ASUR 4Q18 Passenger Traffic Increased 7.5% YoY in Mexico, 30.4% in Puerto Rico and 27.8% in Colombia

MEXICO CITY, Feb. 25, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste, S.A.B. de C.V.  (NYSE: ASR; BMV: ASUR) (ASUR), a leading international airport group with operations in Mexico, the U.S., and Colombia, today announced results for the three-and twelve-month periods ended December 31, 2018.

4Q18 Highlights¹

• Passenger traffic in Mexico rose 7.5% YoY, reflecting increases of 12.3% and 3.0% in domestic and international traffic, respectively. Cancun Airport was the main traffic driver.

• Traffic in Puerto Rico (Aerostar) rose 30.4% YoY, driven by increases of 29.9% in domestic traffic and 34.9% in international traffic. The recovery in total passenger traffic reflects the impact of Hurricane Maria, which hit the island on September 21, 2017.

• Traffic in Colombia (Airplan) increased 27.8% YoY, reflecting growth of 30.7% in domestic traffic and 12.6% in international traffic.

• Consolidated commercial revenues per passenger reached Ps.95.6.

• Consolidated EBITDA rose 26.9% YoY, reaching Ps.2,459.8 million.

• Cash position at year-end was Ps.4,584.5 million. Net Debt to LTM EBITDA stood at 1.1x, reflecting the consolidation of Puerto Rico (Aerostar) and Colombia (Airplan).

4Q18 Earnings Call

Date & Time:

Tuesday, February 26, 2019 at 10:00 AM US ET; 9:00 AM CT

Dial-in: 1-800-239-9838 (US & Canada); 1-323-794-2551 (International & Mexico). Access Code: 7821007.

Replay: Tuesday, February 26, 2018 at 1:00 PM US ET, ending at 11:59 PM US ET on March 5, 2019. Dial-in number: 1-844-512-2921 (US & Canada) 1-412-317-6671 (International & Mexico); Access Code 7821007.

 

¹ Unless otherwise stated, all financial figures discussed in this announcement are unaudited, prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), including application of IFRS 9 and 15 that came into force in 2018, and represent comparisons between the three- and twelve-month periods ended December 31, 2018, and the equivalent three- and twelve-month periods ended December 31, 2017.  On May 26, 2017, ASUR increased its share ownership in Aerostar to 60% from its prior 50% ownership. Accordingly, starting June 1, 2017, ASUR began to fully consolidate Aerostar results on a line by line basis, while until then, results were accounted for by the equity method. Furthermore, starting October 19, 2017, ASUR began to consolidate results of Airplan in Colombia. All figures in this report are expressed in Mexican pesos, unless otherwise noted. Tables state figures in thousands of pesos, unless otherwise noted. Passenger figures for Mexico and Colombia exclude transit and general aviation passengers, unless otherwise noted. Commercial revenues include revenues from non-permanent ground transportation and parking lots. All U.S. dollar figures are calculated at the exchange rate of US$1.00 = Mexican Ps. 19.6512 (source: Diario Oficial de la Federacion de Mexico) while Colombian peso figures are calculated at the exchange rate of COL$165.2900 = Ps. 1.00 Mexican pesos (source: Investing). Definitions for EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA Margin, Majority Net Income can be found on page 17 of this report. 

Passenger Traffic

ASUR's total passenger traffic in 4Q18 rose 14.8% YoY to 13.1 million passengers, reflecting increases of 7.5% in traffic in Mexico, 30.4% in Puerto Rico, and 27.8% in Colombia. 

Passenger traffic growth of 7.5% in Mexico reflects increases of 12.3% and 3.0% in domestic and international traffic, respectively. Cancun was the main driver behind traffic growth, with increases of 14.4% and 3.4% in domestic and international traffic, respectively.  The majority of ASUR's other Mexican airports also contributed to higher traffic.

Traffic in Puerto Rico increased 30.4% YoY, recovering following the impact of Hurricane Maria, which hit the island in September 2017. Domestic traffic increased 29.9% YoY while international traffic rose 34.9%.

Colombia reported a 27.8% YoY increase in total traffic driven by growth of 30.7% and 12.6% in domestic and international traffic, respectively.

Tables with detailed passenger traffic information for each airport can be found on page 19 of this report.

Review of Consolidated Results

In May 2017, ASUR increased its share ownership in Aerostar, operator of LMM Airport in Puerto Rico, to 60% from its prior 50% ownership. Accordingly, until May 31, 2017, ASUR's ownership in Aerostar was accounted for by the equity method, while starting June 1, 2017, ASUR began to fully consolidate Aerostar results on a line by line basis. In addition, on October 19, 2017, ASUR acquired a 92.42% ownership stake in Airplan, which operates six airports in Colombia, and starting on that date, ASUR began to fully consolidate Airplan's operations on a line by line basis. On May 25, 2018, ASUR acquired a 7.58% ownership stake in Airplan, bringing its total share ownership in Airplan to 100.0%.

Consolidated Revenues

Consolidated Revenues for 4Q18 declined 0.6% YoY, or Ps.23.4 million to Ps.3,924.2million, mainly driven by a 63.9%, or Ps.574.9 million, decline in revenues from construction services. This was mainly due to a decrease in construction revenues in Colombia, as well as lower construction revenues in Mexico and Puerto Rico as a result of lower capital expenditures and other investments in concessioned assets during the period.

This more than offset the following increases:

• 17.5% in revenues from aeronautical services to Ps.2,227.8 million. Mexico contributed with Ps.1,482.4 million in revenues from aeronautical services in 4Q18, while Puerto Rico and Colombia contributed with Ps.403.1 million and Ps.342.3 million, respectively; and

• 19.1% in revenues from non-aeronautical services to Ps.1,371.3 million, principally reflecting the 19.6% increase in commercial revenues. Mexico contributed with Ps.1,016.1 million in revenues from non-aeronautical services, while Puerto Rico and Colombia contributed with Ps.248.2 million and Ps.106.9 million, respectively.

Excluding revenues from construction services, which are deducted as costs under IFRS accounting standards, total revenues would have increased 18.1% YoY to Ps.3,599.0 million. Total revenues excluding revenues from construction services in Puerto Rico and Colombia in 4Q18 represented 18.1% and 12.5%, respectively, of ASUR's consolidated revenues excluding revenues from construction services.

Commercial Revenues in 4Q18 increased 19.6% YoY to Ps.1,259.1 million, mainly reflecting the 14.8% increase in total passenger traffic. Commercial revenues in Mexico rose 15.6% to Ps.906.5 million, mainly driven by increases in Duty Free, Food and Beverages, Retail, and Car Rentals, among others, principally reflecting the opening of Terminal 4 at Cancun Airport during 4Q17. Likewise, Puerto Rico reported an YoY increase of 22.6% to Ps.245.7 million in commercial revenues, and Colombia an increase of 56.7% to Ps.106.9 million.  

Commercial Revenues per Passenger were relatively stable at Ps.95.6 in 4Q18. Mexico contributed with commercial revenues per passenger of Ps.111.6 in 4Q18, Puerto Rico with Ps.122.2, and Colombia with Ps.35.2. During the period, commercial revenues per passenger increased 7.6% in Mexico and declined 6.0% in Puerto Rico and 0.3% in Colombia.  

Consolidated Operating Costs and Expenses

Consolidated Operating Costs and Expenses, including construction costs, for 4Q18 declined by 73.8% YoY, or Ps.5,440.9 million, to Ps.1,931.2 million. Excluding an impairment in fixed-assets in Puerto Rico in 4Q17 of Ps.4,719.1 million (equivalent to US$240.0 million) as a result of Hurricane Maria, costs and expenses declined by 27.2% or Ps.721.9 million. Excluding construction costs, operating costs and expenses declined by 11.5% or Ps.195.4 million.

In Puerto Rico, operating costs and expenses excluding construction costs declined 44.4%, or Ps.313.1 million, mainly as a result of: i) a Ps.198.7 million (US$10.4 million) loss in fixed assets reflecting the damages arising from Hurricane Maria, ii) a Ps.98.9 million reduction in the maintenance provision as per IFRIC12 in 4Q18, and iii) the recognition of Ps.98.8 million in amortization of the intangible asset resulting from the valuation of the investment in Aerostar in 4Q17, compared to Ps.44.8 million in 4Q18.

Mexico reported an 11.0%, or Ps.82.7 million, increase in operating costs and expenses excluding construction costs, principally as a result of increases in maintenance, energy, and security expenses. Higher cost of sales from the opening of stores directly operated by ASUR in Terminal 4 of Cancun Airport and professional fees in connection with diverse projects also contributed to the increase in costs.

Colombia reported an increase of 73.2%, or Ps.175.5 million, operating costs and expenses excluding construction costs composed of: i) Ps.159.3 million in cost of services, resulting from a Ps.199.7 million increase in the maintenance provision for the future replacement of fixed assets as of December 31, 2018 as per IFRIC12, partially offset by a Ps.45 million decline in the provision for uncollectible accounts, ii)  Ps.0.8 million in technical assistance costs, iii) concession costs of Ps.24.2 million, partially offset be a decline of Ps.149.2 million in amortization of the concession (includes Ps.28.6 million from the recognition of the intangible asset resulting from the valuation of Airplan under IFRS 3 and Ps.122.2 million in initial amortization of complementary works, offset by the decline in the accumulated amortization for committed works).

Cost of Services rose by 9.0%, or Ps.72.1 million. In Mexico, cost of services increased 3.9% YoY, or Ps.14.9 million, reflecting higher maintenance expenses from the opening of Terminal 4 in Cancun airport, along with higher cost of sales from convenience stores directly operated by ASUR. Increased energy, security, and maintenance expenses also contributed to the increase in cost of services. Cost of services in Colombia rose 124.4%, or Ps.159.3 milllion, reflecting a Ps.199.7 million increase in the maintenance provision for future replacement of assets in line with IFRIC 12, as well as higher energy costs, security and maintenance expenses. This was partially offset by a Ps.45.0 million decline in the provision for uncollectible accounts and lower professional fees. By contrast, in Puerto Rico, cost of services decreased by 34.8% YoY, or Ps.102.1 million, reflecting a Ps.98.9 million decline in the maintenance provision under IFRIC 12 and from the recognition in 4Q17 of Ps.21.6 million in extraordinary expenses resulting from Hurricane Maria.

Construction Costs declined by 55.2% YoY, or Ps.526.5 million. Mexico contributed with a decline in construction costs of 78.3%, or Ps.498.6 million and Colombia with a reduction of 65.8%, or Ps.159.0 million. This was partially offset by an increase of 172.8%, or Ps.131.2 million in Puerto Rico.

G&A Expenses, which reflect administrative expenses in Mexico, increased 34.1% YoY mainly reflecting higher travel expenses, professional fees and salaries.

Consolidated Technical Assistance increased 17.6% YoY, mainly reflecting EBITDA growth in Mexico excluding extraordinary items, a factor in the calculation of the fee.

Concession Fees increased 43.7% YoY, principally reflecting higher fees paid to the Mexican government, mainly due to an increase in regulated revenues in Mexico, a factor in the calculation of the fee. Concession fees for 4Q18 also reflect an increase in Puerto Rico and Colombia. 

Depreciation and Amortization declined 59.9%, or Ps.366.1 million, principally due to: i) a Ps.198.7 million (US$10.4 million) loss in fixed assets in Puerto Rico reflecting the damages arising from Hurricane Maria in 4Q17, ii) the recognition in 4Q17 of Ps.98.8 million in amortization of the intangible asset in Puerto Rico resulting from the valuation of the investment in Aerostar under IFRS 3, compared with Ps.44.8 million in 4Q18, and iii) in Colombia, a negative depreciation of Ps.1777.9 million resulting from the decline in the accumulated amortization rate of the concession, mainly in committed works where the accumulated amortization rate declined to 82.93% from 85.15%. This was partially offset by the recognition in 4Q18 of Ps.28.7 million from the amortization of the concesion resulting from the valuation of ASUR's investment in Airplan.

Consolidated Operating Profit and EBITDA

In 4Q18, ASUR reported a Consolidated Operating Profit of Ps.2,127.7 million and Operating Margin of 54.2%. This was mainly the result of increases of 17.5%, or Ps.331.3 million, in aeronautical revenues, and 19.1%, or Ps.220.2 million in non-aeronautical revenues. For 4Q18, Mexico reported an operating profit of 1,622.4 million, Puerto Rico of Ps.393.5 million, and Colombia Ps.71.8 million.

Adjusted Operating Margin, which excludes the effect of IFRIC 12 with respect to the construction or improvements to concessioned assets in Mexico, Colombia, and Puerto Rico, is calculated as operating profit divided by total revenues less construction services revenues; and was 59.1% in 4Q18 compared with negative 112.4% in 4Q17.

EBITDA increased 26.9%, or Ps.522.0 million, to Ps.2,459.8 million in 4Q18. EBITDA increased 16.3%, or Ps.257.2 milllion in Mexico, 78.1%, or Ps.240.2 million, in Puerto Rico, and 44.0%, or Ps.24.5 million in Colombia. 4Q18 EBITDA Margin was 62.7% compared to 49.1% in 4Q17.

Adjusted EBITDA Margin, which excludes the effect of IFRIC 12 with respect to the construction of or improvements to concessioned assets in Mexico, Puerto Rico, and Colombia was 68.3% in 4Q18 compared to 63.6% in 4Q17.

Consolidated Comprehensive Financing Gain (Loss)

In 4Q18, ASUR reported a Ps.189.5 million Consolidated Comprehensive Financing Loss, compared to a Ps.127.4 million loss in 4Q17.

Interest expense rose by Ps.15.8 million during the period, or 5.3%, mainly reflecting the consolidation of Colombian operations starting October 19, 2017. In addition, during 4Q18, Puerto Rico recognized financial costs for Ps.36.4 million in connection with a maintenance provision. This was partially offset by a Ps.37.6 million decline in interest expenses in Mexico as the Company paid down loans in June and November 2018. Interest income declined by Ps.10.2 million reflecting a lower cash balance following the debt reduction.

In 4Q18, ASUR reported a foreign exchange gain of Ps.54.6 million, resulting from the 6.0% quarterly average depreciation of the Mexican peso against the U.S. dollar on ASUR's foreign currency net asset position. This compares to a Ps.90.7 million foreign exchange gain in 4Q17 resulting from the 4.5% quarterly average Mexican peso depreciation during that period on a lower foreign currency net asset position.

Income Taxes

Income Taxes for 4Q18 increased by Ps.27.0 million year-over-year, principally due to the following factors:

• A Ps.77.1 million YoY increase in deferred income taxes, mainly reflecting the impact from higher construction revenues from complementary works completed in Colombia in 2018, partially offset by a lower taxable income base in Mexico resulting from a change in the tax amortization rate on the concessioned assets; and

• A Ps.50.1 million decrease in income taxes, resulting from a lower taxable income base in Mexico due to a change in the tax amortization rate on those concessioned assets, along with an income tax gain in Colombia derived from changes in tax legislation according to Decree 2235 published on December 27, 2017, following the consolidation of these operations starting October 19, 2017.

Net Income

Net Income for 4Q18 declined by 50.3%, or Ps.1,5661.1 million, to Ps.1,547.7 million from Ps.3,113.8 million in 4Q17 which benefitted from a Ps.2,310.1 million valuation gain resulting from the Company's investment in Aerostar net of the goodwill in accordance with the guidelines of IFRS 3 "Business Combination".

Majority Net Income

Majority Net Income for 4Q18 decreased by 35.5% or Ps.803.9 million, to Ps.1,458.6 million from Ps.2,262.5 million in 4Q17 which benefitted from a Ps.1,386.1 million valuation gain resulting from the Company's investment in Aerostar net of the goodwill in accordance with the guidelines of IFRS 3 "Business Combination".

Earnings per common share for the quarter were Ps.4.8620 and earnings per ADS (EPADS) were US$2.4741 (one ADS represents ten series B common shares). This compares with earnings per share of Ps.7.5417 and EPADS of US$3.8378 for the same period last year.

Consolidated Financial Position

On December 31, 2018, airport concessions represented 88.3% of the Company's total assets, with current assets representing 10.6% and other assets representing 1.1%.

As of December 31, 2018, ASUR had cash and cash equivalents of Ps.4,584.5 million, a 2.0% decrease from Ps.4,677.4 million at December 31, 2017. Puerto Rico contributed with Ps.868.1 million in cash and cash equivalents in 4Q18 and Colombia with Ps.166.1 million.

As of December 31, 2018, the valuation of ASUR's investment in Aerostar in accordance with IFRS 3 "Business Combinations" resulted in the following effects in the Balance Sheet: i) the recognition of a net intangible asset of Ps.6,122.6 million, ii) goodwill of Ps.887.2 (net of an impairment of Ps.4,719.1 million), iii) deferred taxes of Ps.612.3  million, and iv) a minority interest of Ps.5,405.4 million within the stockholders 'equity.

Furthermore, the valuation of ASUR's investment in Airplan resulted in the following effects in the Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2018: i) the recognition of a net intangible asset of Ps.1,406.7 million, ii) goodwill of Ps.1,504.9, iii) deferred taxes of Ps.261.5 million, and iv) Ps.628.3 million from the recognition at bank loans at fair value.

On May 25, 2018, ASUR acquired an additional 7.58% of the share ownership of Airplan bringing its ownership stake in the company to 100%. This transaction resulted in the recognition of Shareholders' Equity in excess of the Ps.46.3 million.

Stockholders' equity at the close of 4Q18 was Ps.36,681.4 million and total liabilities were Ps.19,500.4 million, representing 65.3% and 34.7% of total assets, respectively. Deferred liabilities represented 16.2% of ASUR's total liabilities.

Total Debt at quarter-end decreased to Ps.14,500.4 million, from Ps.17,644.0 million on December 31, 2017. During June and November 2018, ASUR paid down a portion of its U.S. Dollar denominated debt, as well as a loan in Colombian pesos totaling Ps.3,230.4 million, or 22.3% of its Colombian peso denominated debt (COP 429.0 million). At December 31, 2018, 31.9% of ASUR's total debt was denominated in Mexican pesos, 17.9% in Colombian pesos and 50.6% in U.S. Dollars.

Net Debt to LTM EBITDA stood at 1.1x at the close of 4Q18, while the Interest Coverage ratio was 9.0x as of December 31, 2018. This compares with Net Debt to LTM EBITDA and Interest Coverage Ratios of 1.2x and 9.7x as of September 30, 2018, respectively.

 

 

Capex

During 4Q18, ASUR made capital investments of Ps.266.5 million, of which Ps.119.6 million relate to the Company's plan to modernize its Mexican airports pursuant to its master development plans, mainly for the construction of Cancun's Terminal 4, currently in operation. This also includes investments of Ps.126.0 million made by Aerostar at LMM Airport in Puerto Rico and of Ps.20.8 million made by Airplan in Colombia. Total capex for fiscal year 2018 ammounted to Ps.1,636.3

Review of Mexico Operations

Mexico Revenues

Mexico Revenues for 4Q18 declined 6.3% YoY to Ps.2,636.7 million. However, excluding construction, revenues rose 14.8% YoY, reflecting the following increases:

• 14.2% in revenues from aeronautical services, principally due to the 7.5% increase in passenger traffic; and

• 15.6% in revenues from non-aeronautical services, principally reflecting the 15.6% growth in commercial revenues.

Commercial Revenues rose 15.6% YoY, mainly due to the 7.4% increase in total passenger traffic (including transit and general aviation passengers) and reported increases across all categories as shown on Table 8.

Commercial Revenues per Passenger were up 7.6% in 4Q18 to Ps.111.6, from Ps.103.7 in 4Q17.

ASUR classifies commercial revenues as those derived from the following activities: duty-free stores, car rentals, retail operations, banking and currency exchange services, advertising, teleservices, non-permanent ground transportation, food and beverage operations, and parking lot fees.

As shown in Table 9, during the last 12 months, ASUR opened 15 new commercial spaces at Cancun Airport, reflecting the opening of its new Terminal 4, and added seven commercial spaces at its other eight Mexican airports. More details of these openings can be found on page 20 of this report.

Mexico Operating Costs and Expenses

Total Mexico Operating Costs and Expenses for 4Q18 declined 29.9% YoY. This includes construction costs, which fell 78.3%, reflecting lower levels of capital improvements made to concessioned assets during the period. Excluding construction costs, operating costs and expenses increased 11.0% to Ps.836.1 million.

Cost of Services rose 3.9% YoY, mainly due to higher maintenance, energy, and security expenses. Higher cost of sales from convenience stores directly operated by ASUR, including those opened at Terminal 4 at Cancun Airport also contributed to the increase in cost of services. 

Administrative expenses increased by 34.1% YoY, principally as a result of higher travel expenses, fees to third parties, and salaries. 

The 16.8% increase in the Technical Assistance fee paid to ITA reflects EBITDA growth in Mexico, excluding extraordinary items in the quarter, a factor in the calculation of the fee.

Concession Fees, which include fees paid to the Mexican government, rose 15.9%, mainly due to an increase in regulated revenues, a factor in the calculation of the fee.

Depreciation and Amortization increased 15.5% YoY, reflecting the recognition of higher investments at year-end 2017.

Mexico Consolidated Comprehensive Financing Gain (Loss)

ASUR's Mexico operations reported a Ps.30.1 million Comprehensive Financing Gain, compared to a Ps.35.6 million gain in 4Q17. Mexican operations reported a foreign exchange gain of Ps.54.9 million in the quarter, resulting from the 6.0% quarterly average Mexican peso depreciation against the U.S. dollar on ASUR's foreign currency net asset position, compared with a Ps.90.7 million foreign exchange gain in 4Q17, resulting from the 4.5% quarterly average Mexican peso depreciation during that period.

In addition, interest expense declined 25.5% YoY to Ps.109.9 million as the Company paid down a total of US$145.0 million in debt between June and November 2018. Furthermore, interest income decreased 7.8% refelcting a lower cash balance following the abovementioned debt payments.

Mexico Operating Profit and EBITDA

Mexico reported an Operating Profit of Ps.1,662.4 million in 4Q18, up 16.8%, mainly reflecting increases of 14.2% in aeronautical revenues and 15.6% in commercial revenues derived from the 7.5% growth in passenger traffic. Operating Margin was 63.0% in 4Q18 compared with 50.6% in 4Q17.

Adjusted Operating Margin in 4Q18, which excludes the effect of IFRIC 12 with respect to the construction or improvements to concessioned assets and is calculated as operating profit divided by total revenues excluding construction services revenues, was 66.5%, compared to 65.4% in 4Q17.

EBITDA increased 16.3% to Ps.1,831.6 million from Ps.1,574.4 million in 4Q17, as a result of higher operating leverage. EBITDA Margin expanded to 69.5% from 56.0% in 4Q17.

During 4Q18, ASUR's operations in Mexico recognized Ps.138.2 million in "Construction Revenues," a year-on-year decline of 78.3%, due to lower capital expenditures and investments in concessioned assets. Adjusted EBITDA Margin, which excludes the effect of IFRIC 12 with respect to the construction of/or improvements to concessioned assets, increased by 98 bps to 73.3%.

Mexico Tariff Regulation

The Mexican Ministry of Communications and Transportation regulates the majority of ASUR's activities by setting maximum rates, which represent the maximum possible revenues allowed per traffic unit at each airport.

ASUR's accumulated regulated revenues at its Mexican operations as of December 31, 2018 totaled Ps.6,050.9 million, with an average tariff per workload unit of Ps.178.3 (December 2016 pesos), accounting for approximately 61.6% of total Mexico income (excluding construction income) for the period.

The Mexican Ministry of Communications and Transportation reviews compliance with maximum rate regulations at the close of each year.  

Mexico Capital Expenditures

During 4Q18, ASUR's operations in Mexico made capital investments of Ps.119.6 million in connection with the Company's plan to modernize its Mexican airports pursuant to its master development plans, mainly for the construction of Cancun's Terminal 4, currently in operation. This compares with capex of Ps.465.0 million in 4Q17.

Review of Puerto Rico Operations

In May 2017, ASUR increased its share ownership in Aerostar to 60% from its prior 50% ownership. Accordingly, consolidated results as presented in this report reflect line by line consolidation of Aerostar results starting in June 1, 2017, while prior to that, Aerostar's results were accounted for by the equity method.

As of December 31, 2018, the valuation of ASUR's investment in Aerostar in accordance with IFRS 3 "Business Combinations" resulted in the following effects in the Balance Sheet: i) the recognition of a net intangible asset of Ps.6,122.6 million, ii) goodwill of Ps.887.2 (net of an impairment of Ps.4,719.1 million), iii) deferred taxes of Ps.612.3 million, and iv) a minority interest of Ps.5,405.4 million within stockholders 'equity.

Puerto Rico Revenues

Total Puerto Rico Revenues for 4Q18 increased 31.6% YoY to Ps.858.4 million, mainly due to the following increases:

• 8.0% in revenues from aeronautical services; and

• 22.3% in revenues from non-aeronautical services, principally reflecting the 22.6% increase in commercial revenues.

Commercial Revenues per Passenger declined to Ps.122.2 from Ps.130.0 in 4Q17.

Eight commercial spaces were opened at LMM Airport over the last 12 months, as shown on Table 15. More details of these openings can be found on page 20 of this report.

ASUR classifies commercial revenues as those derived from the following activities: duty-free stores, car rentals, retail operations, advertising, non-permanent ground transportation, food and beverage operations, and parking lot fees.

Puerto Rico Operating Costs and Expenses

Total Operating Costs and Expenses at LMM Airport in 4Q18, including construction costs, declined 23.3% YoY to Ps.599.6 million.

Cost of Services declined 34.8% YoY, mainly due to a Ps.98.9 million reduction in the maintenance provision as per IFRIC12 in December 2018 together with Ps.21.6 million in extraordinary expenses in 4Q17 resulting from Hurricane Maria.

In accordance with the application of IFRIC 12, Aerostar recognizes on a monthly basis the provision for maintenance of those concession assets that will be replaced before the end of the concession. During 4Q18, the company recorded a Ps.88.1 million decline in this provision reflecting a valuation adjustment.

Concession Fees paid to the Puerto Rican government increased YoY by Ps.28.6 million, to Ps.31.3 million compared with Ps.2.7 million in 4Q17. For the first five years, the concession fee was a fixed annual payment of US$2.5 million, reported within intangible assets, while starting in 2018, the concession fee is 5% based on revenues and impacts results.

Depreciation and Amortization declined by 58.5%, or Ps.239.7 million, mainly reflecting a Ps.198.7 million (US$10.4 million) loss in fixed assets in Puerto Rico during 4Q17 resulting from the damages arising from Hurricane Maria. In addition, in 4Q17 the company recognized Ps.98.8 million in amortization of the intangible asset resulting from the valuation of the investment in Aerostar under IFRS 3, compared with Ps.44.8 million in 4Q18.

During 4Q18, Aerostar reported Construction Costs in Puerto Rico of Ps.207.1 million, reflecting the capital investments in the concessioned assets during the period.

Excluding construction costs, operating costs and expenses declined 44.4% to Ps.392.4 million.

Puerto Rico Comprehensive Financing Gain (Loss)

During 4Q18, LMM Airport reported a Ps.162.0 million Comprehensive Financing Loss, compared with a Ps.130.5 million loss in 4Q17, mainly reflecting interest rate movements and the impact from the valuation to present value of future obligations under IFRIC 12 and NIC 37.

On February 22, 2013, and as part of the financing of the Concession Agreement, Aerostar entered into a subordinated term loan with Cancun Airport in the amount of US$100 million at an annual interest rate of LIBOR plus 2.10%, payable each July 1 and January 1, and with no fixed maturity date. As of December 31, 2018, the remaining balance was US$58.1 million. 

On March 22, 2013, Aerostar carried out a private bond placement for a total of US$350 million to finance a portion of the Concession Agreement payment to the Puerto Rican Ports Authority and certain other costs and expenditures associated with it.

On June 24, 2015, Aerostar carried out a private bond placement for a total of US$50 million. In December 2015, Aerostar also contracted a line of revolving credit, which, as of December 31, 2018, had not been utilized.

All long-term debt is collateralized by Aerostar's total assets.

Puerto Rico Operating Profit and EBITDA

Operating Profit at Puerto Rico in 4Q18 increased to Ps.393.5 million, with Operating Margin expanding to 45.8% from negative 19.8% in 4Q17. This was principally due to a Ps.98.9 million reduction in the maintenance provision as per IFRIC12 in 4Q18, and a Ps.134.6 million insurance claim recovery in connection with the loss resulting from Hurricane Maria in 2017. In addition, in 4Q17 the company recognized: i) a Ps.198.7 million (US$10.4 million) loss in fixed assets in Puerto Rico reflecting the damages arising from Hurricane Maria and ii) Ps.98.8 million in amortization of the intangible asset resulting from the valuation of the investment in Aerostar in 4Q17, compared to Ps.44.8 million in 4Q18.

EBITDA increased 78.1% to Ps.547.9 million from Ps.307.6 million in 4Q17, and EBITDA Margin expanded to 63.8% in 4Q18 from 47.2% in 4Q17. Adjusted EBITDA Margin, excluding IFRIC12, increased to 84.1% in 4Q18 from 53.4% in 4Q17.

Puerto Rico Capital Expenditures

During 4Q18, Aerostar invested Ps.126.0 million to modernize LMM Airport, compared with investments of Ps.89.3 million in 4Q17.

Puerto Rico Tariff Regulation

The Airport Use Agreement signed by Aerostar, the airlines serving LMM Airport, and the Puerto Rico Ports Authority governs the relationship between Aerostar and the principal airlines serving LMM Airport. The agreement entitles Aerostar to an annual contribution from the airlines of US$62 million during the first five years of the term. From year six onwards, the total annual contribution for the prior year increases in accordance with an adjusted consumer price index factor based on the U.S. non-core consumer price index. The annual fee is divided between the airlines that operate at LMM Airport in accordance with the regulations and structure defined under the Airport Use Agreement to establish the contribution of each airline for each particular year.

Review of Colombia Operations

On October 19, 2017, ASUR acquired a 92.42% ownership stake in Airplan, which operates six airports in Colombia. Therefore, ASUR began to consolidate Airplan's results on a line by line basis as of that date.

On May 25, 2018, ASUR acquired an additional 7.58% of the share ownership of Airplan, bringing its ownership stake in the company to 100%. This transaction resulted in the recognition of Shareholders' Equity in excess of the Ps.46.3 million paid for the acquisition of this additional stake in Airplan.

The following discussion compares Airplan's independent results for the three-month period ended December 31, 2018 against the period starting October 19, 2017 and ending December 31, 2017 (in which Airplan was consolidated with ASUR).

The valuation of ASUR's investment in Airplan in accordance with IFRS 3 "Business Combinations" resulted in the following effects on the Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2018: i) the recognition of a net intangible asset of Ps.1,406.7 million, ii) goodwill of Ps.1,504.9, iii) deferred taxes of Ps.261.5 million, and iv) Ps.628.3 million from the recognition of bank loans at fair value.

Colombia Revenues

Total Colombia Revenues for 4Q18 declined 11.0% YoY to Ps.429.1 million. Excluding construction services revenues, revenues rose 52.4% mainly reflecting the following increases:

• 51.7% in revenues from aeronautical services; and

• 54.8% in revenues from non-aeronautical services, mainly due to the 56.7% increase in commercial revenues.

Commercial Revenues per Passenger were relatively flat year-on-year.

As shown on Table 21, during the last twelve months, 32 new commercial spaces were opened in Colombia. More details of these openings can be found on pages 20 and 21 of this report.

ASUR classifies commercial revenues as those derived from the following activities: duty-free stores, car rentals, retail operations, advertising, non-permanent ground transportation, food and beverage operations, and parking lot fees.

 

 

Total Operating Costs and Expenses in Colombia declined 25.8% YoY in 4Q18 to Ps.357.3 million.

Cost of Services rose 124.4% YoY, or Ps.159.3 million, mainly due to the Ps.199.7 million increase in the maintenance provision for future replacement fixed assets as of December 31, 2018 under IFRIC12. In addition, energy costs increased by Ps.10.0 million reflecting new concessioned areas at Rionegro and Montería airports, together with a higher cost per kilowatt, together with higher maintenance and security costs. This was partially offset by a Ps.45.0 million decline in the provision for uncollectible accounts and a Ps.18.3 million decline in professional legal fees.

Construction Costs declined 65.8% YoY to Ps.82.6 million, reflecting lower investments in complementary works to concessioned assets during the period.

Concession Fees, which include fees paid to the Colombian government, increased 43.2% YoY, mainly reflecting higher regulated and non-regulated revenues during the period.

Depreciation and Amortization declined by 271.3%, or Ps.149.2 million, principally reflecting a decline in the accumulated amortization rate of the concession mainly in committed works where the accumulated amortization rate declined to 82.93% from 85.15% which resulted in negative amortization of Ps.177.9 million. This was partially offset by the recognition in 4Q18 of Ps.28.7 million from the amortization of the concesion resulting from the valuation of ASUR's investment in Airplan.

Colombia Comprehensive Financing Gain / (Loss)

During 4Q18, Airplan reported a Ps.57.6 million Comprehensive Financing Loss, compared with a Ps.32.5 million loss in 4Q17. This mainly reflects higher interest expenses as starting January 2018 only 1.34% of the interest payments are capitalized while in 4Q17 70.0% were capitalized.

On June 1, 2015, Airplan entered into a Ps.3,468.7 million, 12-Year Syndicated Loan Facility with eight banks with a 3-year grace period.

Colombia Operating Profit and EBITDA

During 4Q18, ASUR reported an Operating Gain of Ps.71.8 million compared with Ps.0.8 million in 4Q17. Operating Margin expanded to 16.7% in 4Q18 from 0.2% in 4Q17. Adjusted Operating Margin, which excludes the impact of IFRIC 12 with respect to construction or improvements to concessioned assets, was 16.0% in 4Q18 compared with 0.3% in the same quarter of 2017.

EBITDA increased 44.0% to Ps.80.3 million from Ps.55.8 million in 4Q17. EBITDA Margin increased to 18.7% in 4Q18, from 11.6% in 4Q17, while Adjusted EBITDA Margin, which excludes the impact of IFRIC 12 with respect to construction or improvements to concessioned assets, declined to 17.9 % in 4Q18, from 37.4% in the prior-year quarter.

Colombia Capital Expenditures

During 4Q18, Airplan invested Ps.20.8 million to modernize its airports in Colombia, including: i) the expansion of the domestic and international passenger terminal, ii) the expansion of the international platform, and iii) progress in the construction of the cargo terminal at Rionegro airport. This compares with investments of Ps.211.9 million in 4Q17.

Colombia Tariff Regulation

Functions of the Special Administrative Unit of Civil Aeronautics include establishing and collecting fees, tariffs, and rights for the provision of aeronautical and airport services or those that are generated by the concessions, authorizations, licenses, or any other type of income or property. As a result, Resolution 04530, issued on September 21, 2007, establishes the tariffs for the rights and the rates conceded to the concessionaire of the following airports: José María Córdova of Rionegro, Enrique Olaya Herrera of Medellín, Los Garzones of Montería, El Caraño of Quibdó, Antonio Roldán Betancourt of Carepa, and Las Brujas of Corozal. This resolution also established the methodology to update and the mechanisms to collect such fees, tariffs, and rights. Airplan's regulated revenues for 4Q18 amounted to Ps.342.3 million.

Recent Events

Mr. Jorge Hernandez de Leon was appointed acting CEO of Aerostar, effective February 13, 2019, previously Mr. Agustin Arellano was Aerostar's CEO.

Definitions

Concession Services Agreements (IFRIC 12 interpretation). In Mexico and Puerto Rico, ASUR is required by IFRIC 12 to include in its income statement an income line, "Construction Revenues," reflecting the revenue from construction or improvements to concessioned assets made during the relevant period. The same amount is recognized under the expense line "Construction Costs," because ASUR hires third parties to provide construction services. Because equal amounts of Construction Revenues and Construction Costs have been included in ASUR's income statement as a result of the application of IFRIC 12, the amount of Construction Revenues does not have an impact on EBITDA, but it does have an impact on EBITDA Margin. In Colombia, "Construction Revenues" include the recognition of the revenue to which the concessionaire is entitled for carrying out the infrastructure works in the development of the concession, while "Construction Costs" represents the actual costs incurred in the execution of such additions or improvements to the concessioned assets. 

Majority Net Income reflects ASUR's equity interests in each of its subsidiaries and therefore excludes the 40% interest in Aerostar that is owned by other shareholders. Other than Aerostar, ASUR owns (directly or indirectly) 100% of its subsidiaries.

EBITDA means net income before provision for taxes, deferred taxes, profit sharing, non-ordinary items, participation in the results of associates, comprehensive financing cost, and depreciation and amortization. EBITDA should not be considered as an alternative to net income, as an indicator of our operating performance or as an alternative to cash flow as an indicator of liquidity. Our management believes that EBITDA provides a useful measure that is widely used by investors and analysts to evaluate our performance and compare it with other companies. EBITDA is not defined under U.S. GAAP or IFRS and may be calculated differently by different companies.

Adjusted EBITDA Margin is calculated by dividing EBITDA by total revenues excluding construction services revenues for Mexico, Puerto Rico, and Colombia and excludes the effect of IFRIC 12 with respect to the construction or improvements to concessioned assets. ASUR is required by IFRIC 12 to include in its income statement an income line reflecting the revenue from construction or improvements to concessioned assets made during the relevant period. The same amount is recognized under the expense line "Construction Costs," because ASUR hires third parties to provide construction services. In Mexico and Puerto Rico, because equal amounts of Construction Revenues and Construction Costs have been included in ASUR's income statement as a result of the application of IFRIC 12, the amount of Construction Revenues does not have an impact on EBITDA, but it does have an impact on EBITDA Margin, as the increase in revenues that relates to Construction Revenues does not result in a corresponding increase in EBITDA. In Colombia, construction revenues do have an impact on EBITDA, as construction revenues include a reasonable margin over the actual cost of construction. Like EBITDA Margin, Adjusted EBITDA Margin should not be considered as an indicator of our operating performance or as an alternative to cash flow as an indicator of liquidity and is not defined under U.S. GAAP or IFRS and may be calculated differently by different companies.

About ASUR

Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste, S.A.B. de C.V. (ASUR) is a leading international airport operator with a portfolio of concessions to operate, maintain, and develop 16 airports in the Americas. This comprises nine airports in southeast Mexico, including Cancun Airport, the most important tourist destination in Mexico, the Caribbean, and Latin America, and six airports in northern Colombia, including José María Córdova International Airport (Rionegro), the second busiest airport in Colombia. ASUR is also a 60% JV partner in Aerostar Airport Holdings, LLC, operator of the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport serving the capital of Puerto Rico, San Juan. San Juan's Airport is the island's primary gateway for international and mainland-US destinations and was the first and currently the only major airport in the US to have successfully completed a public–private partnership under the FAA Pilot Program. Headquartered in Mexico, ASUR is listed both on the Mexican Bolsa, where it trades under the symbol ASUR, and on the NYSE in the U.S., where it trades under the symbol ASR. One ADS represents ten (10) series B shares. For more information, visit www.asur.com.mx

Analyst Coverage

In accordance with Mexican Stock Exchange Internal Rules Article 4.033.01, ASUR informs that the stock is covered by the following broker-dealers: Actinver Casa de Bolsa, Barclays, BBVA Bancomer, BofA Merrill Lynch, BX+, Citi Investment Research, Credit Suisse, Goldman Sachs, Grupo Bursatil Mexicano, Grupo Financiero Interacciones, Grupo Financiero Monex, HSBC, Intercam Casa de Bolsa, Insight Investment Research, Itau BBA Securities, INVEX, JP Morgan, Morgan Stanley, Morningstar, Nau Securities, Punto Casa de Bolsa, Santander Investment, Scotia Capital, UBS Casa de Bolsa and Vector.

Please note that any opinions, estimates or forecasts regarding the performance of ASUR issued by these analysts reflect their own views, and therefore do not represent the opinions, estimates or forecasts of ASUR or its management. Although ASUR may refer to or distribute such statements, this does not imply that ASUR agrees with or endorses any information, conclusions or recommendations included therein.

Some of the statements contained in this press release discuss future expectations or state other forward-looking information. Those statements are subject to risks identified in this press release and in ASUR's filings with the SEC. Actual developments could differ significantly from those contemplated in these forward-looking statements. The forward-looking information is based on various factors and was derived using numerous assumptions. Our forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made and, except as may be required by applicable law, we do not have an obligation to update or revise them, whether as a result of new information, future or otherwise.

– SELECTED OPERATING TABLES & FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOLLOW –

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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SOURCE Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste, S.A.B. de C.V.