ASUR 4Q17 Passenger Traffic Increased 6.2% YoY in Mexico and Declined 26.9% in San Juan, Puerto Rico and 13.0% in Colombia

MEXICO CITY, Feb. 22, 2018 /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, 2017.

4Q17 Highlights

• Completed acquisition of Airplan, operator of six airports in Colombia, including the Medellín International Airport.
• Passenger traffic in Mexico increased 6.2% YoY, reflecting increases of 6.3% and 6.2% in domestic and international traffic, respectively. Cancun Airport was the main traffic driver.
• Traffic at Luis Muñoz Marín (LMM) Airport declined 26.9% YoY, 24.7% in domestic traffic and 41.5% in international traffic, impacted by Hurricane Maria, which hit Puerto Rico in September 2017.
• Traffic in Colombia (Airplan) fell 13.0% YoY reflecting a decline of 16.6% in domestic traffic mainly impacted by a strike of local pilots at a major carrier, which more than offset an 11.7% increase in international traffic.
• Consolidated commercial revenues per passenger reached Ps.95.4.
• Consolidated EBITDA up 44.1% YoY, reaching Ps.1,937.7 million.
• Closed the quarter with a cash position of Ps.4,461.0 million. Net Debt to LTM EBITDA stood at 1.74x, reflecting consolidation of Aerostar and Airplan.
• Began operations at Terminal 4 at Cancun Airport.

¹ Unless otherwise stated, all financial figures discussed in this announcement are unaudited, prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and represent comparisons between the three- and twelve-month periods ended December 31, 2017, and the equivalent three- and twelve-month periods ended December 31, 2016.  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 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$1.00 = Mexican Ps.19.6629 while Colombian peso figures are calculated at the exchange rate of COL$ 151.86 = Ps. 1.00 Mexican pesos. Definitions for EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA margin, Majority Net Income can be found on page 15 of this report.  

Passenger Traffic

ASUR’s total passenger traffic in 4Q17 declined 4.0% YoY to 11.4 million passengers, as a 6.2% increase in Mexico, was more than offset by declines in traffic of 26.9% in Puerto Rico and 13.0% in Colombia. 

The 6.2% YoY growth in passenger traffic in Mexico reflects increases of 6.3% and 6.2% in domestic and international traffic, respectively. Cancun was the main driver behind traffic growth, reporting increases of 9.6% and 5.8% in domestic and international traffic, respectively with the majority of ASUR’s other Mexican airports also contributing to higher traffic.

Passenger traffic at LMM Airport was impacted by Hurricane Maria which hit Puerto Rico in September 2017. While in October 2017 LMM Airport returned to 70 daily average flights similarly to those reported in 2016, they registered a lower load factor in arrivals. As  result, total passenger traffic at LMM Airport in 4Q17 declined 26.9% YoY, with reductions of 24.7% and 41.5% in domestic and international traffic.

Traffic also reflects the acquisition of Airplan’s six airports in Colombia. While international traffic rose 11.7% YoY in 4Q17, domestic traffic fell 16.6% mainly due to a local pilot strike at a major carrier that began in October 2017.

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 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 its operations on a line by line basis.

In accordance with IFRS 3 “Business Combinations”, in 4Q17, ASUR accounted for the result of the valuation of its investment in Aerostar based on its acquisition of an additional 10% ownership stake on May 26, 2017, resulting in ASUR holding a 60% interest in Aerostar.  As a result, ASUR’s financial statements for 4Q17 reflect the following effects: i) in the Income Statement, a gain of Ps.7,029.2 million reported under the line item “Gain from Business Combinations”, partially offset by Ps.98.8 million in amortization of the concession , and Ps.2,811.7 million in recognition off the minority interest in Aerostar; and ii) in the Balance Sheet, the recognition of a net intangible asset for Ps.5,955.0 million,  goodwill for Ps.5,606.3 million, deferred taxes for Ps.605.4 million, and a minority interest of Ps.4,425.5 million in Stockholders’ Equity.

Additionally, ASUR carried out the deterioration test of the long-term assets in accordance with IAS 36, as a result of the effects of Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico, and determined an impairment Ps.4,719.1 million, which impacted the depreciation and amortization line item in the Income Statement, and reduced goodwill by Ps.4,719.1 million in the Balance Sheet.

Consolidated Revenues

Consolidated Revenues for 4Q17 increased 25.8% YoY to Ps.3,871.7 million, mainly as a result of the following increases:

• 65.5% in revenues from aeronautical services to Ps.1,896.5 million, principaly due to the increase in revenues from aeronautical services in Mexico, along with the benefit of Ps.373.2 million in aeronautical revenues from Aerostar and Ps.225.7 million from Colombia in 4Q17; and
• 48.7% in revenues from non-aeronautical services to Ps.1,151.1 million, principally reflecting the 53.2% increase in commercial revenues. Non-aeronautical services revenues for 4Q17 include the contributions of Ps.202.9 million from Aerostar and Ps.69.1 million from Airplan in Colombia.

This was partially offset by a 29.2% decline in revenues from construction services in Mexico and Colombia as a result of lower capital expenditures and other investments in concessioned assets during the period.

Excluding revenues from construction services, which are deducted as costs under IRFS accounting standards, total revenues would have increased 59.3% YoY to Ps.3,047.6 million. Total revenues at Aerostar and Colombia for 4Q17 represented 18.9% and 9.7%, respectively of ASUR’s consolidated revenues excluding revenues from construction services.

Commercial Revenues in 4Q17 rose 53.2% YoY, principally due to the 6.0% increase in total passenger traffic in Mexico, along with the contribution of Ps.200.5 million and Ps.68.2 million in commercial revenues at LMM Airport and Colombia, respectively for 4Q17. Commercial revenues in Mexico rose 14.1%, mainly driven by increases in Duty Free, Food and Beverages, and Retail mainly reflecting the opening on Terminal 4 at Cancun Airport during 4Q17.

Commercial Revenues per Passenger declined to Ps.95.4 in 4Q17, from Ps.96.4 in 4Q16, with Mexico contributing with Ps.103.7, LMM Airport with Ps.130.0 and Colombia with Ps.35.3 revenues per passenger in 4Q17.

Consolidated Operating Costs and Expenses

Consolidated Operating Costs and Expenses, including construction costs, for 4Q17 increased 289.7% YoY to Ps.7,296.2 million, mainly impacted by the recognition of a US$250.4 million impairment in long-term assets as a result of Hurricane Maria, in Puerto Rico. Excluding construction costs, operating costs and expenses rose 805.6% to Ps.6,417.7 million.

Cost of Services increased 119.3%, as 4Q17 includes expenses of Ps.293.3 million and Ps.128.0 million for Puerto Rico and Colombia, respectively, reflecting the consolidation of those operations. Higher maintenance expenses, as well as opening costs at Terminal 4 in Cancun airport, along with higher cost of sales from convenience stores directly operated by ASUR, increased energy, security and professional fees, also contributed to the increase in cost of services.

Construction Costs declined 24.5% YoY to Ps.878.5 million, mainly due to lower levels of capital improvements made to the concessioned assets during the period. Mexico contributed with Ps.636.8 million in construction costs during 4Q17 and Colombia Ps.241.6 million.

G&A Expenses, which reflect administrative expenses in Mexico, declined 9.5% YoY.

Consolidated Technical Assistance increased 17.8% YoY, mainly reflecting EBITDA growth in Mexico excluding extraordinary items, a factor in the calculation of the fee.

Concession fees rose 81.5%, mainly 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 4Q17 also include fees paid to Puerto Rico and Colombian authorities in the quarter.

Depreciation and Amortization increased 3,830.3%, principally due to the US$250.4 million impairment in long-term assets as a result of the impact of Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico, as well as the recognition of Ps.98.8 million in amortization of the intangible asset resulting from the valuation of the investment in Aerostar, as well as the inclusion of depreciation in Colombia starting 4Q17, which amounted to Ps.55 million.

Consolidated Operating Profit and EBITDA

In 4Q17 ASUR reported a Consolidated Operating Loss of Ps.3,424,4 million, and Operating Margin was negative 88.4%, mainly as a result of the US$250.4 million impairment in long-term assets as a result of the impact of Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico, as well as the recognition of Ps.98.8 million in amortization of the intangible asset resulting from the valuation of the investment in Aerostar.

Adjusted Operating Margin, which excludes the effect of IFRIC 12 with respect to the construction or improvements to concessioned assets in Mexico and Colombia, is calculated as operating profit divided by total revenues less construction services revenues; and was negative 112.4% in 4Q17 compared with positive 63.0% in 4Q16.

EBITDA rose 44.1% to Ps.1,937.7 million in 4Q17, with Aerostar contributing with Ps.307.6 million in EBITDA, and Colombia with Ps.55.8 million, equivalent to 15.9% and 2.8% of consolidated EBITDA, respectively. Mexican operations reported a 17.1% YoY increase in EBITDA during the quarter. During 4Q17, ASUR recognized Ps.824.1 million in Construction Revenues, a year-on-year decline of 29.2%, due to lower capital expenditures and investments in concessioned assets. As a result, 4Q17 EBITDA Margin was 50.0% compared to 43.7% in 4Q16.

Adjusted EBITDA Margin, which excludes the effect of IFRIC 12 with respect to the construction or improvements to concessioned assets in Mexico and Colombia was 63.6% in 4Q17 compared to 70.3% in 4Q16.

Consolidated Comprehensive Financing Gain (Loss)

In 4Q17, ASUR reported a Ps.127.4 million Comprehensive Financing Loss, compared to a Ps.1.4 million loss in 4Q16. Interest expense rose by Ps.266.9 million during the period, reflecting mainly a higher debt balance resulting from the consolidation of Aerostar and Airplan. Aerostar’s interest expenses for 4Q17 amounted to Ps.130.5 million, while Airplan contributed Ps.33.1 million in interest expenses. Interest income increased by Ps.26.3 million, as a result of a higher cash balance and the increase in interest rates.

In 4Q17, ASUR reported a foreign exchange gain of Ps.90.7 million, resulting from 4.5% quarterly average depreciation of the Mexican peso against the U.S. dollar on ASUR’s foreign currency net asset position. This compared to a Ps.23.9 million foreign exchange loss in 4Q16 resulting from the 3.5% quarterly average Mexican peso depreciation during that period over a lower foreign currency net liability position.

Income Taxes

Income Taxes for 4Q17 rose by Ps.70.9 million year-over-year, principally due to the following factors:

• A Ps.116.8 million increase in the provision for income taxes, mainly reflecting a higher taxable income base at Cancun Airport along with the consolidation of Airplan in Colombia starting this quarter; and
• A Ps.45.9 million decline in deferred income taxes, largely reflecting the recognition of the effects of the 2.26% increase in inflation during 4Q17 on the fiscal tax balance. The consolidation of Airplan, starting October 19, 2017, resulted in the recognition of a benefit from deferred income tax of Ps.9.3 million offset by deferred income taxes of Ps.12.7 million from Puerto Rico, which is fully consolidated since June 1, 2017.

Majority Net Income

Majority Net Income for 4Q17 increased by 146.6% to Ps.2,262.5 million, up from Ps.917.5 million in 4Q16. Earnings per common share for the quarter were Ps.7.5417 and earnings per ADS (EPADS) were US$3.8355 (one ADS represents ten series B common shares). This compares with earnings per share of Ps.3.0584 and EPADS of US$1.5554 for the same period last year.

Consolidated Financial Position

On December 31, 2017, airport concessions represented 83.7% of the Company’s total assets, goodwill represented 5.4%, with current assets representing 10.0% and other assets representing 0.9%.

As of December 31, 2017, ASUR had cash and cash equivalents of Ps.4,461.0 million; a 27.5% increase from Ps.3,497.6 million at December 31, 2016. Aerostar contributed with Ps.436.8 million in cash and cash equivalents in 4Q17 and Airplan with Ps.42.3 million.

Stockholders’ equity at the close of 4Q17 was Ps.33,535.0 million and total liabilities were Ps.22,031.0 million, representing 60.4% and 39.6% of total assets, respectively. Deferred liabilities represented 12.5% of ASUR’s total liabilities.

Total Debt at year-end increased to Ps.17,371.4 million, from Ps.4,460.74 million in 4Q16, principally reflecting the consolidation of debt at Aerostar and Airplan as shown on Tables 5 and 6, as well as the Ps.4,000 million loan at Cancun Airport. A total of Ps.10,342.4 million of ASUR’s debt, or 59.5% of total debt, is denominated in U.S. dollars, Ps.4,008.9 million, or 23.1%, in Mexican Pesos, and Ps.3,020.1 million, or 17.4%, of the total is denominated in Colombian pesos.

The Net Debt to LTM EBITDA ratio stood at 2.3x at the end of 4Q17, while the Interest Coverage ratio was 9.8x as of December 31, 2017. This compares with Net Debt to LTM EBITDA and Interest Coverage Ratios of 0.8x and 39.1x as of December 31, 2016, respectively.

¹ The Total Debt to EBITDA Ratio is calculated as ASUR’s interest-bearing liabilities divided by its EBITDA.

² The Total Net Debt to EBITDA Ratio is calculated as ASUR’s interest-bearing liabilities minus Cash & Cash Equivalents, divided by its     EBITDA.

³ The Interest Coverage Ratio is calculated as ASUR’s EBIT divided by its interest expenses.

⁴ The Total Net Debt is calculated as Total Debt minus Cash & Cash Equivalents.

Capital Expenditures

During 4Q17, ASUR made capital investments for a total of Ps.766.2 million. Of this, Ps.464.9 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. In addition, during 4Q17, Aerostar invested Ps.89.3 million at LMM Airport and Airplan made investments for a total of Ps.211.9 million in Colombia. Accumulated consolidated capex for FY17 amounted to Ps.1,471.4 million.

Review of Mexico Operations

Note: For purposes of this table, approximately 50.0 and 40.3 thousand transit and general aviation passengers are included in 4Q16 and 4Q17, respectively, while 214.9 and 174.1 thousand transit and general aviation passengers are included in FY16 and FY17.

¹Represents ASUR’s operation of convenience stores in airports as well as advertising since September 2017.

Mexico Revenues

Mexico Revenues for 4Q17 declined 8.5% YoY to Ps.2,813.5 million, principally due to the 45.3% reduction in revenues from construction services that resulted from lower capital expenditures and other investments in concessioned assets during the period.

Excluding construction, revenues rose 13.8% YoY reflecting the following increases:

• 13.9% in revenues from aeronautical services, mainly due to the 6.2% increase in passenger traffic; and
• 13.6% in revenues from non-aeronautical services, principally reflecting the 14.1% growth in commercial revenues detailed below.

Commercial Revenues in the quarter rose 14.1% year-over-year, mainly reflecting the 6.0% 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, in turn, increased 7.6% to Ps.103.7 in 4Q17 from Ps.96.4 in 4Q16.

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 64 new commercial spaces at its new Terminal 4 at Cancun Airport and three commercial spaces at its other eight airports. More details of these openings can be found on pages 20 and 21 of this report.

Mexico Operating Costs and Expenses

Total Mexico Operating Costs and Expenses for 4Q17 increased 231.6% year-over-year. This includes construction costs, which fell 45.3%, reflecting lower levels of capital improvements made to concessioned assets during the period. Excluding construction costs, operating costs and expenses increased 686.1% to Ps.5,571.3 million, impacted by the US$240.0 million impairment in long-term assets as a result of the impact of Hurricane Maria, in Puerto Rico, as well as the recognition of Ps.98.8 million in amortization of the intangible asset resulting from the valuation of the investment in Aerostar.

Cost of Services rose 4.0% mainly due to higher energy, security and maintenance expenses. Higher cost of sales from convenience stores directly operated by ASUR, including those opened at Terminal 4 at Cancun Airport, and professional fees in connection with several projects also contributed to the increase in cost of services.  Administrative expenses declined by 9.5% YoY.

The 16.9% increase in 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 13.4%, mainly due to an increase in regulated revenues, a factor in the calculation of the fee.

Depreciation and Amortization increased 3,560.6% YoY, impacted by the US$240.0 million impairment in long-term assets as a result of the impact of Hurricane Maria, in Puerto Rico, as well as the recognition of Ps.98.8 million in amortization of the intangible asset resulting from the valuation of the investment in the subsidiary in Puerto Rico.

Mexico Consolidated Comprehensive Financing Gain (Loss)

In 4Q17, ASUR’s Mexico operations reported a Ps.35.6 million Comprehensive Financing Gain, compared to a Ps.1.4 million loss in 4Q16. This was mainly due to a foreign exchange gain in 4Q17 of Ps.90.7 million, reflecting a 4.5% quarterly average depreciation of the Mexican peso against the U.S. dollar on ASUR’s foreign currency net asset position. This compared to a Ps.23.9 million foreign exchange loss in 4Q16, resulting from the 3.2% quarterly average Mexican peso depreciation during that period and a lower foreign currency net liability position.

Interest income in Mexico increased by 66.0% YoY to Ps.92.3 million in 4Q17, reflecting a higher cash balance and interest rates, while interest expense rose by 345.8% to Ps.147.4 million during the period, reflecting the incurrence of Ps.4,000 million in Peso-denominated loans during the period.

Mexico Operating Profit and EBITDA

¹ Adjusted Operating Margin excludes the effect of IFRIC 12 with respect to the construction of or improvements to concessioned assets and is equal to operating profit divided by total revenues less construction services revenues.

² Adjusted EBITDA Margin excludes the effect of IFRIC 12 with respect to the construction of or improvements to concessioned assets and is   calculated by dividing EBITDA by total revenues less construction services revenues.

3 Net Income for 4Q17 includes a loss of Ps.143.1 million from the participation in the results of subsidiaries Aerostar (PR) and Airplan (Colombia) recognized under the equity method. Net Income for FY17 includes a loss of Ps.46.5 million from the participation in results of subsidiaries Aerostar (PR) and Airplan (Colombia) recognized under the participation method. Accumulated net income also includes Ps.112.3 million in 2017 and Ps. 144.2 million in 2016 from the joint participation in the business with Aerostar.

In 4Q17 Mexico reported an Operating Loss of Ps.3,394.6 million, resulting in a negative 120.7% Operating Margin compared with positive 39.1% in 4Q16, mainly impacted by the impairment in long-term assets.

Adjusted Operating Margin, 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 less construction services revenues, was negative 156.0% in 4Q17.

EBITDA increased 17.1% to Ps.1,574.4 million from Ps.1,344.4 million in 4Q16, reflecting higher operating leverage. EBITDA Margin expanded to 56.0% from 43.7% in 4Q16.

During 4Q17, ASUR recognized Ps.636.8 million in “Construction Revenues,” a year-on-year decline of 45.3%, 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 206 bps to 72.3%.

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, 2017 totaled Ps.5,579.09 million, with an average tariff per workload unit of Ps.171.94 (pesos of December 2016). ASUR’s regulated revenues for FY17 accounted for approximately 61.79% 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.

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 above 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.

The following discussion compares the stand-alone results of Aerostar for the three-month period ended December 31, 2017 (in which Aerostar was consolidated with ASUR) against the three-month period ended December 31, 2016 (in which Aerostar was not consolidated with ASUR and instead was accounted for by the equity method).   ASUR is not presenting results for the twelve-month periods ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 as the Company did not consolidate Aerostar during the totality of this period.

¹Represents ASUR’s operation of convenience stores in LMM Airport.

Note: Figures in pesos at an average exchange rate of Ps.18.9795

Puerto Rico Revenues

Total Puerto Rico Revenues for 4Q17 fell 3.9% YoY to Ps.576.1 million, mainly reflecting the impact of Hurricane Maria which hit Puerto Rico in September 2017 and resulted in the following declines:

• 1.5% in revenues from non-aeronautical services, principally reflecting the 1.5% decline in commercial revenues; and
• 5.2% in revenues from aeronautical services reflecting a decline in aeronautical operations as a result of Hurricane Maria.

Commercial Revenues per Passenger rose to Ps.130.0 from Ps.96.5 in 4Q16.

Two commercial spaces were opened at LMM Airport in 4Q17, with eight new commercial spaces opened during FY17 as shown on Table 15. More details of these openings can be found on page 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.

Puerto Rico Operating Costs and Expenses

Total Operating Costs and Expenses at LMM Airport in 4Q17 increased 43.5% YoY to Ps.606.8 million.

Cost of Services declined 3.7% YoY, driven by lower energy, professional fees, insurance, maintenance, lower water consumption as well as income from water services which started to be charged to concessionaires. Concession Fees, which include fees paid to the Puerto Rican government, rose 2.2%.

Depreciation and Amortization increased 169.0%, mainly impacted by the US$10.4 million impairment in long-term assets caused by the damage 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. The monthly amount is Ps.6.2 million.

Puerto Rico Comprehensive Financing Gain (Loss)

During 4Q17, LMM Airport reported a Ps.130.5 million Comprehensive Financing Loss, compared with a Ps.149.0 million loss in 4Q16.

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, 2017, the remaining balance is US$61.1 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 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, 2017, had not been utilized.

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

Puerto Rico Operating Profit and EBITDA

In 4Q17 Puerto Rico operations reported an Operating Loss of Ps.30.6 million, with Operating Margin down to negative 5.3% from 29.5% in 4Q16, principally reflecting the 169% increase in depreciation and amortization from the damages resulting from Hurricane Maria as explained above.

EBITDA rose 5.2% to Ps.307.6 million from Ps.292.5 million in 4Q16 despite the decline in passenger traffic, principally reflecting cost savings during the period. EBITDA Margin rose 462 bps to 53.4% in 4Q17.

Puerto Rico Capital Expenditures

During 4Q17, Aerostar invested Ps.89.3 million to modernize LMM Airport, mainly for the construction of the Federal Inspection Station and in equipment for LMM’s operations. This compares with investments of Ps.53.2 million in 4Q16.

Puerto Rico Tariff Regulation

The Airport Use Agreement signed by Aerostar, the airlines serving LMM Airport, and the Puerto Rico Port 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 will increase 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.

Impact from Hurricane Maria

On September 20, 2017, Hurricane Maria, a category 4 hurricane, made landfall on Puerto Rico. Operations at LMM Airport were suspended on September 19 and resumed on a limited basis on September 21, 2017. As of December 31, 2017, LMM Airport has regained its capacity for normal management of airport operations. Damages to airport infrastructure are being evaluated by Management and its insurance company and a reasonable estimate is not yet available.  Aerostar is insured for infrastructure damage as well as loss of direct income due to such damage. The insurance contract establishes a maximum deductible of US$ 10.0 million.

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.

The following discussion compares Airplan’s independent results for the period starting October 19 and ended December 31, 2017 (in which Airplan was consolidated with ASUR) against the three-month period starting October 19, 2016 and ended December 31, 2016 (in which Airplan was not consolidated with ASUR).  

As a result of the acquisition of Airplan, ASUR reported goodwill of Ps.2,120.1 million in 4Q17. In line with IFRS 3, there is a one-year term to determine the final purchase price of this acquisition and consequently, the amount of this goodwill could change.

Note: For purposes of this table, approximately 5.2 and 24.9 thousand transit and general aviation passengers are included in 4Q16 and 4Q17.

Figures in pesos at an average exchange rate of Ps.145.3521

Colombia Revenues

Total Colombia Revenues for 4Q17 fell 43.9% YoY to Ps.482.1 million, mainly reflecting the impact of a local pilot strike at a leading carrier which resulted in the following declines:

• 3.0% in revenues from aeronautical services as a result of the 13.0% YoY decline in passenger traffic;
• 14.2% in revenues from non-aeronautical services, principally reflecting the 12.1% decline in commercial revenues, and
• 65.7% in revenues from construction services resulting from lower committed investments.

Commercial Revenues per Passenger declined 1.0%, principally as a result of the the closure of the Duty Free store during the quarter due to contract expiration.

As shown on Table 21, during FY17, 27 new commercial spaces were opened at Airplan’s airports. More details of these openings can be found on page 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.

Colombia Costs and Expenses

 Note: Figures in pesos at an average exchange rate of Ps.145.3521

Total Operating Costs and Expenses at Airplan’s airports declined 10.4% YoY in 4Q17 to Ps.481.3 million.

Cost of Services rose 2.0% YoY, mainly driven by higher maintenance and security expenses resulting from the terminal expansions at the Montería, Quibdó and Rionegro airports.

Construction Costs declined 30.3% YoY to Ps.241.6 million, reflecting lower investments in concessioned assets during the period.

Concession Fees, which include fees paid to the Colombian government, declined 6.2%, mainly reflecting lower regulated and non-regulated revenues during the period.

Depreciation and Amortization increased 1,034.2%, mainly impacted by the decline of the discount rate from 10.46% in June 2016 to 9.71% in December 2016, which impacted the value of the accumulated amortization for 2016, determined from the comparison of current construction revenues against the total expected revenue from the concession contract.

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. The monthly amount is Ps.5.6 million.

Colombia Comprehensive Financing Gain /(Loss)

During 4Q17, Airplan reported a Ps.32.5 million Comprehensive Financing Loss, compared with a Ps.54.8 million loss in 4Q16.

On June 1, 2015, Airplan entered into a Ps.2,897 million 12-Year Syndicated Loan Facility with eight banks with a 3-year grace period. Airplan also has a Ps.131.6 million one-year Treasury Loan from two banks.

Colombia Operating Profit and EBITDA

As a result of the above, Operating Profit in 4Q17 declined 99.8% to Ps.0.8 million, with Operating Margin down to 0.2% from 37.5% in 4Q16. Adjusted Operating Margin, which excludes the impact of IFRIC12 with respect to construction or improvements to concessioned assets, declined to 0.3% in 4T17 from 103.0% in 4T16 reflecting the lower revenues and higher depreciation costs as explained above.

EBITDA declined by Ps.271.5 million mainly reflecting a Ps.199.7 gain from construction services in 2016 compared with a Ps.54.3 million loss in 2017, while revenues, costs and expenses did not present significant variations YoY. EBITDA Margin declined to 11.6% in 4Q17, from 38.1% in 4Q16. Adjusted EBITDA Margin, which excludes the impact of IFRIC12 with respect to construction or improvements to concessioned assets, declined 337 bs to 37.4%

Colombia Capital Expenditures

During 4Q17, Airplan invested Ps.211.9 million to modernize its airports, including: i) the expansion of the passenger terminal, construction of a service center and a hotel at Quibdó airport; and ii) the expansion of the domestic and international passenger terminal, the expansion of the international platform and progress in the construction of the cargo terminal at Rionegro airport. During 4Q16, Airplan made capital investments for Ps.346.5 million.

Colombia Tariff Regulation

Functions of the Special Administrative Unit of Civil Aeronautics include to establish and collect 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, Olaya Herrera of Medellín, Los Garzones of Montería, El Caraño of Quibdó, Antonio Roldán Betancourt de Carapa and Las Brujas of Corozal. This resolution also established the methodology to update and mechanisms to collect such fees, tariffs and rights.

Airplan’s regulated revenues amount to Ps.1,166.8 million as of December 31, 2017.

On January 15 of each year, the concessionaire proceeds to update the fees and tariffs in connection with the concession, which are then submitted for revision to the Special Administrative Unit of Civil Aeronautics, and which, after approval, are subsequently charged to the users of the concessioned airports.

Definitions

Concession Services Agreements (IFRIC 12 interpretation). In Mexico, 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” represent the actual costs incurred by ASUR 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 and 7.58% in Airplan that is owned by other shareholders. Other than Aerostar and Airplan, 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 less construction services revenues for Mexico 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, 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 Medellín 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. ASUR is one of the top four emerging market companies in the transportation and transportation infrastructure sector included in the Dow Jones Sustainability Emerging Markets Index (DJSI EM). 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.