Will the Minister confirm why aviation capital funding increased by 85 per cent in the 2023-24 draft budget compared to the previous year?
The £13.3m aviation budget is allocated for Cardiff Airport’s Rescue and Restructuring Aid grant package. The purpose of the funding is to provide the airport with financial assistance to keep operating within the operational and capital cost envelopes outlined in its Restructuring Plan, with a view to ensuring a return to long-term viability. The funding must be used as set out in the airport’s grant agreement with the Welsh Government.
The aviation capital funding increase is in line with the agreed grant drawdown schedule under the terms of the Rescue and Restructuring Aid package.