FY2026 performance positions Hawke's Bay Airport for future growth

Hawke’s Bay Airport Limited (HBAL) has published its Annual Report for the 12 months to 30 June 2026 (FY26).

The report shows HBAL outperformed its financial targets while continuing to invest in its core airport operation and progress initiatives that position the business for long-term growth.

HBAL Chair Jon Nichols says the result reflects the Airport’s focus on building a more resilient and commercially sustainable business, with a clear direction for the future.

“FY26 was an important year for Hawke’s Bay Airport. We continued to strengthen the fundamentals of the business, invest in the infrastructure and capability we need, and make tangible progress towards our ambition of being a diversified, regional enabler and recognised leader by 2035.”

“That progress has been made against a challenging aviation backdrop, with softer travel demand and airline capacity reductions affecting passenger volumes during the latter part of the year.”

Key FY26 highlights included:
•    581,431 passengers, down 7% on Statement of Intent (SOI) target
•    Revenue of $15.6m, 7% ahead of SOI target
•    EBITDA of $8.8m, 7% ahead of SOI target
•    Net profit after tax and revaluations of $2.9m
•    Completion of the Airport’s new fire station
•    New aviation activity including Air Hawke’s Bay establishing a pilot-training presence at the Airport
•    Investment in terminal rooftop solar, further development of the proposed airport solar farm and renewal of Level 4+ Airport Carbon

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Chief Executive Nick Flack says FY26 was about strengthening the Airport’s core operation while laying the foundations for a broader, more resilient airport business.

“Our focus is on delivering safe and efficient operations, improving the customer experience, being disciplined about how we invest, and developing new commercial opportunities that strengthen the business over the long term.

“Aviation will always be at the heart of Hawke’s Bay Airport, but a more diversified business gives us greater resilience and a stronger platform to continue investing in our airport, our people and our region.”

Mr Flack says progress during FY26 extended across a range of areas.

“The completion of our new fire station, investment in customer service and car parking, development of our wildlife management capability and progress on our solar projects are all part of the same picture – strengthening the airport we have today while preparing the business for what comes next.”

The Airport also continued to strengthen relationships with Air New Zealand, mana whenua, councils and regional partners, while supporting initiatives that contribute to regional profile, visitation and resilience.

Mr Nichols says HBAL enters FY27 with a sound business and a clear direction.

“Our focus is on protecting and positioning Hawke’s Bay’s air connectivity for future growth, progressing viable diversification opportunities and continuing to lift customer, safety and operational performance.

“We have ambitious plans for Hawke’s Bay Airport, underpinned by disciplined decision-making and a clear understanding of the role the Airport can play in the long-term prosperity and resilience of our region.”

HBAL’s FY26 Annual Report is published on the Hawke's Bay Airport website.