Prelude to annual results 2015:

Austrian Airlines Achieves Good Operating Results

In spite of the political crises in Russia, Ukraine and the Middle East, Austrian Airlines increased its earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) to EUR 54 million. This significant improvement of the operating profit compared to EUR 17 million in 2014 can be mainly attributed to three factors: lower fuel costs, the resolute implementation of cost savings measures and the success of new destinations added to the long-haul route network with a particular focus on North America. It is the third straight year in which Austria’s red-white-red flag carrier is in the black.

“We can be satisfied with our earnings development. The trend is in the right direction and the company is well on track,” comments Austrian Airlines CEO Kay Kratky.

Operating expenditures of Austrian Airlines rose slightly by 1.5 percent in 2015 to EUR 2,189 million (2014: EUR 2,156 million), which is primarily due to negative currency effects as well as scheduled higher maintenance costs. At the same time, total operating revenues climbed by 3.2 percent to EUR 2,243 million (2014: EUR 2,173 million) thanks to the effective price and network management. Accordingly, EBIT amounted to EUR 54 million (2014: EUR 17 million), and the adjusted EBIT totaled EUR 52 million (2014: EUR 9 million).