Air Astana's full year boosted by strong second half

Air Astana reported (29-Jan-2013) a 7% year-on-year decline in unaudited profit after tax to USD57.2 million in 2012, despite a 16% increase in revenue to USD870 million. The carrier also reported a 14% capacity growth during the year. Air Astana president Peter Foster stated the full year result was better than expected after a difficult first half in which profit fell by more than 80%. In the second half of the year, strength of CIS markets, the strong performance of new services to China and Hong Kong, and non-fuel savings have made up most of the difference and offset to some extent higher fuel prices, though margins have fallen. Looking forward, Air Astana expects 2013 to be another mixed year with continued cost pressure, though at present markets remain stable. [more - original PR]