Cardiff Airport is optimistic about Qatar Airways resuming its direct route to Doha while aiming to reach pre-Covid passenger levels.
In its last fiscal year ending March 2023, Cardiff Airport, owned by the Welsh Government, reduced losses by over £2m to £4.4m. Despite a £5.3m Covid recovery grant, it posted an EBITDA loss of £863,000.
With the lifting of Covid restrictions, revenues increased from £10.6m to £18.5m. However, pre-tax losses stood at £4.5m with net liabilities of £4.8m. 
The airport received £42m in rescue and recovery grants from the Welsh Government, with directors expressing confidence in continued shareholder support.
Since its acquisition by the Welsh Government in 2013, Cardiff Airport has accumulated losses of nearly £61m.
Cardiff Airport CEO Spencer Birns expressed enthusiasm for the return of Qatar Airways’ service, citing ongoing negotiations.
While passenger growth for 2024 remains uncertain, discussions with airlines like Ryanair indicate potential capacity increases.
Cardiff Airport aims to diversify its revenue streams beyond passenger traffic through aviation training and maintenance investments.
The Welsh Government has invested over £172.1m in the airport, with equity investments totaling £67.9m and loans amounting to £69.8m.
Despite criticisms from the Welsh Tories, Cardiff Airport’s impact on the local economy remains significant, supporting thousands of jobs and contributing £240m annually to the Welsh economy.
Negotiations between Cardiff Airport and the Welsh Government have strengthened, with government ministers showing support for the airport’s initiatives.
