Cochin International Unlisted Shares

About Cochin International Unlisted Shares
Cochin International Airport (CIAL) stands as a testament to successful public-private partnerships in India’s aviation sector. It is the first greenfield airport in the country to be constructed entirely through a collaborative effort between the public and private sectors. Unlike most airports, CIAL was planned and constructed from scratch, receiving international acclaim for its innovative approach to infrastructure development. One of the most remarkable features of this airport is its commitment to sustainability. CIAL is the world’s first airport to be fully powered by solar energy.

The airport commenced its commercial operations on June 10, 1999, with an international flight to Dammam, Saudi Arabia, and has grown rapidly since. Within just four years of its inception, CIAL became the fourth largest international airport in India in terms of passenger traffic, reflecting its rapid expansion and global recognition.

Business Divisions
Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) is a pioneering public-private partnership (PPP) airport in India, setting global benchmarks in sustainability and infrastructure development. Established as India’s first greenfield airport built with public-private investment, CIAL has grown into one of the country’s most successful aviation ventures.

One of the standout features of CIAL is its commitment to renewable energy. It is the world’s first airport to be fully powered by solar energy, making it a model for sustainable airport operations. Since its commercial launch in 1999, the airport has expanded rapidly, becoming a major gateway for international travel, particularly for the Gulf-bound Keralite diaspora.

CIAL operates multiple subsidiaries to diversify its business beyond airport operations, ensuring long-term financial stability. These subsidiaries include:

Cochin International Aviation Services Limited (CIASL): Focuses on aircraft maintenance, repair, and aviation training.
Air Kerala International Services Limited: A proposed airline catering to the Keralite community in the Middle East.
CIAL Infrastructure Limited (CIL): Manages the airport’s solar energy projects and infrastructure expansions.
CIAL Duty-Free and Retail Service Limited: Operates duty-free shops and retail services, contributing to non-aeronautical revenue.
Kerala Waterways and Infrastructures Limited: A joint venture with the Kerala government to develop an inland water transport system.
Financial Highlights
Impressive Revenue Growth – CIAL’s revenue surged from ₹267 crores in FY21 to ₹1,158 crores in FY24, reflecting exceptional business expansion.
Strong EBITDA Performance – The EBITDA margin improved from 16.85% in FY21 to 62.35% in FY24, showcasing higher operational efficiency.
Significant Profitability Boost – The Profit After Tax (PAT) jumped from ₹-93 crores in FY21 to ₹448 crores in FY24, demonstrating strong financial recovery.
Growing Asset Base – Total assets grew from ₹2,525 crores in FY21 to ₹3,573 crores in FY24, highlighting CIAL’s financial expansion and infrastructure investments.
Reduced Borrowings – CIAL successfully lowered its debt from ₹663 crores in FY21 to ₹585 crores in FY24, improving its overall financial health.

Pros
Sustainable Leadership – World’s first fully solar-powered airport, gaining global recognition.
Strategic Location – Positioned in a key aviation corridor, attracting airline stopovers.
Diverse Revenue Streams – Earnings from aeronautical and non-aeronautical sources ensure financial stability.

Cons
Gulf Market Dependency – Heavy reliance on Middle Eastern routes makes it vulnerable to economic changes in the region.
Increasing Competition – Faces expansion-driven competition from Bengaluru, Chennai, and Trivandrum airports.
High Capital Requirements – Infrastructure and sustainability projects demand significant investment.

Key Details