TBI, the regional airport group that controls airports in Belfast and Cardiff, increased its profit before interest tax and depreciation by 23 per cent from £26.5 million sterling to £32.7 million in the year ended March 31st 2000. Passenger numbers at Belfast International airport rose by 15 per cent to more than 3 million. Described as a "watershed number for a regional airport" by chief executive, Mr Keith Brooks, this is reflected in the rise in earnings from £16 million to £17.7 million from the Belfast operation.

"Our strong strategic position combined with our substantial skill base provides a very encouraging backdrop for future profitable growth, both this year and beyond," said Mr Brooks. "We will also seek to deploy our strong balance sheet to augment our organic development with acquisitions that meet our investment criteria".

TBI has declared a final dividend of 1.4p per share, making a total of 2.0p, representing an increase of 14 per cent.