A consortium comprised of Royal Schiphol Group, a dutch-based airport operator and Australian-based asset manager, QIC, have acquired a 70 per cent equity interest in Hobart International Airport (HIA).
Head of Global Infrastructure, QIC, Ross Israel, said, “HIA is a high-quality, core infrastructure asset and one of Australia’s fastest-growing airports, with Tasmania registering more than 10 per cent annual growth in international visitors in the last five years.
“There is further visitor growth to come following the recent runway extension, with significant value to be unlocked from additional development of the airport’s non-aeronautical business, which includes retail, food and beverage, ground transport and property development.
“We look forward to working with our partners, Royal Schiphol Group and Tasplan Super, as well as other airport stakeholders including the Tasmanian and Commonwealth Governments, airlines, customers, local councils, tourism bodies, and neighbouring communities to maintain, invest and sustainably grow HIA into the future.”
As Tasmania’s gateway airport, HIA is a strategic and critical infrastructure asset with an attractive long-term lease and growth profile driven by the state’s position as a premium tourism destination with diverse and innovative natural, cultural and artistic offerings.
The transaction builds on the longstanding relationship QIC and Royal Schiphol Group have had at Brisbane Airport and provides the opportunity to leverage the significant transport infrastructure experience of both parties for the benefit of HIA and its users.
Mr Israel said, “The addition of an investment in HIA brings further diversification benefits for our investors in the QIC Global Infrastructure Fund. As a majority stake in an Australian capital city airport with a long-term lease, it is a rare opportunity.
“It also aligns with QIC’s strategy of leveraging our active asset management capabilities to build long-term value and deliver outcomes for our investors and importantly, the underlying users of core essential infrastructure.”
CEO of the Royal Schiphol Group, Dick Benschop, said, “We are delighted to be successful in this bid and welcome Hobart International Airport to our Airport Group.
“This acquisition of one of Australia’s fastest growing airports fits well with our international strategy and ambition and allows us to leverage our knowledge and 100 years of experience in developing and operating airports to the benefit of our customers.
“Royal Schiphol Group will be an active partner in the development of the airport, bringing in our knowledge and expertise on operations, innovation and commercial aspects where required.”
