0
0.0
2.1
0.0
Total fixed-term deposits
409.1
0.0
123.4
0.0
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 2021
30,701,875
4,051
30,697,824
Purchase of treasury shares
1,439
–1,439
Distribution of treasury shares to employees and third parties
–4,622
4,622
Balance as at 31 December 2021
30,701,875
868
30,701,007
Purchase of treasury shares
5,690
–5,690
Distribution of treasury shares to employees and third parties
–5,727
5,727
Balance as at 31 December 2022
30,701,875
831
30,701,044
Share rights
The holders of registered shares are entitled to participate at the Annual General Meeting 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 this participation programme.
Translation reserve
The translation reserve comprises foreign currency differences arising from the translation of the financial statements of foreign operations and investments in 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:
2022
2021
Result attributable to shareholders of Flughafen Zürich AG in CHF
206,975,401
–10,086,696
Weighted average number of outstanding shares
30,700,650
30,700,116
Effect of dilutive shares
9,316
5,844
Adjusted weighted average number of outstanding shares
30,709,966
30,705,960
Basic earnings per share (CHF)
6.74
–0.33
Diluted earnings per share (CHF)
6.74
–0.33
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 153.6 million (previous year: CHF 153.6 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:
2022
2021
Public sector
38.60%
38.60%
Private individuals
7.13%
7.81%
Companies
3.76%
3.59%
Pension funds
1.50%
1.51%
Financial institutions (including nominees)
18.74%
19.02%
Balance available and non-registered shareholders
30.27%
29.47%
Total
100.00%
100.00%
Number of registered shareholders
14,858
16,096
As at the reporting date, the following shareholders or groups of shareholders held at least 5% of the voting rights:
2022
2021
Canton of Zurich
33.33%
33.33%
City of Zurich
5.00%
5.00%
18 Financial liabilities
(CHF million)
31.12.2022
31.12.2021
Non-current debentures
1,214.2
1,648.9
Non-current liabilities to banks
123.3
111.8
Non-current lease liabilities
156.5
68.8
Non-current liabilities from concession agreements
5.9
24.0
Other non-current financial liabilities
20.4
20.4
Non-current financial liabilities
1,520.3
1,873.9
Current debentures
400.0
0.0
Current liabilities to banks
12.3
7.7
Current lease liabilities
9.1
7.5
Current liabilities from concession agreements
0.7
0.7
Other current financial liabilities
0.8
0.9
Current financial liabilities
422.9
16.8
Total financial liabilities
1,943.2
1,890.7
The CHF 400.0 million debenture maturing in April 2023 was reclassified out of non-current and into current financial liabilities.
The increase in lease liabilities is due in particular to the recognition of lease liabilities totalling CHF 83.5 million in connection with the right-of-use asset relating to the land on which Noida International Airport, New Delhi, India will be built and operated in future (see note 9, Right-of-use assets).
The decline in non-current liabilities from concession agreements relates to the prepayment of the future fixed concession payments in Florianópolis, which were made at very favourable discounted terms (see also note 6, Finance result).
Composition of non-current financial liabilities as at the reporting date:
as at 31.12.2022
as at 31.12.2022
as at 31.12.2021
Financial liabilities
Nominal value
Carrying amount
Carrying amount
Duration
Interest rate
Interest payment date
(CHF million)
(CHF million)
(CHF million)
Debenture (2023)
n/a
n/a
399.9
2013 – 2023
1.500%
17.4.
Debenture (2024)
300.0
299.7
299.4
2020 – 2024
0.700%
22.5.
Debenture (2027)
200.0
199.7
199.6
2020 – 2027
0.100%
30.12.
Debenture (2029)
350.0
350.4
350.6
2017 – 2029
0.625%
24.5.
Debenture (2035)
365.0
364.5
399.4
2020 – 2035
0.200%
26.2.
Non-current liabilities to banks
144.4
123.3
111.8
n/a
n/a
n/a
Non-current lease liabilities
555.2
156.5
68.8
until 2039
0.000%
n/a
Non-current liabilities from concession agreements
7.9
5.9
24.0
until 2047
n/a
n/a
Other non-current financial liabilities
0.0
20.4
20.4
until 2035
0.000%
n/a
Total non-current financial liabilities
1,520.3
1,873.9
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 288.8 million (see note 24.1 a) Financial risk management, ii) Liquidity risk).
The maturities of financial liabilities are shown in the table below:
(CHF million)
31.12.2022
31.12.2021
Due date up to 1 year
422.9
16.8
Due date from 1 to 5 years
499.3
699.3
Due date in more than 5 years
1,021.0
1,174.6
Total financial liabilities
1,943.2
1,890.7
Financial liabilities changed as follows as a result of cash and non-cash changes:
31.12.2021
Cash flows (+)
Cash flows (–)
Non-cash changes
31.12.2022
(CHF million)
Increase(+)/decrease(–)
Foreign exchange movements
Value changes
Debentures
1,648.9
0.0
–26.6
–400.0
0.0
–8.1
1,214.2
Non-current liabilities to banks
111.8
2.9
0.0
2.6
5.4
0.6
123.3
Non-current lease liabilities
68.8
0.0
0.0
86.5
–8.3
9.5
156.5
Non-current liabilities from concession agreements
24.0
0.0
–9.5
–5.9
2.5
–5.2
5.9
Other non-current financial liabilities
20.4
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
20.4
Non-current financial liabilities
1,873.9
2.9
–36.1
–316.8
–0.4
–3.2
1,520.3
Debentures
0.0
0.0
0.0
400.0
0.0
0.0
400.0
Current liabilities to banks
7.7
0.0
–10.7
14.3
0.3
0.7
12.3
Current lease liabilities
7.5
0.0
–8.9
10.4
0.0
0.1
9.1
Current liabilities from concession agreements
0.7
0.0
–0.7
0.7
0.0
0.0
0.7
Other current financial liabilities
0.9
0.0
0.0
0.0
–0.1
0.0
0.8
Current financial liabilities
16.8
0.0
–20.3
425.4
0.2
0.8
422.9
Total financial liabilities
1,890.7
2.9
–56.4
108.6
–0.2
–2.4
1,943.2
31.12.2020
Cash flows (+)
Cash flows (–)
Non-cash changes
31.12.2021
(CHF million)
Increase(+)/decrease(–)
Foreign exchange movements
Value changes
Debentures
1,648.5
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.2
0.2
1,648.9
Non-current liabilities to banks
109.9
5.0
0.0
5.5
–9.4
0.8
111.8
Non-current lease liabilities
75.8
0.0
0.0
–7.0
0.0
0.0
68.8
Non-current liabilities from concession agreements
21.7
0.0
–0.3
4.3
–1.7
0.0
24.0
Other non-current financial liabilities
20.4
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
20.4
Non-current financial liabilities
1,876.3
5.0
–0.3
2.8
–10.9
1.0
1,873.9
Current liabilities to banks
64.0
0.0
–68.0
12.1
–0.6
0.2
7.7
Current lease liabilities
7.5
0.0
–7.5
7.5
0.0
0.0
7.5
Current liabilities from concession agreements
1.5
0.0
–0.5
–0.2
–0.1
0.0
0.7
Other current financial liabilities
2.1
0.8
0.0
–2.1
0.1
0.0
0.9
Current financial liabilities
75.1
0.8
–76.0
17.3
–0.6
0.2
16.8
Total financial liabilities
1,951.4
5.8
–76.3
20.1
–11.5
1.2
1,890.7
Overview of lease liabilities
The lease liabilities shown below include the leases listed in note 9, Right-of-use assets. The interest rate on future lease liabilities is mostly 0.0% (leases at the Zurich site) or 9.0% (leases in Noida, India).
(CHF million)
31.12.2022
31.12.2021
Future minimum lease payments
Due within 1 year
9.1
7.5
Due between 1 and 5 years
32.0
28.9
Due in more than 5 years
523.2
40.0
Total future minimum lease payments
564.3
76.4
Future interest payments
398.7
0.1
Present value of lease liabilities
165.6
76.3
Due within 1 year
9.1
7.5
Due between 1 and 5 years
31.9
28.8
Due in more than 5 years
124.6
40.0
19 Provision for formal expropriations plus sound insulation and resident protection
(CHF million)
2022
2021
Provision for formal expropriations as at 1 January
244.4
245.4
Provision used 1)
–1.0
–1.0
Release of provision
–17.7
0.0
Present value adjustment
0.6
0.0
Provision for formal expropriations as at 31 December
226.3
244.4
Provision for sound insulation and resident protection as at 1 January
110.7
125.2
Provision used 1)
–11.1
–14.5
Release of provision
–7.4
0.0
Present value adjustment
0.2
0.0
Provision for sound insulation and resident protection as at 31 December
92.4
110.7
Total provision for formal expropriations plus sound insulation and resident protection as at 31 December
318.7
355.1
of which current
45.7
36.8
of which non-current
273.0
318.3
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 Zurich Noise Fund (see note 20, Airport Zurich Noise Fund).
Provision for formal expropriations
As at the reporting date, the estimated costs for formal expropriations remained unchanged at CHF 330.0 million (see Reporting of noise-related costs in the consolidated financial statements), of which CHF 86.6 million had already been paid out at that date. In the consolidated financial statements for the period ended 31 December 2022, a provision was recognised for the outstanding costs of CHF 243.4 million (nominal amount) at their present value (CHF 226.3 million). The discount rate used to calculate the present value of the nominal payment flows was 2.1% (previous year: 0.0%). It is expected that the payments can be completed by the end of 2030.
Provision for sound insulation and resident protection
As at the reporting date, the estimated costs for sound insulation and resident protection measures remained unchanged at CHF 400.0 million (see Reporting of noise-related costs in the consolidated financial statements), of which CHF 300.4 million had already been paid out at that date. In the consolidated financial statements for the period ended 31 December 2022, a provision was recognised for the outstanding costs of CHF 99.6 million (nominal amount) at their present value (CHF 92.4 million). The discount rate used to calculate the present value of the nominal payment flows was 2.1% (previous year: 0.0%). It is expected that the payments can be completed by the end of 2030.
20 Airport Zurich Noise Fund
The Airport Zurich Noise Fund (AZNF) represents a liquidity-based fund statement. This 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. Since 1 January 2021, revenue from aircraft noise charges has no longer been allocated to the Fund as, according to current knowledge, the Airport Zurich Noise Fund has sufficient resources to cover the known costs for sound insulation, resident protection and formal expropriations.
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 Zurich Noise Fund and other information (including an overview of its financial performance) can be downloaded from the website www.flughafen-zuerich.ch/aznf.
The balance on the Airport Zurich Noise Fund changed as follows in the reporting period:
(CHF million)
2022
2021
Airport Zurich Noise Fund as at 1 January
394.1
409.8
Revenue from noise charges
0.0
0.8
Costs for sound insulation and resident protection
–11.1
–14.5
Costs for formal expropriations 1)
–1.0
–1.4
Balance before operating costs and finance result
382.0
394.7
Operating costs 2)
–6.0
–3.1
Interest income from and adjustments to fair value on financial assets of Airport Zurich Noise Fund
–12.2
2.5
Airport Zurich Noise Fund as at 31 December
363.8
394.1
1) In addition to compensation payments for formal expropriations, this amount includes other associated external costs (in accordance with regulations of the Airport Zurich Noise Fund; see note 19, “Provision for formal expropriations plus sound insulation and resident protection”).
2) The increase in operating costs is mainly due to the repair work on the noise protection hangar in the year under review.
Summary of assets invested for the Airport Zurich Noise Fund:
(CHF million)
31.12.2022
31.12.2021
Cash equivalents (see note 16, "Cash and cash equivalents")
17.3
29.8
Current financial assets of Airport Zurich Noise Fund
60.1
45.3
Non-current financial assets of Airport Zurich Noise Fund
301.0
327.7
Accrual/deferral towards Flughafen Zürich AG 1)
–14.6
–8.7
Total assets invested for Airport Zurich Noise Fund
363.8
394.1
1) For accounting reasons, an asset or liability towards Flughafen Zürich AG arises as at the reporting date. This is compensated for in the following month, so the balance of liquid funds is restored.
The following table presents an overview of the maturities and credit ratings of the assets invested for the Airport Zurich Noise Fund:
(CHF million)
2023
2024
2025
2026
2027ff.
Total
Cash and cash equivalents
17.3
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
17.3
AAA
29.0
8.0
21.6
22.0
51.4
132.0
AA+/AA/AA–
13.1
21.0
17.0
0.0
14.4
65.5
A+/A/A–
18.0
33.2
4.0
3.5
8.0
66.7
Without rating
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
96.9
96.9
Other 1)
–14.6
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
–14.6
Total assets invested for Airport Zurich Noise Fund
62.8
62.2
42.6
25.5
170.7
363.8
in %
17.3
17.1
11.7
7.0
46.9
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. The balance of deferred tax assets and liabilities changed as follows:
(CHF million)
2022
2021
Deferred tax assets and liabilities, net as at 1 January
–35.3
–18.7
Change in tax rate, recognised in OCI
0.0
–0.7
Change in tax rate, recognised in income statement
0.0
4.2
Deferred taxes on remeasurement of defined benefit obligations, recognised in OCI
–15.8
–21.8
Change according to income statement
–12.6
2.2
Foreign exchange differences
0.6
–0.5
Deferred tax assets and liabilities, net as at 31 December
–63.2
–35.3
of which deferred tax assets
8.1
8.1
of which deferred tax liabilities
–71.3
–43.4
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are allocated to the following items:
31.12.2022
31.12.2021
(CHF million)
Assets
Liabilities
Assets
Liabilities
Property, plant and equipment & other intangible assets
–6.6
–8.2
Intercompany loans and other financial assets
–3.3
–14.3
Renovation fund
–37.2
–36.1
Aircraft noise
–25.7
–25.4
Financial liabilities issuing costs
–0.2
–0.2
Employee benefit obligations
2.0
16.7
Tax loss carryforwards for which deferred tax assets were recognised
0.0
24.4
Miscellaneous items
8.1
–0.4
8.1
–0.3
Deferred tax assets and liabilities, gross
10.2
–73.3
49.2
–84.5
Offsetting of assets and liabilities
–2.0
2.0
–41.1
41.1
Deferred tax assets and liabilities, net
8.1
–71.3
8.1
–43.4
As at 31 December 2022, the Zurich Airport Group still had tax loss carryforwards of CHF 2.2 million (previous year: CHF 84.6 million) where the criteria for recognising a deferred tax asset were not met, as it is not certain that it will be realised at a future date. The tax loss carryforwards expire as follows:
(CHF million)
31.12.2022
31.12.2021
Expiration in 2025
0.0
2.0
Expiration in 2026
0.0
4.8
Expiration in 2027
0.0
69.8
Expiration in 2028
2.2
8.0
Total tax loss carryforwards
2.2
84.6
22 Employee benefits
(CHF million)
31.12.2022
31.12.2021
Net defined benefit obligations
0.0
–76.0
Other long-term employee benefits
–10.7
–11.8
Employee benefit obligations
–10.7
–87.8
22.1 Post-employment benefits
The Zurich Airport Group 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 97.6% as at 31 December 2022 (previous year: 111.6%).
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 2022 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 2022 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 million)
31.12.2022
31.12.2021
Present value of funded defined benefit obligations
–579.3
–719.7
Fair value of plan assets
584.9
643.7
Unrecognised asset due to the asset ceiling
–5.6
0.0
Net defined benefit obligations recognised in the balance sheet
0.0
–76.0
The defined benefit obligations changed as follows:
(CHF million)
2022
2021
Present value of defined benefit obligations as at 1 January
–719.7
–775.3
Current service costs
–19.7
–23.6
Past service costs
0.0
0.0
Interest expenses on defined benefit obligations
–2.1
–1.1
Employee contributions
–11.9
–11.8
Benefits paid
33.6
43.1
Gain/(loss) due to experience
–18.2
–6.4
Gain/(loss) due to changes in demographic assumptions
0.0
37.5
Gain/(loss) due to changes in financial assumptions
158.7
17.9
Present value of defined benefit obligations as at 31 December
–579.3
–719.7
The weighted average duration of the defined benefit obligation at 31 December 2022 was 13.6 years (previous year: 16.4 years).
The plan assets changed as follows:
(CHF million)
2022
2021
Fair value of plan assets as at 1 January
643.7
590.9
Employer contributions
17.6
17.3
Employee contributions
11.9
11.8
Benefits paid
–33.6
–43.1
Administration expenses
–0.0
–0.0
Interest income on plan assets
1.9
0.9
Return on plan assets excluding amounts included in interest income
–56.5
65.9
Fair value of plan assets as at 31 December
584.9
643.7
The unrecognised asset due to the asset ceiling changed as follows:
(CHF million)
2022
2021
Unrecognised asset due to the asset ceiling as at 1 January
0.0
0.0
Change in unrecognised asset due to the asset ceiling (recognised in other comprehensive income)
–5.6
0.0
Unrecognised asset due to the asset ceiling as at 31 December
–5.6
0.0
The net defined benefit obligations changed as follows:
(CHF million)
2022
2021
Net defined benefit obligations as at 1 January
–76.0
–184.3
Total charge recognised in the income statement
–19.9
–23.9
Total remeasurements recognised in other comprehensive income
78.3
114.9
Employer contributions
17.6
17.3
Net defined benefit obligations as at 31 December
0.0
–76.0
The company expects employer contributions of CHF 19.5 million for financial year 2023.
Analysis of the amounts recognised in the income statement:
(CHF million)
2022
2021
Current service cost
–19.7
–23.6
Net interest expenses on defined benefit obligations
–0.2
–0.3
Administration expenses
–0.0
–0.0
Total charge recognised in the income statement
–19.9
–23.9
Analysis of the amounts recognised in other comprehensive income:
(CHF million)
2022
2021
Gain/(loss) due to experience
–18.2
–6.4
Gain/(loss) due to changes in demographic assumptions
0.0
37.5
Gain/(loss) due to changes in financial assumptions
158.7
17.9
Return on plan assets excluding amounts included in net interest
–56.5
65.9
Change in unrecognised asset due to the asset ceiling
–5.6
0.0
Total remeasurements recognised in other comprehensive income (before tax)
78.3
114.9
The actuarial gain of CHF 158.7 million (previous year: CHF 17.9 million) attributable to changes in financial assumptions was mainly the result of the marked increase in the discount rate from 0.30% to 2.15%.
Actual investment performance was much lower than anticipated in the reporting period due to unfavourable capital market trends. The difference of CHF –56.5 million (previous year: CHF 65.9 million) between the actual return and the interest income on plan assets was recognised in other comprehensive income. In addition, a negative effect of CHF –5.6 million (previous year: CHF 0.0 million) arose as at the reporting date as a result of limiting the plan assets on which there are no economic benefits.
In the previous year, the technical basis used for calculations was changed from BVG 2015 to BVG 2020, resulting in an actuarial gain of CHF 37.5 million.
Assumptions used in actuarial calculations:
(in % or years)
2022
2021
Discount rate as at 31 December
2.15
0.30
Consumer price inflation
1.00
0.75
Expected rate of salary increases (including inflation)
1.75
1.50
Expected rate of pension increases
0.00
0.00
Interest rate on retirement savings accounts
1.00
1.00
Life expectation at age 65 (in years):
Female (aged 45)
25.6
25.5
Female (aged 65)
23.7
23.6
Male (aged 45)
23.9
23.8
Male (aged 65)
22.0
21.9
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 2022, the life expectancy assumption was calculated on the basis of BVG 2020 (previous year: BVG 2020) by projecting future longevity improvements in accordance with the Continuous Mortality Investigation model (CMI model), based on historically observed longevity improvements in Switzerland and a future long-term longevity improvement rate of 1.50%.
Breakdown of plan assets by asset class:
(in %)
31.12.2022
31.12.2021
Asset category:
Cash and cash equivalents
2.0
3.9
Shares
36.0
38.0
Bonds
38.0
36.2
Property
19.0
17.9
Other
5.0
4.0
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):
2022 Effect on DBO
2021 Effect on DBO
(CHF million)
+0.25%
–0.25%
+0.25%
–0.25%
Discount rate
–16.8
17.4
–25.9
28.1
Expected salary increases
1.2
–1.2
2.2
–2.2
Interest rate on retirement savings accounts
2.3
–1.7
3.6
–2.9
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 10.7 million (previous year: CHF 11.8 million) was calculated based on the number of accumulated years of service which, at the reporting date, was 10.5 years (previous year: 10.8 years).
23 Other current liabilities, accruals and deferrals
(CHF million)
31.12.2022
31.12.2021
Deferred income and accruals
101.6
90.4
Accrued interest on financial liabilities
7.5
7.5
Deposits and advance payments by customers
8.2
11.0
Provision for holidays and overtime
4.7
3.4
Other liabilities
6.7
2.7
Total other current liabilities, accruals and deferrals
128.8
115.1
of which financial liabilities carried at amortised cost
109.1
97.9
of which other current liabilities, accruals and deferrals excluding financial instruments
19.7
17.2
24 Further details
24.1 Information concerning the performance of a risk assessment
Risk management ensures that risks are approached systematically and given due consideration. It guarantees transparency over the main risks associated with the company’s business activities as well as continuous improvement and monitoring of the risk situation.
Flughafen Zürich AG’s risk management system is the tool used to manage corporate risk across the Group and consists of the following components:
- Risk policy objectives and principles of the company
- Risk management organisation
- Risk management process
- Risk reporting
- Auditing and review of the risk management system
In this context, the Board of Directors and the Management Board have overall responsibility under Swiss company law for ensuring the Group’s continued existence and profitability. The Board of Directors is responsible for overall oversight of risk management. The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) acts as the Management Board’s Chief Risk Officer.
The central Risk Office reports to the CFO as Chief Risk Officer and stipulates minimum requirements for decentralised risk management across the Group. The central Risk Office is responsible for risk reporting as well as for the operation and ongoing development of the risk management system.
The Management Board members are each responsible for the risks that could arise primarily in their respective divisions. They bear responsibility for identifying, assessing and managing the relevant risks (risk owner concept).
In consultation with the central Risk Office, other departments perform their specific risk management procedures themselves, such as safety management, liquidity management, occupational safety, information security, fire prevention and contingency planning. The same goes for Flughafen Zürich AG’s international subsidiaries. The key risks to the Zurich Airport Group are then incorporated from these into central risk reporting. This describes the business risks, responsibilities and measures in detail, along with an assessment of their probability of occurrence and potential impact. Implementation of the measures is continually monitored. The risk report is presented to the Management Board and the Board of Directors once a year.
a) Financial risk management
Due to the nature of its activities, the Zurich Airport Group is exposed to the following relevant financial risks, including:
- i) Credit risk
- ii) Liquidity risk
- iii) Market risk (currency and interest rate risk)
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 Zurich Airport Group. Further information on financial risks can also be found in the corresponding notes.
i) Credit risk
Credit risk refers to the risk that the Zurich Airport Group could incur financial 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.
The Zurich Airport Group invests its cash and cash equivalents and fixed-term deposits with major banks with a rating indicating their solvency. In addition, the Group minimises potential 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 the home carrier Swiss at Zurich Airport, credit risk is distributed over a broad clientele. Trade receivables include an amount of CHF 14.7 million due from Swiss (previous year: CHF 9.1 million) (see note 14, Trade receivables). In the period between the reporting date and the preparation of the 2022 consolidated financial statements, Swiss paid the outstanding amount arising from flight operations charges as at 31 December 2022 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 (mainly proforma invoicing) are applied, or security is requested (mainly in the form of bank guarantees).
The financial assets of the Airport 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 Zurich Noise Fund and averages around four years. For bonds held directly, the minimum acceptable rating is A- (Standard & Poor’s) or an equivalent rating from another recognised rating agency (see note 20, Airport 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 million)
31.12.2022
31.12.2021
Cash equivalents (excluding cash on hand)
260.9
409.1
Current and non-current fixed-term deposits
409.1
123.4
Non-current financial assets of Airport Zurich Noise Fund
301.0
327.7
Trade receivables, net
93.3
78.6
Current financial assets of Airport Zurich Noise Fund
60.1
45.3
Other receivables and prepaid expenses
104.0
115.5
Other financial assets
65.5
17.6
Total maximum exposure to credit risk
1,293.9
1,117.1
ii) Liquidity risk
Liquidity risk refers to the risk that the Zurich Airport Group may not be able to meet its financial obligations on the due date.
The Zurich Airport Group monitors liquidity risk via a prudent liquidity management process, observing 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. In addition, the Zurich Airport Group had the following principal credit facilities at its disposal at the reporting date:
(CHF million)
Duration
31.12.2022
31.12.2021
Operating credit lines (committed credit lines)
31.12.2025
300.0
300.0
Total credit lines
300.0
300.0
Utilisation: bank guarantees
–11.2
–12.3
Total unused credit lines
288.8
287.7
The following tables show the contractual maturities of the financial liabilities (including interest payments) held by the Zurich Airport Group:
(CHF million)
Carrying amount
Contractual cash flows
Due within 1 year
Due within 1 to 5 years
Due in more than 5 years
31 December 2022
Debentures
1,614.2
1,651.0
411.2
514.6
725.2
Liabilities to banks
135.5
152.9
8.5
42.1
102.3
Lease liabilities
165.6
564.3
9.1
32.0
523.2
Liabilities from concession agreements
6.6
8.7
0.8
1.9
6.0
Other financial liabilities
21.2
21.2
0.8
0.0
20.4
Trade payables
44.4
44.4
44.4
0.0
0.0
Other current liabilities and accruals
109.1
109.1
109.1
0.0
0.0
Total non-derivative financial liabilities
2,096.6
2,551.6
583.9
590.5
1,377.1
Total
2,096.6
2,551.6
583.9
590.5
1,377.1
(CHF million)
Carrying amount
Contractual cash flows
Due within 1 year
Due within 1 to 5 years
Due in more than 5 years
31 December 2021
Debentures
1,648.9
1,698.3
11.3
723.0
964.0
Liabilities to banks
119.5
132.4
9.0
35.5
87.9
Lease liabilities
76.3
76.4
7.5
28.9
40.0
Liabilities from concession agreements
24.7
38.5
0.7
4.6
33.2
Other financial liabilities
21.3
21.3
0.9
0.0
20.4
Trade payables
57.0
57.0
57.0
0.0
0.0
Other current liabilities and accruals
97.9
97.9
97.9
0.0
0.0
Total non-derivative financial liabilities
2,045.6
2,121.8
184.3
792.0
1,145.4
Total
2,045.6
2,121.8
184.3
792.0
1,145.4
iii) Market risk (currency and interest rate 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 the Zurich Airport Group is the Swiss franc (CHF). The Group is exposed to foreign currency movements primarily in the Brazilian real (BRL), the Chilean peso (CLP) and the Indian rupee (INR).
A 5% appreciation or depreciation in the value of the Swiss franc against the relevant currencies as at 31 December 2022 would have increased or reduced consolidated equity (“Other comprehensive income”) or the consolidated result 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 million)
Equity
Profit
Equity
Profit
BRL
–6.5
0.0
6.5
0.0
CLP
–0.6
0.0
0.6
0.0
INR
–6.8
0.0
6.8
0.0
31 December 2022
–14.0
0.0
14.0
0.0
BRL
–6.9
0.0
6.9
0.0
CLP
–0.7
0.0
0.7
0.0
INR
–2.7
0.0
2.7
0.0
31 December 2021
–10.3
0.0
10.3
0.0
iiib) Interest rate risk
Interest rate risk can be divided into an interest-related cash flow risk (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 (the risk that the fair value of a financial instrument could change due to fluctuations in the market interest rate).
The financial assets of the Airport 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.
Most financing transactions have been concluded at a fixed rate of interest. Interest rate risk on variable liabilities is hedged on a case-by-case basis using interest rate swaps.
As at the reporting date, the Zurich Airport Group’s interest rate profile was as follows (interest-bearing financial instruments):
(CHF million)
31.12.2022
31.12.2021
Current and non-current fixed-term deposits
409.1
123.4
Fixed-interest financial assets of Airport Zurich Noise Fund
264.2
264.5
Fixed-interest financial instruments (assets)
673.3
387.9
Cash and cash equivalents
243.9
379.5
Cash and cash equivalents of Airport Zurich Noise Fund
17.3
29.8
Variable-interest financial instruments (assets)
261.2
409.3
Total interest-bearing assets
934.5
797.2
Current and non-current debentures
–1,614.2
–1,648.9
Current and non-current lease liabilities
–165.6
–76.3
Current and non-current other financial instruments
–21.2
–21.3
Fixed interest financial instruments (liabilities)
–1,801.0
–1,746.5
Current and non-current liabilities to banks
–135.5
–119.5
Variable-interest financial instruments (liabilities)
–135.5
–119.5
Total interest-bearing liabilities
–1,936.5
–1,865.9
The table below shows the sensitivity analysis for variable and fixed-rate financial instruments with a deviation of 0.5%:
Increase by 0.5%
Decrease by 0.5%
(CHF million)
Equity
Profit
Equity
Profit
Fixed-interest financial instruments
–1.6
0.0
1.6
0.0
Variable-interest financial instruments
0.0
1.0
0.0
–1.0
31 December 2022
–1.6
1.0
1.6
–1.0
Fixed-interest financial instruments
–3.2
0.0
3.2
0.0
Variable-interest financial instruments
0.0
1.7
0.0
–1.7
31 December 2021
–3.2
1.7
3.2
–1.7
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 million)
31.12.2022
31.12.2021
Current and non-current financial assets of Airport Zurich Noise Fund (bonds)
264.2
264.5
Total financial assets carried at amortised cost
264.2
264.5
Current and non-current financial assets of Airport Zurich Noise Fund (mixed investment fund)
96.9
108.5
Total financial assets measured at fair value
96.9
108.5
Cash (excl. cash on hand) and cash equivalents plus short-term monetary investments
260.9
409.1
Current and non-current fixed-term deposits
409.1
123.4
Trade receivables, net
93.3
78.6
Other receivables and prepaid expenses
104.0
115.5
Other financial assets
65.5
17.6
Total cash and cash equivalents, fixed-term deposits, receivables and other financial assets
932.8
744.1
Debentures
–1,614.2
–1,648.9
Total financial liabilities carried at amortised cost
–1,614.2
–1,648.9
Liabilities from concession agreements
–6.6
–24.7
Liabilities to banks
–135.5
–119.5
Lease liabilities
–165.6
–76.3
Other financial liabilities
–21.2
–21.3
Trade payables, net
–44.4
–57.0
Other current liabilities, accruals and deferrals (excluding derivatives and non-financial instruments)
–109.1
–97.9
Total other financial liabilities
–482.4
–396.7
c) Fair value 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.
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 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).
(CHF million)
31.12.2022
31.12.2021
Carrying amount
Fair value
Carrying amount
Fair value
Bonds of Airport Zurich Noise Fund (Level 1)
264.2
253.9
264.5
268.0
Mixed investment fund of the Airport Zurich Noise Fund (Level 2)
96.9
96.9
108.5
108.5
Total financial assets
361.1
350.8
373.0
376.5
Debentures (Level 1)
–1,614.2
–1,461.4
–1,648.9
–1,643.9
Total financial liabilities
–1,614.2
–1,461.4
–1,648.9
–1,643.9
d) Capital management
With respect to capital management, the Zurich Airport Group pays particular attention to ensuring the continuation of the Group’s operating activities, achieving an acceptable return for shareholders and optimising the balance sheet structure, particularly in periods of major investment activity or after crises. In order to achieve these objectives, Flughafen Zürich AG can adjust the amount of the dividend payment.
The Zurich Airport Group primarily monitors the following key financial indicator: net debt to EBITDA. 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 future unforeseeable events occur.
The necessary quantity of treasury shares may be held for the purpose of staff participation and bonus programmes. It is not permitted to accumulate several years’ worth of treasury shares for the purpose of participation 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 at the Zurich site amounted to around CHF 185 million in total. The most significant capital commitments currently relate to the refurbishment and expansion of the baggage sorting system (CHF 64 million), the Zone West construction project (CHF 19 million) and the development of the landside passenger zones (CHF 17 million). Capital commitments for the development and implementation of Noida International Airport in New Delhi, India amounted to around CHF 440 million.
24.3 Contingent liabilities
Zurich site
A number of legal proceedings and claims against the Zurich Airport Group 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 the Zurich Airport Group.
Depending on future legal judgements, including with respect to the southern approaches at Zurich Airport, 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.
Flughafen Zürich AG and Swiss Life AG are jointly and severally liable to third parties for the liabilities of the co-ownership structure the Circle and the ordinary partnership the Circle.
International
As part of its involvement in the expansion and operation of foreign airports, the Zurich Airport Group provides the following guarantees as security for local debt financing:
Operator (CHF million)
Location
2022
2021
Concessionária do Aeroporto Internacional de Florianópolis S.A.
Florianópolis, Brazil
81.3
77.7
Aeroportos do Sudeste do Brasil S.A.
Vitória/Macaé, Brazil
2.8
2.5
Sociedade de Participação no Aeroporto de Confins S.A.
Belo Horizonte, Brazil
19.5
19.5
Yamuna International Airport Private Limited
New Delhi, India
0.0
0.0
Total
103.6
99.7
The Zurich Airport Group has entered into the following counterbonds for other guarantees (e.g. performance or bid bonds) provided to local authorities by the operators:
Operator (CHF million)
Location
Type of guarantee
2022
2021
Concessionária do Aeroporto Internacional de Florianópolis S.A.
Florianópolis, Brazil
Performance bond
13.6
11.7
Aeroportos do Sudeste do Brasil S.A.
Vitória/Macaé, Brazil
Performance bond
9.2
8.2
Sociedade de Participação no Aeroporto de Confins S.A.
Belo Horizonte, Brazil
Performance bond
9.4
8.1
Operating companies of Iquique and Antofagasta
Iquique/Antofagasta, Chile
Performance bond
4.9
4.8
Yamuna International Airport Private Limited
New Delhi, India
Performance bond
11.2
12.3
Total
48.3
45.1
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 costs for the Canton of Zurich police force amounted to CHF 84.1 million (previous year: CHF 65.3 million) in accordance with the applicable service level agreement. In this context, accrued expenses amounting to CHF 21.8 million (previous year: CHF 19.6 million) at the reporting date were included in “Other current liabilities, accruals and deferrals”.
In financial year 2022, consulting revenue from operations and management agreements amounted to CHF 0.0 million (previous year: CHF 2.6 million) for the airport in Belo Horizonte and to CHF 2.5 million (previous year: CHF 2.8 million) for the airports in Bogotá and Curaçao.
In the reporting period, Flughafen Zürich AG paid employer contributions amounting to CHF 17.6 million (previous year: CHF 17.3 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 (previous year: CHF 2.4 million) of this 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
31.12.2022
31.12.2021
Andreas Schmid
Chairman
11,115
11,115
Josef Felder
Vice Chairman; Chairman Audit & Finance Committee
25,200
25,200
Vincent Albers
Member
2,517
2,517
Guglielmo L. Brentel
Member
309
309
Stephan Gemkow
Member; Chairman International Business Committee
100
100
Corine Mauch
Member
0
0
Eveline Saupper
Member; Chairwoman Nomination & Compensation Committee
675
675
Carmen Walker Späh
Member; Chairwoman Public Affairs Committee
5
5
Total
39,921
39,921
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
31.12.2022
31.12.2021
Stephan Widrig
8,080
7,292
Daniel Bircher
847
745
Lukas Brosi
2,029
1,719
Stefan Gross
1,846
1,536
Lydia Naef
450
n/a
Daniel Scheifele
n/a
1,553
Manuela Staub
167
n/a
Stefan Tschudin
1,404
1,094
Total
14,823
13,939
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 million)
2022
2021
Short-term employee benefits
5.0
4.1
Post-employment benefits (pension benefits)
0.7
0.6
Share-based payments
0.5
0.4
Total
6.2
5.1
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
Airport Ground Services AG
Kloten
CHF 100,000
100.0
Zurich Airport International AG
Kloten
CHF 100,000
100.0
Zurich Airport International Asia Sdn. Bhd.
Kuala Lumpur
MYR 1.0 million
100.0
Yamuna International Airport Private Ltd.
New Delhi
INR 15,269 million
100.0
Concessionária do Aeroporto Internacional de Florianópolis S.A.
Florianópolis
BRL 304 million
100.0
Zurich Airport Latin America Ltda.
Rio de Janeiro
BRL 581 million
100.0
Aeroportos do Sudeste do Brasil S.A.
Vitória
BRL 571 million
100.0
A-port S.A.
Santiago de Chile
CLP 16,139 million
100.0
Sociedad Concesionaria Aeropuerto de Antofagasta S.A.
Santiago de Chile
CLP 3,600 million
100.0
Sociedad Concesionaria Aeropuerto de 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 Organization) 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, the Zurich Airport Group was responsible, via its majority interests, for the operation and expansion of the following foreign airports:
Brazil
Florianópolis International Airport
Operator
Concessionária do Aeroporto Internacional de Florianópolis S.A.
Term of the concession
1 September 2017 – 31 August 2047
Terms and conditions
In return for the right to operate the airport, an upfront payment of BRL 83.3 million (CHF 24.7 million) fell due when the concession was acquired. Further concession fees (fixed and/or variable) will become due for payment over the term of the concession. The opening of the passenger terminal in October 2019 marked the completion of the infrastructure measures mandated in the concession agreement.
Location
The airport has a catchment area of 1.1 million people and is situated in the state of Santa Catarina in the south of Brazil. Florianópolis is a popular holiday destination for both local and international guests.
Eurico de Aguiar Salles and Benedito Lacerda Airport
Operator
Aeroportos do Sudeste do Brasil S.A
Term of the concession
4 October 2019 – 3 October 2049
Terms and conditions
The concession encompasses the operation and expansion of both airports (cluster). A concession fee totalling BRL 437.0 million (CHF 105 million) fell due at the acquisition date. Variable, revenue-based concession payments will be incurred as of the sixth year of operations. Whilst a newly expanded airport was acquired in Vitória, the concession in Macaé requires modifications to be made to the infrastructure so as to comply with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) provisions. To do so, the operator must construct a new runway.
Location
Both cities lie north (Macaé 150 km, Vitória 400 km) of Rio de Janeiro in the state of Espírito Santo. Vitória is an important seaport for iron ore and pig iron exports. Macaé is a central helicopter base for serving offshore oil platforms.
Chile
Diego Aracena International Airport
Operator
Sociedad Concesionaria Aeropuerto Diego Aracena S.A.
Term of the concession
The concession in place since April 2018 and has a term dependent on traffic volumes. Based on current traffic trends, the concession is expected to end in 2040.
Terms and conditions
The operator has undertaken to invest in measures to upgrade and extend the airport infrastructure, in particular to extend the existing terminal.
Location
Iquique is situated on the Pacific coast in the Tarapacá region in the north of Chile. While the region’s economy is dominated by the mining industry, the city of Iquique is also popular with tourists.
Andrés Sabella Gálvez International Airport
Operator
Sociedad Concesionaria Aeropuerto de Antofagasta S.A.
Term of the concession
The concession in place since 2012 and has a term dependent on traffic volumes. Based on current traffic trends, the concession is expected to run until 2026.
Terms and conditions
The infrastructure measures mandated in the concession agreement were completed back in 2014 when the terminal was extended. No further, significant measures are required before the concession ends.
Location
Antofagasta is situated on the Pacific coast in the Antofagasta region in the north of Chile. The mining industry is the most important sector of the economy.
India
Noida International Airport
Operator
Yamuna International Airport Private Limited
Term of the concession
1 October 2021 – 30 September 2061
Terms and conditions
The operator has undertaken to construct and operate the new Noida International Airport. Once the first phase of construction has been completed at the end of 2024, the new airport will have the capacity to handle 12 million passengers a year. Additional phases of capital expenditure will depend on predefined performance indicators. A fixed concession fee per departing passenger will be payable as of the sixth year of operations.
Location
The new airport is the second international airport in the Delhi Metropolitan Area and is situated in Jewar in the Greater Noida Area around 70 kilometres south of the Indian capital.
24.8 Events after the reporting date
The Board of Directors authorised the 2022 consolidated financial statements for issue on 9 March 2023. These also have to be approved by the Annual General Meeting.