Delhi International Airport Gets 'BB+' Rating Upgrade by Fitch with Stable Outlook

Image Source: Business Standard

Fitch Ratings upgraded Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) to a 'BB+' rating, citing enhanced financial stability and operational resilience. The stable outlook indicates faith in the airport's capacity to deal with debt and maintain growth. Below is an in-depth overview:

Key Highlights

Rating Upgrade Details:

Fitch Ratings upgraded DIAL's Long-Term Issuer Default Rating (IDR) to 'BB+' from 'BB-', attributing this to strong passenger traffic recovery and sound cost management.
The stable outlook reflects the balanced risk profile and stable performance.

Passenger Traffic Growth:

Delhi Airport serviced more than 65 million passengers in FY23, of which 20% comprised transit and transfer passengers.
Passenger traffic during 1H FY24 stood at 35.6 million, higher than pre-pandemic levels, with strong domestic travel demand.

Revenue and Tariff Updates

The Airports Economic Regulatory Authority (AERA) sanctioned tariff revisions, likely doubling aeronautical charges in the subsequent control period (FY25-FY29).
Non-aeronautical revenues continue to act as a primary source of cross-subsidization of costs.

Debt Management:

Fitch emphasized the deleveraging by DIAL, facilitated through passenger growth and tariff changes.
The financial plan of the airport is consistent with its long-term sustainability objectives.

Operational Resilience:

DIAL's hybrid till regulatory environment provides diversified revenue streams with 30% of non-aeronautical revenues being utilized towards cross-subsidization.
The airport's diversified customer base and location help it maintain its robust market position.

Future Outlook:

Fitch anticipates DIAL to continue its growth path, driven by positive demographics and rising air travel propensity.
The stable outlook indicates faith in DIAL's capacity to manage challenges and seize opportunities.

This rating upgrade highlights Delhi Airport's focus on operational excellence and financial strength, making it a leading player in India's aviation industry.

Sources: Fitch Ratings, Fitch Research