November 17, 2016 12:00 AM

Airport infrastructure draws interest

Global investment in airport infrastructure increased sharply in 2016 as governments warm up to the idea of shifting the high costs to private enterprise. Through the end of October, $23.9 billion was reportedly invested in airport-related deals, compared to the $11.3 billion invested in 2015. Estimated 2016 figures were slightly more than $42 billion. Thirty-seven deals were closed in 2016, while 2015 saw 62 close. The decline in deals coupled with the increase in invested dollars suggests investors see opportunities as more than speculative.

Investments have been predominantly outside the U.S., as only 11% of deals since 2008 have been closed on American soil. The most notable U.S. deal was completed in July of 2015, involving New York’s LaGuardia Airport for $4 billion. The largest deal since 2012 was valued at $16.2 billion, involving Brazil’s Guarulhos International Airport.