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Gama Aviation Plc

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FY2020 Annual Report · Gama Aviation Plc
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GAMA AVIATION PLC

Company number 07264678

ANNUAL REPORT AND  
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS   2020

 
 
 
 
GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

 
/ BUSINESS DESCRIPTION
We are a multi-disciplinary aviation services company 
which specialises in providing support for individuals, 
corporations and government agencies; allowing them 
to deliver on the promises they make.

/ STRATEGIC REPORT

2020 Highlights 

Chief Executive Officer’s statement 

Business overview, strategy and model 

Group operational performance review 
Chief Financial Officer’s review 

Principal risks and uncertainties 

Section 172 statement 

/ GOVERNANCE

Board of Directors 

Corporate governance 

Directors’ remuneration report 

Corporate social responsibility 

Directors’ report 

/ FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Independent auditors’ report 

Consolidated income statement 

Consolidated statement of comprehensive income 

Consolidated balance sheet 

Consolidated statement of changes in equity 

Consolidated cash flow statement 

Notes to the financial statements 

Parent company statement of financial position 

Parent company statement of changes in equity 

Notes to the parent company financial statements 

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GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

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STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALSSafe and  
Dependable

Strategic Report
2020 Highlights
Chief Executive Officer’s statement
Business overview, strategy and model
Group operational performance review
Chief Financial Officer’s review
Principal risks and uncertainties
Section 172 statement

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GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

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GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

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4 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

/ 2020 HIGHLIGHTS

Gama Aviation Plc, is pleased to announce the results for the year ended 
31 December 2020.

Financial Highlights:
Adjusted revenue1

$182.0m

Revenue

$197.5m

Down 26% (2019: $246.8m)

Down 20% (2019: $246.8m)

Adjusted EBIT loss1

$4.3m

Down 178% (2019: $5.6m profit)

Loss for the year

$14.7m

Down 41% (2019: $11.5m)

Net debt1

Net cash inflow from operating activities

$86.6m

(2019: $98.0m)

Financial summary

Revenue

Gross Profit

Gross Profit %

EBIT

(Loss)/profit for the year

(Loss)/earnings per share (cents)

$33.7m

(2019: $1.7m cash inflow)

Adjusted1 $m

Statutory $m

Dec-20

182.0

36.5

20.1%

(4.3)

(8.2)

(13.0)

Dec-19

246.8

39.5

16.0%

5.6

0.5

0.7

Dec-20

197.5

52.0

26.3%

(5.8)

(14.7)

(23.2)

Dec-19

246.8 

39.5

16.0%

(7.0)

(11.5)

(18.2)

1 

 The Alternative Performance Measures (APMs) are defined in Note 6 of the notes to the financial statements and reconciled to the nearest 
International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) measure. APMs include Adjusted Revenue, Adjusted Gross Profit, Adjusted EBIT and Net 
debt. As set out in Note 6, the average USD-GBP exchange rate for the year of $1.28 to £1 is the same for both 2020 and 2019, and therefore 
constant currency growth is not presented. The Directors believe that the presentation of the Group’s results in this way is relevant to an 
understanding of the Group’s financial performance and provides a fair review of the Group’s business.

 / Financial performance across the Group during the year reflects the impact of the global pandemic on the aviation sector 
but Group’s liquidity remains strong with $16.1m (2019: $8.5m) cash and $24.7m (2019: $5.0m) of its $50m revolving credit 
facilities undrawn as at 31 December 2020. As at 23 May 2021 cash is $16.0m and $16.6m of the RCF is undrawn 

 / Multiple new major contracts won and commenced in 2020:

 / In the Global Services Division, myairops® secured a $2.5m Software as a Service contract in March, with one of the 

world’s largest business aviation operators

 / Together with Atkins, the Group was reappointed in May to continue delivering Military Airworthiness Reviews (MARs) 

to the RAF’s HQ Command and the British Army’s Joint Helicopter Command

 / The Group commenced all Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS) on behalf of the Scottish Ambulance Service 

on 1 June using its fleet of three Airbus H145 helicopters

 / The Group was awarded two five-year contracts to provide air ambulance services for the Government of Jersey and 

the Government of Guernsey, which commenced in July 2020

 / During the pandemic the Group received COVID-19 related government support. $5.8m has been recognised in these accounts
 / Vastly reduced commercial aviation volumes at Hong Kong airport, due to COVID-19, resulted in China Aircraft Services 

Limited (CASL) suffering substantial losses, of which the Group’s 20% share amounted to $3.4m. Excluding CASL, Adjusted 
EBIT is a loss of $0.9m

 / On 2 March 2020 the Group announced the sale of the US Air associate, for a total consideration of $33m, of which $3.1m is 
included within Adjusted EBIT, $4.4m is deferred revenue at the reporting date and $25.5m is included within Adjusting items

 / Statutory loss of $14.7m (2019: loss of $11.5m) includes a net loss on Adjusting items of $6.5m (2019: loss of $12.0m). The 
net loss on Adjusting items is largely due to impairments of non-current assets which are partially offset by income and 
gains associated with the disposal accounting for the US Air Associate, and net of taxation

 / Net debt, inclusive of $49.5m (2019: $60.2m) of obligations under leases, decreased to $86.6m from $98.0m at 31 December 2019
 / No dividend recommended 
 / Since year end, the Group announced the strategically significant expansion of the Group’s US Ground operations via the 

acquisition of Jet East, to act as a growth accelerator in the world’s largest aviation market

 / 5 year strategic review undertaken to focus on delivering value for all stakeholders

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

5

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS/ CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER’S STATEMENT

In what was an extremely challenging economic environment, 
particularly for the aviation sector, every aspect of our 2020 
business, operational and financial performance was 
overshadowed and severely impacted by the rapid global 
spread of the coronavirus pandemic. 

Against this backdrop of significant disruption and 
unprecedented challenges, the Group has delivered a 
creditable performance. These results demonstrate the 
effectiveness of the decisive and proactive measures we took 
to protect our people and our business. It also endorses the 
robustness of our business model and the resilience of our 
operating platform. 

I am extremely proud of how our people have responded to 
the unique challenges we have faced during the year. Through 
their unwavering efforts, commitment, dedication, and 
perseverance, all our bases across the world remained 
operational throughout, delivering services in support of our 
clients’ essential missions. We continue to operate strictly 
under the enhanced preventative and protective measures 
advised by the World Health Organization, and by national 
governments to meet our overriding priority which is the 
safety and security of our global workforce and of our clients.

We have safeguarded the stability and financial performance 
of our business by acting swiftly and decisively to reduce costs 
and preserve cash, which is reflected in the full year results 
and the healthy liquidity position that the Group has 
maintained throughout this crisis. We remain vigilant to the 
economic, social and human effects of this pandemic and we 
will continue to take the necessary and proportionate actions 
to safeguard the interests of our shareholders, our customers 
and our people.

In parallel of our efforts to mitigate the pandemic’s impact, 
we have also remained focused on the evolution of our 
strategy and business, particularly in strategically important 
markets. In this extraordinary year we have successfully 
delivered strong growth in our special missions’ business 
through the successful launch of the Group’s rotary capability 
in support of our long-standing Scottish Ambulance Service 
contract. In terms of new contracts, we were awarded and 
successfully launched two five-year contracts for the provision 
of air ambulance services for the Jersey and Guernsey 
governments as well as the renewal of an MoD contract, 
in partnership with Atkins, for the provision of critical 
airworthiness review services. Our efforts to grow our US 
maintenance business culminated in the completion of the 
Jet East Aviation Corporation, LLC (“Jet East”) acquisition, 
announced on the 15th January 2021, which delivers 
immediate growth as well as strengthening our position 
in this strategically important market.

The transitions in Scotland and the Channel Islands were 
delivered on time and are operating as planned, as is the 
integration with Jet East in the US. These were significant 
achievements in the current environment, which serve to 
showcase the skills, expertise and dedication of our people.

The contract transitions in Scotland and the Channel Islands 
were delivered on time and are operating as planned, as is 
the integration with Jet East in the US. These are significant 
achievements in the current environment, which serve to 
showcase the skills, expertise and dedication of our people.

The strengthening of our finance and control functions 
continues under the leadership of our Chief Financial Officer 
Daniel Ruback with tangible improvements evident in the 
systems and processes, that are necessary to support and 
inform the business in its next phase of growth.

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GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

FY20 Financial Performance
Due to the fall in activity as a result of the pandemic and 
associated lockdowns, adjusted revenues were down by 
26% to $182.0m for the period (FY19, $246.8m). Despite 
the significant drop in revenues, adjusted gross profits were 
modestly down by $3.0m to $36.5m (FY19, $39.5m). Adjusted 
gross profit margins were up by 4.1 ppts to 20.1% (FY19, 
16.0%). As well as reflecting both the effectiveness of the 
operational cost reduction measures and the appropriate 
use of government support initiatives, this also demonstrates 
the robustness of the business model where a significant 
proportion of our gross profits are derived from availability 
based (rather than use based) contracted revenues. Adjusted 
revenue and gross profit excludes $15.5m (2019: nil) of 
accelerated branding fees which are presented within the 
statutory result.

Efforts to streamline and reduce the overhead cost structure 
of the Group at both divisional and central level, including 
the appropriate use of government support initiatives, resulted 
in a reduction of $3.3m in Adjusted other administrative costs 
to $26.9m (FY19, $30.2m). However, this was offset by an 
increase of $2.7m in Adjusted depreciation and amortisation 
of intangibles in the year to $6.9m (FY19, $4.2m).

The Adjusted EBIT loss of $4.3m for the year includes a 
$3.4m share of associate losses relating to our 20% equity 
investment holding in China Aircraft Services Limited (CASL). 
The loss has no cash impact to the Group. CASL provides 
maintenance and ramp services to airline customers at 
Hong Kong airport, where its revenues have been severely 
impacted by the significant drop in movements at the airport. 
Notwithstanding this share of associate losses, the Group 
has delivered a modest Adjusted EBIT loss from performance 
of its core operations and activities, over which it exercises 
management and operational control. 

The Group generated a net cash inflow from operating 
activities in the period of $33.7m (FY19: $1.7m) which helped 
fund investment capital expenditure and other relatively small 
levels of essential maintenance capital expenditure, whilst 
maintaining a strong liquidity position. As at 31 December 
2020 the Group had $16.1m (2019: $8.5m) of cash and $24.7m 
(2019: $5.0m) of its $50m revolving credit facilities undrawn.

Sale of US Air Associate
On 2 March 2020 the Group announced the sale of its US 
Air associate, Gama Aviation LLC, in which the Group had a 
24.5% equity interest, for a total consideration of $33m. The 
accounting treatment applied to the sale proceeds, which was 
also disclosed in our interim results for the first half of 2020, is 
detailed further in Note 7 of notes to the financial statements. 

The strategic rationale for the sale was compelling; it enabled 
the Group to monetise, at an attractive value, its investment 
in an associate over which it exercised no control, and which 
had grown increasingly dependent on a major customer who 
had an interest in purchasing the business. Additionally, this 
sale now enables the Group to focus its efforts and resources 
on driving and growing the US (home to the world’s largest 
business aviation fleet) maintenance businesses, which 
are wholly owned. This was illustrated by the strategically 
important acquisition, in January 2021, of Jet East.

Impairment of Investments
The Board continues to closely monitor the carrying values 
of certain investments in view of the prevailing pandemic 
and uncertainness surrounding the pace and timing of any 
eventual recovery. 

The financial performance of CASL has been very severely 
impacted by the pandemic. With revenues running at some 
85% below pre pandemic levels, the Group’s share of loses for 
the year running at some $3.4m and with no prospects of a 
return to profitability in the near term, the Board has impaired 
the carrying value of its investment in CASL. In May 2021 the 
Group received an offer for its 20 percent shareholding in 
CASL. The Board is currently considering the terms of the 
offer and is in negotiations with the counterparty.

Similarly, in view of the pandemic related delays in the 
construction of the Sharjah Business Aviation Centre, the 
Board has also impaired the “assets under construction” 
and right-of-use asset associated with this project.

Given the one-off and non-recurring nature of these 
impairment costs, they have been treated as adjusting items. 

Full details of these and other impairment judgments are 
provided in Note 6 of the notes to the financial statements. 
Notwithstanding these impairments management continues 
to work diligently to maximise value from these investments 
in the circumstances.

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

7

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS/ CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER’S STATEMENT (CONTINUED)

Streamlined Energy and Carbon reporting (SECR)
As with all industries, aviation and the service companies that 
support aviation, have an obligation to recognise and reduce 
their impact on the environment, and notably, their carbon 
footprint. The Group is now in its second year of SECR and is 
reporting scope 1 & 2 direct worldwide emissions, as well as 
scope 3 indirect worldwide emissions under the ISO 14064-
1:2018 methodology.

Further to the conclusion of the report, the Group, at the 
Board’s direction, will be offsetting 3,210 CO2e tonnes of its 
2020 footprint through a verified carbon offset scheme. The 
Group has also initiated a programme (Project Element Six) 
to further reduce the business’s direct and indirect CO2 
emissions from 2021 onwards as well as supporting its 
customers to adopt CO2 reductive technologies and offset 
programmes. Full details of this initiative, the methodology 
and results of the SECR are contained within the corporate 
and social responsibility section of this document.

Strategic Review
The Group has undertaken a dispassionate review of the 
Company’s strategy and performance since listing, concluding 
that in order to restore earnings per share growth, its activities 
must focus on gaining market share in markets where it has an 
established competitive advantage and full operational control.

This evolution of the Group’s corporate strategy has resulted 
in a new market facing organisational structure, with two 
strategic business units; Business Aviation, Special Mission 
and Technology & Outsourcing, operating primarily within 
the three most mature aviation markets, those being the 
US, Europe and the Middle East. Furthermore, the evolved 
strategy is aiding the Group to focus its resources towards 
distinct organic growth opportunities as well as determining 
M&A priorities through which it will aim to accelerate market 
share and margin improvement.

As evidence of the strategic change at work, the Group has 
successfully delivered two Special Mission air ambulance 
contracts, has significantly grown the size of its Business 
Aviation maintenance capability and is growing a strong 
pipeline of government related Special Mission opportunities. 
Having secured a $2.5m Software as a Service contract in 
March, with one of the world’s largest business aviation 
operators, the Technology & Outsourcing business continues 
to grow its presence and is primed for growth as flight activity 
starts to recover to pre-2020 levels. 

The changes will be reflected in future segmental reporting, 
starting from the interim results covering the period to 
30 June 2021. The Board believes this will provide greater 
clarity for shareholders, assisting them to evaluate the 
opportunities, investment requirements and performance 
of each facet of the Group.

A fuller account of the review and changes follows within the 
five-year strategic review section.

Outlook
Although the macro impact of the pandemic on the aviation 
sector has been severe, management has ensured the 
long-term stability of the Group. By realigning its go to market 
and delivery structure to align to the current and future needs 
of its customer base, we have evolved an already robust and 
resilient business to address evident short term challenges, 
while readying ourselves for renewed growth once the current 
pandemic has subsided.

Marwan Khalek
Chief Executive Officer

8 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

/ BUSINESS OVERVIEW, STRATEGY AND MODEL

/ FIVE-YEAR STRATEGIC REVIEW

In May 2020, the Executive undertook a dispassionate review of the Company’s strategy and performance, to:

 / Baseline the expected post COVID-19 economic realities, opportunities and paths for future growth
 / Refocus the Company’s efforts through a defined purpose that galvanises internal teams, and through their actions, 

delivers value to our clients and in turn to our shareholders

 / Restore investor confidence via a focus on earnings per share (EPS) growth and cash generation to create shareholder value

The strategic review concluded the following:

 / In certain regions the business had not attained the operational scale required to meet the Group’s EBIT expectations 

and was unlikely to achieve these in the short term given the economic and market repercussions of the pandemic

 / Given ongoing uncertainties associated with the pandemic, resources should be focused on penetrating high value markets 

where the Company has an established competitive advantage so as to deliver medium term EPS growth

 / The delineation of the core business between ‘Air’, ‘Ground’ and ‘Global Services’ increasingly did not reflect a pattern 
of buying behaviour evident from our clients who wanted a single, holistic solution that reflected the totality of their 
aviation requirements. The structure had also created internal challenges that were, on occasion, acting as impediments 
to performance

 / The Group should continue to target, as a priority, long-term contracts with major aviation operators and government 

departments that rely on stable, large scale partners such as Gama Aviation to deliver their mission

 / Further to the above, the Group’s core competency is to enable its clients to deliver “decisive advantage”. This galvanising 
purpose must be central to the Group’s ability to improve margin performance by increasing the perceived, and delivered, 
value of its services

/ EVOLUTION OF THE GROUP’S CORPORATE STRATEGY

Given the conclusions of the Group strategic review, the Board determined that the strategy on listing in 2015 should be evolved 
to reflect those findings and recognise the likely ongoing market and economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic over the next 
planning period.

Core to the strategic evolution is to pivot away from its singular aim of consolidation. Instead the Group will focus its resources 
on building share in distinct, high value, customer focused, markets where its depth and breadth of services have established 
competitive advantage. Operational scale will be added through organic growth and highly focused M&A, with the later 
specifically designed to accelerate and enhance operational gearing leading to further margin improvements. 

2015-2020
Consolidating a fragmented market
Margin improvement comes from creating scale in the 
business aviation market that drives internal economies 
and external demand.

2021-
Focused, demand-led growth
Margin improvement comes from a focus on delivering 
highly valued services within the business aviation and 
special mission markets in areas where the Group has full 
control and established competitive advantage.

As a consequence of the change in emphasis, a series of strategic imperatives were accepted by the Board during July 2020 
which have, and are, being implemented across the Group. Commentary on the progress and status of each is provided below. 
This work is on-going and the following represents a summary of progress to the end of Q1 2021.

/ A NEW, MARKET FOCUSED, ORGANISATION STRUCTURE EFFECTIVE IN 2021

Three market facing strategic business units (SBU) have been created (effective 1 January 2021), to deliver the Group’s 
future services and commercial operations will be delivered. Future segmental reporting, from the interim results covering 
the period to 30 June 2021, will be presented to reflect this structure. The Board believes this will provide a direct line of sight 
for shareholders, better enabling them to understand and assess the SBU’s market activities, investment requirements 
and performance.

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

9

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS/ BUSINESS OVERVIEW, STRATEGY AND MODEL (CONTINUED)

Old divisional structure

New Strategic Business Unit structure

Asia

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ME

US

Global Services

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Technology & 
Outsourcing 

Special  
Mission

Business Aviation 

Led by a Managing Director and leadership team, each SBU will determine (subject to Group review and approval) its own 
budget, go to market approach, expenditure requirements, etc. working with supporting functions to deliver to, and develop, its 
client base.

/ THREE MARKET FACING STRATEGIC BUSINESS UNITS WITH CLEAR IMPERATIVES

Business Aviation
The Business Aviation SBU is focused on the delivery of the following lines of business to clients principally in the top three 
regional business aviation markets: the US, Europe and the Middle East.

 / Maintenance. The delivery of comprehensive maintenance solutions that support business aviation operators and owners 

by delivering contracted levels of availability

 / Management. The operational management of an aircraft (or fleet), and its crew, that the owner wishes to place on one 

of the Group’s air operating certificates (AOCs)

 / Charter. The sale of available flight hours on aircraft to charter brokers or to direct clients worldwide
 / FBO. The management of our strategically positioned fixed base operations at airports in the UK, Channel Islands 

and Middle East

Benefits of moving to this structure:

 / Identifiably focused on a single market sector
 / Commercial decision-making is contained within the SBU allowing a much more flexible approach to bundling services 

to increase competitive advantage and drive revenue per tail

 / A consolidated sales and account management team that is focused only on building the Business Aviation SBU
 / Structure scales easily should further depth & breadth be added to the lines of business (for example, the acquisition 

of Jet East)

Strategic imperatives for the Business Aviation SBU:

 / Grow the US maintenance business. Jet East was acquired in January 2021 and acts as a growth accelerator in the world’s 
largest business aviation market. With the acquisition has come the opportunity to significantly bolster our US team with 
accomplished business leaders with strong track records in high growth maintenance organisations

 / Grow the European maintenance business. Having successfully built the large jet base maintenance business in 

Bournemouth, extend the portfolio of services to include AOG, line maintenance, components and parts increasing the 
volume and market share of the Group’s fleet and retail business

 / Creating a centre of excellence for aircraft management. In December 2020 the decision was made to embark on a 

process of consolidating the back office and leadership functions of the Asia Air team. Further to this, and the emergence 
of the new strategy, the Saudi Arabia office has now been closed. A centralised team will now drive the growth of the 
Group’s aircraft management business

 / Rebuild the charter offer. Rebuild the charter team with high performance individuals focusing on sales to brokers and 

a small number of direct customers worldwide in order to capitalise on the predicted uptake of charter demand

 / Continue to drive value from the strategic positions occupied by our FBOs. Centralise the leadership and management 

of the Group’s strategically positioned FBO network such that the maximum opportunity is gained from each aircraft 
transitioning through one of our FBOs

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GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

Special Mission
The Special Mission team provides the mission expertise to assist governments and businesses in exploiting a variety of aviation 
assets (fixed wing, helicopters and unmanned aerial systems (“UAS”) within the following sectors:

 / Air Ambulance & Rescue. The delivery of fixed wing and rotary mission solutions to the governments of Scotland, Jersey 

and Guernsey as well as the circa 21 helicopter air ambulance charities operating within the UK

 / National Security & Law enforcement. Providing “intelligence as a service” aviation platforms to the UK government 

to protect the national interest

 / Infrastructure & Survey. The monitoring of critical national infrastructure for the purposes of failure monitoring, 

environmental controls, mapping or other such studies

 / Energy & Offshore. Providing platforms that help energy companies create, service and maintain offshore 

energy infrastructure

Note: the aircraft, helicopters and UAS deployed in the above markets including, but not limited to their, lease / purchase, modification, 
embodiment, through-the-life support, pilotage, etc. will be stated through the Special Mission SBU segmental reporting as from 30 June 2021.

Benefits of moving to this structure:

 / Identifiably focused on four special mission focused markets
 / Clear mandate to continue the active pursuit of large, set piece procurement programmes featuring long-term contracts 

with UK government and other blue-chip clients

 / Future expenditure requirements are clearly aligned to the delivery of contracts providing investors a clear line of sight 

of performance from contract win to deployment of service

 / Freedom to innovate in response to the changing technology landscape and capabilities of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) 

based on current and future client needs for intelligence as a service programmes

Strategic imperatives for the Special Mission SBU are:

 / Penetrate the UK charity Air Ambulance market. Following the successful implementation of the helicopter service in 
Scotland, capture further opportunities with well-funded principals in the UK charity Air Ambulance market through the 
displacement of entrenched incumbent providers

 / Build market share in UK government intelligence, surveillance & reconnaissance (ISR) projects. Building from 

a strong reputation for delivery, further penetrate key ISR projects within the various ministries of the UK government, 
particularly the Ministry of Defence

 / Develop an unmanned aerial systems (UAS) capability. Develop the required capabilities to provide UAS solutions 

to complement the use of existing aviation systems to deliver ISR missions

 / Enter the wind segment of the Energy & Offshore market. The UK government has announced strong support for the 

UK wind industry leading to a number of opportunities for offshore helicopter operations during the build and maintenance 
phase of UK wind farms

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

11

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS/ BUSINESS OVERVIEW, STRATEGY AND MODEL (CONTINUED)

Technology & Outsourcing
The Technology & Outsourcing team is focused on the delivery of advisory, technology and outsource services to aviation 
customers who seek to gain a decisive advantage using real and near-real time intelligence. The market focus of the Technology 
& Outsourcing team will be:

 / Business aviation fleet operators. Those operating fleets that are conducting private and charter operations that depend 

on accurate, up to the minute operational data to deliver their business model efficiently and effectively

 / Regional airlines. Regional airlines that are seeking to benefit from outsourcing non-core back office competencies 

in areas such as flight planning/trip support and continuous airworthiness management

 / Contract primes. Primes that require specialist knowledge to complement existing, or provide expert driven services 

to deliver, aviation service contracts for government

 / Special mission. The integration of data feeds to create a fused intelligence picture allowing for enhanced situational 

awareness for operational commanders

Benefits of moving to this structure:

 / Identifiably focused on a value market horizontal for both Business Aviation and Special Mission
 / Clear agglomeration benefits between the software development, management services and advisory allowing a more 

focused and effective approach to business development

 / An R&D mandate to use technology to create competitive advantage within the other SBUs such as Special Mission
 / An internal structure within Technology & Outsourcing that aligns to the core Business Aviation and Special Mission 

market verticals

Key imperatives for the Technology & Outsourcing SBU are:

 / Maintain a world class Software as a Service (SaaS) product suite. Focus on the operational needs of the business 

aviation market particularly with regards to the complexity of FBO and flight operations and the regulatory requirements 
of continued airworthiness management

 / Increase the share of the flight operations outsource market. Capitalise on outsource opportunities and larger 

competitors exiting the market by growing share within business aviation and extend the competency towards the regional 
airline market

 / Build new competencies in high value/high margin advisory services. Seek to maximise fleet availability and regulatory 

compliance while safely reducing maintenance costs for airlines and business aviation fleet operators

 / Focus on sales development and pipeline conversion. Increase opportunity conversion within the world’s largest 

business aviation markets, the US, and in Europe

 / Partner with the Special Mission SBU. Develop the data management component of the “intelligence as a service” using 

the ISR platforms deployed by the Special Mission team

12 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

/ ENHANCING PERFORMANCE THROUGH A FIX & OPTIMISE PROGRAMME

Alongside the re-organisation of the Group’s structure into three market facing strategic business units, the Executive has 
initiated a company-wide, ground up, Fix & Optimise programme. The programme focuses the efforts and resources of the 
business through the optimisation of areas of the business where further efficiencies, effectiveness and enhanced competitive 
advantage can be achieved.

Many of these projects have been reported under the above commentary as they are germane to the activities of the SBUs, 
however alongside these are improvements to the infrastructure of the Group, these being, amongst others, the following:

 / Finance systems. A deeper integration of the Corridor maintenance ERP system with the Sage accounting system to 

remove areas of low/no value manual intervention and increase accuracy

 / Flight Operations systems. Transition to the myairops® Flight product (completed) and a further programme of system 

automation to remove manual processes and improve data flows for management information

 / Engineering service line. Service delivery process improvements in all the major locations through the incorporation 

of robust project life cycle management processes

 / Engineering service line. Addition of new workshop facilities and the repositioning of some Beechcraft King Air 

maintenance activity to Glasgow to address capacity constraints at the 135,000sq ft Bournemouth facility following 
considerable growth of the jet maintenance business

 / Aviation Compliance & Assurance. Restructuring of the regulatory team to better reflect the needs of the SBU structure 

and the compliance demands of the national regulators

 / Carbon footprint mitigation. Policies and processes designed to lower the Group’s environmental impact and assist our 
clients with their own CO2 management (more details can be found within the CSR section on page 41 of this document)

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

13

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS/ GROUP OPERATIONAL PERFORMANCE REVIEW

Revenue

USD’000s

Air Division

Ground Division

Global Services Division

Total

Gross Profit

USD’000s

Air Division

Ground Division

Global Services Division

Total

EBIT

USD’000s

Air Division

Ground Division

Global Services Division

Associates Division

Central Costs

Total

Adjusted1

Statutory

2020

98,430

79,928

3,645

182,003

2019

140,623

102,967

3,223

246,813

2020

113,930

79,928

3,645

197,503

2019

140,623

102,967

3,223

246,813

Adjusted1

Statutory

2020

12,073

21,539

2,923

36,535

2019

12,947

24,131

2,395

39,473

2020

27,573

21,539

2,923

52,035

Adjusted1

Statutory

2020

3,348

705

(22)

(3,272)

(5,082)

(4,323)

2019

4,482

6,862

686

918

(7,383)

5,565

2020

18,109

(11,676)

(371)

(5,848)

(6,048)

(5,834)

2019

12,947

24,131

2,395

39,473

2019

2,278

748

325

918

(11,271)

(7,002)

1  The Alternative Performance Measures (APMs) are defined in Note 6 of the notes to the financial statements and reconciled to the nearest 

IFRS measure. APMs include Adjusted Revenue, Adjusted Gross Profit, Adjusted EBIT and Net debt. As set out in Note 6, the average USD-GBP 
exchange rate for the year of $1.28 to £1 is the same for both 2020 and 2019, and therefore constant currency growth is not presented.

14 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

Operational highlights:

 / Multiple new major contracts won and commenced in 2020:

 / In the Global Services Division, myairops® secured a $2.5m SaaS contract in March, with one of the world’s largest 

business aviation operators

 / Together with Atkins, Gama Aviation was reappointed in May to continue delivering Military Airworthiness Reviews 

(MARs) to the RAF’s HQ Command and the British Army’s Joint Helicopter Command

 / Gama commenced all Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS) on behalf of the Scottish Ambulance Service 

on 1 June using its fleet of three Airbus H145 helicopters

 / The Group was awarded two five-year contracts to provide air ambulance services for the Government of Jersey and 

the Government of Guernsey, which commenced in July

 / Air Division profitability impacted by a pandemic-related reduction in activity contributing to Gross Profit shortfalls
 / Ground Division’s profitability impacted by a pandemic-related reduction in FBO and MRO revenues and an absence of the 

one-off gains that benefitted the prior year comparative in Europe

 / $5.8m of COVID-19 related government support within Adjusted EBIT which comprises $4.75m assumed US Government 

Paycheck Protection Program loan forgiveness, $0.6m UK Furlough scheme, $0.2m Hong Kong payroll scheme and 
$0.3m rent rebate in the Middle East

 / Vastly reduced commercial aviation volumes at Hong Kong airport, due to COVID-19, resulted in CASL suffering substantial 

losses, of which the Group’s 20% share amounted to $3.4m

 / Since year end, the Group announced the strategically significant expansion of the Group’s US Ground operations via the 

acquisition of Jet East

The above Group results are explained in detail below. 

/ AIR DIVISION

The Air Division supports customers using business aviation as an integral part of their mission, including corporations and 
public services such as air ambulance and aerial survey. It provides aircraft management, crewing, charter services, 
airworthiness and engineering oversight both to single aircraft operations and fleets, and delivers substantial special mission 
contracts for complex, time critical services. Going forward, the capabilities and resources from the Air Division now form core 
elements of the Special Mission, Business Aviation and Technology & Outsourcing business units.

Adjusted1

USD’000s

Revenue

Gross Profit

GP %

EBIT

US

Europe

Middle East

Asia

Total

2020

3,750

3,750

100%

3,817

2019

2020

2019

2020

2019

2020

2019

2020

2019

4,050

62,707

99,145

18,603

16,778

13,370

20,650

98,430 140,623

4,050

100%

3,898

6,060

6,160

1,501

1,519

10%

138

6%

8%

1,018

(296)

9%

(571)

762

6%

(311)

1,218

12,073

12,947

6%

137

12%

9%

3,348

4,482

1  The Alternative Performance Measures (APMs) are defined in Note 6 of the notes to the financial statements and reconciled to the nearest 

IFRS measure. APMs include Adjusted Revenue, Adjusted Gross Profit, Adjusted EBIT and Net debt. In addition, the presentation of the impact 
on application of IFRS 16 in the prior year has changed to aid year-on-year comparability, refer to Note 2 of the notes to the financial 
statements for further details.

The Air Division revenue fell on an adjusted basis by 30% to $98.4m. Reduced recharges as a result of lower flying activity due 
to the COVID-19 pandemic were the primary driver for revenue reductions in both Europe (down 37%) and Asia (down 35%), 
whereas higher recharges relating to maintenance events increased revenues in the Middle East (up 11%). The changes in recharge 
revenues had minimal effect on profits, but smaller pandemic-related reductions in revenues from management fees, charter sales 
and flight planning services did flow through to gross profit. Gross profit in the US includes $3.75m (2019: $3.75m) of branding fees 
and a $0.3m one-off contribution in the prior year. Revenues and gross profits benefitted from the new air ambulance service 
contracts for the Government of Jersey and the Government of Guernsey, along with a commission on sale of aircraft in Europe. 

The Air Division Adjusted EBIT reduced by $1.1m to $3.4m (2019: $4.5m). In Europe, gross profit was stable however additional 
depreciation following the investment in rotary and fixed wing aircraft contributed to increased overhead. Adjusted EBIT 
remained stable in the US. Reduced activity in Asia led to Gross profit shortfalls and there was a $0.5m increase in the loss 
allowance for doubtful debtors, both of which were partially offset by cost control measures. The Middle East improved due 
to reduced levels of funding of the business in Saudi Arabia, which is now in the process of being exited.

The in-sourcing by Europe Air of the helicopter emergency medical services (HEMS) for the Scottish Ambulance Service was 
delivered on schedule, leading to the successful go-live of this operation on 1 June 2020. Additionally, in July the Group 
commenced new Special Mission contracts to provide fixed wing air ambulance services to the governments of Guernsey 
and Jersey for an initial term of five years plus options to extend by up to five years.

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

15

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS/ GROUP OPERATIONAL PERFORMANCE REVIEW (CONTINUED)

Adjustments 

US

Europe

Middle East

Asia

Total

USD’000s

2020

2019

2020

2019

2020

2019

2020

2019

2020

2019

Accelerated branding fees 15,500

Total revenue and gross 
profit adjustments

15,500

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

Exceptional items

Amortisation

Impairment on intangibles

–

–

–

(250)

606

(2,072)

(178)

134

–

–

(192)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

Total EBIT adjustments

15,500

(250)

414

(2,072)

(178)

134

–

–

(34)

(108)

(833)

(975)

–

–

15,500

15,500

–

–

(16)

394

(2,204)

–

–

(300)

(833)

–

–

(16) 14,761

(2,204)

Statutory

USD’000s

EBIT

US

Europe

Middle East

Asia

Total

2020

2019

2020

2019

2020

2019

2020

2019

2020

2019

19,317

3,648

552

(1,054)

(474)

(437)

(1,286)

121

18,109

2,278

Adjusted revenue and Adjusted gross profit exclude $15.5m of accelerated branding fees which are included in statutory 
revenue and gross profit. Air Division Statutory EBIT increased from a profit of $2.3m in 2019 to a profit of $18.1m in 2020, 
primarily due to $15.5m of accelerated branding fees on the disposal of the US Air Associate, see Note 7 for further details. 
Exceptional items reduced to a credit of $0.4m (2019: charge of $2.2m) and comprise $0.7m credit from settlements on legacy 
receivables under legal proceedings, partially offset by $0.1m share-based payment charges and $0.2m redundancy provision 
in the Middle East. Amortisation of the remaining acquired intangibles in line with policy and in the current year a $0.8m 
impairment of the carrying amount of Gama Aviation Hutchinson Holdings Limited (GAHH) acquired intangibles in Asia Air 
to the recoverable amount was recognised, see Note 15 for further details.

/ GROUND DIVISION

The Ground Division provides support to the business aviation, air ambulance, law enforcement and military sectors, deploying 
a service mix that is designed to deliver new capability and maintain availability of the aircraft to the operator. With an extensive 
network and increasingly rare independence from manufacturer ownership, the Division maintains all the necessary approvals 
to maintain aircraft from Gulfstream, Dassault Falcon, Bombardier, Embraer and Textron, providing heavy, ad-hoc and 
emergency maintenance as well as modifications and refurbishments.

Adjusted1

USD’000s

Revenue

Gross Profit

GP %

Adjusted EBIT1

US

Europe

Middle East

Asia

Total

2020

2019

2020

2019

38,605

48,943

35,243

48,176

9,097

6,396

10,384

15,650

24%

720

13%

270

30%

301

32%

7,416

2020

3,766

674

18%

(236)

2019

4,372

1,453

33%

(273)

2020

2,314

1,384

60%

(80)

2019

2020

2019

1,476

79,928

102,967

632

21,539

24,131

43%

(551)

27%

705

23%

6,862

1  The Alternative Performance Measures (APMs) are defined in Note 6 of the notes to the financial statements and reconciled to the nearest 

IFRS measure. APMs include Adjusted Revenue, Adjusted Gross Profit, Adjusted EBIT and Net debt. In addition, the presentation of the impact 
on application of IFRS 16 in the prior year has changed to aid year-on-year comparability, refer to Note 2 of the notes to the financial 
statements for further details.

The Ground Division revenues fell 22% to $79.9m (2019: $103.0m). All regions experienced reductions in revenue except Asia 
where there was growth despite regional challenges. In Europe, the fall in revenue was $12.9m, driven by the prior year 
comparative benefitting from one-off equipment sales of $5.5m, closure of the loss-making Fairoaks maintenance business 
(reduction of $2.4m), and reduced demand for FBO and design services following the start of the COVID-19 pandemic 
(reduction of $4.4m). Nevertheless, due to the focus of the European Ground business on base maintenance, which is not driven 
by flying activity, maintenance hours at the core Bournemouth facility grew by 11% over the prior year, offset by reductions in 
the other areas mentioned. In the US, where the majority of current business relates to line maintenance which depends on 
flying activity, the fall in revenue of $10.3m was materially driven by the COVID-19 pandemic, with maintenance hours falling by 
24% compared to the prior year. In the Middle East, revenue fell due to lower FBO movements, lower parking from planes being 
grounded elsewhere, and a knock-on effect of reduced activity on MRO revenues.

Adjusted EBIT fell by $6.2m to $0.7m, due largely to Europe ($7.1m down to $0.3m) and partially offset by US ($0.4m up to $0.7m 
profit) and Asia ($0.5m up to a loss of $0.1m). In Europe, gross profit in the prior period benefitted compared to the current period 
by $2.9m from one-off equipment sales and cost credits which dropped down into Adjusted EBIT, and 2020 was impacted by the 

16 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

COVID-related services revenue reductions. Despite the impact of COVID-19 on revenues and a $1.0m increase in the expected 
loss allowance for doubtful debtors, Adjusted EBIT in the US improved albeit with the support of PPP loan forgiveness of $4.75m, 
which supported gross profit by $3.68m and administrative expenses by $1.07m. Asia’s Adjusted EBIT improved by $0.5m due to 
a combination of improved mix within gross profit and reduced overheads, partially offset by a $0.5m loss allowance. In the 
Middle East, reduced FBO activity resulted in an Adjusted EBIT loss with fixed cost savings unable to offset gross profit shortfalls.

Adjustments

US

Europe

Middle East

Asia

Total

USD’000s

2020

2019

2020

2019
Restated*

2020

2019

2020

2019

Exceptional items

(663)

(657)

(90)

(2,550)

(6)

Impairment of 
right-of-use asset
Impairment of assets 
under construction

Impairment of 
intangibles

Total EBIT 
adjustments

–

–

–

–

–

(540)

–

–

–

(2,341)

(7,013)

–

–

(4,609)

–

(663)

(1,197)

(90)

(4,891)

(11,628)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

2019
Restated*

(3,233)

2020

(759)

(7,013)

(2,341)

(4,609)

–

–

(540)

(26)

–

–

–

(26)

(12,381)

(6,114)

*  Restatements are detailed in Note 2 of the notes to the financial statements. The only income statement restatement was a presentational 

change within adjusting items of an impairment of right-of-use assets.

Statutory

USD’000s

EBIT

US

Europe

Middle East

Asia

Total

2020

57

2019

(927)

2020

211

2019

2020

2019

2020

2019

2020

2,525

(11,864)

(273)

(80)

(577)

(11,676)

2019

748

Adjusted revenue and Adjusted gross profit are the same as statutory revenue and gross profit. Ground Division Statutory EBIT 
fell from a profit of $0.7m in 2019 to a loss of $11.7m in 2020. In addition to the movements discussed above, exceptional items 
reduced to $0.8m (2019: $3.2m) and comprise share-based payment charges and $0.6m of Jet East acquisition costs in the US 
Ground. In the current year an impairment charge of $4.6m has been recognised relating to the Business Aviation Centre (BAC) 
at Sharjah Airport following uncertainties related to the project, significantly impacted by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic 
(2019: nil). In addition, a related impairment charge of $7.0m has been recognised on the right-of-use asset associated with the 
lease at Sharjah Airport to reduce the carrying amount to the recoverable amount (Refer to Note 6 for further details). 
Impairment charges in the US in 2019 of $0.5m did not recur in 2020. A $2.3m impairment of the right-of-use asset associated 
with the lease at Fairoaks airport in Europe did not recur in 2020.

/ GLOBAL SERVICES 

The Global Services Division comprises two businesses, FlyerTech and myairops®. FlyerTech provides continuing airworthiness 
management (CAM) and airworthiness review certification (ARC) services for business aviation and commercial airline 
operators. myairops® has developed a suite of business aviation products deployed as SaaS and mobile app solutions for 
business aviation operators, flight support companies, FBOs and regional airports.

USD’000s
Revenue
Gross Profit
GP %
Adjusted EBIT1

Total

2020
3,645
2,923
80%
(22)

2019
3,223
2,395
74%
686

1  The Alternative Performance Measures (APMs) are defined in Note 6 of the notes to the financial statements and reconciled to the nearest 

IFRS measure. APMs include Adjusted Revenue, Adjusted Gross Profit, Adjusted EBIT and Net debt. In addition, the presentation of the impact 
on application of IFRS 16 in the prior year has changed to aid year-on-year comparability, refer to Note 2 of the notes to the financial 
statements for further details.

The Global Services Division grew revenues by 13% to $3.6m (2019: $3.2m) however EBIT fell to nil (2019: $0.7m). Growth in 
revenue and gross profit was driven by performance in myairops® following the launch of three new products and associated 
product sales in the first half of the year, including a $2.5m three-year contract with a large business aviation operator. 
Associated with the product launches, amortisation of the product development commenced, impacting Adjusted EBIT by 
$1.0m. Sales performance was significantly impacted in the second half of the year by COVID effects, with many prospective 
customers deferring expenditure. FlyerTech traded broadly in line with prior year, with a modest reduction in revenue offset 
by enhanced margin performance.

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

17

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS/ GROUP OPERATIONAL PERFORMANCE REVIEW (CONTINUED)

Adjustments 

USD’000s

Exceptional items

Amortisation

Total EBIT adjustments

Statutory 

USD’000s

EBIT

Total

2020

(35)

(314)

(349)

Total

2020

(371)

2019

(45)

(316)

(361)

2019

325

Adjusted revenue and adjusted gross profit are the same as statutory revenue and gross profit. Global Services statutory EBIT 
fell from a profit of $0.3m in 2019 to a loss of $0.4m in 2020. In addition to the movements discussed above, statutory EBIT 
included amortisation of $0.3m in respect of acquired FlyerTech intangibles assets.

/ ASSOCIATE INVESTMENTS

As reported in our 2019 Annual Report and Accounts, the US Air associate was sold on 2 March 2020, see Note 7 of the notes 
to the financial statements for further details. The $0.1m of Adjusted EBIT represents the Group’s share of results from the 
US Air associate prior to disposal.

China Aircraft Services Limited (CASL) suffered substantial losses, the Group’s share of which amounted to $3.4m of Adjusted 
EBIT due to vastly reduced commercial aviation volumes at Hong Kong airport, impacted by COVID-19.

Adjusted1

USD’000s

Adjusted EBIT1

US Air
Associate

China Aircraft
Services Limited

Total

2020

2019

2020

2019

2020

78

518

(3,350)

400

(3,272)

2019

918

1  The Alternative Performance Measures (APMs) are defined in Note 6 of the notes to the financial statements and reconciled to the nearest 

IFRS measure. APMs include Adjusted Revenue, Adjusted Gross Profit, Adjusted EBIT and Net debt.

Adjustments 

USD’000s

Impairment of equity accounted investments

Impairments on non-current assets within share of results 
from equity accounted investments

Profit on disposal of interest in associates

Total EBIT adjustments

Statutory 

USD’000s

EBIT

US Air
Associate

China Aircraft
Services Limited

Total

2020

2019

2020

2019

2020

2019

–

–

7,278

7,278

–

–

–

–

(3,421)

(6,433)

–

(9,854)

–

–

–

–

(3,421)

(6,433)

7,278

(2,576)

–

–

–

–

US Air
Associate

China Aircraft
Services Limited

Total

2020

7,356

2019

2020

2019

2020

518 (13,204)

400

(5,848)

2019

918

Impairment charges of $9.9m (2019: nil) has been made against the equity accounted investment in CASL, reflecting the 
Group’s assessment of its recoverable amount, driven by its significant decline in performance and outlook caused by the 
COVID-19 pandemic, and impairments of non-current assets in CASL, see Note 18 for further details. The disposal of the US Air 
Associate resulted in a profit before taxation on disposal of the Group’s equity interest of $7.3m. Overall, associate statutory 
EBIT decreased from a profit of $0.9m in 2019 to a loss of $5.8m in 2020.

18 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

/ CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER’S REVIEW

Adjusted Revenue is down 26%, at $182.0m (2019: $246.8m)

Adjusted Revenue1

$182.0m

Daniel Ruback
Chief Financial Officer

Adjusted EBIT loss1

$4.3m

Down 26% (2019: $246.8m)

Down 178% (2019: $5.6m profit)

Loss for the year

Basic loss per share

$14.7m

Down 41% (2019: $11.5m)

23.2 cents

(2019: 18.2 cents)

Net debt1

Net cash inflow from operating activities

$86.6m

(2019: $98.0m)

$33.7m

(2019: $1.7m cash inflow)

1  The Alternative Performance Measures (APMs) are defined in Note 6 of the notes to the financial statements and reconciled to the nearest 

IFRS measure. APMs include Adjusted Revenue, Adjusted Gross Profit, Adjusted EBIT and Net debt.

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

19

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS/ CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER’S REVIEW (CONTINUED)

Over the past year there has been significant progress made in strengthening the finance function and enhancing the wider 
controls and compliance environment across the organisation. Focus in these areas will remain a priority throughout 2021.

Specific focus has been on improving the integration between our operational engineering system, which manages work orders 
and inventory, with our financial accounting system. The progress of this project in the second half of 2020 has already 
eliminated significant amounts of manual processes and provides a solid platform for further automation to be implemented 
over the coming months, both in our key UK engineering site as well as across the various US maintenance facilities.

Much greater focus has also been placed on the collection of accounts receivable. Whilst many areas of the business collect 
receivables in a timely fashion, certain business areas have had challenges in the past. During 2020 progress has been made 
in progressing some of the legacy debts.

Emphasis in the management of cash, including enhancements in cash reporting and cashflow forecasting has been a key 
feature over the past 12 months. Despite the macroeconomic challenges resulting from COVID-19, the Group’s cash position 
remained relatively stable throughout the pandemic impacted period of 2020. This was and will continue to be further 
supported by the deferred elements of the proceeds, due over the next three years, of the sale of Gama’s 24.5% holding in 
the US Air associate Gama Aviation LLC which was announced at the start of March 2020. The Group’s solid liquidity position 
continues to be underpinned by the $50m revolving credit facility secured with HSBC.

Pleasingly incremental improvements in the timeliness and quality of the divisional month end close and reporting process 
continue to be delivered. The enabling benefits from improvements in the clarity and consistency of transactional processing 
has also supported a smoother year end audit than experienced in the prior year. 

The incremental benefits delivered during the past 12 months have been achievable due to the hard work and focused effort 
of the entire finance community. The addition of a small number of key new hires and the repositioning of an existing team 
member have helped to strengthen the finance function during 2020 and have provided active leadership in key divisions, 
something that will be leveraged further during the remainder of 2021.

The integration of Jet East has commenced with the US finance team currently engaged in transitioning the incremental 
transactional volumes to Gama systems.

Financial summary

Revenue

Gross Profit

Gross Profit %

EBIT

(Loss)/ profit for the year

(Loss)/earnings per share (cents) 

Adjusted1 $m

Statutory $m

Dec-20

182.0

36.5

20.1%

(4.3)

(8.2)

(13.0)

Dec-19

246.8

39.5

16.0%

5.6

0.5

0.7

Dec-20

197.5

52.0

26.3%

(5.8)

(14.7)

(23.2)

Dec-19

246.8 

39.5

16.0%

(7.0)

(11.5)

(18.2)

1  The Alternative Performance Measures (APMs) are defined in Note 6 of the notes to the financial statements and reconciled to the nearest 

IFRS measure. APMs include Adjusted Revenue, Adjusted Gross Profit, Adjusted EBIT and Net debt.

Revenue Bridge

Revenue – 2019 

Accelerated branding fee

Air Division

Ground Division

Global Services Division

Revenue – 2020

20 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

$m

246.8

15.5

(42.2)

(23.0)

0.4

197.5

 / The Air Division had reduced opportunity to recharge costs due to reduced flying hours as a result of the ongoing 

COVID-19 pandemic

 / Ground Division revenue reduced primarily in Europe (a reduction of $12.9m) with the prior year benefitting from one-off 

equipment sales of $5.5m, whilst in the US aircraft maintenance was materially impacted by the ongoing COVID-19 
pandemic with a $10.3m reduction in US Ground revenues

 / Global Services Division saw growth driven by performance in myairops® following the launch of three new products 

and associated product sales, despite COVID-19 related impacts on sales in the second half of the year

Adjusted EBIT1 Bridge

Adjusted EBIT – 2019 

Decrease in gross profit

Decrease in other administrative expenses

Increase in impairment of financial assets

Increase in depreciation and amortisation

Decrease due to losses from equity accounted associates

Adjusted EBIT – 2020

$m

5.6

(2.9)

3.3

(3.4)

(2.7)

(4.2)

(4.3)

1  The Alternative Performance Measures (APMs) are defined in Note 6 of the notes to the financial statements and reconciled to the nearest 

IFRS measure. APMs include Adjusted Revenue, Adjusted Gross Profit, Adjusted EBIT and Net debt.

 / Reduced Gross Profit driven by Europe and Middle East Ground, and Air Division reductions partially offset by Gross Profit 

growth in US Ground and Asia Ground 

 / Contributions from associates are down following substantial losses in CASL and the disposal of the US Air associate 
 / The loss allowance for impairment of financial assets increased by $3.4m to $3.8m (2019: $0.4m)
 / Depreciation and amortisation of $6.9m is up by $2.7m from the $4.2m reported in the prior year. This includes $0.7m 

depreciation on helicopters which were brought into use in the year and $1.1m of increased depreciation across fixed wing 
aircraft, leasehold improvements and fixtures, fittings and equipment related to office moves. The increased depreciation 
was partially offset by $0.3m decrease in depreciation of right-of-use assets. $1.0m increased amortisation of software on 
internally developed software costs arising in myairops® as well as $0.2m increased amortisation of purchased software, 
relating to operational and financial systems

 / Other administrative expenses decreased as a result of government support received, cost control measures and a $0.4m 

decrease in the inventory obsolescence allowance to $5.0m (2019: $5.4m) in line with the accounting policy set out in Note 
2 of the financial statements for the Group

Statutory EBIT Bridge

Statutory EBIT – 2019 

Items impacting Adjusted EBIT 

Adjusting items 

– Exceptional items comprising:

  – Increase in exceptional transaction costs

  – Decrease in exceptional integration and business re-organisation costs

  – Decrease in exceptional legal costs

  – Decrease in other exceptionals

– Impairment of right-of-use asset 

– Impairment of investment in associate

– Impairment of non-current assets within associates

– Impairment of assets under construction

– Accelerated branding fees

– Profit on disposal of interest in associates

– Decrease in share-based payment expense

– Decrease in acquired intangible amortisation

– Increase in goodwill and intangible impairment

Statutory EBIT – 2020

$m

(7.0)

(9.9)

(0.6)

2.7

1.6

3.4

(4.7)

(3.4)

(6.5)

(4.6)

15.5

7.3

0.3

0.4

(0.3)

(5.8)

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

21

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS/ CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER’S REVIEW (CONTINUED)

 / $15.5m of accelerated branding fees have been recognised in adjusting items following the disposal of the US Air Associate 

and the settlement of existing contractual arrangements (see Note 7 for further details on the disposal)

 / Impacted by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, impairment charges relate to $4.6m and $7.0m both in relation to Sharjah 
and $9.9m in relation to investment in associate CASL. The prior period included a $2.3m impairment of the right-of-use 
asset associated with the Fairoaks lease within other exceptionals (see Note 6 for further details)

 / $7.3m profit before taxation on disposal of the US Air Associate (see Note 7 for further details on the disposal)
 / The following integration and business re-organisation costs did not recur in 2020: $1.0m of direct closure costs at Fairoaks, 

$1.0m of non-recurring property and facility re-organisation costs and $1.0m of various other non-recurring costs

 / A reduction of $1.6m in legal costs following the conclusion of various legacy litigation in the prior year
 / Increased transaction cost of $0.6m relating to the Jet East transaction completed in January 2021

Finance charges
Net finance cost of $2.4m (2019: $4.0m), includes $1.1m (2019: nil) of finance income arising from financial assets. In particular 
$1.0m of interest arises on the deferred consideration relating to the disposal of the US Air associate (Note 7). A net foreign 
exchange gain of $0.2m (2019: gain $0.6m) relating to financing activities is included within net finance costs. In addition, 
in the prior year $0.4m of loan arrangement fees upon refinancing were written off, which did not recur in 2020.

Taxation
There is a statutory taxation charge for the period of $6.5m (2019: charge of $0.5m), which reflects a significant increase as a 
result of the US Air Associate disposal. The adjusted taxation charge for the year is $1.5m (2019: charge of $1.1m) and includes 
one-off charges of $1.5m, refer to Note 11 for further details.

An increased deferred tax asset for additional losses incurred has not been recognised due to the uncertainty of future available 
taxable profits to utilise the losses. 

EPS
Shares in issue remain unchanged and the average share price for the year was lower than the exercise price of outstanding 
options and therefore there is no dilutive effect for diluted earnings per share. Basic Statutory EPS reflects an increase loss 
per share of 23.2 cents (2019: 18.2c).

Net debt and cash flow movements

Adjusted EBIT1

Add: Adjusted depreciation & amortisation in cost of sales (Note 5)

Add: Adjusted depreciation & amortisation in administrative expenses (Note 5)

Adjusted EBITDA1

Less: Loan forgiveness (Note 27)

Less: Share of losses/profits of associates (Note 27)

Adjusted EBITDA after excluding non-cash items1

Working capital:

Add: Working capital inclusive of promissory note on disposal of US Air Associate (Note 27)

Add: Accelerated branding fee not recognised in Adjusted EBIT

Add: Exceptional items

Working capital

Cash generated by operations (Note 27)

Add: Tax (Note 27)

Net cash flow from operating activities (Note 27)

Lease payments

Capital expenditure 

Acquisition of business

Proceeds on disposal of associate

Net interest paid

Net proceeds from borrowings 

22 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

December
2020

December 
2019

(4.3)

10.7

6.9

13.3

(4.8)

3.3

11.8

10.2

15.5

(0.7)

25.0

36.8

(3.1)

33.7

(16.0)

(27.8)

(1.5)

9.9

(0.3)

9.5

5.6

15.2

4.2

25.0

–

(0.9)

24.1

(13.6)

–

(7.8)

(21.4)

2.7

(1.0)

1.7

(14.0)

(18.2)

(1.3)

–

(0.9)

32.7

 
Dividend paid to equity holders of the parent

Net cash used in investing and financing activities

Increase/(decrease) in cash

Cash at the beginning of year 

Effect of foreign exchange rates 

Cash at end of the period

Borrowings

Obligations under leases

Net debt at the end of year 

December
2020

December 
2019

–

(26.2)

7.5

8.5

0.1

16.1

(53.2)

(49.5)

(86.6)

(1.6)

(3.4)

(1.7)

10.0

0.1

8.4

(46.2)

(60.2)

(98.0)

1  The Alternative Performance Measures (APMs) are defined in Note 6 of the notes to the financial statements and reconciled to the nearest 
IFRS measure. APMs include Adjusted Revenue, Adjusted Gross Profit, Adjusted EBIT and Net debt. In reconciling from Adjusted EBIT to the 
net cash flow from operating activities, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA excluding non-cash items are shown to aid understanding.

 / The net cash inflow on operating activities of $33.7m (2019: $1.7m) has been driven by:

 / Adjusted EBITDA of $13.3m (2019: $25.0m) 
 / Non-cash items in Adjusted EBITDA including loan forgiveness of $4.75m (2019: nil) and partially offset by losses 

on associates of $3.3m (2019: profit of $0.9m) 

 / 2020 benefitted from a $7.1m reduction in exceptional cash flows in the year as there was a significant reduction 

in both litigation costs and integration and re-organisation costs, see Note 6 for further details

 / Overall, working capital net inflow of $25.0m, which is up from the $21.4m net cash outflow in the prior year

 / $15.5m of accelerated branding fees not recognised within Adjusted EBIT but within working capital movements 

have been shown separately, see Note 7 for further details

 / $3.0m US Air Associate consideration, which was in addition to the $9.9m for the disposal of the investment, 
relating to trading related matters (see Note 7 for further details on the disposal). In addition, the capital 
element of the first instalment of the $20.0m promissory note was received and the $2.5m receipt is 
reflected with receivables

 / As part of COVID-19 support in the UK, VAT payments of $3.2m have been deferred to 2021
 / Government support, excluding the $5.75m from a Payment Protection Program Loan, of $1.0m was received
 / General improvement in working capital, including a $4.6m receipt in relation to a long outstanding receivable 

 / $27.8m capital expenditure includes the purchase, for $19.1m, of two new helicopters by Europe Air as part of the helicopter 

emergency medical services which went live on 1 June 2020, leasehold property improvements of $2.4m, fixtures and 
fittings of $1.9m following office moves, a fixed wing aircraft to support air ambulance services of $1.1m, $0.8m of aircraft 
hull and refurbishments and computer software, primarily relating to internally developed software arising from myairops® 
software development of $2.5m

 / $9.9m proceeds on disposal of the US Air Associate, net of transaction costs. Refer to Note 7 for further details on 

the disposal

 / Proceeds from borrowings include $25.7m in relation to the £20m term loan for helicopters, $2.6m drawdown on the RCF 

and $5.75m from a Payment Protection Program Loan 

 / Repayment of borrowing includes a $22.8m repayment on revolving credit facility borrowings as a result of financing the 

helicopters via the term loan and repayment of other loans 

 / On 18 July 2020, the Group acquired a business to provide air ambulance services for the Government of Jersey and the 

Government of Guernsey. $1.5m of cash consideration was paid 

 / Net Debt reduced by $11.4m to $86.6m (2019: $98.0m)

/ DIVIDEND

The Board does not recommend a dividend for 2020 (2019: nil pence per share).

Litigation
Following the litigation update provided in the Company’s 2019 Annual Report and 2020 Interim release, the Company continues to 
pursue the recovery of its long-standing trade receivables both through enforcement actions in the UK and in other jurisdictions. The 
Company has made progress through court proceedings in the UK. It remains the Board’s expectation that other than the provisions 
already made by the Company against these claims, no further provisions will be required.

Daniel Ruback
Chief Financial Officer

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

23

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS/ PRINCIPAL RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES

The Directors consider the principal risks to the business are:

 / Health and safety risks from poor operational performance 
or an air accident which damages the Group’s reputation
 / Increasing regulatory burden and maintaining oversight on 
existing approvals that may result with a non-compliance
 / Changes in political and economic climate that make air 

transport less attractive such as the ongoing 
COVID-19 pandemic

 / Reliance on key individuals and attrition of key staff that 

disrupt business activities

 / Increasing concentration and reliance on a small number 

of key customers

 / Cyber threat and information security
 / Liquidity and cash resources to support future growth 

of the business

The principal risks reported in the prior year relating to the 
foreign exchange risk, and risks stemming from the UK’s 
departure from the Europe Union are no longer viewed 
as principal risks to business.

Health and safety incident damaging 
the Group’s reputation
The Group’s reputation for safety, reliability and high service 
standards is essential for maintaining customer loyalty and 
market positioning. The Group has systems and monitoring 
processes in place to ensure that it maintains high standards 
across all aspects of the Group, including customer-facing 
crew as well as back-office operational staff. The Group 
carefully reviews any deviations from these standards and 
implements changes to prevent recurrence.

Regulatory compliance
To ensure very high levels of safety, the aviation industry has 
significant and complex regulation to cover training, 
engineering, safety and operations. Breaches of regulations 
are likely to lead to sanctions such as suspension of operations 
or other restrictions. The Directors believe that the regulatory 
burden is likely to increase over time and have members of 
staff dedicated to liaising with the various regulatory bodies. 
In addition, staff are regularly trained and appraised to ensure 
their understanding and compliance.

24 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

Changes in economic climate and COVID-19
The Group offers air transportation services that provide 
far greater flexibility, discretion and levels of service than 
is possible with general aviation services. The Directors 
recognise that in a recessionary economic climate and given 
the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and concerns on climate 
change there may be pressure on some customers to reduce 
their use of private aviation services. The Directors mitigate 
this risk by adopting a strategy that includes a focus on 
resilient business models (such as Special Mission contracts 
and base maintenance) and by regularly reviewing current and 
anticipated activity levels and reducing the Group’s cost base 
accordingly. Further details on steps taken on climate change 
are set out in the CSR report.

Reliance on key individuals 
People management, development and retention is under 
renewed focus following a review of the people management 
risks which include potential business disruption from attrition 
in key individuals.

Reliance on a small number of key customers
A concentration on key customers in both the US and UK 
presents advantages in delivering long term stable and 
profitable business but may pose an increased risk in the 
event those relationships change in future. The Group aims 
to mitigate this by developing new long-term business with 
a range of other key accounts in both the US and UK.

Cyber threat and information security
In common with most businesses, the Group faces the risk of 
a breach of cyber security and associated loss of data followed 
by potential reputational damage and financial penalties. 
The Group has implemented a range of safeguards and has 
engaged external support to access, enhance and achieve 
further accreditation for its security controls. As a result of the 
increased prevalence of cyber security incidents in corporates, 
this risk was added as a principal risk in the current year.

Liquidity and cash resources to support future growth 
of the business
The Group’s liquidity position is underpinned by an existing 
$50.0m revolving credit facility. In addition, deferred 
consideration on the disposal of the US Air Associate is 
due to the Group over the next three years however this 
may be collected ahead of the contractual timeframe; refer 
to Note 35 for further details. The revolving credit facility 
and term loan fall due for repayment on 14 November 2022 
and 31 January 2023 respectively. However refinancing is 
expected ahead of these dates. Working capital management 
remains a key area of focus to optimise cash resources. 
Following the disposal of the US Air Associate in the year 
and the acquisition of Jet East after the reporting date, 
liquidity and cash resources has been added as a principal 
risk in the current year.

Internal audit
After the reporting date the Group has been considering 
proposals for internal audit engagement. An internal audit 
plan that ensures work is focused on the key risks identified 
by external audit, internal audit and the Directors is targeted 
for 2021, following the appointment of the preferred internal 
audit partner.

Approval
This report was approved by the Board of Directors on 
26 May 2021 and signed on its behalf by:

Marwan Khalek
Chief Executive Officer

26 May 2021

Effective risk management
On a regular basis the executive Directors meet to review 
the existing Group risk register and discuss internal and 
external political, economic, social, technology, legal and 
environmental risks that may affect or influence the execution 
of Group Strategy. The review includes the consideration 
of the regulatory frameworks and compliance obligations 
applicable to the Group’s businesses, including the full 
supply chain. 

Newly emerging risks identified within the business are 
reviewed as they arise, with mitigating action taken when 
required. The Group risk register is in the process of being 
refreshed however initial risks identified by the SBUs were 
highlighted to, and considered by, the Audit Committee 
in April 2021. 

All processes are undertaken using tools, matrices and 
escalation and tolerance protocols established by the 
Directors. For non-routine activities, such as project 
management, a RAID log is used, which feeds into the wider 
risk management framework.

The executive Directors hold a number of meetings and 
workshops throughout the year at the divisional level, which 
involves the divisional leadership team and other key 
personnel as required. This process involves a regular review 
of the divisional level risk registers. Workshops are used to 
identify the risks associated with the delivery of the respective 
divisional strategic plans and to implement risk mitigation 
plans as necessary. Progress in implementing these plans is 
reported regularly during divisional meetings and is escalated 
to the executive team meetings where appropriate.

Business unit managing Directors are required to report 
progress on risk management activities via quarterly business 
reviews, which are chaired by the Chief Executive Officer. 
Safety related risks identified during this process, or requiring 
additional action, are escalated to the Safety Review Board.

The Group’s risk function continues to focus on enhanced and 
standardised risk reporting to the business as well as greater 
operational risk oversight.

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

25

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS/ SECTION 172 STATEMENT

Section 172 of the Companies Act requires every director 
to act in the way he or she considers, in good faith, would 
be most likely to promote the success of the company for 
the benefit of its members as a whole and in doing so to 
have regard (among other matters) to: 

1.  The likely consequences of any decision in the long term;
2.  The interests of the company’s employees;
3.  The need to foster the company’s business relationships 

with suppliers, customers and others;

4.  How our Board considers stakeholders including investors, 
customers, suppliers and employees in decision making;
5.  The impact of the company’s operations on the community 

and the environment;

6.  The desirability of the company maintaining a reputation for 

high standards of business conduct; and 

7.  The need to act fairly as between members of the company.

This section aims to describe, in broad terms, how the 
Directors apply and comply with these principles and aim to 
discharge their duties under company law. The Directors 
recognise that listening to and considering the views of 
shareholders and other key stakeholders helps build trust and 
is therefore a key element of performing a duty to promote 
the Company’s success. They also recognise that having a 
greater understanding of a wider range of viewpoints allows 
the Board to appreciate fully the potential impacts of the 
decisions it makes on all the Company’s stakeholders.

Likely consequence of any decision in the long term 
The Board takes a strategically long-term view which helps 
form the background of all decisions. Growth opportunities, 
either through acquisitions or organic growth, are evaluated 
carefully in a structured and diligent way and only executed 
where they meet strategic objectives and enhance the 
Company’s investment proposition for its shareholders.

For example, in terms of sales and acquisitions, in March 2020 
the Group completed the sale of its US Air associate, Gama 
Aviation LLC to Wheels Up Partners Holdings LLC. The Group 
intends to use the proceeds from the sale to continue 
to execute its strategic objectives through its organic 
and acquisitive growth investments, particularly in terms of 
growing its US maintenance business. This was evidenced by 
the acquisition of Jet East in January 2021, adding scale to our 
US Ground division which provides maintenance services in 
the territory home to the majority of the world’s private jets.

Interest of the Company’s employees 
Our employees’ physical and mental well-being has been at 
the forefront of all our minds this past year, during the global 
pandemic and as the Company has faced a challenging year. 
Immediately implementing government guidelines to work 
from home where possible, our IT infrastructure enabled our 
employees to switch from office working to working remotely 
almost overnight. The Health & Safety team provided 
guidance, information and support to ensure our people were 
able to work from home safely. Our Horizon intranet was used 
to host a range of new COVID-19 policies, which were updated 
regularly to reflect current government guidance and provide 
ongoing support to employees.

For those employees on the front line of our engineering 
services, for example, social distancing measures were put 
in place and appropriate PPE was provided to enable them 
to continue with their day-to-day activities safely, while still 
meeting tough operational demands and deadlines.

26 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

A focus on mental well-being has become key for the 
Board and the senior leadership team, as we recognise the 
challenges and pressures that the lockdown, the restrictions 
on travel and meeting others, and working remotely away 
from colleagues is having on our people, both at work and 
in their personal lives. During 2020 we therefore launched a 
number of initiatives aimed at supporting our people through 
better communication, including the monthly Town Halls, 
ad-hoc ‘Lunch and Learn’ sessions on topics of general 
interest, (such as managing working at home while caring 
for children requiring home schooling), and we have also 
created well-being channels solely for our employees to share 
well-being ideas and thereby provide a support network for 
each other. The Company continues to support the staff with 
a comprehensive range of benefits from private medical, 
income protection, and an all-inclusive exercise, nutrition 
and well-being programme within our Employee Assistance 
Programme (EAP).

Our work continues, to improve understanding of mental 
well-being and to provide and promote a culture where it is 
“OK to not feel OK” as well as to enable employees to feel 
comfortable with discussing mental health concerns. As part 
of our ongoing commitment to this cause, the senior 
leadership team recently attended a Mental Fitness and 
Resilience course aimed at enabling our senior management 
members both to recognise and assess their own mental 
well-being and also be in a position to talk about it and to 
help those working around and with them. We realise that our 
employees need to feel that their mental well-being genuinely 
matters to us and that even our most senior executives 
understand the importance of positive mental well-being. 

Foster business relationships with suppliers, 
customers and others 
The Board welcomes the current reporting requirements 
as an opportunity to demonstrate how dialogue with a wide 
range of stakeholders informs and helps to shape its decisions. 
Insights from key customers, suppliers, employees and others 
enable the Company to develop its service lines to be better 
aligned to its customers and, in listening to feedback from the 
Company’s many stakeholders, the Board believes that the 
Company continues to be well positioned to respond positively 
to the ongoing uncertainty resulting from the COVID-19 
pandemic. 2020 was a remarkable year and despite the 
challenges for the aviation industry in particular it was also 
a year of progress for the Company, with the establishment 
of the three new Strategic Business Units, which reflect the 
major market segments where we see major strategic 
opportunity for the Group. While the new Strategic Business 
Units were established, these were not effective in the 2020 
financial year and therefore the segmental results continue 
to be reported under the historic reporting structure. 2021 
reporting will be under the new Strategic Business Units.

Although the direct interaction with customers and suppliers 
is more often through key relationship managers, Directors 
are regularly informed and updated on these relationships 
though frequent communication, including in formal business 
reviews that are held at least quarterly, roundtable events for 
industry sector participants, and strategic partnerships and 
collaborations with providers of complementary services, 
including in 2020 with providers such as Pratt & Whitney 
Canada, Atkins and Spire Aviation, and with original equipment 
manufacturers, including Textron.

The desirability of the Company maintaining a 
reputation for high standards of business conduct
High standards of business conduct and a reputation for 
maintaining these standards are critical to the ability of the 
Group to run a sustainable business. The Directors aim to create 
and maintain a corporate culture based on shared values and 
expected behaviours as set out in the Employee Handbook.

All Directors and employees are expected to act with integrity 
and to comply at all times with the laws of the countries in 
which they operate. Employees are provided with resources 
to obtain advice, report grievances and/or any alleged or 
actual wrongdoing. The Group’s Employee Handbook is 
regularly reviewed, updated and augmented as appropriate 
in order to reflect the Group’s development and in light of 
any recent events. Further, the Company has recently updated 
its Anti-Bribery and Anti-Corruption policy and rolled out 
mandatory anti-bribery training to relevant employees.

The need to act fairly between members of the Company
As a company with a number of major shareholders, the Board 
recognises the need to act fairly as between all its members. 
Decisions are taken on the basis of the Board’s objective 
appraisal of whether a particular course of action will benefit 
shareholders as a whole and any conflicts of interest are 
carefully managed. This has become increasingly relevant 
following the further concentration of the Group’s 
shareholders amongst a limited number of investors which 
has occurred during the pandemic period. The Board remains 
very mindful of the liquidity of the market for the Company’s 
shares, and the consequences it may have for the Group’s 
future development. All Directors, including independent 
non-executive Directors, are entitled to obtain independent 
professional advice at the Group’s expense if required.

Where considered beneficial and/or necessary and in line with 
customary market standards, the Board continues to enter 
into appropriate contractual arrangements with major 
shareholders in order to ensure that minority shareholders are 
not prejudiced, that transactions with major shareholders are 
on arm’s-length commercial terms and that the Company is 
able to maintain and preserve its independence.

How our Board considers stakeholders including 
investors, customers, suppliers and employees in 
decision making: 
Periodically the Board reviews progress against the 
Company’s strategic priorities and projects that are aimed 
at delivering longer-term growth for investors. The Board 
also focuses on maintaining financial discipline and delivering 
strong earnings, cash flow and returns to shareholders. The 
Company engages with its shareholders through an active 
investor relations programme, receiving feedback on 
shareholder views in several ways, including through the 
Chairman, CEO and CFO, who meet from time to time with 
key shareholders throughout the year, as well as through the 
results of independent study and report.

The Board periodically reviews the Company’s safety, service 
reliability and standards, and environmental performance, 
with the objective of making the Company’s operations 
safer for our entire workforce, while at the same time 
working towards minimising the environmental impact 
of those operations.

Impact of the Company’s operations on the community 
and the environment
The Directors are conscious of the possible environmental 
impact of the Group’s activities and aim to reduce it wherever 
possible. The Group has been awarded the internationally 
recognised Carbon Footprint Standard for demonstrating 
low carbon credentials and the Group works to identify and 
carry out carbon and energy reduction opportunities 
where possible. 

The Group works with an independent external organisation, 
Carbon Footprint Ltd, to monitor its Greenhouse Gas 
Emissions and the results for this exercise during 2020 are 
set out in the Corporate Social Responsibility section of this 
Annual Report. This is the second carbon footprint 
assessment the Group has carried out, the first having taken 
place in 2019, both of which comply with the UK government’s 
Streamlined Energy & Carbon Reporting (SECR) legislation. 
Furthermore, it is the Group’s intention to offset its scope one, 
two and direct scope three emissions, the treatment of which 
is described within the Corporate Social Responsibility section 
of the Annual Report.

In addition, waste recycling schemes are implemented 
throughout the Group’s operations to limit environmental 
impact. In previous years the Group has participated in 
schemes that support local communities and has provided 
internship and apprenticeship opportunities. During 2020, this 
has not been possible due to legislation, medical advice and 
the Group’s own COVID-19 policy. The Directors look forward 
to a time when once again the business can allow employees 
time to volunteer to play an active role in the communities in 
which we are located.

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

27

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALSContinually 
developing our 
expertise

Governance
Board of Directors
Corporate governance
Directors’ remuneration report
Corporate social responsibility
Directors’ report

28 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

S
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GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

29

 
/ BOARD OF DIRECTORS

The right mix of expertise to support growth.
The Directors of the Company who were in office during the year and up to the date of signing the financial statements were 
as follows:

Chi Keung (Simon) To
Chairman

Stephen Wright
Executive Director

Simon is Hutchison’s appointee to the Board. Simon is the 
Managing Director of Hutchison and Chairman and Executive 
Director of Hutchison China MediTech Limited, a company 
listed on AIM and Nasdaq with a market capitalisation of 
approximately US$3.0bn. Simon joined Hutchison in 1980 
and has helped build it from a relatively small trading 
company into a multi-billion dollar investment and distribution 
Group. Simon holds a First Class Honours Bachelor’s Degree in 
Mechanical Engineering from Imperial College, London and 
a master’s degree in Business Administration from Stanford 
University’s Graduate School of Business.

Simon was appointed as non-executive Chairman of the Group 
and Company on 3 April 2019.

Stephen co-founded Gama Aviation together with Marwan 
Khalek in 1983. He has been fundamental to the 
implementation of several process improvements that have 
been commended by regulators and industry auditors alike. 
Stephen retains a flying role both on the line and in training, 
regularly flying helicopters and fixed wing aircraft. His flying 
duties have placed him in regular contact with a wide variety 
of clients, allowing him to have a direct, qualitative 
understanding of their needs and requirements.

Neil Medley
Chief Operating Officer

Neil is the Company’s Chief Operating Officer (COO). Neil 
joined Gama in 2016, as Chief Operating Officer (COO), a new 
position within the leadership team. Neil joined the business 
from his former post of COO of BAE Systems Applied 
Intelligence (formerly Detica plc until its acquisition by BAE 
Systems plc). In February 2021 tendered his resignation as a 
Director of the Group in order to pursue a new career in the 
education sector. Neil will remain with the business until the 
end of August 2021 to ensure an orderly handover.

Daniel Ruback
Chief Financial Officer

Daniel was appointed as Chief Financial Officer in December 
2019 having previously held the position of Finance Director, 
Signature Flight Support EMEA, a part of Signature Aviation 
plc. From 2006 to 2015 Daniel worked in several different 
roles at Smiths Group plc, the FTSE 100 global technology 
company, including a two-year assignment as Director, 
Operational Finance, Smiths Detection USA and finally as 
Head of Divisional Business Partnering, Smiths Detection. 
Daniel is a qualified Chartered Accountant.

Marwan Abdel-Khalek
Chief Executive Officer

Marwan is Chief Executive Officer of Gama Aviation Plc. He 
is a successful entrepreneur with a proven record of building 
value through organic and inorganic growth, as evidenced by 
the scale of Gama Aviation’s development over the last three 
decades. Gama Aviation’s growth, over a period marked by 
several profound economic recessions, has resulted in it 
becoming a leading global aviation services group. He 
graduated with a BEng in Civil Engineering from the 
University of Westminster.

30 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

Michael Howell
Non-Executive Director

Peter Brown
Non-Executive Director

Peter is a chartered accountant with over 30 years’ experience 
at board level in the leisure and travel industry. He adds 
complementary skills to Gama Aviation’s founding Directors, 
having been CEO of a major British leisure airline and 
managing the mergers, acquisitions and group finance 
functions of a variety of service companies. Peter graduated 
from University College, Cardiff with a BSc in Economics.

An engineer by training, Michael Howell has a background 
in transportation and worked in the UK motor industry after 
graduating from Trinity College, Cambridge and before 
completing MBAs at INSEAD and Harvard. He worked with 
Cummins Engine Company and General Electric Company 
(GE) in the USA, latterly as General Manager of GE 
Transportation Systems, the world’s largest manufacturer 
of diesel-electric locomotives. Subsequently, he was an 
Executive Director of Railtrack Group plc at the time of 
its 1997 privatisation. 

Formerly he was a Non-Executive Director of Hutchison China 
Meditech Limited, the innovative biopharmaceutical company. 
Currently, Michael serves on the Board of Wabtec, the US$8bn 
leading supplier of products and systems for the rail industry, 
based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Stephen Mount
Non-Executive Director

Stephen is a member of the Regulatory Decisions Committee 
of the Financial Conduct Authority, the Determinations Panel 
of The Pensions Regulator and chairs the Finance & 
Performance Committee, and is a member of the Audit, 
Workforce and Sustainability Committees of a major NHS 
Foundation Trust. He also acts internationally as an expert 
witness on corporate governance, financial reporting, 
accounting and auditing matters. Until July 2020 he was 
a member of the Audit Quality Review Committee of the 
Financial Reporting Council. He retired in 2016 as a senior 
partner with PwC after a career spanning three decades 
auditing and advising companies across a broad range of 
industry sectors including aviation, engineering, defence, 
software, technology, services and long-term contracting. He 
acted as lead engagement and global relationship partner for 
clients ranging from Fortune 500/FTSE to smaller NASDAQ/
AIM companies listed on UK, US, European and Asian stock 
exchanges and was frequently involved in major capital market 
transactions including IPOs, rights issues, mergers and 
acquisitions as well as advising on strategic, performance 
improvement, regulatory and structuring issues. Stephen is 
a Chartered Accountant and an MBA.

Christopher Clarke
Non-Executive Director

Christopher Clarke has over 30 years’ experience as a senior 
partner with leading international law firms in Asia, including 
Denton Hall, CMS Cameron McKenna and DLA Piper. He has 
acted as a professional and business advisor to a wide range 
of entrepreneurs and executives of international (including 
listed) companies; and has wide ranging corporate 
governance, regulatory and commercial experience. 

Christopher has been a Non-Executive Director of Hong Kong, 
UK listed and private companies. Currently, he is a Sufficiently 
Independent Director of London Power Networks Plc, Eastern 
Power Networks Plc and South Eastern Power Networks Plc; 
and an Independent Director of Myanmar Strategic 
Holdings and Arnhold Holdings Ltd. Christopher resigned 
as Non-Executive Director of Green Family Holdings 
in November 2020.

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

31

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALSProgress on compliance continued to be made in 2020 despite 
the impediments of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Board 
continues to monitor diligently the progress of these initiatives 
and to ensure that the Company has sufficient resources, 
procedures and controls in place to meet its other 
regulatory obligations. 

Despite impediments of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Group’s 
business has fared relatively well and remained stable. The 
cash balance remains healthy and there are adequate 
banking facilities.

Simon To
Chairman of the Board

/ CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

Governance code
The Company is listed on the Alternative Investment Market 
(AIM) of the London Stock Exchange. The Board of Gama 
Aviation has adopted the Quoted Companies Alliance (QCA) 
Corporate Governance Code.

Chairman’s Statement on Corporate Governance 
Since the Board’s adoption of the QCA Gama Aviation 
continues to enhance its corporate governance structures 
and processes with the view to promote the success of the 
Company and long-term value for shareholders alongside 
a corporate culture that is based on ethical values 
and behaviours.

I would like to thank all the independent non-executive 
Directors (INEDs) for their participation in the Nominations 
Committee, Remuneration Committee and Audit Committee. 
Through the sheer hard work and dedication of each of the 
INEDs contributing their respective professional skills and 
expertise in the committees, the governance of the Company 
has been greatly enhanced.

Daniel Ruback, the Chief Financial Officer (appointed in 
December 2019) and the finance team have been given a clear 
mandate to transform the finance functions of the Company 
and encouraging progress has been made during the year. 

Steps taken to strengthen resources within the finance team 
in developing accountability and Board assurance frameworks 
for the Group are bearing fruit. There have been more timely 
assurances to the Board on the Group’s short and long-term 
performances against budget and market expectations and 
progress against its long-term strategies. The next step is 
to further reinforce risk management. 

In line with the Board’s continued commitment to the 
adherence to the principles of the QCA Code, the Company 
has appointed a dedicated Corporate Compliance Officer 
to ensure that the Code’s requirements and principles 
are complied with on an ongoing basis as well as further 
improvements are implemented. Further information on how 
the Company is applying the ten Principles of the QCA Code is 
contained in the Corporate Governance Statement published 
on the Group’s website at www.gamaaviation.com/investors/
corporate-governance. This will be updated by the Company 
after the date of the Annual Report detailing the steps taken 
by the Company to comply with the ten Principles and other 
improvements to be made.

32 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

Board of Directors
The Board is responsible for guidance and direction in reviewing 
strategy, monitoring performance, understanding risk and 
reviewing controls, procedures and processes of the Company. 
It is collectively responsible for the success of the Group.

The Board was made up of four executive and five non-
executive Directors during 2020. The Board has the appropriate 
balance of skills, experience, independence and knowledge of 
the Company to enable it to discharge its duties effectively. 

The non-executive Directors are independent of management 
and do not participate in the Company’s ongoing bonus, 
pension or benefit schemes although they may hold shares, as 
noted in the Remuneration Report. The executive Directors are 
full-time employees of the Company. The non-executive 
Directors are expected to devote at least one full working day 
in each calendar month to the business of the Company and to 
use reasonable endeavours to attend all meetings of the Board 
and committees of the Board of which they are members, and 
to attend all general meetings of the Company. The Board has 
not yet designated a Senior Independent Director.

The Board meets at least four times a year and has a formal 
schedule of matters specifically referred to it for decision, as 
required by the Companies Act. In addition to these matters, 
the Board will also consider strategy and policy, acquisition and 
divestment proposals, approval of major capital investments, 
risk management policy, significant financing matters and 
statutory shareholder reporting. During the year, all Board 
meetings were convened with a formal agenda, relevant 
documentation and supporting papers circulated to the Board 
in advance of the meetings. All meetings had documented 
minutes and were attended in person or virtually by Board 
members at the time of the meetings. The attendance record 
of each director is shown below. In addition, the Board had 
informal discussions as required from time to time.

To enable the Board to discharge its duties, all Directors receive 
appropriate and timely information and the Chairman ensures 
all Directors, including the non-executive Directors, may take 
independent professional advice at the Company’s expense if 
required.

Board member

Simon To

Marwan Khalek

Stephen Wright

Neil Medley

Daniel Ruback

Stephen Mount

Peter Brown 

Christopher Clarke

Michael Howell

Meetings 
attended

Eligible to 
attend

4

4

4

4

4

4

4

4

4

4

4

4

4

4

4

4

4

4

Board skills and evaluation 
The Board has the appropriate balance of skills, experience, 
independence and knowledge of the Company and its 
business in the aviation industry in which it operates to enable 
it to discharge its duties effectively. The members of the 
Board have been selected primarily for the skills and 
experience that they bring to the Company. Details of the 
skills and experience of the Directors are identified above 
at pages 30 and 31 of this Annual Report. 

Audit Committee
The Audit Committee is chaired by Stephen Mount, who is 
deemed by the Board to have recent and relevant financial 
expertise, supported by Peter Brown and Michael Howell. 
Given the issues that the Company has faced the Chairman 
has throughout 2019 and into 2020 invited all executive and 
non-executive Board members to attend Audit Committee 
meetings. It is anticipated that following the approval of the 
2020 Annual Report and Accounts the Company will return 
to a more normal pattern of Audit Committee attendance. 

Under its terms of reference, the Audit Committee must meet 
twice a year. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic meetings 
from March 2020 were conducted virtually. The Committee 
has formally convened five times in 2020. In addition there 
were a number of informal calls and email correspondence 
between the Chairman, Committee and other Board 
members, management and the external auditors PwC.

The purpose of any Audit Committee is to provide oversight 
of, and governance over, the financial integrity of the Group’s 
financial reporting to ensure that the interests of the 
Company’s shareholders are well protected; to assess the 
robustness of the systems, processes and controls the Group 
has in place to identify and manage risk and account for the 
results of its operations and financial position; and to oversee 
the independence and quality of external audit. 

Audit Committee Report
Following the appointment of Daniel Ruback as Group CFO 
in December 2019, together with a new Group Financial 
Controller in April 2020, considerable progress has been made 
in improving the timeliness and quality of the Group’s internal 
financial reporting, risk management and control processes. 

Whilst reliance continues to be placed on reviews at business 
unit level by Group Finance of programme performance, 
income, expenditure, balance sheets and cash flows; the 
effectiveness of these reviews is attested by the very 
considerable reduction in the number and value of subsequent 
period and audit adjustments that have arisen throughout, 
as well as at the end of, the year.

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

33

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS/ CORPORATE GOVERNANCE (CONTINUED)

Significant improvements in accounting processes delivered 
in the year include:

During the year the Committee has focused on oversight of the 
following matters in addition to the H1 results announcement:

 / Implementing revenue auto-posting in the US in Q2 2020, 

 / Impact of the Coronavirus pandemic on the Group’s 

eliminating the need to manually post thousands of 
invoices and enhancing the timeliness and accuracy of Sage 
general ledger accounting. This had been a source of 
cut-off errors in prior years; 

 / The mapping of balances from Sage to Tagetik (the Group 

consolidation and reporting system) via a SharePoint 
approval process, reducing the risk of mis-posting and 
mis-classification errors; 

operations, its people, performance and financial resilience;

 / Cash, working capital management and adequacy of the 

RCF facility;

 / Results of business unit financial reviews;
 / Performance of CASL associate and related valuation 

and financing matters;

 / Negotiations with, and business case for acquisition of, 

Jet East (USA);

 / Project Harrier, an initiative designed to provide more 

 / Progress and management of litigation and long 

granular inventory analysis and the integration of Corridor 
(aviation operational maintenance system) balances 
into Sage;

 / Revised anti-bribery policy and training rolled out across 

key elements of the workforce; and

 / Simplification and reduction in number of subsidiary 

companies and bank accounts

outstanding receivables;

 / 2021 budget;
 / Annual impairment review of goodwill and other 

intangible assets;
 / Inventory valuation;
 / Long-term revenue contract accounting estimates; and
 / Accounting policy for government support received 

via the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP)

Further improvements currently under way include:

 / Presentation of exceptional items

 / Recruiting a corporate compliance officer to support 
improvements in the roll-out, enforcement, training 
and application of an enhanced compliance environment;

 / Reinvigorated Risk Register process linked to controls 

effectiveness and remediation process; 

 / The establishment of an out-sourced internal audit 

function – discussions are ongoing relating to a possible 
2-3 year work plan with a third party provider;

 / Establishment and roll out of baseline financial and 
operations controls framework for the Group with 
semi-annual self-declarations on compliance; 
 / Invoice approval – roll-out of invoice approval via 
SharePoint across divisions where this does not 
currently exist;

 / Accounting Manual update; and
 / Delegated Authority update – refreshed for new 

organisation structure including Jet East

The Committee and the Board are very mindful of the 
Company’s regulatory obligations under the AIM rules, QCA 
Code and Companies Act and have engaged proactively with 
its primary regulators, AIM and the Financial Reporting 
Council (FRC). The Company’s Annual Report and Accounts 
for 2018 were subject to review by FRC Supervision’s 
Corporate Reporting Review team during 2019 and 2020. 
All issues raised were satisfactorily resolved through 
enhancements made to the 2019 Annual Report and 
Accounts. It is important to note that the FRC’s review 
provides no assurance that these Report and Accounts are 
correct in all material respects and that the FRC accepts no 
liability for reliance on them by the Company or any third 
parties including investors and shareholders.

As part of its review of the 2020 Annual Report and 
Accounts the Committee gave careful consideration to the 
completeness of key risks identified, and reasonableness 
of judgements made; and whether the overall Report and 
Accounts present a fair, balanced and understandable view 
of the Group’s results, financial position and cash flows 
on both a statutory and adjusted basis.

Key risks and judgements included, inter alia:

 / Consideration of the recoverability of receivables balances 
and likely outcome of litigation matters, some of which 
date back a number of years;

 / An impairment assessment of the Company’s investments 

in its Hong Kong associate CASL;

 / An impairment assessment of a right-of-use asset 

and assets under construction relating to a planned 
development in Sharjah;

 / An impairment assessment of and the parent company’s 
investments in, and intercompany balances receivable 
from, its subsidiaries;

 / Accounting for bonus payments; and
 / Disclosures and key accounting judgements in respect 

of the acquisition of Jet East and the provisional 
valuations of acquired intangible assets undertaken 
by an external specialist

Priorities for the Committee in 2021 will include a 
comprehensive review and update of the Group’s risk register 
and internal control matrices, ensuring appropriate mitigations 
are in place and agreeing the terms of engagement and work 
plan for internal audit. 

34 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

Remuneration Committee
The Remuneration Committee (“Committee”) comprises 
three members, of which two are independent non-executive 
directors and one a non-executive director (Chairman of the 
Board). The Committee is chaired by Christopher Clarke, 
supported by Michael Howell and Simon To. The Committee 
is required to meet twice a year and met formally four times 
during the year. At the next available Board meeting, the 
Chairman of the Committee will provide a verbal report 
of the Committee’s recent proceedings.

During the year, the Committee has:

 / Reviewed and modified as appropriate the annual salary 

awards and bonus of the executive Directors and 
senior management;

 / Reviewed and modified as appropriate the share option 

scheme and proposed awards;

 / Engaged the services of two remuneration consultants 

so that, with respect to each of the executive Directors, it 
has a better insight into the appropriateness of pay levels; 
the composition and structure of remuneration packages; 
and bench-markings against comparable companies;
 / Reviewed and modified as appropriate salary and bonus 

proposals put forward by the executives; and

 / Discussed LTIPs proposals put forward by Directors and 
by external advisors. After the reporting date the issue 
of various share options and LTIP awards were approved, 
as noted in Note 35

Nomination Committee
The Nomination Committee was chaired by Simon To until 
15 November 2020 and since that date has been chaired 
by Michael Howell. The other members are Simon To 
and Peter Brown. 

Under its terms of reference, the Nomination Committee 
must meet at least twice a year and is responsible for:

 / Monitoring and ensuring the proper composition 

of the Board;

 / Succession planning;
 / Retirements and appointments of additional and 

or replacement Directors;

 / Evaluation of Board effectiveness;
 / Induction and training of Directors; and
 / Monitoring and managing any Director conflicts of interest

At the next available Board meeting, the Chairman provides 
a verbal report of the Committee’s recent proceedings and 
makes appropriate recommendations relating to its areas 
of responsibility. 

There were no retirements or appointments of Directors 
during 2020.

Due to the pandemic and other proprieties, the Committee 
did not meet during 2020.

The Committee also recently instigated a review of Board and 
Board Committee effectiveness, the results of which are 
currently being collated and assessed. The results will be 
shared in a Board workshop, and action taken to optimise the 
modus operandi of the Board and its Committees.

Corporate and Social Responsibility (CSR) Committee
The CSR Committee is chaired by Simon To. The other 
members are Stephen Wright and Christopher Clarke. The 
Committee did not formally meet in the year due in part to 
COVID-19 related challenges. Despite not holding formal 
meetings, the Group has revised its CSR strategy particularly 
on environmental matters pertaining to CO2 emissions from 
the business’s activities. Most significantly this has led to the 
audit under the ISO 14064-1:2018 methodology by a third 
party of 2019 and 2020 CO2 emissions and the subsequent 
plan to offset 2020 scope 1, 2 and part of scope 3 emissions 
for the business internationally. Further details including the 
streamlined energy & carbon report can be found on page 41.

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

35

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALSPay Policy
The Committee believes that the overall level of 
compensation for Directors and senior managers should 
compare favourably with similar-sized organisations and other 
peer groups, such that they are sufficiently rewarded for their 
responsibility and experience, are incentivised for strong 
performance and that the Group is able to retain and develop 
the management capability and qualities needed for timely 
delivery of its strategy. The setting of corporate, divisional 
and personal targets, the mix of short and longer-term 
remuneration and its settlement in cash and shares, is 
intended to align executive reward as closely as possible 
to shareholder interests.

Base Salary
Base salaries are reviewed on an annual basis, and any 
increases become effective from 1 April each year. From 
1 April 2020, all executive base salaries remained flat with 
no increase. Marwan Khalek was entitled to a base salary 
of £362,250, Stephen Wright £198,900 and Neil Medley 
£335,000. Daniel Ruback, who joined the Group on 16 
December 2019 is entitled to a base salary of £240,000.

Pension and Benefits
Executive Directors are entitled to a pension contribution 
as follows: Marwan Khalek: 22.5%; Stephen Wright: 18%, 
Neil Medley: 12%; and Daniel Ruback 12% of salary on a 
non-contributory basis in the form of a defined contribution 
to a pension plan and/or as a reduced cash supplement. 
In addition, the executives are entitled to benefits in kind 
including the provision of life assurance, Group income 
protection, and private medical insurance.

/ DIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT

As the Company is listed on the AIM, requirements of the 
remuneration reporting regulations do not apply to it. 
Nevertheless, the Committee endeavours to adopt such 
of those requirements that it so determines best serve the 
interests of the shareholders in the longer term. Progress 
was made during the year and will continue in 2021 despite 
impediments from COVID-19.

A Remuneration Report is included on pages 36 to 40.

Below is set out the annual report of the Remuneration 
Committee (the “Committee”). The report comprises a 
description of how the Committee operates; a brief overview 
of the remuneration policy; and details of compensation paid 
to the Directors within the financial year.

Remuneration Committee Report
The Committee is appointed by the Board and is formed solely 
of non-executive Directors. The Remuneration Committee is 
chaired by Christopher Clarke. The other members of the 
Committee are Michael Howell and Simon To. The Committee 
met four times during the year and all Committee members 
attended the meetings. In addition, the Committee had 
informal discussions as required from time to time. In the 
course of its work, the Committee has also liaised directly 
with the Company’s external professional advisors as required 
from time to time.

The Committee liaised with two remuneration consultants 
and recommended changes to the Company’s remuneration 
policy (including advice on matters such as annual bonus 
award to executive Directors, long-term incentive plans and 
benefits). These changes were approved after the reporting 
date, refer to Note 35 for further details. The Committee 
approved these changes in conjunction with management and 
the Board, in the context of a review of the Group’s strategy 
(including the impact of and response to the COVID-19 
pandemic) and a consequent re-assessment of the Group’s 
prospects, projections, targets, management structure, roles 
and responsibilities.

The Committee’s principal duties are as follows:

 / To review and make recommendations in relation to the 

Company’s senior executive remuneration policy;

 / To apply these recommendations when setting the specific 
remuneration packages for each executive director, the 
Company Chairman and other selected members of senior 
management and to include annual bonuses, the eligibility 
requirements for long-term incentive schemes, pension 
rights, contracts of employment and any compensation 
payments;

 / To ensure that the remuneration policy is aligned with the 

short and long-term strategy of the Company; 

 / To manage performance measurement and make awards 

under the Company’s annual bonus;

 / To consult with key shareholders with regards 

to remuneration where appropriate, and take their 
views into account; and

 / To manage reporting and disclosure requirements relating 

to executive remuneration

The Committee’s Terms of Reference are available on 
the Company’s website at www.gamaaviation.com/
investors/remco

36 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

Annual Bonus
The remuneration policy allows the Committee, at its discretion, to make annual cash bonus awards to the executive Directors and 
staff. Awards to the executive Directors and other staff in the current year were made following, and in recognition of, their hard 
work, commitment and contribution to the Company’s business that went above and beyond their contractual scope of work as 
well as to recognise significant progress that has been made in developing the finance function, processes, systems and controls. 
All awards are included in the Directors’ Remuneration Report and were recommended by the Remuneration Committee for 
approval. To provide a history of executive bonus awards over the past six years, no bonus awards were paid in 2015, 2016 or 2017, 
however the following one-off awards were paid in the year, and over the last three years.

£’000

Executive Directors

Marwan Khalek

Stephen Wright

Neil Medley 

Kevin Godley (resigned 1 February 2018)

Daniel Ruback (appointed 16 December 2019)

Non-Executive Directors

Peter Brown

Sir Ralph Robins (resigned 3 April 2019)

Aggregate Emoluments

2020

2019

2018

80

25

50

–

25

–

–

–

180

–

–

–

–

–

–

25

–

25

–

150

33

110

–

–

30

30

353

For a history of an element of performance, a graphic of the Company’s share price tracing backwards for the past six years 
is shown below.

6 Year closing share price history

300

250

200

e
c
n
e
p
£

150

100

50

0

1/4/2016

1/4/2017

1/4/2018

1/4/2019

1/4/2020

1/4/2021

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

37

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS 
/ DIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT (CONTINUED)

Option awards
During the year no options were awarded to executives, senior managers and other staff. After the reporting date, the 
Remuneration Committee approved an a grant and surrender of share options. Refer to Note 35 for further details.

Long-Term Incentives
An equity-based Long-Term Incentive Programme (LTIP) was considered with the advice from two remuneration consultants 
in the year. After the reporting date, the Remuneration Committee approved an LTIP arrangement. No LTIP awards were made 
in the year. Refer to Note 35 for further details.

Director’s Loan
At 31 December 2020 and throughout 2020, there were no Director loan balances outstanding (2019: nil).

Non-Executive Director Fees
Fees for non-executive Directors, are approved by the Board, however individual non-executive Directors do not vote on their 
own fee. Fees for non-executive Directors are set with reference to market data, time commitment, and chairmanship of Board 
committees. The Chairman of the Board, is eligible for a fee of £53,000 per annum (2019: £52,000 per annum). The annual fee 
of the remaining individual non-executive Directors does not exceed £49,000 (2019: £48,000).

Service Agreements
The executive Directors’ Service Agreements provide that their employment with the Company is on a rolling basis, subject to 
written notice being served by either party of not less than six months. The current service contracts and letters of appointment 
include the following terms. 

Directors

Executive Directors

Marwan Khalek

Stephen Wright

Neil Medley 

Daniel Ruback

Non-Executive Directors

Christopher Clarke

Peter Brown 

Stephen Mount

Michael Howell

Chi Keung To

Date of Contract

Notice Period

6 January 2015

6 January 2015

 8 September 2016

16 December 2019

24 April 2019

8 December 2014

27 June 2019

24 April 2019

2 March 2018

12 months

12 months

6 months

6 months

3 months

3 months

3 months

3 months

3 months

Under these service contracts, the Company may terminate an executive director’s employment immediately by making a 
payment in lieu of base salary, benefits and statutory entitlements, and any bonus or commission payments pro-rated for the 
duration of notice period. No bonus would be payable in the event of an executive director resignation.

38 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

Directors’ Remuneration Report 
The Directors received the following remuneration for the financial year ended 31 December 2020:

£’000

Executive Directors

Marwan Khalek

Stephen Wright

Neil Medley (resigned 22 February 2021)

David Stickland (resigned 31 May 2019)

Daniel Ruback (appointed 16 December 2019)

Executive total

Non-Executive Directors

Sir Ralph Robins (resigned 3 April 2019)

Peter Brown

Richard Steeves (resigned 31 January 2019)

Chi Keung (Simon) To

Michael Peagram (resigned 30 April 2019)

Christopher Clarke (appointed 24 April 2019)

Michael Howell (appointed 24 April 2019)

Stephen Mount (appointed 27 June 2019)

Non-Executive total

Salary
& fees2 

Bonus 
award

Benefits
in kind1

Pension

2020
Total

2019
Total3

362

199

335

–

240

1,136

–

47

–

53

–

47

47

49

243

80

25

50

–

25

180

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

61

10

11

–

12

94

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

82

36

34

–

29

585

270

430

–

306

461

245

380

290

13

181

1,591

1,389

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

47

–

53

–

47

47

49

27

73

4

52

20

32

32

24

243

264

Aggregate Emoluments

1,379

180

94

181

1,834

1,653

1  Including the provision of life assurance, Group income protection, car allowances and private medical insurance.

2  Reimbursements for travel are not remuneration and therefore are excluded. 

3  Remuneration for David Stickland included a settlement on departure of £192,500.

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

39

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS/ DIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT (CONTINUED)

Statement of Directors’ Interests
The table below sets out the beneficial interests in shares and unexercised share options of all Directors holding office as at 
31 December 2020. After the reporting date, on 19 January 2021, Daniel Ruback was issued a total of 25,000 ordinary shares of 
1 penny each in the capital of the Company (“ordinary shares”) at nil cost, in accordance with the terms of his service agreement.

Executive Directors

Marwan Khalek1

Stephen Wright

Neil Medley2

Non-executive Directors

Chi Keung (Simon) To

Michael Howell

Peter Brown

Ordinary Shares

Unexercised Share Options3

Total Interests

At 31 
December 
2020

At 31 
December 
2019

At 31 
December 
2020

At 31 
December 
2019

At 31 
December 
2020

At 31 
December 
2019

14,179,607

14,179,607

–

–

14,179,607

14,179,607

263,188

75,000

263,188

75,000

525,000

425,000

525,000

425,000

788,188

788,188

500,000

500,000

130,000

130,000

68,752

20,000

68,752

20,000

–

–

–

–

–

–

130,000

130,000

68,752

20,000

68,752

20,000

1  Including 3,000,000 shares held in trust for the benefit of family members.

2  Including 25,000 shares held for the benefit of family members.

3  Refer to Note 35 for details of options issued after the reporting date.

40 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

/ CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

The Group is committed to managing its business responsibly 
across a wide range of stakeholders; from the local 
communities of which it is a part, to recognising and 
mitigating the environmental impact of the Group’s business 
activities. This requires the Group to explore every avenue 
where the business can drive and implement change to the 
benefit of employees, customers, shareholders, and its wider 
stakeholder groups.

1. Employees
As a service organisation, the Group’s employees are the 
backbone its business model. Nurturing and developing those 
teams is therefore a primary concern and as such, the Group 
makes every effort to maintain a safe, caring, and balanced, 
high performance culture. To achieve this the Group takes, 
amongst other things, a:

 / Rigorous approach to safety and occupational health (both 

physical and mental health);

 / Keen interest in the personal development of our 

employees through training and education;

 / Proactive approach to developing people’s careers, 

developing a clear understanding of their development 
goals and allowing them to access opportunities available 
within our global organisation; and

 / Proactive approach to vitality, providing regionally 

appropriate employee benefits that encourage our people 
to maintain their health

2. Ethical business practices and good governance
Good practice requires continual attention. The standard the 
Group expects from employees and its business operations 
should not only comply with the spirit, but also the letter, of 
the legislation that is in effect across those jurisdictions in 
which the Group operates. As such, the Group operates, 
amongst other things, a:

 / Regular review of our processes, policies and controls;
 / Risk management framework to ensure risks are identified 

and appropriate controls are implemented across 
the business;

 / Comprehensive legal compliance framework and audit 
schedule to ensure compliance obligations are met; and
 / Programme of development to ensure business continuity 

and responsible growth based on ethical business practices 
and associated codes of conduct

3. Environmental footprint
The Group seeks to undertake the activities of its business in 
an environmentally responsible manner. As such, the Group 
aims to comply with the letter, and spirit, of the prevailing 
environmental legislation in order that our business 
operations do not have a significant adverse effect on the 
natural environment. In view of this, we support:

 / The UK government’s SECR requirements;
 / The development of ground and flight procedures to 

minimise noise, carbon and NOx emissions, while 
maintaining the highest safety standards;

 / The removal of single-use plastics and engaging in waste 

recycling schemes throughout our operations, limiting our 
environmental impact as best we can; and

 / Employee volunteering days that support local 

environmental projects and other community causes

4. Supporting communities
From Van Nuys on the west coast of the US, to Hong Kong 
in the east, the Group plays an active role in a variety 
of communities; whether creating new employment 
opportunities through our growth or developing new supply 
chains with local business. In normal times the Group looks to 
create closer links with community members via a range of 
social, economic and environmental activities which include:

 / The provision of apprenticeships and work experience 

in non-sensitive areas of our business;

 / The employment of ex-service personnel;
 / Participation with local enterprise councils and chambers 

of commerce;

 / Charitable sponsorship and support at national and 

local level; and

 / Active participation within regional and national 

trade bodies

The Group’s carbon footprint and Streamlined Energy 
and Carbon Reporting (SECR)
The Group has appointed Carbon Footprint Ltd, a leading 
carbon and energy management company, to assess 
independently its Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions in 
accordance with the UK Government’s ‘Environmental 
Reporting Guidelines: Including Streamlined Energy and 
Carbon Reporting Guidance’.

The Group’s definition of its carbon footprint for SECR
For the purposes of the SECR report, the Group has defined 
its carbon footprint as a measure of the impact its activities 
have on the environment in terms of the amount of 
greenhouse gases produced, measured in units of carbon 
dioxide equivalents (CO2e). The Group’s carbon footprint is 
therefore made up of two parts, direct and indirect emissions.

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

41

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS/ CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY (CONTINUED)

Direct emissions
Direct emissions are produced by sources which are owned or controlled by the reporting organisation and include electricity use, 
burning oil or gas for heating, and fuel consumption as a result of business travel or distribution. Direct emissions correspond to 
elements within scopes 1, 2 and 3 of the World Resources Institute GHG Protocol, as indicated below.

Footprint 

Activity

Direct

Electricity, heat or steam generated on-site

Natural gas, gas oil, LPG or coal use attributable to Company-owned facilities

Company-owned vehicle travel

Production of any of the six GHGs (CO2, CH4, N2O, HFCs, PFCs and SF6)

Consumption of purchased electricity, heat steam and cooling

Employee business travel (using transport not owned by the Company)

Scope

1

1

1

2

3

Indirect emissions
Indirect emissions result from a company’s upstream and downstream activities. These are typically from outsourced/contract 
manufacturing, and products and the services offered by the organisation. Indirect emissions correspond to scope 3 of the World 
Resources Institute GHG Protocol excluding employee business travel as indicated below.

Footprint 

Activity

Employee commuting

Indirect

Transportation of an organisation’s products, materials or waste by another 
organisation

Outsourced activities, contract manufacturing and franchises

GHG emissions from waste generated by the organisation but managed by 
another organisation

GHG emissions from the use and end-of-life phases of the organisation’s products 
and services

GHG emissions arising from the production and distribution of energy products, 
other than electricity, steam and heat, consumed by the organisation

GHG emissions from the production of purchased raw or primary materials

GHG emissions arising from the transmission and distribution of purchased electricity

Scope

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

Based on the above classifications the Group’s GHG emissions have been assessed by Carbon Footprint Ltd following ISO 
14064-1:2018, using the 2020 emission conversion factors published by Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs 
(DEFRA) and the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS).

Although not required to meet the SECR legislation, the Group is reporting CO2 emissions for scope one and two as well as 
reporting additional scope three emissions (the scope two assessment follows the location-based approach for emissions from 
electricity usage). The Group’s reporting extends to all operations of the business including its wholly owned business interests 
in the USA, UK, Middle East and Asia.

Treatment of scope three, indirect emissions
Having received advice from Carbon Footprint Ltd, the Group’s ISO14064-1:2018 audit partner, it has further delineated scope 
three, indirect emissions, into two broad categories these being:

 / Scope three items indirectly associated with the delivery or growth of the Group’s business (travel, home working, etc.). The 
Group believes these items are directly related to its business activities and therefore should be included within our carbon 
footprint assessment even if that is beyond the current SECR requirement; and

 / Scope three items associated directly with demand instigated by a customer, this being mainly aircraft fuel consumption. 

The Group recognises and records these CO2 emissions and will, given the limitations of the current engine, fuel and 
associated technologies, work with its customers to limit and mitigate these emissions through its best endeavours

42 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

2020 verified Greenhouse Gas emissions
The Group is keenly aware that 2020 was a unique pandemic year and consequently the GHG emissions table reflects a year 
of far lower business activity. Table 1 provided on the next page summarises the GHG emissions for reporting year: 
1 January 2020 to 31 December 2020.

In accordance with the ISO 14064-1:2018 methodology the calculation accuracy and materiality of the following report has 
a total uncertainty of +/- 6% leading to an estimated total error margin (all scopes) of +/- 1,474 tCO2e.

Table 1: GHG emissions for reporting year: 1 January 2020 to 31 December 2020

Scope

Scope 1

Scope 2

Scope 3

Activity

Site gas oil

Site gas

Van travel and distribution

Company car travel

Scope 1 Sub Total

Electricity generation

Scope 2 Sub Total

Customer aircraft fuel consumption 

Flights

Home workers

Electricity transmission and distribution

Other*

Scope 3 Sub Total

Total scope 1,2,3 including customer aircraft fuel consumption 

Total tonnes of CO2e

Total Energy Consumption (kWh)**

Tonnes of CO2e per tonne of jet fuel

Tonnes of CO2e per £m turnover***

Scope 1,2,3 excluding customer aircraft fuel consumption 

Total tonnes of CO2e excl. customer aircraft fuel consumption

Tonnes of CO2e per employee

Tonnes CO2e

406

154

32

8

600

2,086

2,086

21,845

210

144

114

55

22,368

25,055

97,009,229

6.90

162

3,210

4.41

*  Other includes emissions from Air Freight, Grey Fleet, Taxi Travel, Rail Travel and Outsourced Lorry Freight.

**  Total Energy Consumption includes Electricity, Site Gas, Site Gas Oil, Company Owned Vehicles, Grey-Fleet and Customer Aircraft 

Fuel Consumption.

***  25,054.58/(Revenue of $197.5m/1.28 = £154.3m) =162

Primary intensity ratio comparator
Companies complying with Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting must include at least one intensity ratio in their report. 
An intensity ratio is a way of defining your emissions data in relation to an appropriate business metric, such as tonnes of CO2e 
per sales revenue, or tonnes of CO2e per total square metres of floor space. This allows comparison of energy efficiency 
performance over time and with other similar types of organisation.

The Group has determined that it will use tonnes of CO2e per employee as its primary intensity ratio going forward. Tonnes 
of CO2e will use scope 1 and scope 2 plus the previously defined treatment of scope 3 that excludes customer aircraft 
fuel consumption.

Tonnes of CO2e* per employee**

4.41

*  Based on the total tonnes of CO2e excl. customer aircraft fuel consumption.

**  Based on an employee population during the audit period of 728.

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

43

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS/ CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY (CONTINUED)

Offsetting 2020 emissions
The Board has approved the offsetting in 2021 of the Group’s 2020 emissions pertaining to the following categories audited 
by Carbon Footprint under ISO 14064-1:2018:

 / The Group’s scope one emissions;
 / The Group’s scope two emissions; and
 / The Group’s scope three emissions but limited to those for which the business is directly responsible. This omits indirect 

customer aircraft fuel consumption as previously defined

To this end the Group is committed to offsetting at least 3,210 tonnes of CO2e during 2021. The table below shows the breakdown 
of the scope 1, 2 & 3 emissions excluding customer aircraft fuel consumption and the effect of the offsetting.

Breakdown of CO2e per emissions scope and effect of offsetting

Activity

Total Scope 1 & 2 Gross Location-Based Emissions (tCO2e)

Scope 3 emissions (tCO2e) excluding customer aircraft fuel consumption

Sub-total

Carbon offsets (tCO2e) to be purchased

Total Net Location-Based Scope 1,2 & 3 Emissions (tCO2e) 
(excluding customer aircraft fuel)

Baseline Year
2019

Current Year
2020

3,736

1,193

4,929

–

4,929

2,686

524

3,210

3,210

n/a

Group energy consumption 
Total energy consumed by the Group in scopes 1 and 2 is expressed within the table below:

Total energy consumed per emissions scope

Activity

UK Operations Scope 1 & 2 energy consumed (kWh)

Total Scope 1 & 2 energy consumed (kWh)

Total energy consumed (kWh)

Current Year
2020

5,754,805

8,779,550

97,009,229

44 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

Selection of offsetting programmes
In accordance with the Group’s wider corporate social 
responsibility programme and its values, the Group believes 
that any offsetting programme should be compatible with the 
spirit of its corporate social responsibility aims. It is for this 
reason that the selection of the offsetting programme:

 / Will not include “tree-planting” in the UK as its sole means 

of carbon reduction;

 / Shall not be limited to activities in the UK to reflect the 

geographic diversity of the Group;

 / Should empower gender and racial diversity and encourage 

economic growth within a community;

 / Should comply with the Group’s ethical standards; and
 / Should be delivered through a Gold Standard VER/Verified 

Carbon Standard or equivalent scheme

Project Element Six: Carbon reduction and a low 
carbon future
Given some of the limitations of the current technology used 
directly and indirectly by the Group, it is likely that the Group 
will continue to use carbon offsetting as a means to mitigate 
its carbon footprint in future years. That said the Group’s aim, 
through Project Element Six, is to introduce year-on-year 
improvements (however small) in energy efficiency, reducing 
its carbon footprint and that of its customers with regard 
to their aircraft use.

Specifically, through Project Element Six, the Group will:

 / Aim to improve audit accuracy and data such that the 

Group has, in the future, a near real time view of carbon 
emissions which is reported through the current quarterly 
business review cycle;

 / Fix, optimise or add policies/processes and changes in 

procurement practice that seek to lower the Group’s scope 
one, two and three emissions through change;

 / Introduce new customer facing programmes in conjunction 

with leading audit/offsetting partners that can provide 
assistance in compensating and reducing carbon emissions; 
and

 / Review, provide assistance and partner with low carbon 

technologies (fuels, engines, systems) that may substitute 
current technologies to achieve a low carbon future

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

45

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS/ DIRECTORS’ REPORT

The Directors present their report together with the audited 
consolidated financial statements for the year ended 
31 December 2020.

Principal activities
The Group delivers a comprehensive array of high value 
aviation services through three distinct market facing strategic 
business units (SBU) these being Business Aviation, Special 
Mission and Technology & Outsourcing. Central to this 
successful model, and the Group’s enduring customer 
relationships, has been the provision of the Group’s 38 years 
of aviation design, maintenance, operational management, 
charter, software and facilities expertise.

Employment of disabled persons
The Group gives full consideration to applications for 
employment from disabled persons where the requirements 
of the jobs can be adequately fulfilled by a handicapped or 
disabled person. Where an existing employee becomes 
disabled, it is the Group’s policy wherever practicable to 
provide continuing employment under normal terms and 
conditions and to provide training and career development 
and promotion to disabled employees wherever appropriate.

Employee involvement
During the year the policy of providing employees with 
information about the Group has been continued through 
internal media methods in which employees have also been 
encouraged to present their suggestions and views on the 
Group’s performance. Regular meetings are held between 
local management and employees to allow a free flow of 
information and ideas. 

Matters included in the strategic report
Financial risk management policies and objectives are 
disclosed in the strategic report and Note 34 of the Financial 
Statements, and future developments are disclosed in the 
strategic report.

Qualifying third party indemnity provisions
The Group has made qualifying third party indemnity 
provisions for the benefit of its Directors which were 
in place during the year and to the date of this report.

Directors
The Directors who served the Company throughout the 
period, unless otherwise stated, were as follows:

M Khalek
S Wright
N Medley 
D Ruback 
CK To 
P Brown
C Clarke 
M Howell
S Mount

Dividends
The Board does not recommend a dividend for 2020 (2019: nil 
pence per share). The Company intends to restore the parent 
company’s distributable reserves which may involve extracting 
dividends from subsidiaries amongst other steps. The parent 
company financial statements show accumulated losses of 
£13,292k (2019: £5,847k accumulated profits).

Post balance sheet events
These are detailed in Note 35 of the financial statements.

46 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

Charitable and political donations 
Group donations to charities worldwide were $5,035 (2019: 
$51,934). No donations were made to any political party in 
either year.

Engagement with employees and other stakeholders
The section 172 statement covering the interest of the 
Company’s employees, on page 26, provides further details 
on engagement with employees.

Wider stakeholder engagement
The Group has continued to foster its relationships with wider 
stakeholders including investors, customers, suppliers, to help 
drive principal decisions taken by the Group during the 
financial year. Further details on how the Board have 
considered these stakeholders in their decision-making has 
been included within the Section 172 statement covering 
fostering business relationships with suppliers, customers 
and others, on page 26.

Directors’ responsibilities statement
The Directors are responsible for preparing the Annual Report 
and the financial statements in accordance with applicable 
law and regulation. 

Company law requires the Directors to prepare financial 
statements for each financial year. Under that law the 
Directors have prepared the Group financial statements in 
accordance with international accounting standards in 
conformity with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 
and parent company financial statements in accordance with 
United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice 
(United Kingdom Accounting Standards, comprising FRS 101 
“Reduced Disclosure Framework”, and applicable law). Under 
company law, the Directors must not approve the financial 
statements unless they are satisfied that they give a true and 
fair view of the state of affairs of the Group and parent 
company and of the profit or loss of the Group and parent 
company for that period. In preparing the financial 
statements, the Directors are required to:

 / Select suitable accounting policies and then apply 

them consistently;

 / State whether applicable international accounting 

standards in conformity with the requirements of the 
Companies Act 2006 have been followed for the Group 
financial statements and United Kingdom Accounting 
Standards, comprising FRS 101, have been followed for 
the parent company financial statements, subject to 
any material departures disclosed and explained in 
the financial statements;

 / Make judgements and accounting estimates that are 

reasonable and prudent; and

 / Prepare the financial statements on the going concern 

basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the Group 
and parent company will continue in business

The Directors are also responsible for safeguarding the assets 
of the Group and parent company and hence for taking 
reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud 
and other irregularities.

The Directors are responsible for keeping adequate accounting 
records that are sufficient to show and explain the Group and 
parent company’s transactions and disclose with reasonable 
accuracy at any time the financial position of the Group and 
parent company and enable them to ensure that the financial 
statements comply with the Companies Act 2006.

Going concern
The Group’s business activities, together with the factors likely 
to affect its future development, performance and position 
are set out in the Operational Review and Chief Financial 
Officer’s report.

Disclosure of information to the auditors
Each of the persons who is a director at the date of the 
approval of this report confirms that:

So far as the director is aware, there is no relevant audit 
information of which the Group’s auditor is unaware; and

The director has taken all steps that he ought to have taken 
as a director to make himself aware of any relevant audit 
information and to establish that the Group’s auditor is aware 
of that information.

Auditors
In accordance with section 489(4) of the Companies Act 2006 
a resolution to reappoint PwC as auditor of the Company will 
be proposed at the forthcoming annual general meeting.

On behalf of the Board

.

Marwan Khalek
Director

26 May 2021

The emergence of COVID-19 during 2020 has increased 
uncertainty surrounding the future trading environment 
for the Group. To support their assessment of Going Concern 
the Directors have performed a detailed analysis of cash flow 
projections for the Group covering the period from the date of 
approval of the annual financial statements to 31 December 
2022. The analysis takes account of the following amongst 
other relevant considerations: 

 / The $50.0m committed revolving credit facility (RCF), 

of which $24.7m (2019: $5.0m) is undrawn at the 
reporting date and a £20.0m (2019: nil) term loan

 / Receipt of the remaining balance of the US Air associate 

disposal proceeds of $18.0m at the reporting date but not 
the accelerated receipt of these cash flows as explained 
in Note 35

 / The absence of the $16.0m of disposal consideration 

received in 2020 from future cash projections

 / The acquisition of Jet East, which resulted in $10.0m drawn 
down on the RCF, $7.7m of initial consideration paid and 
$2.65m of acquired borrowings repaid

 / Cash at the reporting date of $16.1m (2019: $8.5m)
 / Working capital levels and a cautious conversion of profits 

into cash flows at circa 60 percent

The borrowing facilities have no covenants and fall due for 
repayment on 14 November 2022 and 31 January 2023 
respectively. The Group has no reason to believe these 
facilities would not be renewed on comparable terms. The 
RCF, which is presented in non-current liabilities, is settled 
and drawdown on a cyclical basis with no right from the bank 
to demand full repayment within the next twelve months. 
The key assumption in these projections relates to revenue 
performance and the Directors have included what they 
consider to be a cautious recovery in revenue performance 
from the first quarter of FY21. Downside sensitivities have also 
been assessed, which reflect no further recovery in revenues 
and a continuation of the COVID-19 impacted trading 
performance in Q1 FY21 extending to the remainder of 
FY21. In both the Group’s base case forecasts and downside 
scenarios the Group maintains significant headroom against 
its cash and available facilities.

Accordingly, the Directors have, at the time of approving 
the financial statements, a reasonable expectation that the 
Company and the Group have adequate resources to continue 
in operational existence for the foreseeable future. Thus, they 
continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in 
preparing the financial statements.

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

47

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALSPERFORMANCE  
Driven

Financial statements
Independent auditors’ report
Consolidated income statement
Consolidated statement of comprehensive income
Consolidated balance sheet
Consolidated statement of changes in equity
Consolidated cash flow statement
Notes to the financial statements
Parent company statement of financial position
Parent company statement of changes in equity
Notes to the parent company financial statements

48 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

S
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Your mission, our passion.

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

49

 
/ INDEPENDENT AUDITORS’ REPORT
/ FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

Independent auditors’ report to the members 
of Gama Aviation Plc

Report on the audit of the financial statements
Opinion
In our opinion:

 / Gama Aviation Plc’s group financial statements and parent 
company financial statements (the “financial statements”) 
give a true and fair view of the state of the group’s and of 
the parent company’s affairs as at 31 December 2020 and 
of the group’s loss and the group’s cash flows for the year 
then ended;

 / the group financial statements have been properly 

prepared in accordance with international accounting 
standards in conformity with the requirements of the 
Companies Act 2006;

 / the parent company financial statements have been 

properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom 
Generally Accepted Accounting Practice (United Kingdom 
Accounting Standards, comprising FRS 101 “Reduced 
Disclosure Framework”, and applicable law); and

 / the financial statements have been prepared in accordance 

with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006.

We have audited the financial statements, included within 
the Annual Report and financial statements, which comprise: 
the Consolidated balance sheet and the Parent company 
statement of financial position as at 31 December 2020; the 
Consolidated income statement, the Consolidated statement 
of comprehensive income, the Consolidated statement of 
changes in equity, the Consolidated cash flow statement 
and the Parent company statement of changes in equity 
for the year then ended; and the notes to the financial 
statements, which include a description of the significant 
accounting policies.

Basis for opinion
We conducted our audit in accordance with International 
Standards on Auditing (UK) (“ISAs (UK)”) and applicable law. 
Our responsibilities under ISAs (UK) are further described 
in the Auditors’ responsibilities for the audit of the financial 
statements section of our report. We believe that the audit 
evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to 
provide a basis for our opinion.

Independence
We remained independent of the group in accordance with 
the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the 
financial statements in the UK, which includes the FRC’s 
Ethical Standard, as applicable to listed entities, and we have 
fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with 
these requirements.

Our audit approach
Overview 

Audit scope

Key audit
matters

Materiality

 / We performed full scope audit procedures over 8 legal entities and performed 
specific audit procedures on a further 3 entities. This included the full scope 
audit of associate China Aircraft Services Limited, undertaken by PwC Hong 
Kong. All other work was undertaken by the UK Group audit team.

 / Taken together, the entities over which audit work was performed accounted for 

74.8% of the group’s statutory revenue of $197,503k.

 / Due to the current restrictions on travel and social distancing measures, enacted 
in response to the global COVID-19 pandemic, the group engagement team used 
video conferencing to oversee the component auditor work and conducted 
remote discussions and review activities to understand and supervise the work 
of PwC Hong Kong.

 / Impairment of goodwill (Group)
 / Long term contract accounting (Group)
 / Valuation of parts inventory (Group)
 / Recoverability of legacy trade receivables (Group)
 / Presentation of exceptional items (Group)
 / Business Aviation Centre (“BAC”) Sharjah Impairment (Group)
 / Impairment of investments accounted for under the equity method (Group)
 / Consideration of the impact of COVID-19 (Group and Parent)
 / Impairment of Investments (Parent)
 / Paycheck Protection (“PPP”) loan eligibility and forgiveness (Group)

 / Overall Group materiality: $252,000 (2019: $338,000) based on approximately 

0.14% of adjusted revenue.

 / Overall Parent company materiality: £908,000 (2019: £1,213,000) based on 

approximately 1% of total assets.

 / Performance materiality: $189,000.00 (Group) and £681,000 (Parent company).

50 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

The scope of our audit
As part of designing our audit, we determined materiality 
and assessed the risks of material misstatement in the 
financial statements.

Key audit matters
Key audit matters are those matters that, in the auditors’ 
professional judgement, were of most significance in the audit 
of the financial statements of the current period and include 
the most significant assessed risks of material misstatement 
(whether or not due to fraud) identified by the auditors, including 
those which had the greatest effect on: the overall audit 
strategy; the allocation of resources in the audit; and directing 
the efforts of the engagement team. These matters, and any 
comments we make on the results of our procedures thereon, 

were addressed in the context of our audit of the financial 
statements as a whole, and in forming our opinion thereon, 
and we do not provide a separate opinion on these matters.

This is not a complete list of all risks identified by our audit.

BAC Sharjah impairment and Paycheck Protection (“PPP”) loan 
eligibility and forgiveness are new key audit matters this year. 
Disclosure of related party transactions (Group and Parent 
company), Prior year restatements (Group and Parent company) 
and Lawfulness of dividends (Parent company), which were key 
audit matters last year, are no longer included, in part because 
of the improvements made following the change in financial 
management and additional controls being applied at the Group 
and Parent company level. Otherwise, the key audit matters 
below are consistent with last year.

Key audit matter

How our audit addressed the key audit matter

Impairment of goodwill (Group)
Page 34 (Audit Committee report) and page 67 (Note 2 (h) to 
the Consolidated Financial Statements – Accounting policies 
– Goodwill) and page 85 (Note 14 to the Consolidated 
Financial Statements – Goodwill) 

The carrying value of goodwill is $22.5 million as at 
31 December 2020. The goodwill substantially relates to the 
Europe Ground Division. The Group is required to test goodwill 
for impairment on an annual basis. Determining whether the 
carrying value of goodwill is impaired requires management 
to make significant judgements and assumptions in their 
assessment of the fair value less costs to sell or value in use. 
Management consider the value in use calculation to be higher 
than fair value less costs to sell. Forecasts and assumptions 
used in value in use calculations are inherently judgemental 
and therefore may give rise to increased risk of misstatement. 
These include forecast cash flows, growth rates and discount 
rates. Management performed sensitivity analyses on certain 
key assumptions as noted above to understand the level of 
available headroom. No impairments were identified in the 
goodwill balances at 31 December 2020.

Long term contract accounting (Group)
Page 34 (Audit Committee report) and page 70 (Note 2 (s) to 
the Consolidated Financial Statements – Accounting policies 
– Revenue recognition) 

The group has two material contracts which span multiple 
periods and are accounted for on a percentage of completion 
(POC) basis in accordance with IFRS 15. Long term 
contracting accounting requires a number of judgements 
and management estimates to be made, particularly in 
calculating the forecast costs to complete the contract. 
These judgements drive the revenue and profit recognition, 
and together with cash paid by the customer, impact the 
balance sheet position at the year end.

We have challenged management’s key assumptions and 
tested the impairment models and calculations by performing 
the following:

 / Testing the mechanical and mathematical accuracy of the 
impairment models; we used PwC valuation specialists to 
assess the methodology applied in the valuation model 
and the appropriateness of the discount rates;

 / we benchmarked the discount rates to comparable 

companies and considered the underlying assumptions 
based on our knowledge of the group and its industry;

 / evaluated management’s forecasts by reference to 
historical performance and considered growth rates 
applied to future cash flows by reference to external 
market data.

We also independently applied sensitivities to key 
assumptions used in management’s value in use calculation. 
As a result of our challenges, revisions to the valuation model 
were made by management. Based on our audit procedures 
performed we found that management’s concluding 
calculation of the value in use supported their conclusion that 
no impairment charges to goodwill were required. We also 
assessed the disclosures around the impairment assessment, 
the associated sensitivity analyses, and management’s 
disclosure of impairment assessments as a key accounting 
estimate in Note 3 and found these to be appropriate.

We held meetings with key financial and non-financial 
personnel to discuss contract performance, as well as 
evidence to support contract financials. Specifically our 
procedures included the following; 

 / We assessed the basis of revenue recognition to ensure 

it is line with applicable accounting standards;

 / We agreed overall anticipated revenue to the underlying 
contract and validated a sample of customer invoices 
through to cash receipt;

 / We obtained evidence to corroborate management 

judgements and estimates, particularly around cost to 
complete and risk contingencies. Where applicable we 
obtained correspondence with the customer to evidence 
progress made on the contract during the year and 
remaining obligations; 

 / We validated costs incurred and allocated to contracts 

to supporting documentation. 

No material exceptions were found.

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

51

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS/ INDEPENDENT AUDITORS’ REPORT (CONTINUED)
/ FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

Key audit matter

How our audit addressed the key audit matter

Valuation of parts inventory (Group)
Page 34 (Audit Committee report) and page 69 (Note 2 (m) to 
the Consolidated Financial Statements – Accounting policies 
– Inventories) and page 94 (Note 19 to the Consolidated 
Financial Statements – Inventories)

The group holds inventory of $5.9 million at year end which is 
stated after provisions for obsolete inventory of $5.0 million. 
Of the total year end provision, $1.5 million was charged to 
the income statement in the year. Inventory largely 
comprises parts, including rotable items, which are used to 
service aircraft. The nature of the group’s inventory is such 
that inventory can be held for very long periods without 
becoming obsolete. This reflects the fact that the aircraft 
these parts are used on can have very long useful lives and 
in some instances parts may be required infrequently. 
Furthermore, rotable items, which can be owned by the 
group, can be used, refurbished and reused many times. The 
provision for obsolete inventory is calculated using a formula 
based on purchase history and the history of usage, with 
further specific provisions made if required. As a 
consequence of the nature of parts inventory there is 
significant judgement involved in estimating the basis for 
providing for obsolete inventory.

Recoverability of legacy trade receivables (Group)
Page 34 (Audit Committee report) and page 69 (Note 2 (o) to 
the Consolidated Financial Statements – Accounting policies 
– Financial assets) and page 94 (Note 20 to the Consolidated 
Financial Statements – Trade and other receivables)

The group has trade receivables at 31 December 2020 of 
$23.8 million stated after impairment provisions of $7.0 
million. Of the total provision of $7.0 million, an amount of 
$3.8 million was charged to the income statement in the 
year. The evaluation of the recoverability of trade 
receivables, and therefore the level of impairment provision 
required, involves significant judgement. The material 
increase in the provision in the year largely relates to a small 
number of significant and aged balances where management 
has reassessed the probability of recovery and concluded 
there is now greater risk over the ability of the group to 
recover the amounts.

Presentation of exceptional items (Group)
Page 34 (Audit Committee report) and page 66 (Note 2 (e) to 
the Consolidated Financial Statements – Accounting policies 
– Exceptional items) and page 79 (Note 6 to the Consolidated 
Financial Statements – Adjusted performance measures)

There is a risk that costs incurred by the Group are 
inappropriately classified as Exceptional items in order to 
improve the presented performance of the Group, or that 
items of income or other gains received in the year which 
should be classified as Exceptional items are excluded and 
reported within adjusted EBIT. During the year, the Directors 
classified $2.2 million as Exceptional items.

We performed detailed testing over management’s inventory 
valuation. Whilst this was a fairly manual process, in particular 
for rotables, we found that there was good third party 
evidence to support the determination of the values applied 
to inventory line items. We have assessed the inventory policy 
by reference to our understanding of the nature of the 
business and inventory items and through enquiry with 
logistics and supply chain staff as well as the finance team. 
We have tested the application of the group’s policy including 
testing the calculation of the provision and testing the 
purchase history and usage of inventory which is applied in 
the calculation of the provision. We have also evaluated other 
specific items of inventory for which additional inventory 
provisions have been recorded. Based on the audit procedures 
performed we found that the valuation of inventory was 
appropriate. We also read the disclosures in respect of 
provisions for inventory included in the critical accounting 
judgements and estimates in Note 3 and found these to 
be appropriate.

We have performed detailed procedures over the 
recoverability of trade receivables balances at year end. 
This has included testing of subsequent cash receipts, testing 
of the ageing of receivables, making enquiries of management 
over their assessment for the expected credit loss provision, 
performed look back tests to assess the accuracy of 
management’s prior year estimates and, where applicable, 
reviewing legal correspondence and making enquiries of 
group legal counsel and external legal counsel. Based on 
the audit procedures performed we found that the valuation 
of trade receivables was appropriate. We also read the 
disclosures in respect of impairment provisions for trade 
receivables included in the critical accounting judgements 
and estimates in note 3 and found these to be appropriate.

We obtained management’s detailed analysis of Exceptional 
items and performed the following procedures: 

 / Tested a sample of items classified as exceptional items 

back to supporting documents to ensure that these were 
accurately recorded; and 

 / Evaluated the nature of the items tested to ensure that 
these were appropriately classified as Exceptional items 
by reference to management’s definition and established 
regulatory guidance on the reporting of alternative 
performance measures. As a result of our challenge 
a material items was adjusted to be excluded from 
Exceptional items; 

 / We specifically challenged management to ensure that 

exceptional gains and losses were treated consistently, and 
that items were treated in a consistent manner from one 
year to the next. We read the disclosures in notes 2 and 6 
to the financial statements to ensure these provided clear 
and sufficient guidance to enable the user of the financial 
statements to understand the nature and magnitude of the 
items included within Exceptional items.

We found these to be appropriate.

52 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

Key audit matter

How our audit addressed the key audit matter

BAC Sharjah impairment (Group)
Page 34 (Audit Committee report) and page 68 (Note 2 to the 
Consolidated Financial Statements – Accounting policies – 
Property, plant and equipment) and page 73 (Note 3 Critical 
accounting judgements and key sources of estimation 
uncertainty) and page 88 (Note 16 to the Consolidated 
Financial Statements – Property Plant & Equipment) and page 
100 (Note 23 Obligations under leases)

In 2017 Gama entered into a non-cancellable Build-Operate-
Transfer and Service Concession agreement with Sharjah 
Airport Authority under which the Group is committed to 
construct a BAC at Sharjah Airport. The agreement runs 
from June 2017 until June 2042. 

The assets in the arrangement comprise of the land area 
provided and the buildings and infrastructure which Gama is 
building on the land. To date this has been recorded in assets 
under construction. The land footprint represents a contract 
containing a lease within the scope of IFRS 16 with a right of 
use asset. 

The assets under construction in relation to this agreement 
and the right of use asset have been fully impaired by $4.6 
million and $7.0 million respectively to nil carrying value.

Management have assessed the recoverable amount of 
these asset to be nil. This is based on:

 / Gama’s judgement that it is unlikely to deploy further 

capital to fund the project; and

 / no clear plan as to securing other funding or contract 
restructure that will enable completion of the project 
or release Gama from the head lease. 

Impairment of investments accounted for under the 
equity method (Group)
Page 34 (Audit Committee report) and page 68 (Note 2 to the 
Consolidated Financial Statements – Accounting policies – 
Investments in associate and joint venture),page 92 (Note 18 to 
the Consolidated Financial Statements – Investments accounted 
for using the equity method), page 74 (Note 3 Critical accounting 
judgements and key sources of estimation uncertainty) and page 
115 (Note 35 Events after the balance sheet date)

Investments accounted for using the equity method include 
an amount of $2 million in relation to the group’s investment 
in China Aircraft Services Limited (“CASL”), after a current year 
impairment of $3.4 million. The investment has performed 
below management’s expectations and accordingly an 
impairment trigger was identified. The recoverable value of 
investments accounted for using the equity method is 
assessed at the higher of value in use and fair value less costs 
to sell. This has been estimated by fair value less costs to sell.

Management has based their fair value assessment on 
a recent proposal from a third party to acquire from an 
existing shareholder 20% shareholding in CASL for $2million. 
This is further supported by a very recent offer for Gama’s 
20% shareholding.

Under the terms of the Shareholders’ Agreement the 
existing shareholder is required to notify other shareholders 
of their intention to sell their shares to the third party. Gama 
were notified in a letter from the existing shareholder dated 
12 April 21. Management has used this notification and the 
recent offer for its own shareholding as the basis for 
establishing the fair value of its 20% shareholding.

We have assessed management’s process for identifying 
a triggering event. We agree that poor performance in the 
Middle East business and management’s decision not to 
continue to develop the BAC are triggering events that require 
an impairment assessment over the value of the assets under 
construction and right of use asset. 

In assessing management’s position that there is nil value 
in use in the Middle East Ground division we have noted the 
performance of the division, as reported in Note 4 Segmental 
information has been a loss EBIT for several years, with 
declining revenue. 

Management have formally represented to us that there is 
currently no clear agreed plan to secure other funding or 
contract restructure that will enable completion of the project 
or release Gama from the head lease. We have identified no 
such discussions from our review of the Board minutes. We 
have evidenced from our review of the contract that Gama is 
contracted under the lease until 30 June 2042 but have no 
legal obligation to complete the development of the BAC.

We concur that without further investment from Gama, 
alternative sources of financing or take on of the head lease, 
there is no certainty of any future income from the project. 

In the absence of any tangible interest from a third party, 
based on management judgement in regards to their 
intention to provide no further funding of the project and 
the uncertainty in securing financing from other parties, we 
consider management’s conclusion to impair the assets under 
construction and right of use assets to nil to be reasonable.

We also assessed the disclosures around the impairment 
assessment and have found these to be appropriate.

Based on our enquiries of PwC Hong Kong, statutory auditors 
to CASL, the business faces significant uncertainty and is 
forecasting losses for the foreseeable future. We therefore 
concur with management’s opinion that neither a value in use 
assessment nor a percentage of net assets as a basis for 
establishing the recoverable amount is reliable. A fair value 
established from a recent arms length arrangement is a more 
appropriate basis. 

We have obtained a copy of the notification from the 
shareholder of their intention to sell their 20% shareholding 
in CASL for $2 million. As this is a recent proposal and 
represents the same shareholding as Gama’s investment and 
taking into consideration the recent offer to acquire Gama’s 
shareholding (for which we have also seen a copy), we found 
management’s conclusion as to the fair value being $2 million 
and therefore recording an impairment charge of $3.4 million 
to be reasonable.

We also read the disclosures around the impairment 
assessment, and management’s disclosure of impairment 
assessments as a key accounting estimate and have found 
these to be appropriate.

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

53

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS 
/ INDEPENDENT AUDITORS’ REPORT (CONTINUED)
/ FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

Key audit matter

How our audit addressed the key audit matter

Consideration of the impact of COVID-19 
(Group and parent)
Page 34 (Audit Committee report), page 6 (Chief Executive 
Officer’s statement) and page 24 (Principal Risks & Uncertainties) 

Gama Aviation plc continues to deliver customer contracts 
and consider the impact of COVID-19 to the main group to 
be limited. Its associate, China Aircraft Services Limited has 
been significantly impacted by the dramatic reduction of air 
traffic caused by the pandemic.

Management have taken precautionary action in implementing a 
series of temporary measures to reduce costs and preserve cash, 
including making use of the financial support available from both 
the UK and US Government. All bases have remained operational 
throughout the past 12 months albeit with a reduced demand. 
Whilst management consider the Group to remain resilient, 
economic uncertainty and restrictions on international travel 
from the continuing COVID-19 pandemic remains. 

The key potential impacts of COVID-19 on the Group and 
Parent company financial statements are:

 / The carrying value of goodwill: – budgets and models 
supporting the goodwill and impairment assessments 
have been updated to reflect management’s best 
estimate of the impact of COVID-19. 

 / These models and related assumptions also underpin 

management’s going concern assessment. Management 
has modelled severe but plausible downside scenarios to 
its base case trading forecast.

 / The recoverability of receivable balances involves an increased 

level of judgement as a consequence of the COVID-19 
pandemic and its impact on the wider economic environment.

 / The carrying value of the investment in associate (CASL)

The pandemic has resulted in the year end financial close 
process, as well as the external audit, having to take place 
largely remotely.

Impairment of investments (parent)
Page 34 (Audit Committee report) and Page 121 (Note 3 to 
the Company Financial Statements – Investments)

The Parent company statement of financial position includes 
investments of £51.7 million in relation to the Company’s 
investments in subsidiary undertakings after a current year 
impairment of £24.5 million. Given the results of the Group 
have been below management’s expectations and the share 
price remains at a level where the market capitalisation is 
below the total investment carrying value, an impairment 
trigger was identified. The investment has been tested by 
reference to a recoverable amount which has been assessed 
using a value in use model on the basis that this indicates a 
higher recoverable amount than fair value less cost to sell. 
This is based on forecast future discounted cash flows which 
include judgements and estimates, including future growth 
rates and the discount rate applied to future cash flow 
forecasts. Management performed sensitivity analyses on 
certain key variables in the value in use calculation to 
understand the impact of changes in key assumptions. 

54 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

We have discussed the impact of COVID-19 in each meeting 
held with management at multiple levels of the group.

We validated that the cash flow forecast model used across the 
goodwill impairment and going concern were consistent. Our 
procedures in respect of the goodwill impairment assessments 
are covered in the related key audit matter above. 

With respect to management’s going concern assessment, 
our procedures are covered in the ‘conclusions relating to 
going concern’ section below.

With respect to recoverability of receivable balances, our 
procedures are covered in the ‘Recoverability of legacy trade 
receivables’ section above.

With respect to carrying value of the investment in associate, 
our procedures are covered in the ‘Impairment of investments 
accounted for under the equity method’ section above.

Whilst we have undertaken much of our year end work 
remotely, we did not encounter any significant difficulties 
in performing our audit testing or in obtaining the required 
evidence to support our audit conclusions.

We considered management’s assessment that value in use 
provided a higher recoverable amount than fair value less 
cost to sell and agreed with this basis. We performed audit 
procedures over the value in use calculations prepared by 
management. We used PwC valuation specialists to assess 
the methodology applied in the valuation model and the 
discount rates used. We benchmarked the discount rates 
to comparable companies and considered the underlying 
assumptions based on our knowledge of the Group and its 
industry. We evaluated management’s forecasts by reference 
to historical performance and considered growth rates 
applied to future cash flows by reference to external market 
data. We also independently applied sensitivities to key 
assumptions used in management’s value in use calculation. 
As a result of our challenges, revisions to the valuation model 
were made by management. Based on our audit procedures 
performed we found that management’s concluding 
calculation of the value in use for investments and net 
receivables owed by Group companies supported their 
conclusion that an impairment of £24.5 million was required 
over the investment balance. We also assessed the disclosures 
in note 1 and 3 of the Parent company financial statements 
around the impairment assessment, the associated sensitivity 
analyses, and management’s disclosure of impairment 
assessments as a key accounting estimate and have found 
these to be appropriate.

 
Key audit matter

How our audit addressed the key audit matter

Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan eligibility 
and forgiveness (Group)
Page 34 (Audit Committee report) and page 73 (Note 2 to the 
Consolidated Financial Statements – Accounting policies – 
Government grants) and page 74 (Note 3 Critical accounting 
judgements and key sources of estimation uncertainty)

In May 2020 Gama Aviation Engineering Inc (“GAEI”) 
secured and drew down a loan of $5.7million administered 
and guaranteed by the US government agency the Small 
Business Administration (SBA) as part of the Coronavirus Aid, 
Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act).

In making the application for the loan Gama have certified in 
good faith that before submitting the loan application that the 
economic uncertainty at the time GAEI made the loan request 
was necessary to support the ongoing operations of GAEI.

The PPP loan is a loan arrangement which is forgivable if used 
for payroll costs and other qualifying expenditure incurred 
within a 24 week period from the date funds are received. 

Management have assessed that GAEI qualifies for 
$4.7million of the PPP loan and that it is reasonably assured 
that it will comply with the loan forgiveness conditions. IAS 
20 “Accounting for Government Grants” addresses forgivable 
loans, and Gama have concluded that the application of IAS 
20 to the PPP loan bests reflect the substance of the 
forgivable loan. 

In determining that there is “reasonable assurance” that they 
will meet the conditions for forgiveness of the $4.7million of 
the loan amount management have applied the income 
approach to IAS20 and recognised $4.7m of income in the 
consolidated income statement against the related costs for 
which the grant is intended to compensate.

In reaching conclusions as to meeting the eligibility criteria 
for the loan of $4.7m and that it is reasonably assured that 
it will meet the conditions for forgiveness Gama has sort 
guidance from their external lawyer, that supports 
management’s opinion. 

We have audited management’s assessment as 
to their eligibility for the loan and whether there is 
reasonable assurance that it will comply with the loan 
forgiveness conditions.

We have validated the original loan of $5.7million back to 
management’s certified application, the loan agreement 
and tested the funds received. 

We have challenged management’s judgement as to their 
eligibility for the loan which concluded that economic 
uncertainty at the time made the loan request necessary 
to support the ongoing operations of GAEI.

We have recalculated the level of loan GAEI were eligible to 
claim based on the rules set out by SBA. We have noted that 
management have determined that they were not eligible for 
$1m of the loan and this is in the process of being repaid to 
the SBA.

We have understood the PPP loan conditions of forgiveness 
and audited Gama’s determination of qualifying expenditure.

We have reviewed the papers prepared by management, 
validating supporting evidence, including reviewing the 
opinion reached by their external lawyer that has considered 
management’s position and concluded in agreement with 
management that GAEI was eligible for $4.7million loan and that 
there is reasonable assurance that this entire amount meets the 
conditions of forgiveness. We note that $1m remains presented 
in current liabilities.

We concur with management’s conclusions on eligibility for 
the loan, reasonable assurance as to its forgiveness and 
accounting for it in accordance with the income approach 
under IAS20.

We also read the disclosures around the accounting for grant 
income, and management’s disclosure of its judgement as 
to the loan eligibility and forgiveness as key accounting 
judgements and have found these to be appropriate.

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

55

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS/ INDEPENDENT AUDITORS’ REPORT (CONTINUED)
/ FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

How we tailored the audit scope
We tailored the scope of our audit to ensure that we 
performed enough work to be able to give an opinion on 
the financial statements as a whole, taking into account 
the structure of the group and the parent company, the 
accounting processes and controls, and the industry in 
which they operate.

We determined that the most appropriate level at which to 
scope our audit was the legal entity level. We consider there 
to be 8 financially significant components within the group as 
listed within the highlights section. These components were 
subject to full scope audits for group purposes. The audits of 
all these components was performed by the group audit team 
in the UK. This provided sufficient coverage over the financial 
statement line items with the exception of Intangibles 
and amortisation, Right of use asset and lease liabilities, 
Investments accounted for using the equity method and 
cash and cash equivalents. We performed additional 
procedures over these financial statement line items. 

In addition to the above, we performed analytical procedures 
on the remaining entities to understand key balances and 
transactions in the year and performed additional procedures 
on any unusual balances identified. 

All work was performed by the UK group audit team with 
the exception of profit/loss from Investments accounted for 
using the equity method in relation to China Aircraft Services 
Limited which was performed by our PwC Hong Kong 
component audit team. 

In total we performed procedures which together accounted 
for 74.8% of the Group’s statutory revenue.

This, together with additional procedures performed at the 
group level, including testing of significant journals posted 
within the consolidation, impairment assessments and 
taxation, gave us the evidence we needed for our opinion 
on the financial statements as a whole.

Materiality
The scope of our audit was influenced by our application 
of materiality. We set certain quantitative thresholds for 
materiality. These, together with qualitative considerations, 
helped us to determine the scope of our audit and the nature, 
timing and extent of our audit procedures on the individual 
financial statement line items and disclosures and in 
evaluating the effect of misstatements, both individually 
and in aggregate on the financial statements as a whole.

Based on our professional judgement, we determined materiality for the financial statements as a whole as follows:

Financial statements – group

Financial statements – parent company

Overall materiality

$252,000 (2019: $338,000).

£908,000 (2019: £1,213,000).

How we determined it

approximately 0.14% of adjusted revenue

approximately 1% of total assets 

Rationale for 
benchmark applied

In the prior year adjusted EBIT was the 
benchmark used to set overall materiality. 
Adjusted EBIT has been particularly impacted 
by COVID-19 in 2020. We have therefore 
considered other more stable measures to 
identify an appropriate benchmark. Adjusted 
revenue has been concluded a more stable 
benchmark during the continuing period 
of instability to base our overall 
materiality calculation. 

We believe that total assets comprise the 
transactions of greatest interest to the 
shareholders in assessing the entity, and is 
a≈generally accepted auditing benchmark. 
Materiality has been restricted to $75,000 
in respect of balances included in the group 
consolidated financial statements.

For each component in the scope of our group audit, we 
allocated a materiality that is less than our overall group 
materiality. The range of materiality allocated across 
components was $30,000 to $239,000. Certain components 
were audited to a local statutory audit materiality that was 
also less than our overall group materiality.

We use performance materiality to reduce to an appropriately 
low level the probability that the aggregate of uncorrected 
and undetected misstatements exceeds overall materiality. 
Specifically, we use performance materiality in determining 
the scope of our audit and the nature and extent of our testing 
of account balances, classes of transactions and disclosures, 
for example in determining sample sizes. Our performance 
materiality was 75% of overall materiality, amounting to 
$189,000 for the group financial statements and £681,000 
for the parent company financial statements.

In determining the performance materiality, we considered 
a number of factors – the history of misstatements, risk 
assessment and aggregation risk and the effectiveness of 
controls – and concluded that an amount at the upper end 
of our normal range was appropriate.

We agreed with those charged with governance that we would 
report to them misstatements identified during our audit 
above $12,000 (group audit) (2019: $10,000) and £45,000 

56 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

(parent company audit) (2019: £60,000) as well as 
misstatements below those amounts that, in our view, 
warranted reporting for qualitative reasons.

Conclusions relating to going concern
Our evaluation of the directors’ assessment of the Group’s and 
the Parent company’s ability to continue to adopt the going 
concern basis of accounting included:

 / An assessment of management’s base case and downside 

scenarios, challenging the key assumptions

 / Considering the Group’s available financing, and maturity 
profile to assess liquidity through the assessment period
 / Testing the mathematical integrity of the forecasts and the 
models and reconciled these to Board approved budgets

 / Performing our own independent sensitivity analysis to 

assess appropriate downside scenarios

 / Assessing the reasonableness of management’s planned or 

potential mitigating actions

 /  Assessing the adequacy of disclosures in the Going 

Concern statement on page 47 and statements in Note 2 of 
the Consolidated and Note 1 of the Company Financial 
Statements. We found these to be appropriate.

Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified 
any material uncertainties relating to events or conditions 
that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on 
the group’s and the parent company’s ability to continue as a 
going concern for a period of at least twelve months from 
when the financial statements are authorised for issue.

In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that 
the directors’ use of the going concern basis of accounting in 
the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate.

However, because not all future events or conditions can 
be predicted, this conclusion is not a guarantee as to the 
group’s and the parent company’s ability to continue as a 
going concern.

Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the directors 
with respect to going concern are described in the relevant 
sections of this report.

Reporting on other information
The other information comprises all of the information in the 
Annual Report other than the financial statements and our 
auditors’ report thereon. The directors are responsible for the 
other information. Our opinion on the financial statements 
does not cover the other information and, accordingly, we do 
not express an audit opinion or, except to the extent otherwise 
explicitly stated in this report, any form of assurance thereon.

In connection with our audit of the financial statements, our 
responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, 
consider whether the other information is materially 
inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge 
obtained in the audit, or otherwise appears to be materially 
misstated. If we identify an apparent material inconsistency or 
material misstatement, we are required to perform 
procedures to conclude whether there is a material 
misstatement of the financial statements or a material 
misstatement of the other information. If, based on the work 
we have performed, we conclude that there is a material 
misstatement of this other information, we are required to 
report that fact. We have nothing to report based on these 
responsibilities.

With respect to the Strategic report and Directors’ report, we 
also considered whether the disclosures required by the UK 
Companies Act 2006 have been included.

Based on our work undertaken in the course of the audit, 
the Companies Act 2006 requires us also to report certain 
opinions and matters as described below.

Strategic report and Directors’ report
In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of 
the audit, the information given in the Strategic report and 
Directors’ report for the year ended 31 December 2020 is 
consistent with the financial statements and has been 
prepared in accordance with applicable legal requirements.

In light of the knowledge and understanding of the group and 
parent company and their environment obtained in the course 
of the audit, we did not identify any material misstatements in 
the Strategic report and Directors’ report.

Responsibilities for the financial statements and the audit
Responsibilities of the directors for the financial statements
As explained more fully in the Directors’ responsibilities 
statement, the directors are responsible for the preparation 
of the financial statements in accordance with the applicable 
framework and for being satisfied that they give a true and 
fair view. The directors are also responsible for such internal 
control as they determine is necessary to enable the 
preparation of financial statements that are free from 
material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

In preparing the financial statements, the directors are 
responsible for assessing the group’s and the parent 
company’s ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, 
as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the 
going concern basis of accounting unless the directors either 
intend to liquidate the group or the parent company or to 
cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.

Auditors’ responsibilities for the audit of the 
financial statements
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about 
whether the financial statements as a whole are free from 
material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to 
issue an auditors’ report that includes our opinion. Reasonable 
assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee 
that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will 
always detect a material misstatement when it exists. 
Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered 
material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could 
reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions 
of users taken on the basis of these financial statements.

Irregularities, including fraud, are instances of non-
compliance with laws and regulations. We design procedures 
in line with our responsibilities, outlined in the Auditors’ 
responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements 
section, to detect material misstatements in respect of 
irregularities, including fraud. The extent to which our 
procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including 
fraud, is detailed below.

Based on our understanding of the group and industry, we 
identified that the principal risks of non-compliance with laws 
and regulations related to AIM rules regulated by the LSE, 
applicable Generally Accepted Accounting Practices, tax 
compliance legislation, the regulations of country aviation 
authorities such as the Civil Aviation Authority, and the UK 
Bribery Act, and we considered the extent to which non-
compliance might have a material effect on the financial 
statements. We also considered those laws and regulations 
that have a direct impact on the preparation of the financial 
statements such as the Companies Act 2006. We evaluated 
management’s incentives and opportunities for fraudulent 
manipulation of the financial statements (including the risk 
of override of controls), and determined that the principal risks 
were related to : (1) posting inappropriate journal entries to 
manipulate financial results; (2) management bias in 
accounting estimates such as long-term contract accounting; 
(3) inappropriately including or excluding transactions from 
the group’s underlying alternative performance metrics; and 
(4) transactions with related parties distorting the financial 
information in the financial statements and hiding the 
economic substance of transactions or fraud. The group 
engagement team shared this risk assessment with the 
component auditors so that they could include appropriate 
audit procedures in response to such risks in their work. Audit 
procedures performed by the group engagement team and/or 
component auditors included:

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

57

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS/ INDEPENDENT AUDITORS’ REPORT (CONTINUED)
/ FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

Use of this report
This report, including the opinions, has been prepared for 
and only for the parent company’s members as a body in 
accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 
2006 and for no other purpose. We do not, in giving these 
opinions, accept or assume responsibility for any other 
purpose or to any other person to whom this report is shown 
or into whose hands it may come save where expressly 
agreed by our prior consent in writing.

Other required reporting
Companies Act 2006 exception reporting
Under the Companies Act 2006 we are required to report 
to you if, in our opinion:

 / we have not obtained all the information and explanations 

we require for our audit; or

 / adequate accounting records have not been kept by the 
parent company, or returns adequate for our audit have 
not been received from branches not visited by us; or
 / certain disclosures of directors’ remuneration specified 

by law are not made; or

 / the parent company financial statements are not in 
agreement with the accounting records and returns..

We have no exceptions to report arising from this 
responsibility.

Julian Gray
Senior Statutory Auditor
for and on behalf of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Chartered Accountants and Statutory Auditors
Southampton

26 May 2021

 / Discussions with management at multiple levels and across 

the business throughout the year. At year end this also 
included a discussion with the group’s legal counsel. These 
discussions have included consideration of known 
suspected instances of non-compliance with laws and 
regulations and fraud;

 / Evaluation of management’s controls designed to prevent 

and detect irregularities;

 / Reviewing correspondence with, and reports to, the 

relevant regulatory authorities;

 / Challenging assumptions and judgements made by 
management in determining significant accounting 
estimates (because of the risk of management bias), in 
particular in relation to long-term contract accounting;

 / Identifying and testing unusual journal entries, in particular 
journal entries posted with unusual account combinations, 
and testing all material consolidation journals; 

 / Performing searches for purchase ledger transactions and 
payments with related parties including directors, close 
family members and other directorships and related 
companies. Testing identified transactions to related party 
disclosures in the financial statements;

 / Incorporating elements of unpredictability into the audit 

procedures performed; and

 / Challenging why certain items are excluded or included 

from adjusted EBIT and assessment of disclosures included 
in the Annual Report explaining and reconciling alternative 
performance measures to statutory metrics.

There are inherent limitations in the audit procedures 
described above. We are less likely to become aware of 
instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations that 
are not closely related to events and transactions reflected 
in the financial statements. Also, the risk of not detecting a 
material misstatement due to fraud is higher than the risk of 
not detecting one resulting from error, as fraud may involve 
deliberate concealment by, for example, forgery or intentional 
misrepresentations, or through collusion.

Our audit testing might include testing complete populations 
of certain transactions and balances, possibly using data 
auditing techniques. However, it typically involves selecting 
a limited number of items for testing, rather than testing 
complete populations. We will often seek to target particular 
items for testing based on their size or risk characteristics. 
In other cases, we will use audit sampling to enable us to 
draw a conclusion about the population from which the 
sample is selected.

A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of 
the financial statements is located on the FRC’s website at: 
www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description 
forms part of our auditors’ report.

58 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

/ CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT
/ FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

Continuing operations:

Revenue 

Cost of sales

Gross profit

Year ended 31 December 2020

Year ended 31 December 2019
Restated*

Statutory 
result
$’000

Adjusting
items1
$’000

Adjusted
result1
$’000

Statutory 
result
$’000

Adjusting
items1
$’000

Adjusted
result1
$’000

Note

4

4

197,503

(15,500)

182,003

246,813

(145,468)

–

(145,468)

(207,340)

52,035

(15,500)

36,535

39,473

–

–

–

246,813

(207,340)

39,473

– Other administrative expenses

(28,939)

2,075

(26,864)

(36,927)

6,692

(30,235)

– Impairment of right-of-use assets

23

(7,013)

7,013

–  Impairment of goodwill and 

acquired intangibles 

–  Impairment of assets 
under construction

– Depreciation and amortisation

– Impairment of financial assets

Total administrative expenses

Operating profit/(loss)

Share of results from equity accounted 
investments

Impairment of equity accounted 
investments

Profit on disposal of interest in associates

Earnings before interest and taxation

Finance income

Finance expense

(Loss)/profit before tax 

Taxation 

(Loss)/profit for the year 

Attributable to:

Owners of the Company

Non-controlling interests

EPS attributable to the equity holders 
of the parent

(833)

833

(4,609)

4,609

–

–

–

(2,341)

2,341

(540)

540

–

–

–

–

–

(7,544)

(3,083)

614

(6,930)

(5,198)

984

(4,214)

(709)

(3,792)

(2,387)

2,010

(377)

(52,021)

14,435

(37,586)

(47,393)

12,567

(34,826)

14

(1,065)

(1,051)

(7,920)

12,567

4,647

(9,705)

6,433

(3,272)

918

(3,421)

3,421

7,278

(7,278)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(5,834)

1,511

(4,323)

(7,002)

12,567

–

–

1,535

695

(3,940)

(4,657)

–

–

918

–

–

5,565

695

(4,657)

1,511

5,017

6,528

(6,728)

(10,964)

12,567

1,603

(1,479)

(495)

(577)

(1,072)

(8,207)

(11,459)

11,990

531

1,535

(3,940)

(8,239)

(6,496)

(14,735)

6

6

5

20

18

18

7

4,5

9

10

11

(14,780)

6,528

(8,252)

(11,554)

11,990

26

45

–

45

95

–

436

95

basic

diluted

12

12

(23.2c)

(23.2c)

10.2c

10.2c

(13.0c)

(13.0c)

(18.2c)

(18.2c)

18.9c

18.9c

0.7c

0.7c

1  The Alternative Performance Measures (APMs) are defined in Note 6 of the notes to the financial statements and reconciled to the nearest 

IFRS measure.

*  Restatements are detailed in Note 2 of the notes to the financial statements. The only income statement restatement was a presentational 

change within adjusting items of an impairment of right-of-use assets.

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

59

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS 
 
 
 
/ CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
/ FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

Loss for the year

Items that may be reclassified to profit or loss:

Exchange differences on translation of foreign operations

Share of other comprehensive income of associates

Tax charge on items in other comprehensive income

Other comprehensive income/(loss)

Total comprehensive loss for the year

Total comprehensive income/(loss) is attributable to:

Owners of the Company

Non-controlling interest

Note

18

11

Year
ended
2020
$’000

Year
ended
2019
$’000

(14,735)

(11,459)

2,194

(1,160)

92

–

36

–

2,286

(1,124)

(12,449)

(12,583)

(12,494)

(12,678)

45

95

(12,449)

(12,583)

60 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

/ CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
/ COMPANY NUMBER 07264678
/ AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2020

Non-current assets
Goodwill 
Other intangible assets 
Total intangible assets
Property, plant and equipment 
Right-of-use assets
Investments accounted for using equity method
Trade and other receivables
Deferred tax asset

Current assets
Assets held for sale
Inventories
Trade and other receivables 
Current tax receivable
Cash and cash equivalents

Total assets
Current liabilities
Trade and other payables 
Current tax liabilities
Obligations under leases 
Provisions
Borrowings 
Deferred revenue

Total assets less current liabilities
Non-current liabilities
Borrowings 
Deferred revenue
Provisions
Obligations under leases
Deferred tax liabilities

Total liabilities
Net assets

Shareholders’ equity

Share capital 
Share premium 
Other reserves
Foreign exchange reserve
Accumulated losses 

Total shareholders’ equity
Non-controlling interest

Total equity

Note

2020
$’000

2019

Restated*
$’000

14
15

16
23
18
20
22

18
19
20
11

24
11
 23
30
21
33

21
33
30
 23
22

25
25
25

26

22,490
10,329
32,819
54,974
38,022
2,000
13,030
–
140,845

–
5,978
49,359
1,280
16,136
72,753
213,598

(40,074)
(15)
(5,848)
(679)
(1,000)
(12,676)
(60,292)
153,306

(52,197)
(691)
(818)
(43,644)
(2,109)
(99,459)
(159,751)
53,847

953
63,473
35,360
(26,893)
(19,842)
53,051
796
53,847

21,750
10,148
31,898
35,324
52,315
15,112
4,221
2,252
141,122

2,598
7,271
72,956
1,146
8,463
92,434
233,556

(52,353)
–
(16,366)
(521)
(848)
(2,707)
(72,795)
160,761

(45,394)
(4,382)
(594)
(43,838)
(819)
(95,027)
(167,822)
65,734

953
63,473
34,798
(29,179)
(5,062)
64,983
751
65,734

*  Restatements are detailed in Note 2 of the notes to the financial statements.

The financial statements were approved by the Board of Directors and authorised for issue on 26 May 2021 and are signed 
on their behalf by:

Daniel Ruback
Director

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

61

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS/ CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
/ FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

Share 
capital 
$’000

Share
 premium 
$’000

Other 
reserves 
$’000

Foreign 
exchange 
reserve 
$’000

Accu-
mulated 
profit/ 
(losses) 
$’000

Total
 shareholders’ 
equity
 $’000

Non-
controlling 
interest
 $’000

Total 
equity 
$’000

953

63,473

33,937

(28,055)

8,112

78,420

656

79,076

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

861

–

–

(11,554)

(11,554)

(1,124)

–

(1,124)

95

–

(11,459)

(1,124)

(1,124)

(11,554)

(12,678)

95

(12,583)

–

–

–

861

(1,620)

(1,620)

–

–

861

(1,620)

953

63,473

34,798

(29,179)

(5,062)

64,983

–

(14,780)

(14,780)

751

45

65,734

(14,735)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

2,286

–

2,286

–

2,286

2,286

(14,780)

(12,494)

45

(12,449)

562

–

–

562

–

562

953

63,473

35,360

(26,893)

(19,842)

53,051

796

53,847

Balance at 1 January 2019, 
as reported

(Loss)/profit for the year

Other comprehensive loss

Total comprehensive 
(loss)/profit for the year

Cost of share-based 
payments (Note 31)

Dividend paid (Note 38)

Balance at 31 December 
2019

(Loss)/profit for the year

Other comprehensive 
income

Total comprehensive 
(loss)/profit for the year

Cost of share-based 
payments (Note 31)

Balance at 31 December 
2020

62 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

/ CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW STATEMENT
/ FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

Net cash generated by operating activities

Cash flows from investing activities 

Purchases of property, plant and equipment

Purchases of intangibles

Proceeds on disposal of assets held for sale

Interest received

Acquisition of business, net of cash acquired

Net cash used in investing activities

Cash flows from financing activities 

Lease payments

Interest received

Interest paid

Proceeds from borrowings

Repayment of borrowings

Dividend paid to equity holders of the parent

Net cash (used in)/generated from financing activities

Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 

Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of year 

Effect of foreign exchange rates 

Cash and cash equivalents at the end of year 

Year 
ended 
2020 
$’000

Note

27

33,683

Year  
ended 
2019 
$’000

1,695

16

15

7

(25,298)

(15,053)

(2,521)

(3,093)

9,954

430

–

–

13

(1,544)

(1,310)

(18,979)

(19,456)

23

(16,022)

(14,062)

–

2

(660)

(901)

33,987

65,563

(24,471)

(32,915)

–

(1,620)

(7,166)

16,067

28

28

38

7,538

8,463

135

16,136

(1,694)

10,045

112

8,463

Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash and bank balances. The carrying amount of these assets is approximately equal 
to their fair value.

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

63

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS1. General information
Gama Aviation Plc (the “Company”) is a public company limited by shares incorporated under the Companies Act 2006 and 
domiciled in England in the United Kingdom. The address of the registered office is 1st Floor, 25 Templer Avenue, Farnborough, 
Hampshire, England, GU14 6FE. The nature of the Group’s operations and its principal activities are set out in the Directors’ Report.

Basis of preparation
These Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with international accounting standards in conformity with the 
requirements of the Companies Act 2006 (IFRS) and the applicable legal requirements of the Companies Act 2006.

The financial statements are prepared on a going concern basis under the historical cost convention. The preparation of 
Consolidated Financial Statements requires management to make judgements and estimates that affect the reported amounts 
of assets and liabilities at the date of the Consolidated Financial Statements and the reported amounts of revenue and 
expenses during the reporting period. Actual future outcomes could differ from those estimates.

Climate change
In preparing the Consolidated Financial Statements the Group has informally considered the impact of climate change, 
particularly in the context of the disclosures included in our Corporate Social Responsibility report on page 41 and our Project 
Element Six ambitions. These considerations did not have a material impact on the financial reporting judgements and 
estimates, consistent with the assessment that climate change is not expected to have a significant impact on the Group’s 
going concern assessment to 31 December 2022 nor the long-term viability of the Group.

2. Accounting policies
The Group’s significant accounting policies are set out below. These accounting policies have been applied consistently to all 
periods presented in these Consolidated Financial Statements. The comparative amounts for the year ended 31 December 2019 
have been restated for three presentational items which are discussed in more detail below.

(a) Restatements 
The balance sheet as at 31 December 2019 has been restated for three items:

I.  To reclassify $389k of current tax receivable out of trade and other receivables and into a current tax receivable line item 
on the face of balance sheet. In addition, there was a reclassification from other taxation and social security, within trade 
and other payables, resulting in $757k increase in the year end trade and other payables and a corresponding increase to 
current tax receivable

II.  To net contract assets and liabilities associated with a long-term contract where it would have been more appropriate to 
offset. Prepayments within trade and other receivables decreased by $160k in current and $171k in non-current. Current 
and non-current deferred revenue decreased by $160k and $171k respectively. The net impact on total asset was a 
decrease of $331k, with an equivalent decrease in total liabilities

III.  Prior year bank borrowings on the revolving credit facility (the “RCF”) of $44,767k have been reclassified from current 
liabilities to non-current liabilities. While the RCF is settled and drawdown on a cyclical basis there is no right from the 
bank to demand full repayment within the next twelve months and on that basis, presentation within non-current 
liabilities is appropriate

A third balance sheet, being the balance sheet at 31 December 2018 with the above restatements, has not been presented. 
While some of the misstatement are quantitatively material, qualitatively these misstatements are not considered material 
particularly given the disclosures in Note 21, limited number of restatement and nature of these restatements being 
discrete reclassifications.

Following a significant impairment of right-of-use assets in the current year, a $2,341k impairment of the right-of-use assets at 
Fairoaks in the prior year has been represented within adjusting items from integration and business re-organisation costs into 
a separate financial statement line item.

Goodwill at 31 December 2019 has not been restated however in Note 14 the allocation of Goodwill between cash generating 
units (“CGUs”) has been restated for a disclosure error between Europe Ground and Flyertech. The carrying amount of Goodwill 
allocated to Europe Ground has been reduced by $1,194k and an equivalent amount has been allocated to Flyertech. Refer to 
Note 14 for further details.

Deferred tax assets at 31 December 2019 has not been restated however in Note 22 tax losses have been restated for disclosure 
difference between tax losses and other temporary differences. Tax losses have decreased by $662k and other temporary 
differences have increased by an equivalent amount. Refer to Note 22 for further details.

(b) Adoption of new and amended standards adopted by the Group 
The Group has applied the following standards and amendments for the first time for its annual reporting period commencing 
1 January 2020:

 / Definition of Material – amendments to IAS 1 and IAS 8
 / Definition of a Business – amendments to IFRS 3
 / Interest Rate Benchmark Reform – amendments to IFRS 9, IAS 39 and IFRS 7
 / Revised Conceptual Framework for Financial Reporting

64 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

/ NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS/ FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020The Group will also adopt the following amendments: 

 / Annual Improvements to IFRS Standards 2018-2020 Cycle
 / COVID-19-Related Rent Concessions – amendments to IFRS 16

The amendments listed above will not have any impact on the amounts recognised in prior periods and are not expected 
to significantly affect the current or future periods.

(c) New standards and interpretations not yet adopted 
Certain new accounting standards and interpretations have been published that are not mandatory for 31 December 
2020 reporting periods and have not been early adopted by the Group. These amendments are not expected to have 
a material impact.

(d) Leases
Definition of a lease
At inception of a contract, the Group assesses whether a contract is, or contains, a lease. A contract is, or contains, a lease if the 
contract conveys the right to control the use of an identified asset for a period of time in exchange for consideration. To assess 
whether a contract conveys the right to control the use of an identified asset, the Group assesses whether:

 / The contract involves the use of an identified asset – this may be specified explicitly or implicitly, and should be physically 

distinct or represent substantially all of the capacity of a physically distinct asset. If the supplier has a substantive 
substitution right, then the asset is not identified;

 / The Group has the right to obtain substantially all of the economic benefits from use of the asset throughout the period 

of use; and

 / The Group has the right to direct the use of the asset. The Group has this right when it has the decision-making rights that 
are most relevant to changing how and for what purpose the asset is used. In rare cases where the decision about how and 
for what purpose the asset is used is predetermined, the Group has the right to direct the use of the asset if either:

 / The Group has the right to operate the asset; or
 / The Group designed the asset in a way that predetermines how and for what purpose it will be used

At inception or on reassessment of a contract that contains a lease component, the Group allocates the consideration in the 
contract to each lease component on the basis of their relative stand-alone prices. However, for the leases of land and buildings 
in which it is a lessee, the Group has elected not to separate non-lease components and account for the lease and non-lease 
components as a single lease component.

As a lessee
As a lessee, the Group leases many assets including aircraft, hangars, property, cars and IT equipment. The Group recognises 
right-of-use assets and lease liabilities for most of these leases – i.e. these leases are on-balance sheet.

Lease liabilities are measured at the present value of the remaining lease payments. Where leases commenced after the initial 
transition date, the lease payments are discounted using the interest rate implicit in the lease. If that rate cannot be determined, 
the Group’s incremental borrowing rate is used, being the rate that the Group would have to pay to borrow the funds necessary 
to obtain an asset of similar value in a similar economic environment with similar terms and conditions. Where appropriate, 
lease liabilities are revalued at each reporting date using the spot exchange rate.

Right-of-use assets are measured at an amount equal to the lease liability, adjusted by the amount of any prepaid or accrued 
lease payments.

The Group has tested its right-of-use assets for impairment at the reporting date and further details on impairments are shown 
in Note 23. 

The Group depreciates right-of-use assets over the over the shorter of its useful economic life and the lease term on a straight-
line basis unless the lease is expected to transfer ownership of the underlying asset to the Group, in which case the asset is 
depreciated to the end of the useful life of the asset. 

Short-term leases are leases with a lease term of 12 months or less. Payments associated with short-term leases and low-value 
leases are recognised on a straight-line basis as an expense in the income statement. 

As a lessor
The Group leases out property included within its right-of-use assets. The Group has classified these leases as operating leases. 
The right-of-use assets recognised from the head leases are presented in leasehold property and depreciated over the life of the 
lease. The Group assessed the classification of the sub-lease contracts with reference to the right-of-use asset rather than the 
underlying asset, and concluded that they are operating leases under IFRS 16.

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

65

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALSSTRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS2. Accounting policies (continued)
(e) Use of alternative performance measures (APMs) 
The performance of the Group is assessed and discussed on an “adjusted” basis, using a variety of APMs, including Adjusted 
Revenue, Adjusted Gross Profit, Adjusted Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT), Organic Revenue Growth and Net debt. 
The term “adjusted” refers to the relevant measure being reported for continuing operations excluding “adjusting items”.

The Directors believe that adjusted profit and earnings per share measures provide additional and more consistent measures of 
underlying performance to shareholders by removing certain trading and non-trading items that are either not closely related 
to the Group’s operating cash flows or non-recurring in nature. These and other APMs are used by the Directors for internal 
performance analysis and incentive compensation arrangements for employees. The term “adjusted” is not defined under IFRS 
and may therefore not be comparable with similarly titled measures reported by other companies. They are not intended to 
be a substitute for, or superior to, GAAP measures. Where applicable, divisional measures are calculated in accordance with 
Group measures.

The impact on application of IFRS 16 was presented in the prior year and no restatements to the impact previously reported 
have been made. However, the presentation of the impact on application of IFRS 16 within Note 4 has changed to aid year-on-
year comparability. The impact on application of IFRS 16 in the prior year was a credit of $2,301k to Adjusted EBIT of which the 
credit to Gross Profit was $191k. The presentation of the impact on application of IFRS 16 was aggregated into one line item in 
the prior year and in the current year this has been disaggregated across the respective divisions resulting in the following to 
Adjusted EBIT: $396k credit in Europe Air, $14k credit in Asia Air, $538k credit in US Ground, $1,169k credit in Europe Ground, 
$193k credit in Middle East Ground, $6k charge in Central Costs and $3k charge in Global Services Division. In addition, earnings 
per share (EPS) presented in the highlights on page 5 of the annual report was shown before and after the application of IFRS 
16. In the current year EPS is presented after the application of IFRS 16.

APMs have been defined and reconciled to the nearest IFRS measure in Note 6 and below, along with the rationale behind using 
the measures.

Adjusting items
The Group’s Income Statement and segmental analysis separately identify trading results before Adjusting items. The Directors 
believe that presentation of the Group’s results in this way is relevant to an understanding of the Group’s financial performance, 
as adjusting items are identified by virtue of their size, nature or incidence. This presentation is consistent with the way that 
financial performance is measured by management and reported to the Board and assists in providing a meaningful analysis 
of the trading results of the Group. In determining whether an event or transaction is treated as an Adjusting item, management 
considers quantitative as well as qualitative factors such as the frequency or predictability of occurrence. 

The income statement items that are excluded from the Statutory results are referred to as Adjusting items. Adjusting items 
include exceptional items, amortisation of acquired intangibles, share-based payment charges and tax related to adjusting 
items. These items are defined and explained in more detail as follows:

Exceptional items
Within Adjusting items, exceptional items are items of income or expenditure that are not considered to reflect in year 
operational performance of the continuing business. These are recorded in accordance with the policy set out below:

 / Transaction costs – arising on acquisitions, disposals, and debt refinancing
 / Integration and business re-organisation – legal and professional fees and non-recurring operating costs arising from 

significant acquisition integration or business re-organisation activities. Non-recurring operating costs means those costs 
that are related to a specific integration or re-organisation event that will not be repeated because they are unique to the 
event and which are not expected to follow a consistent level of expense from one accounting period to the next

 / Litigation – legal costs (which may be incurred in more than one accounting period) are treated as exceptional if they relate 

to specific commercial legal events that are not in the normal course of trading activity in respect of one-off or related 
series of cases and are not expected to follow a consistent level of expense from one accounting period to the next

 / Impairment – arising from significant losses identified from impairment reviews
 / Other items – other significant non-recurring items

Amortisation of acquired intangible assets
Exclusion of amortisation of acquired intangibles accounted for under IFRS 3 from the Group’s results assists with the 
comparability of the Group’s profitability with peer companies. In addition, charges for amortisation of acquired intangibles 
arise from the purchase consideration of a number of separate acquisitions. These acquisitions are portfolio investment 
decisions that took place at different times over several years, and so the associated amortisation does not reflect current 
operational performance.

Share-based payments
The Group treats share-based payments as an adjusting item because share-based payments are a significant non-cash charge 
driven by a valuation model that references Gama’s share price and each new share award is subject to volatility when it is 
measured at the grant date. No grants were made in the year and after the reporting date new schemes were announced, refer 
to Note 31 and Note 35 for further details. Share-based payments have not been routinely issued in the prior years and the level 
of the charge is expected to be significantly different following the changes announced. 

Tax related to adjusting items
The elements of the overall Group tax charge relating to the above Adjusting items are also treated as Adjusting. These 
elements of the tax charge are calculated with reference to the specific tax treatment of each individual Adjusting item, 
taking into account its tax deductibility, the tax jurisdiction concerned, and any previously recognised tax assets or liabilities.

66 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

/ NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)/ FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020(f) Going concern
The Group’s business activities, together with the factors likely to affect its future development, performance and position are 
set out in the Operational review and Chief Financial Officer’s report. 

The emergence of COVID-19 during 2020 has increased uncertainty surrounding the future trading environment for the Group. 
To support their assessment of going concern the Directors have performed a detailed analysis of cash flow projections for the 
Group covering the period from the date of approval of the annual financial statements to 31 December 2022. The analysis 
takes account of the following amongst other relevant considerations: 

 / The $50.0m committed revolving credit facility (“RCF”), of which $24.7m (2019: $5.0m) is undrawn at the reporting date and 

a £20.0m (2019: nil) term loan

 / Receipt of the remaining balance of the US Air associate disposal proceeds of $18.0m at the reporting date but not the 

accelerated receipt of these cash flows as explained in Note 35

 / The absence of the $16.0m of disposal consideration received in 2020 from future cash projections
 / The acquisition of Jet East, which resulted in $10.0m drawn down on the RCF, $7.7m of initial consideration paid and $2.65m 

of acquired borrowings repaid

 / Cash at the reporting date of $16.1m (2019: $8.5m)
 / Working capital levels and a cautious conversion of profits into cash flows at circa 60 percent

The borrowing facilities have no covenants and fall due for repayment on 14 November 2022 and 31 January 2023 respectively. 
The Group has no reason to believe these facilities would not be renewed on comparable terms. The RCF, which is presented in 
non-current liabilities, is settled and drawdown on a cyclical basis with no right from the bank to demand full repayment within 
the next twelve months. The key assumption in these projections relates to revenue performance and the Directors have 
included what they consider to be a cautious recovery in revenue performance from the first quarter of FY21. Downside 
sensitivities have also been assessed, which reflect no further recovery in revenues and a continuation of the COVID-19 
impacted trading performance in Q1 FY21 extending to the remainder of FY21. In both the Group’s base case forecasts and 
downside scenarios the Group maintains significant headroom against its cash and available facilities.

Accordingly, the Directors have, at the time of approving the financial statements, a reasonable expectation that the Company 
and the Group have adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. Thus, they continue to 
adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements.

(g) Business combinations
Business combinations are accounted for using the acquisition method. The consideration transferred in a business combination 
is measured at fair value, which is calculated as the total of the acquisition date fair values of the assets transferred by the 
Group, the liabilities incurred by the Group to former owners and the equity issued by the Group. The consideration transferred 
also includes the fair value of any asset or liability resulting from a contingent consideration arrangement.

The results of subsidiaries acquired or disposed of during the year are included in the consolidated income statement from the 
effective date of acquisition or up to the effective date of disposal, as appropriate. Adjustments are made to the financial 
statements of subsidiaries to bring the accounting policies used in line with those used by the Group. 

All intra-group transactions, balances, income and expenses are eliminated on consolidation.

Non-controlling interests in the net assets of consolidated subsidiaries are identified separately from the Group’s equity therein. 
Non-controlling interests consist of the amount of those interests at the date of the original business combination and the 
minority’s share of changes in equity since the date of the combination. Profit or loss and each component of other 
comprehensive income are attributed to the equity holders of the parent of the Group and to the non-controlling interests, even 
if this results in the non-controlling interests having a deficit balance. A change in the ownership interest of a subsidiary, without 
a loss of control is accounted for as an equity transaction, being a disposal or acquisition of non-controlling interest.

(h) Goodwill
Goodwill arising on consolidation represents the excess of the consideration transferred, the amount of any non-controlling 
interest in the acquiree and acquisition date fair value of any previous equity interest in the acquiree over the fair value of the 
net identifiable assets acquired. Goodwill is initially recognised as an asset at cost and is subsequently measured at cost less any 
accumulated impairment losses. Goodwill which is recognised as an asset is reviewed for impairment at least annually. Any 
impairment is recognised immediately in profit or loss and is not subsequently reversed.

For the purpose of impairment testing, goodwill is allocated to each of the Group’s cash-generating units expected to benefit 
from the synergies of the combination. Cash-generating units to which goodwill has been allocated are tested for impairment 
annually, or more frequently when there is an indication that the unit may be impaired. If the recoverable amount of the 
cash-generating unit is less than the carrying amount of the unit, the impairment loss is allocated first to reduce the carrying 
amount of any goodwill allocated to the unit and then to the other assets of the unit pro-rata on the basis of the carrying 
amount of each asset in the unit. An impairment loss recognised for goodwill is not reversed in a subsequent period. 

On disposal of a subsidiary, the attributable amount of goodwill is included in the determination of the profit or loss on disposal.

(i) Intangible assets
Internally generated intangible assets are recognised only if they satisfy the IAS 38 criteria in that a separately identifiable asset 
is created from which future economic benefits are expected to flow and the cost can be measured reliably. The life of each 
asset is assessed individually. The Group has no indefinite life intangible assets. 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

67

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALSSTRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS2. Accounting policies (continued)
(i) Intangible assets (continued)
Intangible assets acquired separately are measured on initial recognition at cost. The cost of intangible assets acquired in a 
business combination is their fair value at the date of acquisition. Following initial recognition, intangible assets are carried at 
cost less any accumulated amortisation and accumulated impairment losses. Included in intangible assets acquired are part 145 
approvals, licences and brand, customer relations, and computer software. 

A summary of the policies applied to the Group’s acquired intangible assets is as follows:

 / Part 145 approvals 
 / Licences 
 / Brand 
 / Customer relations 
 / Software 

20% per annum, straight line method
10% per annum, straight line method
10% per annum, straight line method
10% per annum, straight line method
20%-33% per annum, straight line method

Amortisation rates shown above are the maximum for these intangible assets and in the current year there were no intangibles 
that had a shorter useful life.

(j) Property, plant and equipment
Items of property, plant and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and any recognised impairment loss.

Depreciation is recognised so as to write-off the cost of assets less their residual values over their useful lives, using the 
straight line method, on the following bases:

 / Leasehold improvements 
 / Right-of-use assets 
 / Aircraft and refurbishments

Life of lease and no residual value
Life of lease and no residual value

The higher of 20 years (5% per annum) less the age of aircraft at purchase and 5 years (20% per annum). A 25% residual value 
(on the original cost) is in place where engines are on an engine maintenance programme as this is considered to support a 
residual value.

 / Helicopters  
 / Furniture, fixtures and equipment 
 / Motor vehicles 

5% per annum and 25% residual value (on the original cost)
20% per annum and no residual value
20% per annum and no residual value

The gain or loss arising on the disposal or retirement of an asset is determined as the difference between the sales proceeds and 
the carrying amount of the asset and is recognised in the income statement.

(k) Assets held for sale
The Group classifies assets as held for sale if their carrying value will be recovered principally through sale rather than through 
continuing use. Such assets are measured at the lower of their carrying amount and fair value less costs to sell. Costs to sell are 
the incremental costs directly attributable to the sale, excluding finance costs and income tax expense. 

The criteria for assets held for sale is regarded as only met when the sale is highly probable, and the asset is available for 
immediate sale in its present condition. 

Property, plant and equipment, and intangible assets are not depreciated or amortised once classified as held for sale.

(l) Investments in associate and joint venture
An associate is an entity over which the Group is in a position to exercise significant influence, but not control or joint control, 
through participation in the financial and operating policy decisions of the investee. 

A joint venture is a type of joint arrangement whereby the parties that have joint control of the arrangement have rights to the 
net assets of the joint venture. Joint control is the contractually agreed sharing of control of an arrangement, which exists only 
when decisions about the relevant activities require the unanimous consent of the parties sharing control. 

The considerations made in determining significant influence or joint control are similar to those necessary to determine control 
over subsidiaries. 

The Group’s investments in its associates and joint venture are accounted for using the equity method of accounting. The 
investment is carried in the balance sheet at cost as adjusted by post-acquisition changes in the Group’s share of the net assets 
of the investment, less any impairment in the value of the investment. Losses in excess of the Group’s interest in the investment 
(which includes any long-term interests that, in substance, form part of the Group’s net investment) are recognised only to the 
extent that the Group has incurred legal or constructive obligations or made payments on behalf of the investment.

Where a Group company transacts with an associate of the Group, profits and losses are eliminated to the extent of the Group’s 
interest in the relevant associate. Losses may provide evidence of an impairment of the asset transferred in which case 
appropriate provision is made for impairment. The Group’s share of the changes in the carrying value of the investments in 
associates is recognised in the income statement.

68 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

/ NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)/ FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(m) Inventories
Inventories are valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value. Costs incurred in bringing each product to its present 
location and condition are accounted for as follows:

 / Raw materials and consumables: purchase cost on a first in, first out basis
 / Work in progress: cost of direct materials and labour and a proportion of manufacturing overheads based on the normal 

operating capacity, but excluding borrowing costs

 / Net realisable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less estimated costs of completion 

and the estimated costs necessary to make the sale

Inventories include Rotable stock. Rotable stock are inventory items that can be repeatedly and economically restored to their 
fully serviced condition, in which already-repaired equipment is exchanged for defective equipment, which in turn is repaired 
and kept for future exchange. These items have extensive life expectancy through repetitive overhaul process.

The Rotable stock could either be recognised as property, plant and equipment (PPE) or inventory. In line with industry practice, 
the Group policy recognises Rotable stock as inventory. In addition, the cost of any refurbishment of Rotable stock is recognised 
in inventory.

The Group policy on recognising inventory at the lower of cost and net realisable value does this by providing for aged 
inventories on a sliding scale over the preceding eight years (2019: four years on the “core” component). As a result, inventory 
older than eight years is written off in full.

The significant estimation uncertainty to the valuation of inventory arises out of the wide range and nature of inventory held, 
each with different demand, inventory days and opportunity to utilise. While no specific inventory line has material estimation 
uncertainty in its valuation, there is risk across all lines in aggregation.

(n) Cash and cash equivalents
The Group’s cash and cash equivalents in the statements of financial position comprise cash at bank and on hand and short-term 
deposits with a maturity of three months or less from inception, which are subject to an insignificant risk of changes in value.

For the purpose of the consolidated cash flow statement, cash and cash equivalents consist of cash and short-term deposits, 
as defined above, net of outstanding bank overdrafts as they are considered an integral part of the Group’s cash management.

(o) Financial instruments
Financial assets and financial liabilities are recognised in the Group’s balance sheet when the Group becomes a party to the 
contractual provisions of the instrument.

Financial assets
Trade receivables and other receivables are subsequently measured at amortised cost less an expected credit loss allowance, 
determined as set out below in “Impairment of financial assets”. Any write-down of these assets is expensed to the 
income statement. 

Where there are sub-participation arrangements, sub-participation proceeds are offset against the financial asset provided that 
the sub-participation meets all pass through conditions, namely, there is no recourse to the transferor, and the transferor does 
not retain any significant risks and rewards of ownership of the financial asset.

Impairment of financial assets
It is not necessary for a credit event to have occurred before credit losses are recognised. Instead, the Group accounts for 
expected credit losses and changes in those expected credit losses. The amount of expected credit losses is updated at each 
reporting date. 

The impairment model applies to the Group’s financial assets that are debt instruments measured at amortised costs as well 
as the Group’s lease receivables, contract assets and issued financial guarantee contracts. The Group has applied the simplified 
approach to recognise lifetime expected credit losses for its trade receivables, accrued income and contracts assets as 
permitted by IFRS 9. 

Expected credit losses are calculated with reference to average loss rates actually incurred in the three most recent reporting 
periods to which a country risk premium is added, based on the location of each business. The combined loss rate represents the 
maximum expected credit default risk, which is expressed as a percentage. The Group average combined loss rate is 
approximately 1%.

This percentage rate is then applied to the economic exposure which comprises of trade receivables, contract assets and 
accrued income, all of which is then reduced by any specific loss allowances, and any related trade and other payables with the 
debtor. A probability risk spread is used to apportion the loss rate across the ageing categories as follows:

 / 80% of debt not yet due (i.e. the Group’s average combined loss rate of 1% is discounted by 20%, meaning a 0.8% loss 

allowance would be made to debt not yet due)

 / 85% of debt that is <30 days overdue
 / 90% of debt that is 30-60 days overdue
 / 95% of debt that is 60-90 days overdue
 / 100% of debt that is >90 days overdue

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

69

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALSSTRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS2. Accounting policies (continued)
(o) Financial instruments (continued)
Financial liabilities and equity
Debt and equity instruments are classified as either financial liabilities or as equity in accordance with the substance of the 
contractual arrangement. 

Equity instruments
An equity instrument is any contract that evidences a residual interest in the assets of an entity after deducting all of its 
liabilities. Equity instruments issued by the Group are recognised at the proceeds received, net of direct issue costs.

Other financial liabilities 
Other financial liabilities, including borrowings and payables, are initially measured at fair value and subsequently at amortised 
cost, net of transaction costs. 

Derecognition of financial assets and financial liabilities
The Group derecognises a financial asset only when the contractual rights to the cash flows from the asset expire, or when it 
transfers the financial asset and substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership of the asset to another entity. 

On derecognition of a financial asset measured at amortised cost, the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the 
sum of the consideration received and receivable is recognised in profit or loss.

The Group derecognises financial liabilities when, and only when, the Group’s obligations are discharged, cancelled or they 
expire. The difference between the carrying amount of the financial liability derecognised and the consideration paid and 
payable, including any non-cash assets transferred or liabilities assumed, is recognised in profit or loss.

(p) Provisions and contingent liabilities
Provisions are recognised when the Group has a present obligation (legal or constructive) as a result of a past event, it is 
probable that the Group will be required to settle that obligation and a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the 
obligation. The amount recognised as a provision is the best estimate of the consideration required to settle the present 
obligation at the balance sheet date, taking into account the risks and uncertainties surrounding the obligation. Where a 
provision is measured using the cash flows estimated to settle the present obligation, its carrying amount is the present value of 
those cash flows.

A contingent liability is disclosed where the existence of the obligation will only be confirmed by future events, or where the 
amount of the obligation cannot be measured reliably.

(q) Segmental reporting
An operating segment is a distinguishable component of the Group that is engaged in business activities from which it may earn 
revenues and incur expenses, and whose operating results are reviewed regularly by the Chief Operating Decision Maker (the 
Group Chief Executive) to make decisions about resources to be allocated to the segment and assess its performance, and for 
which discrete financial information is available. 

Reportable segments are operating segments that either meet the thresholds and conditions set out in IFRS 8 or are considered 
by the Board to be appropriately designated as reportable segments under IFRS 8. 

(r) Supplier volume rebates
The Group has supplier contracts for the provision of certain services, which attract volume rebates, the credit for which is 
initially recognised centrally and together with other central income and expenses allocated to the respective divisions as 
appropriate. The anticipated rebate receivable is accrued throughout the year based on the agreement terms.

(s) Revenue recognition
Revenue is measured based on the performance obligations and consideration specified in a contract with a customer and 
excludes amounts collected on behalf of third parties. The Group recognises revenue when it transfers control of a product 
or service to a customer or when it meets the performance obligations specified or implied in the contract. The Group has 
revenue from the sale of business aviation services and branding fees, each of which is covered in further detail below.

 / Sale of business aviation services revenue from the following major sources:

 / Managed aircraft contracts and specific air services
 / Maintenance of aircraft
 / Design and modification projects
 / Fixed base operations (“FBO”)
 / Global services

 / Branding fees generated from utilisation of the Gama brand

Managed aircraft contracts and specific air services
These activities are provided by the Group’s Air Division. Services provided under managed aircraft contracts include flight 
training, cost management, flight planning and scheduling, crew management, maintenance oversight and regulatory 
compliance as separate performance obligations falling into one or more of the contract components identified below. 

70 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

/ NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)/ FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020The services are contract based with costs such as fuel, insurance, crew and maintenance being recharged to the client. Specific 
air services provided under this heading include a variety of specific contracts with customers where one or more elements of 
fully managed services are provided. 

The managed aircraft contracts have three components:
1.  Pre-delivery services and services prior to aircraft’s entry into service (if appropriate)
2.  Management services
3.  Variable fees based on flying hours and related rechargeable costs

Most specific services provided arise in components 1 and 3, whilst management services relate to overarching administrative 
services relating to ongoing regulatory compliance requirements, billed on a regular basis over the life of the contract. These 
components are distinct as the customer can benefit from the services on their own and the Group’s promise to provide the 
service is separately identifiable from other promises in the contract. The three components are therefore deemed to be 
separate performance obligations and revenue is recognised based on the above performance obligations as follows:

1.  Revenue is recognised once the service has been performed (at a point in time)
2.  The customer simultaneously receives and consumes the benefits provided by the Group, therefore revenue is recognised over time
3.  Variable flying hours revenue is recognised monthly based upon actual flight information and other relevant information held on the 
internal billing system (at a point in time). Rechargeable costs are recognised gross, as revenue and related cost of sales and are 
recognised at a point in time (for example, monthly) based upon either actual rechargeable costs or estimated costs to be recharged

The Group has considered whether it is acting as agent or principal in the context of its managed aircraft contracts and has 
concluded that it is the principal in relation to the entirety of these contracts. Rechargeable costs are recognised gross because 
the Group controls the services before they are transferred to customers and because they are linked to wider management 
services. For practical purposes management services and rechargeable costs (and other variable fees based on flying hours) 
are itemised separately in billing to customers, but for the purposes of revenue recognition there is an allocation of 
management fee revenue to rechargeable costs to reflect the standalone selling price of that revenue stream. 

Maintenance of aircraft
These activities are provided by the Group’s Ground Division. The Group provides both base and line maintenance services. Base 
maintenance relates to the planned maintenance that is required by the aircraft manufacturer or component supplier. This work 
is complex, highly regulated and location specific. Line maintenance covers irregular maintenance activities, component failure 
or simple wear and tear. Both types of services are provided on a fee or contract basis.

Maintenance revenue is recognised over time in line with the performance of the related maintenance work as the Group’s 
performance of maintenance services does not create assets with an alternative use and the Group has an enforceable right 
to payment for performance completed to date. In most cases work is carried out and billed to the customer in the same 
accounting period. However, for work ongoing at the end of an accounting period an assessment of the extent to which 
contracted work is completed is made and a corresponding amount of revenue is accrued. This assessment is made using 
the input method of labour hours expended and costs incurred.

Shorter duration ad-hoc maintenance revenues are recognised at a point in time in line with the performance obligation.

Design and modification projects
The Group undertakes certain equipment design and modification activities for some customers. These activities are provided by 
both Air and Ground Divisions of the Group. Revenue is recognised over time in line with the performance of the related design and 
modification work for design projects because the Group’s performance of its contractual obligations creates or enhances an asset 
that the customer controls as the asset is created or enhanced. Work that is outstanding under design and modification contracts 
at the end of an accounting period is accrued and a contract asset (accrued income) is recognised on the balance sheet, based 
upon the input method of measuring progress (cost and labour hours expended to date). A contract liability (deferred revenue) is 
recognised on the balance sheet for revenues deferred until the performance obligations are discharged.

Fixed base operation
The Group also provides fixed base operation activities in US, Jersey, Scotland and the Middle East through the Ground Division. 
This includes hangar parking and apron parking space to customers. Revenue is recognised as the service is provided over time.

Global services
The Global Services Division comprises two businesses, FlyerTech and myairops®. FlyerTech provides continuing airworthiness 
management (CAM) and airworthiness review certification (ARC) services for business aviation and commercial airline 
operators. myairops® has developed a suite of business aviation products deployed as “Software as a Service” (SaaS) and mobile 
app solutions for business aviation operators, flight support companies, FBOs and regional airports.

FlyerTech revenue from services is primarily derived from the provision of airworthiness services. Revenue includes fixed 
contract fees and variable fees such as revenue earned with reference to ad-hoc services. Flyertech records revenue relating to 
services rendered using an accrual method and in accordance with the terms of the contracts pursuant to which such services 
are rendered. Revenue from aircraft services is recognised based on contractual rates as the related services are performed.

myairops® revenue represents the value of services provided under contracts to the extent that there is a right to consideration 
and is recorded at the value of the consideration due. Where a contract has only been partially completed at the balance sheet 
date, revenue represents the value of the service provided to date based on a proportion of the total contract value. Where 
payments are received from customers in advance of services provided, the amounts are recorded as deferred revenue.

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

71

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALSSTRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS2. Accounting policies (continued)
(s) Revenue recognition (continued)
Branding fees from associates
The Group receives a branding fee from Gama Aviation LLC in addition to the equity accounted share of profit from the US Air 
Associate prior to disposal (refer to Note 7 for further details). The branding fee was payable quarterly in arrears and the Group 
recognises revenue over time as the customer simultaneously receives and consumes the benefits provided by the Group.

(t) Foreign currencies 
The individual financial statements of each Group company are presented in the currency of the primary economic environment 
in which it operates (its functional currency). For the purpose of the consolidated financial statements, the results and financial 
position of each Group company are expressed in US Dollars, which is the presentation currency for the consolidated financial 
statements. These financial statements are presented in US Dollars because that is the currency of the primary economic 
environment in which the Group operates. The Company’s functional currency is determined to be Pounds Sterling because 
this is the currency of the primary economic environment in which the Company operates.

In preparing the financial statements of the individual companies, transactions in currencies other than the entity’s functional 
currency (foreign currencies) are recognised at the rates of exchange prevailing on the dates of the transactions. At each 
balance sheet date, monetary assets and liabilities that are denominated in foreign currencies are retranslated at the rates 
prevailing at that date. Non-monetary items carried at fair value that are denominated in foreign currencies are translated at 
the rates prevailing at the date when the fair value was determined. Non-monetary items that are measured in terms of 
historical cost in a foreign currency are not retranslated. Foreign currency fluctuations on monetary items that are financing in 
nature, being foreign currency borrowings, are presented in finance income or expenses. All other foreign currency fluctuations 
on monetary items are presented within Adjusted EBIT.

For the purpose of presenting consolidated financial statements, the assets and liabilities of the Group’s foreign operations are 
translated at exchange rates prevailing on the balance sheet date. Income and expense items are translated at the average 
exchange rates for the period. Exchange differences arising are recognised in other comprehensive income and accumulated 
in equity. Goodwill and fair value adjustments arising on the acquisition of a foreign entity are treated as assets and liabilities 
of the foreign entity and translated at the closing rate for each year end.

(u) Retirement benefit costs 
Payments to defined contribution retirement benefit schemes are charged as an expense when employees have rendered the 
service entitling them to the contributions. Payments made to state-managed retirement benefit schemes are dealt with as 
payments to defined contribution schemes where the Group’s obligations under the schemes are equivalent to those arising 
in a defined contribution retirement benefit scheme.

(v) Taxation
The tax expense represents the sum of the tax currently payable and deferred tax.

Current tax
The tax currently payable is based on taxable profit for the year. Taxable profit differs from net profit as reported in the income 
statement because it excludes items of income or expense that are taxable or deductible in other years and it further excludes 
items that are never taxable or deductible. The Group’s liability for current tax is calculated using tax rates and laws that have 
been enacted or substantively enacted by the balance sheet date.

Deferred tax
Deferred tax is the tax expected to be payable or recoverable on differences between the carrying amounts of assets and 
liabilities in the financial statements and the corresponding tax bases used in the computation of taxable profit and is 
accounted for using the balance sheet liability method. Deferred tax liabilities are generally recognised for all taxable 
temporary differences and deferred tax assets are recognised to the extent that it is probable that taxable profits will be 
available against which deductible temporary differences can be utilised. Such assets and liabilities are not recognised if the 
temporary difference arises from the initial recognition of goodwill or from the initial recognition (other than in a business 
combination) of other assets and liabilities in a transaction that affects neither the taxable profit nor the accounting profit.

Deferred tax liabilities are recognised for taxable temporary differences arising on investments in subsidiaries and associates, 
except where the Group is able to control the reversal of the temporary difference and it is probable that the temporary 
difference will not reverse in the foreseeable future.

The carrying amount of deferred tax assets is reviewed at each balance sheet date and reduced to the extent that it is no longer 
probable that sufficient taxable profits will be available to allow all or part of the asset to be recovered.

Deferred tax is calculated at the tax rates and laws that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the balance sheet date 
that are expected to apply in the period when the liability is settled, or the asset is realised. 

Deferred tax is charged or credited in the income statement, except to the extent that it relates to items recognised in other 
comprehensive income or directly in equity. In this case, the tax is also recognised in other comprehensive income or directly 
in equity, respectively.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset when there is a legally enforceable right to set off current tax assets against current 
tax liabilities and when they relate to income taxes levied by the same taxation authority and the Group intends to settle its 
current tax assets and liabilities on a net basis.

72 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

/ NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)/ FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020(w) Government grants
During the year the Group received a potentially forgivable loan under the Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”), managed 
by the US Small Business Administration (SBA) under the auspices of the US government Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic 
Security Act (CARES Act). Under IAS 20 a forgivable loan from government is treated as a government grant when there 
is reasonable assurance that the entity will meet the terms for forgiveness of the loan. The Group has adopted the income 
approach in relation to this loan which provides that government grants should be recognised in profit or loss on a systematic 
basis over the periods in which the entity recognises as expenses the related costs for which the grant is intended 
to compensate.

The Group applied to Citibank for a loan under the PPP in order to avoid significant pandemic-driven headcount reductions 
in its US workforce. $5,753k was received from Citibank on 12 May 2020 and was initially recognised as borrowings in current 
liabilities. $4,753k of these funds are considered by the Company to be eligible for forgiveness within the terms of the PPP and 
have therefore been recognised as income against the related expenses in the income statement, reducing the amount of 
borrowings at the period end to $1,000k. The utilisation of the grant is reflected against the related expenses in cost of sales 
and administrative expenses. Refer to Notes 3 and 21 for further details.

Although the CARES Act suspends the ordinary requirement that borrowers must be unable to obtain credit elsewhere (as 
defined in section 3(h) of the Small Business Act), borrowers still must certify in good faith that their PPP loan request is 
necessary. Specifically, before submitting a PPP application, borrowers are required to consider the required certification that 
“current economic uncertainty makes this loan request necessary to support the ongoing operations of the Applicant.” 
Borrowers must make this certification in good faith, taking into account their current business activity and their ability to 
access other sources of liquidity sufficient to support their ongoing operations in a manner that is not significantly detrimental 
to the business. Conscious of the significant uncertainty regarding the extent and duration of the global pandemic and its 
potential impact on the Group’s activities and financial resources, the Group applied for the loan in good faith on the above 
basis, and the proceeds have been used to defray qualifying expenditures. The Group has to date been unable to submit a loan 
forgiveness application as the portal managed by Citibank on behalf of the SBA has only recently opened. The Board has 
consulted with its outside legal advisors as to the eligibility for forgiveness of the loan. The Board believes it is appropriate under 
IAS 20 to recognise the receipt of the loan and its anticipated partial forgiveness and that such treatment is necessary for these 
accounts to show a true, fair and balanced view of the Group’s 2020 results given the impact of the global pandemic on 
its operations.

Other forms of government grants were received by the Group in the year including $616k under the UK Furlough scheme, 
$148k under a Hong Kong payroll scheme and a $267k rent rebate in the Middle East. As noted elsewhere in these accounts the 
nature of the Group’s operations in the UK, and the long-term nature of its special mission contracts, provided a greater degree 
of resilience to the pandemic with a consequently lower need for government support. All other forms of government grants 
have been recognised on the income approach, reducing the costs for which the grant is intended to compensate.

In accordance with IAS 20, in the event that a government grant becomes repayable, this would be accounted for as a change 
in accounting estimate and therefore prospectively through the income statement.

3. Critical accounting judgments and key sources of estimation uncertainty
In the application of the Group’s accounting policies, which are described in Note 2, the Directors are required to make 
judgments (other than those involving estimations) that have a significant impact on the amounts recognised and to make 
estimates and assumptions about the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other 
sources. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and other factors, including anticipated 
future events and market conditions, that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised 
in the period in which the estimate is revised if the revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future 
periods if the revision affects both current and future periods.

Critical judgments in applying the Group’s accounting policies
The following are the critical judgments, apart from those involving estimations (which are dealt with separately below), that 
management have made in the process of applying the Group’s accounting policies and that have the most significant effect 
on the amounts recognised in financial statements.

Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) qualifying expenditure
During the year the Group received funds under the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) in the form of a loan arrangement from 
Citibank guaranteed by the US government, which is specifically intended to help businesses maintain their US workforce during 
the COVID-19 pandemic. The Group made the application in good faith and in the belief that the PPP loan request was 
necessary and otherwise in accordance with the then applicable rules, to support its ongoing operations given the economic 
uncertainty caused by the pandemic. $5,753k funds were received on 12 May 2020 and was initially recognised as borrowings 
in current liabilities. $4,753k of these funds are considered by the Company to be eligible for forgiveness within the terms of 
the PPP and have therefore been recognised as income against the related expenses in the income statement, reducing the 
amount of borrowings at the period end to $1,000k. Confirmation of partial loan forgiveness is expected within 12 months 
from the balance sheet date. The Board has consulted with its outside legal advisors as to the eligibility for forgiveness of the 
loan. The Board believes it is appropriate under IAS 20 to recognise the receipt of the loan and its anticipated partial forgiveness 
and that such treatment is necessary for these accounts to show a true, fair and balanced view of the Group’s 2020 results given 
the impact of the global pandemic on its operations. The total balance is material and, while a different outcome is considered 
highly unlikely, this balance is sensitive to a material change in judgement in the event the US government assessed the 
forgiveness differently. Refer to Note 2 (w) and Note 21 for further details.

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

73

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALSSTRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS3. Critical accounting judgments and key sources of estimation uncertainty (continued)
Presentation of consideration received from the sale of its US Air Associate, Gama Aviation LLC
Gama Aviation Plc received consideration of $33.0m for the sale of its US Air Associate, Gama Aviation LLC. Management 
exercised judgement in determining the allocation of consideration between the 24.5% equity interest considered to be $10.0m, 
the $15.5m settlement of the existing branding contract (accelerated branding fees) and the $7.5m of consideration allocated 
for the continued use of the Gama Aviation brand for up to two years after the date of disposal, which is consistent with the 
pre-existing level of branding fee of $3.75m per year (total $7.5m).

Classification of items of cost or income as “Exceptional” (exclusion of items from Adjusted EBIT)
Management consider exceptional items to be those that do not contribute to the underlying performance of the Group as set 
out in the policy on page 66. This requires judgment as the management and Group’s view of what qualifies as exceptional items 
may differ from similar judgments made by others. Exceptional items are treated as adjusting items to enable more relevant 
and reliable financial information to be presented. The exceptional items recorded in the income statement relate to accelerated 
branding fees, transaction costs; business integration and re-organisation costs; legal costs arising primarily from historical 
Hangar 8 activity; and other non-recurring items that management judge to be exceptional.

Recoverable amount for CASL
Impairment is assessed by the recoverable amount which is the higher of the fair value less costs to sell and the value in use 
(VIU). The recoverable amount of CASL has been determined on the fair value less cost to sell based on an arm’s length offer 
another CASL shareholder received for their 20 percent shareholding in 2021 and is therefore an appropriate basis upon which 
to measure the fair value of the Group’s 20 percent shareholding in CASL. Impairment charges of $3,421k (2019: nil) have been 
recognised to reduce the equity accounted investment in CASL from the carrying amount to its recoverable amount of $2,000k. 
Refer to Note 18 for further details. In May 2021, the Group also received a similar offer for its 20 percent shareholding in CASL. 
The Board is currently considering the terms of the offer and is in negotiations with the counterparty. CASL was not held for 
sale at 31 December 2020 and this event is a non-adjusting event after the reporting date.

Key sources of estimation uncertainty
The key assumptions concerning the future, and other key sources of estimation uncertainty at the reporting period, that may 
have a significant risk of causing a materially different outcome to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next 
financial year, are discussed below.

Impairment review on non-current assets
The goodwill, investment in associates, right-of-use assets and assets under construction require the use of estimates related to 
future profitability and the cash-generating ability of the related businesses or in the case of the investment in associates, the 
fair value less costs to sell. The estimates used may differ from the actual outcome. Details of the impairment review performed 
are set out in Notes 14, 16 and 18.

Loss allowances on financial assets
The loss allowance is calculated based on management’s best estimate of the amounts which will be recovered from trade 
receivables. A proportion of the trade receivables balance is with individuals and overseas groups, for whom it is more difficult to 
establish a credit rating. Management are in regular communication with aged debtors and assess the likelihood of recoverability 
on a regular basis. The estimate of the loss allowance may vary from the actual amounts recovered if an individual becomes unable 
to pay. An analysis of the trade receivables balance and indications of credit concentration are provided in Note 20. Management’s 
critical estimate relating to unimpaired receivables relates to the enforceability of liens over an aircraft to ensure settlement of a 
balance of $4.6m aging over 120 days. A change in the enforceability of this liens would materially change the loss allowance on 
financial assets.

Valuation of inventories
Management exercise judgment in measuring inventory at the lower of cost and net realisable values. The estimate of the net 
realisable value represents management’s best estimate and it may vary from the actual realisation, notwithstanding the 
regular review and monitoring. An analysis of the inventories and an inventory obsolescence allowance is provided in Note 19.
Inventory valuation is sensitive to management’s assessment of aging and obsolescence of certain line items. Management 
assess inventory aging over eight years to be fully impaired. A change in this assumption of a lesser or greater usage from years 
2-6 would lead to a material change in inventory valuation.

Estimation of amounts owed and receivable in relation to long-term contracts – Europe Ground Division
Management exercise judgment in determining the costs to complete and the revenue recognised in relation to long-term 
contracts. Judgment is required specifically around the estimated outcome of commercial discussions at the time of contract 
conclusions and during renegotiation periods. Some contracts enable the customer to conduct a retrospective review of costs 
incurred which could result in revision to the estimates made at this point in time. In addition, management exercised judgment 
in determining the period over which incremental consideration was received on renegotiation of a long-term contract in the 
prior year. For example, on one material contract, the estimated period to the next major engine overhaul, which reflects the 
flying hours to which the incremental consideration relates, was determined to be a three-year period. This estimate is 
determined to be reflective of the fulfilment of the related performance obligations in lieu of the contract duration which 
spans 11 years and relates to other performance obligations.

74 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

/ NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)/ FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 20204. Segment information
Reportable segments are operating segments that either meet the thresholds and conditions set out in IFRS 8 for separate 
reporting or are considered by the Board to be appropriately aggregated into reportable segments under IFRS 8.

The Group has eleven reportable segments (Air Division – four regional operating segments; Ground Division – four regional 
operating segments; Global Services Division – comprising two operating segments combined as one reportable segment; 
the Associates Division – two operating segments combined as one reportable segment; and Central Costs), which are defined 
by markets rather than product type. Each segment includes businesses with similar operating and marketing characteristics. 
The operating segments that have been aggregated into reportable segments have similar economic characteristics or provide 
similar services. The two operating segments within the Global Services Division provide similar Technology and Outsourcing 
services to the group’s customers. The two operating segments within the Associates Division provide a similar range of Air 
services. None of these four operating segments meet the quantitative thresholds to report separately under IFRS 8.

These segments are consistent with the internal reporting reviewed each month by the Group Chief Executive Officer who acts 
as the Chief Operating Decision Maker (“CODM”). The CODM reviews monthly internal reporting on a pre-IFRS 16 basis at the 
operating segment level. The impact on application of IFRS 16 is reviewed separately ahead of statutory reporting.

As noted in the Strategic report on page 9, three new market facing SBUs have been created after the reporting date in lieu of 
the eleven reportable segments. Future segmental reporting, from the interim results covering the period to 30 June 2021, will 
be presented to reflect this structure. The Group believes this will provide a direct line of sight for shareholders such that the 
SBU’s activities in each market, its investment requirements and performance can be more easily assessed and understood. 
For the year ending 31 December 2020, internal reporting on the new SBUs was not available or reviewed by the CODM.

Reconciliation of divisional to overall Group performance is tabulated below: 

2020
$’000

Adjusted 
Revenue 

Adjusted 
Gross Profit

Statutory 
EBIT

Adjusted 
EBIT

Adjusted 
EBIT 
pre-IFRS 16

US Air*

Europe Air

Middle East Air

Asia Air 

Air Division

US Ground

Europe Ground

Middle East Ground

Asia Ground

Ground Division

Global Services

Associates

Central Costs

Adjusted Result

Adjusting Items (Note 6)

Application of IFRS 16 (Note 23)

Statutory Result

3,750

62,707

18,603

13,370

98,430

38,605

35,243

3,766

2,314

79,928

3,645

–

–

3,750

6,060

1,501

762

12,073

9,097

10,384

2,923

–

–

182,003

36,535

15,500

15,500

–

–

19,317

3,817

3,817

552

(474)

(1,286)

18,109

57

211

(371)

(5,848)

(6,048)

(5,834)

–

–

138

(296)

(311)

(43)

(296)

(362)

3,348

3,116

720

301

(236)

(80)

705

(22)

(3,272)

(5,082)

(333)

(851)

(427)

(80)

(1,691)

(137)

(3,272)

(4,824)

(4,323)

(6,808)

(1,511)

(1,511)

–

2,485

674

(11,864)

1,384

(80)

21,539

(11,676)

197,503

52,035

(5,834)

(5,834)

(5,834)

*  Adjusted Revenue and Adjusted Gross Profit, which relate solely to the US Air Division, have been presented in the current year to exclude accelerated 
branding fees of $15,500k (2019: nil) and thereby improve comparability. Refer to Note 6 for further details of Alternative performance measures

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

75

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALSSTRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS4. Segment information (continued)

US Air

Europe Air

Middle East Air

Asia Air 

Air Division

US Ground

Europe Ground

Middle East Ground

Asia Ground

Ground Division

Global Services

Associates

Central Costs

Adjusted Result

Adjusting Items (Note 6)

Application of IFRS 16 (Note 23)

Statutory Result

2019
$’000

Revenue  Gross Profit

Statutory 
EBIT

Adjusted 
EBIT

Adjusted 
EBIT 
pre-IFRS 16

4,050

99,145

16,778

20,650

140,623

48,943

48,176

4,372

1,476

102,967

3,223

–

–

4,050

6,160

1,519

1,218

12,947

6,396

15,650

1,453

632

24,131

2,395

–

–

246,813

39,473

–

–

–

–

3,648

(1,054)

(437)

121

2,278

(927)

2,525

(273)

(577)

748

325

918

(11,271)

(7,002)

–

–

3,898

1,018

(571)

137

4,482

270

7,416

(273)

(551)

3,898

622

(571)

123

4,072

(268)

6,247

(466)

(551)

6,862

4,962

686

918

(7,383)

5,565

689

918

(7,377)

3,264

(12,567)

(12,567)

–

2,301

246,813

39,473

(7,002)

(7,002)

(7,002)

An analysis of the Group’s total assets and liabilities by segment is as follows:

2020

2019
Restated* 

Assets

Liabilities

Assets

Liabilities

22,033

18,454

57,013

53,626

4,133

1,421

6,381

425

13,734

2,000

34,378

(9,174)

(10,066)

(20,849)

(38,245)

(5,662)

(8,907)

(4,044)

(23)

(1,952)

–

(60,829)

4,172

27,423

59,812

55,401

5,518

12,922

10,951

1,080

11,543

17,710

27,024

(125)

(15,342)

(36,786)

(39,403)

(5,650)

(9,658)

(8,184)

(94)

(924)

–

(51,656)

213,598

(159,751)

233,556

(167,822)

$’000

US Air

US Ground

Europe Air

Europe Ground

Middle East Air

Middle East Ground

Asia Air

Asia Ground

Global Services

Associates

Central Costs

Total

*  Restatements are detailed in Note 2 of the financial statements

76 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

/ NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)/ FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020An analysis of the Group’s revenue is as follows:

Sale of business aviation services

Branding fees

Total Adjusted Revenue

Accelerated branding fees

Statutory revenue

Revenue recognised at a point in time

Europe Ground

US Ground

Europe Air

myairops®

Revenue recognised over time

Total Adjusted Revenue

Accelerated branding fees (revenue recognised at a point in time)

Statutory revenue

Year
ended
2020
$’000

178,253

3,750

Year
ended
2019
$’000

242,763

4,050

182,003

246,813

15,500

–

197,503

246,813

2020
$’000

115,107

12,736

 236 

 52,806 

 1,118 

66,896

182,003

15,500

197,503

Comparatives for revenue recognised at a point in time versus over time are impracticable to disclose as this was not tracked 
internally. Revenue recognised over time relates to the following operating divisions:

 / Europe Ground has contract revenue for the maintenance of aircraft of $52,869k to be earned over the next four years, and 

$12,736k of revenue has been recognised in the year

 / US Ground during the year earned revenue of $236k in relation to maintenance contracts with $346k contracted to be 

earned over the next year

 / Within Europe Air $52,806k of contract revenue has been earned during the year in relation to the provision of air ambulance 
services and other specific air services. Over the next five years there is $83,328k to be earned in remaining contracted revenue
 / Within the Global Service Division, myairops® has $1,118k of contract revenue recognised during the year in relation to the 

provision of software services with $2,278k due over the next five years

Revenue of $18,301k (2019: $18,965k) has been recognised in respect of a single customer within the Europe Air reporting 
segment. This represents 9% of revenue (2019: 10%).

The Group has not separately disclosed revenue by country because this is not tracked internally and because management 
believe that the Group’s operating segments align very closely to country reporting by origin with European divisions 
representing the UK and Channel Islands; the US divisions representing the United States; the Asia divisions representing 
Hong Kong and the Middle East divisions mainly representing the UAE.

Geographic information

Non-current assets

US

Europe

Asia

Middle East

Group

2020
$’000

2019
$’000

9,250

76,205

230

219

7,092

92,996

13,540

61,687

482

11,825

105

87,639

Non-current assets for this purpose consist of property, plant and equipment and right-of-use assets. Goodwill and Intangible 
assets are shown by division and thereby geographic region in Note 14 and Note 15. Refer to Note 20 for non-current trade and 
other receivables which relate solely to the US Air Division.

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

77

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALSSTRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS5. EBIT for the year
EBIT for the year has been arrived at after charging/(crediting): 

Amortisation of intangibles in adjusted result (Note 15)

Amortisation of intangibles in adjusting items (Note 15)

Amortisation of intangibles (Note 15)

Depreciation of property, plant and equipment (Note 16)

Depreciation of right-of-use assets in administrative expenses (Note 23)

Depreciation within administrative expenses

Year 
ended 
2020 
$’000

1,581

614

2,195

4,809

540

5,349

Year 
ended
 2019 
$’000

441

984

1,425

3,019

754

3,773

Depreciation of right-of-use assets in cost of sales (Note 23)

10,708

15,152

Net foreign exchange loss on trading monetary items

Loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment (Note 16)

Impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets (Note 14 and 15)

Impairment of right-of-use assets (Note 23)

Impairment of assets under construction (Note 16)

Impairment of equity accounted investments (Note 18)

Impairment of non-current assets within share of results of equity accounted investments 
(Note 18)

Profit on disposal of interest in associates (Note 7) 

Accelerated branding fees (Note 6)

Cost of inventories recognised as an expense including changes in inventory obsolescence 
(Note 19)

Change in provision for inventory obsolescence (Note 19)

Staff costs (Note 8)

Impairment losses recognised on trade receivables (Note 20)

Auditors’ remuneration:

Audit of the Company’s financial statements

Audit of the financial statements of subsidiaries

Other support services

Other deal support services

350

63

833

7,013

4,609

3,421

6,433

(7,278)

(15,500)

16,202

1,520

63,506

3,083

198

667

26

141

188

82

540

2,341

–

–

–

–

–

30,706

2,364

70,982

2,387

278

610

–

77

78 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

/ NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)/ FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 20206. Adjusted performance measures
The Adjusted result has been arrived at after the following Adjusting items:

Adjusting items in revenue and gross profit:

Accelerated branding fees

Exceptional items:

–  Transaction costs

–  Integration and business re-organisation costs

–  Legal costs

–  Other items

–  Impairment of assets under construction (Note 16)

–  Impairment of right-of-use assets (Note 23)

–  Impairment of goodwill and acquired intangibles (Note 15)

Total exceptional items

Other adjusting items:

Share-based payments expense (Note 31)

Amortisation of acquired intangible assets (Note 15) 

Adjusting items in Operating (loss)/profit

Impairment of equity accounted investments (Note 18)

Impairment of non-current assets within share of results of equity accounted investments (Note 18) 

Profit on disposal of interest in associates (Note 7)

Adjusting items in EBIT

Tax related to Adjusting items (Note 11)

Adjusting items in profit 

Year 
ended
 2020 
$’000

Year 
ended 
2019
Restated*
$’000

(15,500)

–

692

202

619

(709)

4,609

7,013

833

88

2,905

2,212

2,636

–

2,341

540

(2,241)

10,722

562

614

861

984

(1,065)

12,567

3,421

6,433

(7,278)

1,511

5,017

6,528

–

–

–

12,567

(577)

11,990

*  Restatements are detailed in Note 2 of the notes to the financial statements.

Accelerated branding fees
Adjusted Revenue and Adjusted Gross Profit, which relate solely to the US Air Division, have been presented in the current year 
to exclude accelerated branding fees of $15,500k (2019: nil) and thereby improve comparability. Refer to Note 7 for further 
details of disposal of the US Air Associate.

Adjusted Result

Accelerated branding fees

Statutory Result

2020

Adjusted 
Revenue 
$’000

Adjusted 
Gross profit 
$’000

182,003

15,500

197,503

37,250

15,500

52,750

Transaction costs
Transaction costs during the year comprise $662k in relation to the acquisition of Jet East (Note 35) and $30k in relation to the 
acquisition of air ambulance services to Jersey and Guernsey (Note 13).

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

79

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALSSTRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS6. Adjusted performance measures (continued)
Integration and business re-organisation costs
Integration and business re-organisation costs include: 

 / Fairoaks direct closure costs of $16k (2019: $1,012k) (Note 30);
 / Gama International Saudi Arabia (GISA) redundancy provision following the notice of closure of $173k (2019: nil) and other 

closure related costs of $17k (2019: nil);

 / Accounting support, compliance and control reviews and other Group re-organisation costs of nil (2019: $960k);
 / Non-recurring costs related to property and facility re-organisation at Bournemouth, Farnborough and Florida of nil 

(2019: $933k); and

 / Income on receipt of a credit for costs previously charged to exceptional integration and business re-organisation costs 

$4k (2019: nil)

Legal costs
Legal costs in the current and prior year principally relate to professional fees in relation to ongoing litigation in respect 
of legacy cases going back many years. 

Other items
In the current year other items comprise $499k in income relating to part settlements on a legacy case, and a $210k release 
of an impairment allowance on trade receivables under the legal proceedings that had been provided for in full in the prior year 
through exceptionals. In the prior year other items comprise a $2,010k impairment allowance on trade receivables under legal 
proceedings and a $626k impairment of inventories, both of which relate to legacy matters.

Impairment of acquired intangibles
The impairment charge of $833k (2019: $540k) in the current year on acquired intangible assets originally recognised on 
acquisition of Gama Aviation Hutchison Holdings Limited (GAHH) which were impaired to nil. In the prior year, intangible assets 
recognised on acquisition of the Florida Paint-Shop of $540k were allocated to the US Ground CGU, and subsequently impaired. 
Refer to Note 15 for further details.

Impairment of assets under construction
In the current year an impairment charge of $4,609k has been recognised relating to the Business Aviation Centre (BAC) 
at Sharjah Airport following material uncertainties related to the project, the prospects for which have been significantly 
impacted by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic (2019: nil). The impairment charge reduced the carrying amount to the 
recoverable amount of nil. Refer to Note 16 for further details.

Impairment of right-of-use asset
An impairment charge of $7,013k has also been recognised to reduce the carrying amount of the right-of-use asset at Sharjah 
to the recoverable amount of nil (2019: $2,341k impairment on the Fairoaks right-of-use asset) for the reasons noted above. 
Refer to Note 23 for further details.

Impairment of investment in associate and non-current assets in associate
Impairment charges of $6,433k (2019: nil) relate to non-current assets in CASL and the remaining $3,421k (2019: nil) is to reduce 
the carrying amount of the equity accounted investment to the recoverable amount of $2,000k. Taken together, impairment 
charges of $9,854k (2019: nil) have been recognised in relation to associates. Refer to Note 18 for further details.

Tax related to adjusting items
A significant tax charge of $5,017k (2019: $577k credit) was recognised for the tax consequences of the disposal of the US Air 
Associate and the related accelerated branding fee. Other adjusting items that are expected to be deductible.

Organic and constant currency growth
Organic and constant currency growth in Revenue, Gross Profit and EBIT is a measure which seeks to reflect the performance 
of the Group that will contribute to long-term sustainable growth. As such, organic and constant currency growth excludes the 
impact of acquisitions or disposals, and effect of foreign exchange translation. As the average USD-GBP exchange rate for the 
year of $1.28 to £1 is the same for both 2020 and 2019, constant currency growth is not presented.

Results of acquired and disposed businesses are excluded where the results include only part-year results in either current 
or prior periods. In the prior year, the paint and interior business acquired on 10 January 2019 (“Paint-Shop”) was excluded 
in calculating organic growth. In the current year, the Paint-Shop is in all material respects comparable year on year and not 
adjusted for the purpose of organic growth. The US Air associate was sold on 2 March 2020 resulting in $78k of Adjusted EBIT 
in 2020 prior to disposal and $518k Adjusted EBIT in the prior year. The impact of associates is separately covered because both 
the US Air associate and CASL are not comparable year on year. On 18 July 2020, the Group acquired the trade and assets to 
provide air ambulance services for the Government of Jersey and the Government of Guernsey, however the impact on Adjusted 
EBIT is not material to present separately. Organic growth is therefore not presented. Further details on acquisitions and 
disposals year on year are shown in Note 13 and 7 respectively.

80 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

/ NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)/ FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020Net debt
A reconciliation of the IFRS financial statement line items that represent the Net debt APM is tabulated below.

Cash

Borrowings

Net debt pre IFRS 16

Obligations under leases

Net debt

2020 
$’000

16,136

(53,197)

(37,061)

2019
 $’000

8,463

(46,242)

(37,779)

(49,492)

(60,204)

(86,553)

(97,983)

7. Disposal of assets held for sale
On 2 March 2020 the Group announced the sale of its US Air Associate, Gama Aviation LLC (doing business as “Gama Aviation 
Signature”) to Wheels Up Partners Holdings LLC (“Wheels Up”). Gama Aviation Signature was owned 49% by GB Aviation 
Holdings LLC, a joint venture between the Group and Signature Aviation Plc, with the remaining 51% held by the Group’s US 
partners (Merritt Property LLC and Puritan Aviation LLC).

Gama Aviation received consideration of $33.0m, comprising $10.0m in return for its 24.5% equity interest and $23.0m for 
licensing and other trading related considerations. $13.0m of the consideration was received in cash on 2 March 2020, with the 
remaining $20.0m to be paid in cash, with interest of $2,774k, in eight equal six-month instalments over the next four years. The 
first instalment was received in September 2020 and the second instalment was received in March 2021, both instalments were 
received in full and when contractually due. Refer to Note 35 for details of a non-adjusting event that may give rise to some or 
all of the deferred consideration outstanding being settled in cash shortly after the reporting date.

The $20.0m of deferred consideration is recognised as a financial asset at fair value and then subsequently at amortised cost. 
The effective interest rate of this financial asset is 6.0%, which results in the recognition of finance income of $964k in the 
income statement for the year ended 31 December 2020. The first instalment of $2,500k capital and $430k interest was 
received in September 2020.

Included within trade and other receivables at 31 December 2020 is deferred consideration of $18,034k, with $5,004k in current 
assets and $13,030k in non-current assets. Included within deferred revenue at 31 December 2020 is licensing and other trading 
related considerations of $4,375k, with $3,750k in current liabilities and $625k in non-current liabilities.

As part of the transaction, Gama Group Inc has licensed the continued use of the Gama Aviation brand for up to two years, for which 
$7.5m of consideration has been allocated and will be recognised as revenue over the two year period. Post disposal, $3.125m 
has been recognised as revenue for this licensing component in the 10 month period to 31 December 2020, in line with the $3.75m 
annual licence fee prior to disposal. In addition, an accelerated branding fee of $15.5m has been recognised in adjusting items.

Cash received

Fair value of deferred consideration

Total discounted consideration receivable at the transaction date

Less: Branding fees and other trading related considerations

Gross proceeds on disposal

Add: Closing working capital, cash and indebtedness adjustments

Add: Post closing adjustment

Less: Transaction costs

Proceeds on disposal of assets held for sale, net of transaction costs

Assets held for sale at 31 December 2019

Share of profit of equity accounted investments prior to disposal*

Carrying amount of net assets sold

Profit on disposal of interest in associates, before taxation

Year 
ended 
2020 
$’000

13,000

20,000

33,000

(23,000)

10,000

592

254

(892)

9,954

2,598

78

2,676

7,278

*  The equity accounting of Gama Aviation LLC was not discontinued after Gama Aviation LLC was held for sale at 31 December 2019 and prior to disposal 
on 2 March 2020. Had this been the case there would have been a $78k increase in share of losses of associates and a $78k increase in the profit on 
disposal of interest in associates. The impact of this reclassification, which has no impact on the statutory loss for the year, is considered immaterial.

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

81

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALSSTRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS8. Staff costs 
The average monthly number of employees (including executive Directors) was:

Operations and administration

Pilots and cabin crew

Aircraft engineering

Their aggregate remuneration comprised:

Wages and salaries

Social security costs

Share-based payments (Note 31)

Other pension costs (Note 32)

Year
ended 
2020 
Number

Year
ended
2019
Number

357

108

298

763

411

115

254

780

Year
 ended 
2020 
$’000

Year
 ended 
2019
$’000

56,614

60,878

4,506

562

1,824

7,796

861

1,447

63,506

70,982

Aggregate remuneration is stated after netting off government grants received in the year. Refer to Note 2 for further details.

Details of Directors’ remuneration are given in the Remuneration Report and refer to Note 35 for details of share option transactions 
approved after the reporting date. The share option costs relating to these Directors amounted to $152k (2019: $208k).

9. Finance income 

Foreign currency translation on intercompany balances

Foreign currency translation on borrowings

Interest income on financial assets 

Interest income on bank deposits

Total finance income

Year
 ended 
2020 
$’000

405

–

1,130

–

1,535

Year
 ended 
2019
$’000

–

693

–

2

695

Interest income on financial assets comprises $964k of interest on deferred consideration relating to the disposal of the US Air 
associate (Note 7), and $166k interest on other financial assets in the year.

10. Finance expense

Foreign currency translation on intercompany balances

Foreign currency translation on borrowings

Interest on borrowings before capitalised interest

Capitalised interest (Note 16)

Discounting on provisions (Note 30)

Interest on lease liabilities (Note 23)

Write-off loan arrangement fees (Note 21)

Amortisation of loan arrangement fees

Other similar charges payable

Total finance costs 

82 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

Year
ended
2020
$’000

–

178

878

(179)

28

2,743

–

168

124

Year
 ended 
2019
$’000

136

–

965

(122)

35

3,061

398

172

12

3,940

4,657

/ NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)/ FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 202011. Taxation

Corporation tax:

Current year charge

Deferred tax charge:

  Current year charge

  Adjustment in respect of prior years

Deferred tax charge/(credit) (Note 22)

Year ended 2020 
$’000

Year ended 2019 
$’000

Statutory 
result

Adjusting 
items

Adjusted 
result

Statutory 
result

Adjusting 
items

Adjusted 
result

3,016

(2,977)

39

729

–

729

3,136

(2,040)

1,096

344

–

344

3,480

(2,040)

1,440

(30)

(204)

(234)

577

–

577

547

(204)

343

Total tax charge for the year

6,496

(5,017)

1,479

495

577

1,072

The tax charge for the year, based on the tax rate in the United Kingdom, can be reconciled to the profit per the income 
statement as follows:

(Loss)/Profit before tax

Tax at the corporation tax rate of 19% (2019: 19%)

Effects of:

Year ended 2020 
$’000

Year ended 2019 
$’000

Statutory 
result

Adjusting 
items

Adjusted 
result

Statutory 
result

Adjusting 
items

Adjusted 
result

(8,239)

(1,565)

1,511

287

(6,728)

(10,964)

12,567

(1,278)

(2,083)

2,387

1,603

304

728

1,810

(1,810)

Other expenses not deductible/income not taxable 

728

Income not taxable – other forms of 
government support

Income not taxable – PPP loan forgiveness

(196)

(903)

–

–

–

Non-deductible – impairment of right-of-use asset

1,332

(1,332)

Non-deductible – impairment of assets 
under construction

Non-deductible – impairment of goodwill 
and acquired intangibles

Non-deductible – impairment of equity 
accounted investments

Non-deductible – share of losses of CASL in 
adjusted result

Non-deductible – share-based payments

Non-deductible – amortisation 
of acquired intangibles

Adjustment in respect of prior years

(196)

(903)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

637

876

164

(876)

(164)

1,872

(1,872)

637

107

111

344

(107)

(111)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

Effect of tax rates in different jurisdictions

2,490

(842)

1,648

Tax losses in the year not recognised in deferred tax

De-recognition of deferred tax 

Other timing differences

Total tax charge for the year

14

485

–

–

–

–

14

485

–

6,496

(5,017)

1,479

338

124

468

42

495

344

(204)

577

1,072

Adjustment in respect of prior years includes $293k decrease in deferred tax asset relating to temporary timing differences on 
the assets held for sale in the prior year. This is an immaterial change to the prior year recognised in advance of the disposal in 
March 2020.

Refer to Note 35 for future changes in the tax rate and the impact on deferred tax.

No deferred tax asset has been recognised on share-based payment transactions because the options are currently out of the 
money. As a result, no tax relating to share-based payment is recognised directly in equity. 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

83

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(204)

338

124

468

42

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALSSTRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS11. Taxation (continued)
Temporary differences of $26,233k (2019: $29,179k) have arisen as a result of the translation of the financial statements of the 
Group’s subsidiaries. However, a deferred tax liability has not been recognised as the liability will only crystallise in the event 
of disposal of the subsidiary, and no such disposal is expected in the foreseeable future. As a result, there is no deferred tax 
charge in other comprehensive income in relation to the translation of the Group’s subsidiaries into the presentation currency 
of US Dollars.

Deferred tax assets in prior periods were pre-COVID and recognised where the expected utilisation in future periods was 
estimated by pre-COVID forecasts. Future profitable projections were impacted by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and as a 
result deferred tax balances of $485k were written off.

12. Earnings per share (EPS)
The calculation of earnings per share is based on the earnings attributable to the ordinary shareholders divided by the weighted 
average number of shares in issue during the period.

Numerator

Statutory earnings: 

Loss attributable to ordinary equity holders of the parent

(14,780)

(11,554)

Adjusted earnings:

(Loss)/profit attributable to ordinary equity holders of the parent

(8,252)

436

Year 
ended 
2020
 $’000

Year 
ended 
2019
$’000

Denominator

Weighted average number of shares used in basic EPS

Effect of dilutive share options

Weighted average number of shares used in diluted EPS

Earnings per share (cents)

Statutory earnings per share 

Basic 

Diluted

Adjusted earnings per share 

Basic 

Diluted 

63,636,279

63,636,279

–

–

63,636,279

63,636,279

(23.2)

(23.2)

(13.0)

(13.0)

(18.2)

(18.2)

0.7

0.7

The average share price for the year ended 31 December 2020 was 54 cents, which is lower than the exercise price 
of outstanding options and therefore there is no dilutive effect.

The effect of dilutive share options on Diluted EPS does not reduce the loss per share, but would reduce the earnings per share.

The weighted average number of shares used in basic EPS has not been reduced by any shares held by the employee benefit 
trust. Refer to Note 25 for further details on the employee benefit trust.

13. Acquisitions
On 18 July 2020, the Group acquired a business to provide air ambulance services for the Government of Jersey and the 
Government of Guernsey. Cash consideration of $1.5m was paid. The Group determined the acquisition to be a business as 
defined by IFRS 3 and the transaction has been accounted for as a business combination. The following table summarises the 
fair value of assets acquired, and the liabilities assumed at the acquisition date. 

Recognised amounts of identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed.

84 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

/ NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)/ FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020Property, plant and equipment 

Other receivables

Customer relationships (included within intangibles)

Deferred tax liability

Total consideration

Acquisition costs

Acquisition of business, including acquisition costs

Note

16

15

22

6

$’000

1,070

116

390

(62)

1,514

30

1,544

From the date of acquisition, the air ambulance services contributed $2.0m revenue, and $0.3m gross profit. It is impracticable 
to quantify the period prior to acquisition and therefore disclose the impact if the air ambulance services acquisition had taken 
place at the beginning of the year. 

Refer to Note 35, for further details on the acquisition of Jet East after the reporting date.

14. Goodwill

Cost

At 1 January 2019

Recognised on acquisition

Exchange differences

At 31 December 2019

Exchange differences

At 31 December 2020

Accumulated impairment losses

At 1 January 2019

At 31 December 2019 

Exchange differences

At 31 December 2020

Carrying amount

At 31 December 2020

At 31 December 2019

The recoverable amount of goodwill is allocated to the following cash-generating units (CGUs):

Carrying amount

US: Ground

Europe: Ground

Global Services: FlyerTech

$’000

44,884

787

849

46,520

1,514

48,034

24,770

24,770

774

25,544

22,490

21,750

2020
 $’000

787

20,467

1,236

22,490

2019
Restated*
$’000

787

19,769

1,194

21,750

*  Restatements are detailed in Note 2 of the notes to the financial statements

When testing for impairment, recoverable amounts for all of the Group’s CGUs are measured at their VIU by discounting the future 
expected cash flows from the assets in the CGUs. The CGUs that have goodwill are Europe Ground, FlyerTech and US Ground 
(2019: Europe Ground, FlyerTech and US Ground). The key assumptions and estimates used for VIU calculations are as follows:

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

85

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALSSTRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS14. Goodwill (continued)
Future expected cash flows
VIU calculations are based on estimated post-tax cash flows for 2021 as approved by the Board. Recognising the inherent 
uncertainty in the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic:

 / for cash flows beyond the current year forecast period, a terminal growth rate has been applied
 / CGU specific operating assumptions are applicable to the forecast cash flows for the year to 31 December 2021 and relate 
to revenue forecasts, expected project outcomes, cash conversion, levels of capital expenditure and forecast operating 
margins in each of the operating companies. The relative value ascribed to each assumption will vary between CGUs as the 
forecasts are built up from the underlying operating companies within each CGU Group. 

 / The post-tax cash flows for 2021 forecast that the first quarter of 2021 was COVID impacted, and thereafter a progressive 

recovery was reflected

Terminal growth rate
Beyond the current year forecast period, a long-term terminal growth rate has been applied to calculate terminal values for all 
CGUs. The Group has used the Real GDP Growth Rate as a proxy for long-term terminal growth rate of Gama Aviation Plc. The 
average Real GDP Growth Rate for the world per the IMF World Economic Outlook published in April 2021 from 2020 to 2022 
was 2.4%. Considering regional variations in terminal growth rates in these outlooks as well as other outlooks from the 
Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (“OECD”), Bank of England in the UK and Federal Reserve in the US, 
the terminal growth rates applied are as tabulated below. The Group has used the Real GDP Growth Rate as a proxy for 
long-term terminal growth rate of Gama Aviation Plc.

United Kingdom

United States

Asia

Middle East

2020
 %

2.3

2.2

2.1

1.0

2019
%

1.9

1.9

1.9

1.9

Weighted average cost of capital (“WACC”)
A pre-tax discount rate is calculated by reference to the WACC of each CGU, adjusted to reflect the market and other systemic 
risks specific to each CGU and the territories in which they operate.

A pre-tax discount rate is calculated for each CGU. For the CGUs that have goodwill, the discount rates are tabulated below. 
For the CGUs with no goodwill the pre-tax discount rates vary from 9.8% to 13.7%. 

Europe Ground

Global Services: FlyerTech

US Ground

2020
 %

11.1

13.1

13.4

2019
%

10.1

10.1

10.1

The discount rates in the current year have increased across all CGUs, which is driven by increases in market-based inputs into 
the WACC contributing to a higher return on both equity and debt.

Sensitivity to changes in assumptions 
The calculation of VIU is most sensitive to the discount rate, long-term growth rate and future expected cash flows used. The 
Group has performed sensitivity analyses across all CGUs which have goodwill, acquired intangible assets, right-of-use assets, 
property, plant and equipment, computer software and an allocation of corporate assets, using reasonably possible changes in 
the already conservative long-term growth rates and pre-tax discount rates. 

No reasonably possible change in assumptions would diminish the US Ground or FlyerTech recoverable amount below the 
carrying amount of assets in this CGU. The CGU which is most sensitive to changes in assumptions is Europe Ground.

The sensitivity analysis in Europe Ground showed:

 / The recoverable amount was $2,958k higher than the carrying value of all assets, including goodwill, in the CGU
 / A 1% decrease in the terminal growth rate would result in an impairment of $6,901k
 / A 1% increase in the discount rate would result in an impairment of $6,991k
 / The terminal rate growth rate of 2.3% would have to decrease to 2.0% for an impairment

The limited headroom in Europe Ground is in part due to a long-term terminal growth rate being applied after the 2021 forecast 
cash flows and the 2021 forecast being COVID impacted for the first quarter of 2021.

A reasonably possible change in assumptions would result in the Europe Ground recoverable amount being below the carrying 
amount of assets in this CGU. Any potential impairment would be limited to the goodwill within Europe Ground and no 
reasonably possible change in assumptions would result in other assets in this CGU being impaired. 

No impairment has been recognised in the current year.

86 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

/ NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)/ FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 202015. Other intangible assets

Cost

At 1 January 2019

Additions

Recognised on acquisition

Disposals

Foreign exchange differences

At 31 December 2019

Additions

Disposals

Recognised on acquisition

Foreign exchange differences

At 31 December 2020

At 1 January 2019

Amortisation

Impairment loss

Eliminated on disposals

Foreign exchange differences

At 31 December 2019

Amortisation

Disposals

Impairment loss

Foreign exchange differences

At 31 December 2020

Carrying amount

At 31 December 2020

At 31 December 2019

Commence
 operations
$’000

Part 145 
approvals 
$’000

Licences 
and brands 
$’000

Customer 
relations 
$’000

Computer 
software 
$’000

 Total
 $’000

25,921

3,093

540

(2)

(211)

29,341

2,521

(6,528)

390

417

4,000

3,093

–

–

241

7,334

2,521

–

–

417

58

441

–

–

18

517

1,581

–

–

117

2,215

17,566

1,425

540

(2)

(336)

19,193

2,195

(6,528)

833

119

15,812

1,481

3,444

1,306

15,690

–

–

–

–

–

–

(2)

–

1,481

–

3,442

–

–

345

–

(46)

–

195

–

(406)

1,605

15,479

(1,481)

(3,442)

(1,605)

–

–

–

–

18

345

–

(44)

1,549

55

–

–

390

–

599

195

–

(310)

12,204

559

–

833

1

13,597

–

–

–

1,481

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

3,077

367

–

(2)

–

1,481

–

3,442

–

(1,481)

(3,442)

(1,605)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

1

–

–

56

Amortisation and accumulated impairment losses

1,230

11,720

15,869

10,272

26,141

2,272

3,275

8,057

6,817

10,329

10,148

The carrying amount of customer relationships relate to: 

 / FlyerTech: $1,276k (2019: $1,591k); 
 / Europe Ground: $638k (2019: $743k);
 / Gama Aviation Hutchison Holdings Ltd (“GAHH”): nil (2019: $941k); and
 / Europe Air $358k (2019: nil)

Licences and Brands (which include protected intellectual property) have been fully amortised and written-off during the year 
as these are no longer being utilised. 

Commence operations and Part 145 approvals are legacy intangible balances comprising internally generated costs which were 
fully amortised in the prior year, and have been written-off during the year.

Computer software costs comprise internally developed software costs arising in the Group’s myairops® business as well as 
purchased software, such as operational and financial systems. All costs are amortised over their useful economic lives estimated to 
be between three and five years. The carrying value of internally developed software within this balance is $6,729k (2019: $5,310k).

The carrying amount of GAHH acquired intangible assets in Asia Air exceeded the recoverable amount due to uncertainties 
arising from the COVID-19 pandemic that resulted in the customer relationship no longer being active. An impairment charge 
of $833k was recognised in the year to impair the GAHH customer relationship intangible to the recoverable amount of nil.

Impairment charges on other acquired intangibles in 2019 of $540k, which related to customer relationships and brand 
intangibles in the US Ground CGU.

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

87

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALSSTRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS16. Property, plant and equipment

Helicopters
$’000

Leasehold
improvement
 $’000

Aircraft and 
refurbishments
$’000

Fixtures, 
fittings and 
equipment 
$’000

Motor 
vehicles 
$’000

Asset under 
construction
$’000

Cost

At 1 January 2019

Additions

Acquisitions

Capitalised interest

Disposals

Exchange differences

At 31 December 2019 

Additions

Acquisitions

Impairment 

Capitalised interest

Transfers

Disposals

Exchange differences

At 31 December 2020

Accumulated depreciation

At 1 January 2019

Charge for the year

Disposals

Exchange differences

At 31 December 2019

Charge for the year

Disposals

Exchange differences

At 31 December 2020

Carrying amount

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

19,045

–

–

–

8,484

–

1,559

29,088

–

–

–

–

–

679

–

43

722

14,258

752

–

–

(191)

483

15,302

2,413

–

–

–

–

(1,294)

1,838

18,259

4,321

745

(148)

159

5,077

933

(1,294)

1,048

5,764

7,745

1,098

–

–

–

299

9,142

1,883

819

–

–

–

7,617

2,323

120

–

(722)

178

9,516

1,896

251

–

–

–

(35)

352

(1,633)

1,831

2,550

177

1,815

10,703

–

122

–

274

12,914

–

–

–

–

–

8

2,735

61

–

–

–

–

(11)

(12)

12,161

11,861

2,773

1,762

416

–

74

2,252

957

(35)

80

3,254

4,753

1,380

(683)

121

5,571

1,787

(1,570)

1,810

7,598

901

478

–

6

1,385

453

(11)

3

1,830

Total
$’000

33,985

15,053

120

122

(913)

1,242

49,609

25,298

1,070

(4,609)

(4,609)

179

(8,484)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

12,914

179

–

(2,973)

5,568

74,142

11,737

3,019

(831)

360

14,285

4,809

(2,910)

2,984

19,168

54,974

35,324

At 31 December 2020

28,366

At 31 December 2019 

–

12,495

10,225

8,907

6,890

4,263

3,945

943

1,350

During the year and before the helicopters were brought into use, the Group capitalised borrowing costs of $179k (2019: $122k).

As previously reported, deployment of the helicopters occurred on 1 June 2020 in support of a long-term contract. As a 
result, helicopters have been transferred from assets under construction into the helicopters asset class within property, 
plant and equipment. They have been brought into use and depreciated from 1 June 2020.

The assets under construction relating to the investment in the Sharjah Business Aviation Centre project was fully impaired. 
The impairment arose due to uncertainties arising in part from the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Total impairment costs of 
$4,609k (2019: nil) have been recognised during the year.

An acquisition of an air ambulance business in the year included the purchase of aircraft for $819k, included in Aircraft 
and refurbishments, and medical equipment for $251k, included in Fixtures, fittings and equipment.

88 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

/ NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)/ FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020Estimation uncertainty
The key source of estimation uncertainty at the reporting date, relates to the determination of the recoverable amount of nil for 
the Sharjah Business Aviation Centre project. This is based on the Group’s judgement that whilst discussions with the Sharjah 
Airport Authority concerning the project, the prospects for which have been frustrated by the COVID-19 pandemic, are ongoing 
there is currently no clear agreed plan to secure other funding or contract restructure that will enable completion of the project 
or release Gama from the head lease.

Refer to Note 14 for further details on a sensitivity analyses across all CGUs which have goodwill, acquired intangible assets, 
right-of-use assets, property, plant and equipment, computer software and an allocation of corporate assets, using reasonably 
possible changes in the already conservative long-term growth rates and pre-tax discount rates.

17. Subsidiaries and other related undertakings
Details of the Company’s subsidiaries and other related undertakings held directly or indirectly at 31 December 2020 are as follows:

Name
Aerstream  
Limited(1) (8)

Place of 
incorporation
and operation
England and 
Wales

Proportion 
of voting and 
ownership 
interest 2020
100%

Proportion 
of voting and 
ownership 
interest 2019 Nature of business
100%

Airops Software 
Limited(1)

England and 
Wales

100%

100%

Aravco Limited(1) (2)

England and 
Wales

100%

100%

Avialogistics 
Limited(1) (8)

England and 
Wales

100%

100%

Aviation Crewing 
Limited

England and 
Wales

100%

100%

FlyerTech Limited(1) England and 

100%

100%

Wales

Gama Aviation 
(Asset 2) Limited(1) (2)

England and 
Wales

100%

100%

Gama Aviation 
(Engineering) 
Limited(1)
Gama Aviation 
Group Limited(1) (8)

England and 
Wales

England and 
Wales

100%

100%

100%

100%

Gama Aviation 
(Training) 
Limited(1) (8)
Gama Aviation (UK) 
Limited(1)

England and 
Wales

England and 
Wales

100%

100%

100%

100%

GA 259034 
Limited(1) (8)

England and 
Wales

100%

100%

Gama (Engineering) 
Limited(1) (2)

England and 
Wales

100%

100%

GA FM54 
Limited(1) (8)

England and 
Wales

100%

100%

Gama Group 
Limited

England and 
Wales

100%

100%

Gama Leasing 
Limited(1) (8)

England and 
Wales

100%

100%

Gama Support 
Services Limited(1) (2)

England and 
Wales

100%

100%

Dormant and 
struck off after 
reporting date
Dormant

Registered address
1st Floor 25 Templer Avenue, 
Dormant and 
Farnborough, Hampshire, England, 
struck off after 
reporting date
GU14 6FE
Aviation software 1st Floor 25 Templer Avenue, 

Non-trading

Non-trading

Airworthiness 
management

Aviation design 
and engineering

Dormant and 
struck off after 
reporting date
Dormant

Farnborough, Hampshire, England, 
GU14 6FE
1st Floor 25 Templer Avenue, 
Farnborough, Hampshire, England, 
GU14 6FE
1st Floor 25 Templer Avenue, 
Farnborough, Hampshire, England, 
GU14 6FE
1st Floor 25 Templer Avenue, 
Farnborough, Hampshire, England, 
GU14 6FE
1st Floor 25 Templer Avenue, 
Farnborough, Hampshire, England, 
GU14 6FE
1st Floor 25 Templer Avenue, 
Farnborough, Hampshire, England, 
GU14 6FE
1st Floor 25 Templer Avenue, 
Farnborough, Hampshire, England, 
GU14 6FE
1st Floor 25 Templer Avenue, 
Farnborough, Hampshire, England, 
GU14 6FE
1st Floor 25 Templer Avenue, 
Farnborough, Hampshire, England, 
GU14 6FE
1st Floor 25 Templer Avenue, 
Farnborough, Hampshire, England, 
GU14 6FE
1st Floor 25 Templer Avenue, 
Farnborough, Hampshire, England, 
GU14 6FE
1st Floor 25 Templer Avenue, 
Farnborough, Hampshire, England, 
GU14 6FE
1st Floor 25 Templer Avenue, 
Dormant and 
Farnborough, Hampshire, England, 
struck off after 
GU14 6FE
reporting date
Holding company 1st Floor 25 Templer Avenue, 

Dormant and 
struck off after 
reporting date
Dormant and 
struck off after 
reporting date
Aviation 
management

Dormant and 
struck off after 
reporting date
Dormant

Farnborough, Hampshire, England, 
GU14 6FE
1st Floor 25 Templer Avenue, 
Farnborough, Hampshire, England, 
GU14 6FE
1st Floor 25 Templer Avenue, 
Farnborough, Hampshire, England, 
GU14 6FE

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

89

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALSSTRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS17. Subsidiaries and other related undertakings (continued)

Proportion 
of voting and 
ownership 
interest 2020

Proportion 
of voting and 
ownership 
interest 2019 Nature of business

Name

Hangar 8 AOC 
Limited(8)

Hangar 8 
Engineering 
Limited(8)
Hangar 8 
Management 
Limited
Infinity Flight Crew 
Academy Limited(8)

Place of 
incorporation
and operation

England and 
Wales

England and 
Wales

England and 
Wales

England and 
Wales

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

International 
JetClub Limited(2)

England and 
Wales

100%

100%

Ronaldson 
Airmotive 
Limited(1) (2)
Aviation Beauport 
Holdings Limited(1) (7)

Ferron Trading 
Limited(1) (7)

England and 
Wales

100%

100%

Dormant

Jersey

100%

100%

Jersey

100%

100%

Dormant and 
struck off after 
reporting date
Dormant and 
struck off after 
reporting date
Non-trading

Dormant and 
struck off after 
reporting date
Non-trading

Dormant and 
struck off after 
reporting date
Dormant and 
struck off after 
reporting date
Aviation 
management

Registered address

1st Floor 25 Templer Avenue, 
Farnborough, Hampshire, England, 
GU14 6FE
1st Floor 25 Templer Avenue, 
Farnborough, Hampshire, England, 
GU14 6FE
1st Floor 25 Templer Avenue, 
Farnborough, Hampshire, England, 
GU14 6FE
1st Floor 25 Templer Avenue, 
Farnborough, Hampshire, England, 
GU14 6FE
1st Floor 25 Templer Avenue, 
Farnborough, Hampshire, England, 
GU14 6FE
1st Floor 25 Templer Avenue, 
Farnborough, Hampshire, England, 
GU14 6FE
Beauport House L'Avenue De La 
Commune St Peter Jersey JE3 7BY

Beauport House L'Avenue De La 
Commune St Peter Jersey JE3 7BY

Beauport House L'Avenue De La 
Commune St Peter Jersey JE3 7BY

100%

100%

Dormant

UAE

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

49%

49%

100%

100%

Jersey

Gama Aviation 
(Beauport) 
Limited(1)
Gama Aviation 
(Engineering) 
Jersey Limited(1)
Gama Aviation SA(1) Switzerland

Jersey

SAIF Free Zone, 
UAE
United Arab 
Emirates (“UAE”)
UAE

Gama Aviation 
FZC* (1) (5)
Gama Group 
Mena FZE*
Gama Holdings 
FZC*
Gama Support 
Services FZE* (1)

Gama International 
Saudi Arabia(4)

Kingdom of 
Saudi Arabia

49%

49%

Gama Aviation SPV 
Limited (Plc) (6)

UAE

100%

10%

Gama Aviation 
(Engineering) Inc.(1)

Delaware, USA 100%

100%

Gama Aviation 
(Management) Inc.(1)

Delaware, USA 100%

100%

Gama Group Inc.

Delaware, USA 100%

100%

Hong Kong

100%

100%

Gama Aviation 
Engineering (HK) 
Limited(1)
Gama Aviation 
Hutchison Holdings 
Limited(1)

90 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

Beauport House L'Avenue De La 
Commune St Peter Jersey JE3 7BY

Aviation design 
and engineering 
and FBO
Aviation 
management 
Aviation 
management
Holding company SAIF Office Q1-09-067/C, P.O. Box 

Boulevard Georges-Favon 43, 1204 
Genève, Switzerland
SAIF Suite Z-21. P.O. Box 122389, 
Sharjah, UAE

122464, Sharjah, UAE
SAIF Lounge P.O. Box 121954, Sharjah, 
UAE
SAIF Desk Q1-05-123/B, P.O. Box 122553, 
Sharjah, UAE

Aviation design 
and engineering 
and FBO
Aviation 
management

Aviation 
management

Aviation design 
and engineering

6646 Abi Haitham Al Ansari, al Madina 
Square Center – Office 2 & 3, 
Muhammadiyah District, Jeddah 
23624-3270, KSA
2428 Res Co-work 03 Level 24, Al Sila 
Tower, Abu Dhabi Global Market Square, 
Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Corporation Service Company, 251 Little 
Falls Drive, Wilmington, Delaware 19808, 
USA and Two Corporate Drive, Suite 
1050, Shelton, CT 06484
Corporation Service Company, 251 Little 
Falls Drive, Wilmington, Delaware 19808, 
USA and 480 LORSGIP BLVD, 
STRATFORD, CT 06615
Holding company  Corporation Service Company, 251 Little 
Falls Drive, Wilmington, Delaware 19808, 
USA
7th Floor, 81 South Perimeter Road, 
Hong Kong International Airport, Lantau, 
Hong Kong

Aviation design 
and engineering

Aviation 
management 

Hong Kong

100%

100%

Holding company 7th Floor, 81 South Perimeter Road, 

Hong Kong International Airport, Lantau, 
Hong Kong

/ NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)/ FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020Name

Gama Aviation 
Hutchison (Hong 
Kong) Limited(1)
Gama Group (Asia) 
Limited

Star-Gate Aviation 
(Proprietary) 
Limited
Hangar 8 Nigeria 
Limited(3)
Hangar 8 Mauritius 
Limited
GB Aviation 
Holdings LLC(9)

China Aircraft 
Services Limited 
(CASL)

Gama Hutchison 
Aviation Technical 
Service (Beijing) 
Limited(1)
Gama Aviation 
(Cayman) SEZC

Place of 
incorporation
and operation

Proportion 
of voting and 
ownership 
interest 2020

Proportion 
of voting and 
ownership 
interest 2019 Nature of business

Registered address

Hong Kong

100%

100%

Aviation 
management

7th Floor, 81 South Perimeter Road, 
Hong Kong International Airport, Lantau, 
Hong Kong

Hong Kong

100%

100%

Holding company 7th Floor, 81 South Perimeter Road, 

South Africa

100%

100%

Holder of South 
African AOC

Hong Kong International Airport, Lantau, 
Hong Kong
151 Monument Road, Aston Manor 1619 
South Africa

Nigeria

100%

100%

Mauritius

100%

100%

Applicant of 
Nigerian AOC
Holding company *

*

Delaware, USA 50%

50%

Gama Aviation LLC Delaware, USA –

24.5%

Hong Kong

20%

20%

Associate

China

100%

100%

Non-trading

Joint Venture – 
Holding company 
for aviation 
management and 
charter company
Associate

Corporation Service Company, 251 Little 
Falls Drive, Wilmington, Delaware 19808, 
USA

Two Corporate Drive, Suite 1050, 
Shelton, Connecticut, 06484, USA
8th Floor, Main Building, Hangar and 
Workshop Complex, 81 South Perimeter 
Road, Hong Kong International Airport, 
Lantau, Hong Kong
Room 250, 2nd Floor, Building 1, No. 56, 
Zhaoquanying Section, Changjin Road, 
Shunyi District, Beijing

Cayman Islands 100%

100%

Aviation 
Management

Maples Corporate Services Limited, PO 
Box 309, Ugland House, Grand Cayman, 
KY1-1104, Cayman Islands

(1) 

Indicates indirect holding.

(2)  For the year ending 31 December 2020, the below companies were exempt from the requirements to obtain an audit under section 479A of the 
Companies Act 2006 relating to the audit of individual financial statements by parental guarantee. Gama Aviation Plc has indirect holdings in 
these subsidiaries undertaken:

– Aravco Limited, company number 01316174.

– Gama Aviation (Asset 2) Limited, company number 08586412.

– International JetClub Limited, company number 03538780.

– Ronaldson Airmotive Limited , company number 06391499.

– Gama (Engineering) Limited, company number 03745678

– Gama Support Services Limited, company number 02784991

(3)  The consolidated financial statements include amounts relating to Hangar 8 Nigeria Limited, a company established in Lagos, Nigeria. The 

Group holds 11% of the share capital, of which 7% is owned through a wholly owned subsidiary, Hangar8 Mauritius Limited. Whilst the Group 
therefore does not have legal control of this entity, the Directors and officers comprise only management from the Group who have the ability 
to adopt, amend and control the operating and financial policies of the entity. Local regulations prevent the Group holding a legally controlling 
shareholding and therefore 89% of the share capital is held on behalf of the Group by Tinubu Investment Company Limited. Accordingly, the 
entity has been treated as a wholly owned subsidiary in these financial statements.

(4)  No non-controlling interest has been recognised on the remaining 51%, as the Group has the full beneficial interest.

(5)  Gama Aviation Plc holds a 49% shareholding in Gama Aviation FZC. The results of Gama Aviation FZC are fully consolidated within the financial 
statements because Gama Aviation Plc is exposed to variable returns from its involvement and has the ability to affect the returns through its 
power over these companies. Refer to Note 26 for further details.

(6)  Gama Group Mena FZE acquired 90% of the issued share capital on 17 February 2020.

(7)  Struck off after the reporting date

(8)  Application for strike-off filed with Companies House and strike-off expected to complete in the first half of 2021

(9)  GB Aviation Holdings LLC is the entity jointly held with Signature Aviation plc. The Company’s sole asset was its 49% investment in Gama Aviation 
LLC, the Group’s US Air associate, which was disposed of the year, refer to Note 7. The Group’s ownership interest in Gama Aviation LLC is 24.5%.

*  The registered office addresses of these companies are available upon request at the Company’s head office located at 1st Floor, 25 Templer 

Avenue, Farnborough, Hampshire, England, GU14 6FE.

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

91

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALSSTRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS 
 
 
 
 
 
18. Investments accounted for using the equity method 
Details of the Group’s investments accounted for using the equity method at 31 December 2020 are as follows:

Name

Investment

Place of
incorporation and 
operation

Proportion of 
ownership interest

Proportion of voting 
power held

China Aircraft Services Limited (CASL)

Associate

Hong Kong

GB Aviation Holdings LLC*

Joint Venture

USA

20.0%

50.0%

20.0%

50.0%

*  GB Aviation Holdings LLC is the entity jointly held with Signature Aviation plc. The company’s sole asset was its 49% investment in Gama 

Aviation LLC, the Group’s US Air associate, which was disposed in the year, refer to Note 7. At GB Aviation Holdings LLC direction proceeds from 
the disposal were in favour of Gama Group Inc and Signature Aviation plc according to their respective interests. The Group’s ownership interest 
in Gama Aviation LLC is nil after the disposal (2019: 24.5%) and the carrying value of the investment in GB Aviation Holdings LLC is nil.

Details of the Group’s investments accounted for using the equity method at 31 December 2019 were as follows:

Name

Gama Aviation LLC

GB Aviation Holdings LLC*

Investment

Associate

Joint Venture

China Aircraft Services Limited

Associate

Hong Kong

Place of
incorporation and 
operation

Proportion of 
ownership interest

Proportion of voting 
power held

USA

USA

24.5%

50.0%

20.0%

25.0%

50.0%

20.0%

*  GB Aviation Holdings LLC is the entity jointly held with Signature Aviation plc. The company’s sole asset was its 49% investment in Gama 

Aviation LLC, the Group’s US Air associate, which was disposed in the year, refer to Note 7. The Group’s ownership interest in Gama Aviation LLC 
is 24.5%. The Group equity accounted for the consolidated results of GB Aviation Holdings LLC, which included its’ sole undertaking and trading 
entity, Gama Aviation LLC.

On the balance sheet at 31 December 2019, the equity accounted investment in Gama Aviation LLC was presented in current 
assets, as assets held for sale, as completion of the transaction was considered highly probable at 31 December 2019. Refer 
to Note 7 for further details on the disposal.

The results of the equity accounted investments are as follows:

Revenue

Expenditure

Impairment of property, plant and equipment

Impairment of right-of-use assets

Profit/(loss) before tax

Income tax (charge)/credit

Profit/(loss) after tax

Statutory result: Group’s share of net profit/(loss)

Finalisation and reversal of prior year pre-acquisition loss

Statutory result: Share of results from equity accounting

Less adjusting items: 

Group’s share of impairment of property, plant and equipment

Group’s share of impairment of right-of-use assets

Adjusted result: Share of results from equity accounting

Impairment of equity accounted investments

Gama Aviation LLC*

CASL

Year ended 
2020
$’000

Year ended 
2019 
$’000

Year ended 
2020
$’000

Year ended 
2019 
$’000

75,053

436,520

33,389

62,985

(74,732)

(434,323)

(50,432)

(61,033)

–

–

321

(2)

319

78

–

78

–

–

78

–

–

–

(16,433)

(15,732)

2,197

(49,208)

(84)

292

2,113

(48,916)

518

–

518

–

–

518

–

(9,783)

–

(9,783)

3,287

3,146

(3,350)

(3,421)

–

–

1,952

(282)

1,670

334

66

400

–

–

400

–

*  The equity accounting of Gama Aviation LLC was not discontinued after Gama Aviation LLC was held for sale at 31 December 2019 and prior to 
disposal on 2 March 2020. Had this been the case there would have been a $78k increase in share of losses of associates and a $78k increase in 
the profit on disposal of interest in associates. The impact of this reclassification, which has no impact on the statutory loss for the year, is 
considered immaterial. In the prior year, equity accounting of Gama Aviation LLC was for the full year.

92 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

/ NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)/ FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020Impairment is assessed by the recoverable amount which is the higher of the fair value less costs to sell and the VIU. The 
recoverable amount has been determined on the fair value less cost to sell. 

CASL suffered substantial losses, the Group’s share of which amounted to $3,350k of Adjusted EBIT, due to vastly reduced 
commercial aviation volumes at Hong Kong airport, impacted by COVID-19. CASL is in the process of seeking funding to 
continue as a going concern and at the time of reporting the funding hasn’t been secured. Impairment charges of $9,854k 
(2019: nil) have been recognised in adjusting items. $6,433k (2019: nil) relates to an impairment on non-current assets in CASL 
which have been presented outside Adjusted EBIT due to their size, irregular occurrence and to enable better comparability year 
on year. The remaining impairment charge of $3,421k (2019: nil) to reduce the equity accounted investment in CASL from the 
carrying amount to its recoverable amount of $2,000k. The fair value of $2,000k represents a credible offer another CASL 
shareholder received for their 20 percent shareholding in 2021 and is therefore an appropriate basis upon which to measure 
the fair value of the Group’s 20 percent shareholding in CASL. Costs to sell are estimated to be nil. In May 2021, the Group 
also received a similar offer for its 20 percent shareholding in CASL. The Board is currently considering the offer and is in 
negotiations with the counterparty.

Estimation uncertainty
The key source of estimation uncertainty at the reporting date, that may have a significant risk of causing a materially different 
outcome to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next financial year, relates to the determination of the 
recoverable amount on fair value less cost to sell. Changes in the financial performance and outlook for CASL will inevitably 
impact the fair value of the investment to a market participant.

The summary financial positions of the equity accounted investments are as follows:

At 1 January

Other comprehensive income

Share of net profit/(loss)*

Dividends declared

Prior year dividend

Impairment

Transfer to profit on sale*

Transfer to assets held for sale

At 31 December

Gama Aviation LLC

CASL

Year ended 
2020  
$’000

Year ended 
2019  
$’000

Year ended 
2020  
$’000

Year ended 
2019  
$’000

–

–

78

–

–

–

(78)

–

–

2,080

15,112

16,207

–

518

–

–

–

–

(2,598)

92

(9,783)

–

–

(3,421)

–

–

36

400

(1,276)

(255)

–

–

–

–

2,000

15,112

*  The equity accounting of Gama Aviation LLC was not discontinued after Gama Aviation LLC was held for sale at 31 December 2019 and prior to 
disposal on 2 March 2020. Had this been the case there would have been a $78k increase in share of losses of associates and a $78k increase in 
the profit on disposal of interest in associates. The impact of this reclassification, which has no impact on the statutory loss for the year, is 
considered immaterial.

The summary financial positions of the equity accounted investments are as follows:

Total assets

Total liabilities

Net assets/(liabilities)

Group’s share of net assets/(liabilities)

Goodwill*

Impairment

Transfer to assets held for sale

At 31 December

Gama Aviation LLC

CASL

Year ended 
2020  
$’000

Year ended 
2019  
$’000

Year ended 
2020  
$’000

Year ended 
2019  
$’000

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

38,175

63,284

87,216

(26,948)

(46,014)

(18,257)

11,227

2,751

751

(904)

(2,598)

17,270

3,454

1,320

(2,774)

–

68,959

13,792

1,320

–

–

–

2,000

15,112

*  The impairment of $2,774k excludes an adjustment of $647k from the preceding table, which has an impairment of $3,421k. The adjustment is 
in respect of the impact of IFRS 16 on CASL in 2019 and this was due to the timing of final signed accounts being made available in 2019. 
Comparative disclosures have not been restated due to the significant impairment charge taken in the current year, on this investment, which 
make the restatement to 2019 immaterial to the users of the accounts.

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

93

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALSSTRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS19. Inventories

Raw materials and consumables

Work in progress

2020 
$’000

5,922

56

5,978

2019 
$’000

7,182

89

7,271

The Directors consider that the carrying value of inventories is approximately equal to their fair value. The cost of inventories 
recognised as an expense was $16,202k (2019: $30,706k). This includes an amount of $1,520k resulting from a write down of 
inventories (2019: $2,364). 

Nil (2019: $626k) of the write down of inventories is shown in Note 6 as an exceptional item. The remaining write down 
comprises $1,492k in Europe Ground and $28k in US Ground to measure inventories at the lower of cost or net realisable value. 
Included within inventories is an inventory obsolescence allowance of $5,048k (2019: $5,413k).

Estimation uncertainty
The key source of estimation uncertainty at the reporting date, that may have a significant risk of causing a materially different 
outcome to the carrying amounts of inventories within the next financial year, relates to a change in the net realisable value due 
to change in customer demand or obsolescence of certain inventory lines. At 31 December 2020, the Board considers its 
assessment of net realisable value to be appropriate based on best information available.

20. Trade and other receivables

Financial assets

Amounts receivable for the sale of services

Loss allowance

Amounts due from associates

Financial asset at amortised cost

Accrued income**

Financial assets

Non-financial assets

Prepayments**

Other debtors

Total trade and other receivables

Current

Non-current

Total trade and other receivables

2020
$’000

2019
Restated*
$’000

30,792

(6,954)

23,838

970

18,034

14,475

57,317

3,763

1,309

62,389

49,359

13,030

62,389

36,044

(3,896)

32,148

4,265

–

28,387

64,800

12,053

324

77,177

72,956

4,221

77,177

*  Restatements are detailed in Note 2 of the notes to the financial statements.

**  Includes contract assets which are described in further detail below.

Amounts receivable for the sale of services
The average Days Sales Outstanding (DSO) is 62 days (2019: 55 days) due to receivables past due over 120 days increasing year 
on year by $1,427k. Credit controls prior to granting credit and DSO are being actively monitored by management. Where 
appropriate, the Group assesses the potential customer’s credit quality and requests payments on account, as a means of 
mitigating the risk of financial loss from defaults. No interest has been charged on overdue receivables (2019: nil). The Group 
recognises a loss allowance on a customer by customer basis, based on an analysis of the counterparty’s current financial 
position against its current overdue debt. 

As there is no significant financing component to amounts receivable for the sale of services, a provision matrix has been used 
to calculate the expected credit losses for amounts receivable for the sale of services, contract assets and accrued income, 
which is permitted by IFRS 9. The Group carries an expected credit loss allowance of $6,954k (2019: $3,896k). 

94 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

/ NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)/ FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020Amounts receivable for the sale of services include amounts (see below for aged analysis) which are past due at the reporting 
date but against which the Group has not recognised a specific loss allowance because there has not been a significant change 
in credit quality and the amounts are still considered recoverable. No loss allowance is carried for other debtors.

Ageing of unimpaired amounts receivable for the sale of services

Not yet due

Less than 30 days

30-60 days

61-90 days 

91-120 days

Greater than 120 days

Total

Movement in the loss allowance

At 1 January

Impairment losses recognised in income statement in Adjusted result

Impairment losses recognised in income statement in Adjusting items

Amounts written off as uncollectible

Foreign exchange translation gains and losses

At 31 December

2020
$’000

8,590

3,676

2,448

1,467

2,104

5,553

2019 
$’000

12,747

5,283

7,271

1,985

736

4,126

23,838

32,148

2020
$’000

3,896

3,792

(709)

(171)

146

6,954

2019 
$’000

3,198

377

2,010

(1,835)

146

3,896

In determining the recoverability of a trade receivable, the Group considers any change in the credit quality of the trade 
receivable from the date credit was initially granted up to the reporting date.

Ageing of impaired amounts receivable for the sale of services

Not yet due

< 30 days 

30-60 days 

61-90 days 

91-120 days

121+ days

Total

2020
$’000

2019 
$’000

54

43

9

63

73

6,712

6,954

–

663

30

30

356

2,817

3,896

The Directors consider that the carrying amount of trade and other receivables is approximately equal to their fair value.

No general security is normally taken on trade receivables, but may be sought once receivables become past due or the 
financial circumstances of a customer are known or expected to change. However, for trade receivables of $3,452k (2019: 
$2,128m) in Europe Air the Group has liens over the aircraft and the aircraft is currently in our possession which provides security 
while recovery is pursued. In US Ground, for trade receivables of $1,148k (2019: $1,095k) we have claims of lien registered with 
local authorities as well as the FAA on each of the aircraft.

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

95

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALSSTRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS20. Trade and other receivables (continued)
Sensitivity analysis on loss allowance
The estimate of the loss allowance may vary from the actual amounts recovered if an individual becomes unable to pay or able 
to pay. There is a $6,954k loss allowance and if a portion of the impaired receivable balance was recovered there may be 
material credit to the income statement. Similarly, if the unimpaired receivable balance over 120 days of $5,553k was unable 
to be recovered, there may be a material charge to the income statement. However, as noted earlier, there are liens over the 
aircraft relating to unimpaired receivables over 120 days, amounting to $4,600k.

Amounts due from associates
Amounts due from associates of $970k (2019: $4,265k) represent balances arising in the ordinary course of business between 
the Group and its associate companies, China Aircraft Services Limited and Gama Aviation LLC before its disposal in 2020 
(Note 7). Amounts due to associates of $1,046k (2019: $4,363k) (see Note 24) also arise in the ordinary course of business 
between the Group and the same associate companies. The net payable to associates of $76k is expected to be settled in the 
next twelve months and represents:

 / A receivable due to the Group of $970k from China Aircraft Services Limited; and
 / A payable due from the Group of $1,046k to China Aircraft Services Limited.

These amounts are disclosed as related party transactions in Note 36.

Amounts due from associates do not include a loss allowance (2019: nil loss allowance). The $1,046k payable due from the 
Group is expected to mitigate any credit losses on the $970k receivable due to the Group.

Financial asset at amortised cost
Following the disposal of the US Air Associate a financial asset measured at amortised cost was recognised for deferred 
consideration on the sale. At 31 December 2020 the carrying amount is $18,034k (2019: nil), with $5,004k in current asset and 
$13,030k in non-current assets. Refer to Note 7 for further details. No expected credit loss allowance has been recognised on 
this financial asset. Refer to Note 35 for further details on the expected receipt of this receivable.

Accrued income
Accrued income is expected to be billed within the next twelve months. The reduction in accrued income year on year is largely 
driven by managed aircraft revenue, which has reduced due to lower flying activity as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Contract assets
As part of a Fleet Maintenance programme on a long-term contract, contract assets of $579k (2019: $2,112k) have been 
recognised in prepayments.

Contract assets arising from design and modification projects of $1,419k (2019: $2,575k) have been included within the 
accrued income. 

As previously reported, the Group commenced all Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS) on behalf of the Scottish 
Ambulance Service on 1 June 2020 using its fleet of three Airbus H145 helicopters. In support of this long-term contract, 
contract assets of $1,692k (2019: $456k) are included within prepayments.

Total contract assets are $3,690k (2019: $5,143k).

96 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

/ NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)/ FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 202021. Borrowings

Secured borrowings at amortised cost

Other loans

Bank borrowings

Unsecured borrowing at amortised cost

Paycheck Protection Program

Total borrowings

Other loans

Paycheck Protection Program

Bank borrowings

Amount due for settlement within 12 months

Other loans

Bank borrowings

Amount due for settlement after 12 months

*  Restatements are detailed in Note 2 of the notes to the financial statements.

Analysis of borrowings by currency:

31 December 2020

Paycheck Protection Program

Bank borrowings

31 December 2019

Other loans

Bank borrowings

2020
$’000

–

52,197

1,000

53,197

–

1,000

–

1,000

–

52,197

52,197

2019
Restated*
$’000

1,475

44,767

–

46,242

848

–

–

848

627

44,767

45,394

Sterling 
$’000

US Dollars
 $’000

Euros
$’000

Total
 $’000

–

1,000

52,197

52,197

–

1,000

–

23,072

23,072

1,475

8,235

9,710

–

–

–

–

13,460

13,460

1,000

52,197

53,197

1,475

44,767

46,242

During the year the Group received funds under the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) in the form of a loan arrangement 
from Citibank guaranteed by the US government, which is specifically intended to help businesses maintain their US workforce 
during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Group made the application in good faith and in the belief that the PPP loan request was 
necessary and otherwise in accordance with the then applicable rules, to support its ongoing operations given the economic 
uncertainty caused by the pandemic. $5,753k funds were received on 12 May 2020 and was initially recognised as borrowings 
in current liabilities. $4,753k of these funds are considered by the Company to be eligible for forgiveness within the terms of the 
PPP and have therefore been recognised as income against the related expenses in the income statement, reducing the amount 
of borrowings at the period end to $1,000k. Confirmation of partial loan forgiveness is expected within 12 months from the 
balance sheet date. Refer to Note 2 (w) and Note 3 for further details.

Other loans were secured by assets and settled in full at the reporting date. Interest arose at an average of 5.4% (2019: 6.1%).

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

97

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALSSTRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS21. Borrowings (continued)
The other principal features of the Group’s bank borrowings are as follows.

I.  Bank borrowings in 2020 of $52,197k (2019: $44,767k) comprise drawdowns from a revolving credit facility (the “RCF”) 

and a term loan (the “Loan”) both secured with HSBC

II.  The RCF, which is presented in non-current liabilities, is settled and drawdown on a cyclical basis with no right from the 

bank to demand full repayment within the next twelve months

III.  A letter of awareness has been provided by CK Hutchison Holdings Ltd (CKHH), which has an indirect shareholding of 

29.8% in the Group, that CKHH’s current intention, while any amount is outstanding under the facility, is not to reduce its 
shareholding in the Group below 25.0% without consent from the lender or discharge of the facility. No legal implications 
are imposed on CKHH

IV.  The revolving credit facility is $50,000k, and $24,749k (2019: $5,233k) was undrawn at the end of the reporting period

V.  During 2020 the Group completed the purchase of three Airbus H145 helicopters, which came into use on 1 June 2020 
in support of a long-term contract. The purchase was funded through a £20m Loan. The Loan is separate from the RCF 
which was transferred from RBS to HSBC on improved terms in November 2019

VI.  The Loan and the RCF (collectively the “Facilities”) are subject to customary banking security arrangements 

VII. During the year the Group issued a debenture as security against the Loan and RCF

Interest

Maturity

Facility
’000

Drawn 
(Local 
currency)
’000

Drawn
(Presentation 
currency)
 $’000 

LIBOR + 0.94% 14 November 2022

USD 50,000

GBP 18,500

LIBOR + 1.12%

31 January 2023

GBP 20,000

GBP 20,000

Interest

Maturity

Facility
’000

Drawn 
(Local 
currency)
’000

Drawn
(Presentation 
currency)
 $’000 

LIBOR + 0.94% 14 November 2022

USD 50,000

GBP 17,500

USD 8,500

EUR 12,000

25,251 

27,298 

52,549

(352)

52,197

23,072

8,500

13,460

45,032

(265)

44,767

Bank borrowing before arrangement fees

Capitalised loan arrangement fees

Bank borrowings

2020

RCF

Term loan

2019

RCF

Bank borrowing before arrangement fees

Capitalised loan arrangement fees

Bank borrowings

98 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

/ NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)/ FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 202022. Deferred tax
The following are the major deferred tax liabilities and assets recognised by the Group and movements thereon during the 
current and prior reporting period.

Non-
deductible 
acquired 
intangibles
$’000

Fixed asset
and other 
temporary 
differences
$’000

Deferred 
consideration 
on US air 
associate 
temporary 
differences 
$’000

At 1 January 2019

Acquisitions

Credit/(charge) in year (Note 11)

Exchange differences

At 31 December 2019, as reported

Restatement*

At 31 December 2019, as restated

Acquisitions

Credit/(charge) in year (Note 11)

Exchange differences

At 31 December 2020

(232)

(139)

371

–

–

–

–

(62)

5

–

(57)

(389)

–

(440)

10

(819)

662

(157)

–

62

(23)

(118)

Tax losses
 $’000 

1,926

–

303

23

2,252

(662)

1,590

–

(561)

23

Total 
$’000

1,305

(139)

234

33

1,433

–

1,433

(62)

(3,480)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

(2,986)

–

(2,986)

1,052

(2,109)

*  Restatements are detailed in Note 2 of the notes to the financial statements.

Non-deductible acquired intangibles represent the value of the deferred tax liability which arises on the fair value of acquired 
intangibles which are not deductible for tax purposes. The liability is valued at the tax rate applicable to the jurisdiction where 
the intangibles are located.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset where the Group has a legally enforceable right to do so. The following is the 
analysis of the deferred tax balances for financial reporting purposes:

Deferred tax asset

Deferred tax liability

Net deferred tax (liability)/asset

The Group has the following tax losses:

UK

US

KSA

HK

Tax losses

2020
Recognised
$’000

2019
Recognised
$’000

2020
Unrecognised
$’000

2019
Unrecognised
$’000

2,321

6,528

–

–

3,389

4,516

1,511

588

8,849

10,004

29,184

19,595

–

–

5,095

34,279

–

695

6,175

26,465

The above losses represent the following value at tax rates applicable at the balance sheet date:

UK

US

KSA

HK

2020
Recognised
$’000

2019
Recognised
Restated*
$’000

441

611

–

–

644

565

287

94

Potential tax benefit of tax losses

1,052

1,590

*  Restatements are detailed in Note 2 of the notes to the financial statements.

2020
Unrecognised
$’000

2019
Unrecognised
$’000

5,545

3,723

–

–

968

6,513

–

132

988

2020 
$’000

–

(2,109)

(2,109)

2020
Total
 $’000 

31,505

6,528

–

5,095

43,128

2020
Total
 $’000 

5,986

611

–

968

2019
 $’000

2,252

(819)

1,433

2019
Total 
$’000

22,984

4,516

2,206

6,763

36,469

2019
Total 
$’000

4,367

565

419

1,082

6,433

4,843

7,565

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020 

99

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALSSTRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS22. Deferred tax (continued)
The Group has not recognised a deferred tax asset in respect of losses brought forward of $6,513k (2019: $4,843k) because the 
future recoverability of the asset is uncertain. Recognising the inherent uncertainty in the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic future 
profitable projections beyond the current year forecast period are uncertain and therefore these deferred tax assets have not 
been recognised, see Note 15 for further details on projections.

Losses in the UK and Hong Kong can be carried forward indefinitely. US losses can be carried forward for up to seven years.

The Group is able to recognise the deferred tax asset on tax losses of $1,052k (2019: $1,590k) and its expected utilisation in 
future periods based on future profitable projections for that entity in which the deferred tax asset arose. 

No deferred tax liabilities have been recognised for temporary differences associated with investment in associates.

23. Obligations under leases

The Group leases many assets including property, aircraft, vehicles, fixtures, fittings and equipment. Information about leases 
for which the Group is a lessee is presented below.

Right-of-use assets

Cost

At 1 January 2019

Additions

Exchange differences

At 31 December 2019

Additions

Derecognition

Exchange differences

At 31 December 2020

Accumulated depreciation

At 1 January 2019

Charge for the year – admin expenses

Charge for the year – cost of sales

Impairment

Exchange differences

At 31 December 2019

Charge for the year – admin expenses

Charge for the year – cost of sales

Derecognition

Impairment

Exchange differences

At 31 December 2020

Net book value at 31 December 2020

Net book value at 31 December 2019

Leasehold 
property
$’000

Fixtures, 
fittings and 
equipment
$’000

Aircraft
$’000

Vehicles
$’000

Total
$’000

50,621

–

975

51,596

6,846

(2,539)

1,595

57,498

–

671

5,189

2,341

69

8,270

521

5,582

(2,539)

7,013

691

19,538

37,960

43,326

70

–

2

72

–

–

2

74

–

46

–

–

–

46

19

–

–

–

4

69

5

26

18.465

–

653

19,118

–

(19,417)

299

–

–

–

9,927

–

358

10,285

–

5,052

(15,574)

–

237

–

–

8,833

126

73

6

205

–

–

8

213

–

37

36

–

2

75

–

74

–

–

7

156

57

130

69,282

73

1,636

70,991

6,846

(21,956)

1,904

57,785

–

754

15,152

2,341

429

18,676

540

10,708

(18,113)

7,013

939

19,763

38,022

52,315

100 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

/ NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)/ FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020Lease liabilities
Maturity analysis – contractual undiscounted cash flows

Less than one year

One to five years

More than five years

Total undiscounted lease liabilities at 31 December

Lease liabilities included in the statement of financial position at 31 December

Discounted lease liabilities

Accruals for lease payments 

Current

Non-current

Total lease liabilities at 31 December

Lease liability

At 1 January 2019

Additions

Finance expense

Lease payments 

Exchange differences

At 31 December 2019

Additions

Finance expense

Derecognition

Lease payments 

Exchange differences

At 31 December 2020

Leasehold 
property
$’000

50,621

–

2,524

(6,610)

1,282

47,817

6,846

2,592

–

(8,094)

264

49,425

Fixtures, 
fittings and 
equipment
$’000

70

–

2

(6)

(46)

20

–

–

–

(6)

(9)

5

Aircraft
$’000

18,466

–

529

(7,421)

654

12,228

–

147

(4,083)

(7,878)

(414)

–

2020 
$’000

8,404 

21,172 

45,776 

75,352

5,531

317

5,848

43,644

49,492

Vehicles
$’000

125

73

6

(25)

(40)

139

–

4

–

(44)

(37)

62

2019
$’000

19,811

23,835

38,173

81,819

12,527

3,839

16,366

43,838

60,204

Total
$’000

69,282

73

3,061

(14,062)

1,850

60,204

6,846

2,743

(4,083)

(16,022)

(196)

49,492

Following the settlement of all aircraft leases in the year a $240k profit has been recognised in derecognition of the related 
right-of-use assets and lease liabilities.

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020  101

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALSSTRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS23. Obligations under leases (continued)
Amounts recognised in profit and loss
Depreciation charge of right-of-use assets 

Leasehold property

Fixtures, fittings and equipment

Aircraft

Vehicles

Total

2020 
$’000

6,103

19

5,052

74

2019
$’000

5,860

46

9,927

73

11,248

15,906

Expenses relating to short-term leases of twelve months or less total $740k (2019: $1,681k). There are no expenses relating 
to low value assets or expenses relating to variable lease payments.

Impact of IFRS 16 adjustments to the income statement

The following table reflects the impact of IFRS 16 adjustments on Gross Profit, Adjusted EBIT and Profit before tax. The CODM reviews 
monthly internal reporting on a pre-IFRS 16 basis and pre-IFRS 16 adjusted EBIT by reportable segment is presented in Note 4.

Operating lease expense reversal in cost of sales

Depreciation charge on right of use assets

Impact on Gross Profit

Operating lease expense reversal in administrative expenses

Impact on EBITDA

Depreciation charge on right of use assets

Impact on Adjusted EBIT (Note 4)

Impairment losses

Impact on EBIT

Interest expense on lease liabilities (Note 10)

Total amount recognised in the income statement

2020 
$’000

11,671

(10,708)

963

2,062

3,025

(540)

2,485

(7,013)

(4,528)

(2,743)

(7,271)

2019
$’000

15,343

(15,152)

191

2,864

3,055

(754)

2,301

(2,341)

(40)

(3,061)

(3,101)

An impairment loss of $7,013k has been recognised in relation to the right-of-use leased asset at Sharjah Airport (2019: $2,341k 
at Fairoaks Airport).

Average incremental borrowing rates applied across the Group were:

Leasehold property

Vehicles

Fixtures, fittings and equipment

Aircraft

2020
%

5.5

3.9

4.6

3.9

2019
%

5.5

3.9

4.6

3.9

Property leases with a remaining lease term of more than ten years have been adjusted to reflect the additional security afforded 
by the leased asset on the cost of borrowing. An asset specific adjustment of 0.69% has been applied to the rates of these leases.

In June 2017 the Group entered into a non-cancellable Build-Operate-Transfer and Service Concession agreement with Sharjah 
Airport Authority under which the Group is committed to construct a Business Aviation Centre (BAC) at Sharjah Airport. The 
agreement runs from June 2017 until June 2042 with a ten-year extension option to June 2052. The ten-year extension has not 
been formalised at the date of signing the financial statements. The lease term for IFRS 16 accounting purposes has not included 
the ten-year extension because the option to extend is not reasonably certain. The lease liability has been discounted at an 
incremental borrowing rate of 7.3% (2019: 7.3%). The Sharjah BAC includes a nil (2019: $7,339k) right-of-use asset and $7,441k 
(2019: $7,681k) obligation under leases at 31 December 2020.

102 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

/ NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)/ FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 202024. Trade and other payables 

Financial liabilities

Trade and other payables

Accruals

Amounts due to associates

Non-financial liabilities

Other taxation and social security

Income received in advance

2020 
$’000

2019

Restated*
$’000

11,484

15,853

1,046

28,383

5,002

6,689

11,691

22,209

15,958

4,363

42,530

2,000

7,823

9,823

Total trade and other payables

40,074

52,353

*  Restatements are detailed in Note 2 of the notes to the financial statements.

Trade payables and accruals principally comprise amounts outstanding for trade purchases and ongoing costs. The average 
Days Payables Outstanding (DPO) is 29 days (2019: 39 days).

No interest is charged on the trade payables. The Group has financial risk management policies in place that target settlement 
within agreed credit terms. The Directors consider that the carrying amount of trade payables approximates to their fair value.

Income received in advance relates to advance payments for operating expenses incurred by the Group on managed aircraft 
in the Air Division prior to these expenses being billed to the customer. The outstanding performance obligations are expected 
to be fulfilled within the next twelve months. Income received in advance represents a contract liability, see Note 33 for other 
contract liabilities. Income received in advance decreased year on year due to less managed aircraft in the current year.

Amounts due to associates of $1,046k (2019: $4,363k) represent balances arising in the ordinary course of business between the 
Group and its associate company, China Aircraft Services Limited. These amounts are disclosed as related party transactions 
in Note 36.

25. Issued capital and reserves

Ordinary shares: authorised, issued and fully paid

At 1 January 2019

At 31 December 2019

At 31 December 2020

Number

£

$’000

63,636,279

635,862

63,636,279

635,862

63,636,279

635,862

953

953

953

Share capital represents the amount subscribed for share capital at nominal value. The Company has one class of ordinary 
shares with a nominal value of £0.01 and no right to fixed income.

Share premium

At 1 January 2019

At 31 December 2019

Balance at 31 December 2020

$’000

63,473

63,473

63,473

Share premium represents the amount subscribed for share capital in excess of nominal value, net of placement fees of £1,526k 
or $1,987k (2019: £1,526k or $1,987k).

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020  103

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALSSTRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS25. Issued capital and reserves (continued)
Other reserves

At 1 January 2019

Share-based payment expense (Note 31)

Merger
relief
reserve
$’000

Reverse 
takeover 
reserve
$’000

Other 
reserve
 $’000

108,595

(95,828)

20,336

–

–

–

Share-
based 
payment 
reserve
$’000

834

861

Total
$’000

33,937

861

Balance at 31 December 2019

108,595

(95,828)

20,336

1,695

34,798

Share-based payment expense (Note 31)

–

–

–

562

562

Balance at 31 December 2020

108,595

(95,828)

20,336

2,257

35,360

The merger relief reserve represents differences between the fair value of the consideration transferred and the nominal value 
of the shares. In 2015, this occurred as a result of the reverse takeover. The reserve was increased in 2016 upon the acquisition 
of Aviation Beauport Limited when shares were included as part of the consideration.

The reverse takeover reserve represents the balance of the amount attributable to equity after adjusting the accounting 
acquirer’s capital to reflect the capital structure of the legal parent in a reverse takeover.

Other reserve is the result of the application of merger accounting to reflect the combination of the results of Gama 
Aviation (Holdings) Jersey Limited with those of Gama Holding FZC, following the share for share exchange transacted 
on 16 December 2014.

The share-based payment reserve is used to recognise the value of equity-settled share-based payments provided to 
employees, including key management personnel, as part of their remuneration. Refer to Note 31 for further details of 
these plans.

There is an employee benefit trust that is affiliated with the Group, however the Group does not have control of this trust and 
as a result, the trust is not consolidated and no own share reserve is recognised. At the end of the reporting period, there are 
219,310 (2019: 219,310) shares which are held in the employee benefit trust. The fair value of these shares at 31 December 2020 
was £84k (2019: £138k).

26. Non-controlling interest

Balance at 1 January 2019

Total comprehensive income attributable to minority interests

Balance at 31 December 2019

Total comprehensive income attributable to minority interests

Balance at 31 December 2020

$’000

656

95

751

45

796

The non-controlling interest in the current and prior year relates to a 49% shareholding in Gama Aviation FZC, which is 
consolidated as there is an 80% profit sharing ratio attributable to the Group. As a result, a 20% non-controlling interest 
has been recognised in the current and prior year. In addition, the Group has a call option on the remaining shareholding.

104 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

/ NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)/ FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 202027. Net cash generated by operating activities

Loss before tax

Adjustments for:

Finance income (Note 9)

Finance costs (Note 10)

Depreciation of property, plant and equipment (Note 16)

Depreciation of right-of-use assets in administrative expenses (Note 23)

Depreciation of right-of-use assets in cost of sales (Note 23)

Amortisation of intangible assets (Note 15)

Impairment of right-of-use assets (Note 23)

Impairment of property, plant and equipment

Impairment of equity accounted investment in associate

Impairment of non-current assets within share of results from equity accounted investments

Impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets (Note 15)

Loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment

Share of loss/(profit) of associates (Note 18)

Profit on disposal of interest in associate

Utilisation of PPP loan

Share-based payment (Note 31)

2020 
$’000

2019
Restated**
$’000

(8,239)

(10,964)

(1,535)

(695)

3,940

4,809

540

10,708

2,195

7,013

4,609

3,421

6,433

833

63

3,272

(7,278)

(4,753)

562

4,657

3,019

754

15,152

1,425

2,341

–

–

–

540

82

(918)

–

–

861

Operating cash inflow before movements in working capital

26,593

16,254

Unrealised foreign exchange movements

Increase in gross inventories

Increase in inventory obsolescence (Note 19)

Decrease/(increase) in gross receivables

Increase in loss allowance for receivables (Note 20)

(Decrease)/increase in payables

Increase in deferred revenue

Increase in provisions

Working capital movements

Cash generated by operations

Taxes paid

Net cash generated by operating activities

843

(80)

1,520

10,161

3,083

(12,050)

6,365

333

10,175

36,768

(3,085)

33,683

226

(2,397)

2,364

(22,208)

2,387

3,757

1,189

1,115

(13,567)

2,687

(992)

1,695

* 

Included within cash generated by operations is cash outflows on exceptional items of $0.7m in the year (2019: $7.8m)

**  Restatements are detailed in Note 2 of the notes to the financial statements

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020  105

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALSSTRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS28. Changes in liabilities arising from financing activities
Changes in liabilities arising from financing activities are tabulated below.

Borrowings

Obligations under leases

Long-term 
$’000

Short-term 
$’000

Long-term 
$’000

Short-term 
$’000

At 1 January 2019, as reported

Restatement*

At 1 January 2019, as restated

Cash flows:

Repayments

Proceeds

Lease payments

Non-cash:

Initial application of IFRS 16

Lease additions*

Interest on lease liabilities

Foreign currency translation on borrowings in profit 
or loss (Note 9)

Exchange differences*

Arrangement fee on old facility written-off

Arrangement fee movement on new facility

Other non-cash movements

–

12,522

10,853

10,853

(10,853)

1,669

(32,094)

65,563

–

–

–

–

(693)

1,411

398

(93)

49

(821)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

Total 
$’000

12,522

–

12,522

(32,915)

65,563

–

–

–

–

–

(14,062)

(14,062)

–

–

–

–

–

–

43,838

25,444

69,282

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

73

3,061

–

1,850

–

–

–

73

3,061

(693)

3,261

398

(93)

49

At 31 December 2019, as restated

45,394

848

43,838

16,366

106,446

Cash flows:

Repayments

Proceeds

Lease payments

Non-cash:

Interest on lease liabilities

Lease additions

Derecognition

Loan forgiveness

Foreign currency translation on borrowings in profit 
or loss (Note 9)

Exchange differences

Amortisation of arrangement fees (Note 10)

Arrangement fee movement on new facility

Reclassification

At 31 December 2020

*  Restatements are detailed in Note 2 of the financial statements.

(23,623)

28,234

(848)

5,753

–

–

–

–

–

178

1,872

168

(26)

–

–

–

–

–

(4,753)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

6,158

(2,110)

–

–

–

–

–

(4,242)

52,197

1,000

43,644

–

–

(24,471)

33,987

(16,022)

(16,022)

2,743

688

(1,973)

–

–

(196)

–

–

4,242

5,848

2,743

6,846

(4,083)

(4,753)

178

1,676

168

(26)

–

102,689

106 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

/ NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)/ FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 202029. Contingent assets and liabilities
The Group had no contingent assets at 31 December 2020 (2019: nil). The Group had material contingent liabilities at 
31 December 2020 in respect of:

A claim for unspecified damages was lodged against the Group’s US subsidiary Gama Aviation (Engineering) Inc. (“GAEI”) in 
May 2020 in relation to alleged negligent maintenance and paintwork undertaken on an aircraft. The case has been dormant 
so far as it relates to GAEI since the case is predominantly progressing between the primary defendant and the claimant. In the 
interim GAEI’s application for motion to strike the case is pending hearing. It is not practical to estimate the potential effect of 
this claim, but legal advice indicates that GAEI has strong merits in defending the claim.

A subsidiary of the Group, Gama Support Services FZE (“GSSF”), entered into a Build Operate & Transfer Agreement (“BOT”) 
and a Concession Agreement with Sharjah Airport Authority (“SAA”) on 1 July 2017. Under the BOT GSSF agreed to procure 
the design and construction of the buildings and other structures comprising a Business Aviation Centre and hangars at Sharjah 
Airport, UAE and to use reasonable endeavours to ensure that the completion of the construction occurs by the construction 
completion date as envisaged under the BOT. The Group is in discussion with SAA concerning these agreements, the prospects 
for which have been frustrated by the COVID-19 pandemic. This has resulted in related assets under construction and right-of-
use assets being impaired as described in Note 6 above. SAA may terminate the BOT if there is a breach of any material 
obligations under the BOT which remain unremedied. In the event GSSF fails to comply with its construction obligations under 
the BOT, SAA will have the rights to seek compensation for any damage or loss it sustains. Pending conclusion of the on-going 
discussions with SAA, it is not possible to estimate the potential contingent liability.

30. Provisions for liabilities 

At 1 January

Charged to the income statement during the year

Utilised during the year

Additions for dilapidations on new leases

Foreign exchange

Discounting (Note 10)

Transferred from accruals

At 31 December

Amount due for settlement within 12 months

Amount due for settlement after 12 months

Total provisions

2020 
$’000

1,115

471

(462)

312

33

28

–

1,497

679

818

1,497

 2019 
$’000

–

1,067

(503)

–

24

35

492

1,115

521

594

1,115

Provisions as at 31 December 2020 include a closure provision of $665k (2019: $620k), a dilapidations provision of $332k (2019: 
$50k) and an employees end of service indemnity provision of $500k (2019: $443k).

The dilapidations provision increased due to a lease entered into during 2020 for the new head office building in Farnborough 
with a dilapidation provision recognised of $312k (2019: nil). In the prior year, dilapidation obligations were in place on various 
other property leases. 

The closure provision includes $486k relating to the cessation of the Group’s business activities at Fairoaks Airport and the 
associated unavoidable costs. The obligation under leases, contains the related lease liability at Fairoaks (see Note 23). Refer to 
Note 35 for non-adjusting events after the reporting date related to the business activities at Fairoaks airport. During the year 
the Group recognised redundancy provisions of $173k. This provision relates to the reduction of business activities in Saudi 
Arabia, reported within the Middle East Air Division. In addition, there was $6k of other closure provisions.

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020  107

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALSSTRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS30. Provisions for liabilities (continued)
Provision for employees’ end of service indemnity is made in accordance with the UAE labour laws and is based on current 
remuneration and cumulative years of service at the reporting date.

Dilapidations provision

Employee indemnity provision

Closure provision

2020 
$’000

332

500

665

1,497

 2019 
$’000

50

443

620

1,115

31. Share-based payments
Equity-settled share option scheme
No options were granted during 2020. Options were granted on 17 June 2019 to certain employees of the Group. Options are 
exercisable at a price equal to £0.92. The vesting period is three years. If options remain unexercised after a period of ten years 
from the grant date, the options expire. Options are forfeited if the employee leaves the Group before the options vest and is 
a “bad leaver”. If the employee is a “good leaver”, the only shares forfeited are the proportion of the original shares granted that 
relate to the period after resignation and prior to vesting.

Details of the options outstanding during the year are:

At 1 January

Granted during the year

Forfeited during the year

At 31 December

Exercisable at 31 December

The estimated fair value of the options granted in 2019 is $465,880.

The inputs into the Black-Scholes model are as follows:

Share price, US$ cents

Exercise price, US$ cents

Expected volatility

Expected life, years

Risk-free rate

Expected dividend yields

2020 
’000

3,747

–

(446)

3,301

1,503

2019 
’000

2,731

1,226

(210)

3,747

670

 2019 

92.50

91.50

41.19%

6.5

0.72%

2.16%

Expected volatility was determined by calculating the historical volatility of the Group’s share price over a historical 6.5 year 
period prior to grant. The Group recognises total expenses of $562k (2019: $861k) related to equity settled share-based 
payment transactions in the year.

Refer to Note 35 for details of share option transactions approved after the reporting date.

32. Retirement benefit schemes
The Group operates defined contribution retirement benefit schemes for all qualifying employees. The assets of the schemes 
are held separately from those of the Group in funds under the control of independent trustees. As at 31 December 2020, 
contributions of $261k (2019: $259k) due in respect of the current reporting period had not been paid over to the schemes. 

108 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

/ NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)/ FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 202033. Deferred revenue

Deferred revenue 

Current

Non-current

Total

2020
$’000

13,367

12,676

691

13,367

2019
Restated*
$’000

7,089

2,707

4,382

7,089

*  Restatements are detailed in Note 2 of the notes to the financial statements.

The deferred revenue arises in respect of management fee, maintenance contracts and “software as a service” (SaaS) contracts 
invoiced in advance, all of which are expected to be settled in the next twelve months, with the exception of non-current 
balances which are expected to be recognised in twelve to fifteen months. Deferred revenue also arises on licensing revenue 
connected to the disposal of the US Air Associate with $625k recognised as non-current and $3,750k recognised as current. 
See Note 7 for further details on licensing revenue. Deferred revenue represents a contract liability.

Deferred revenue has increased year on year primarily due to $4,375k of US Air associate licencing revenue as noted above, 
a new SaaS contract in myairops® with $667k deferred, and the acquisition of the trade and assets to provide air ambulance 
services for the Government of Jersey and the Government of Guernsey in the year.

Contract liabilities
Deferred revenue of $13,367k (2019: $7,089k) is a contract liability and so too is income received in advance, as shown in Note 
24, of $6,689k (2019: $7,823k). Total contract liabilities are $20,056k (2019: $14,912k).

34. Financial instruments

Financial assets and liabilities as defined by IFRS 9 and their estimated fair values are as follows:

At 31 December 2020

Financial assets

Cash and cash equivalents

Trade and other receivables (Note 20)

Financial liabilities

Trade and other payables (Note 24)

Lease obligation (Note 23)

Borrowings (Note 21)

Net financial assets/(liabilities)

At 31 December 2019

Financial assets

Cash and cash equivalents

Trade and other receivables (Note 20)

Financial liabilities

Trade and other payables (Note 24)

Borrowing (Note 21)

Lease obligation (Note 23)

Net financial assets/(liabilities)

Financial 
assets at 
amortised 
cost
$’000

Financial 
liabilities at 
amortised  
cost
$’000

Book
value
 total
$’000

Fair
 value
total
$’000

16,136

57,317

–

–

16,136

57,317

16,136

57,317

–

–

–

(28,383)

(28,383)

(28,383)

(49,492)

(49,492)

(49,492)

(53,197)

(53,197)

(53,197)

73,453

(131,072)

(57,619)

(57,619)

Financial 
assets at 
amortised 
cost 
$’000

Financial 
liabilities at 
amortised 
cost
$’000

Book
value
total
$’000

Fair
value
total
$’000

8,463

64,800

–

–

8,463

64,800

8,463

64,800

–

–

–

(42,530)

(42,530)

(42,530)

(46,242)

(46,242)

(46,242)

(60,204)

(60,204)

(60,204)

73,263

(148,976)

(75,713)

(75,713)

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020  109

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALSSTRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS34. Financial instruments (continued)
The fair value of cash and cash equivalents, trade and other receivables and trade and other payables approximate their 
carrying amounts due to the short-term maturities of these instruments. The fair value of lease obligations is calculated using 
the incremental borrowing rate. 

Financial risk management objectives
The Group is exposed to financial risks in respect of:

 / Capital risk;
 / Foreign currency;
 / Interest rates;
 / Credit risk; and 
 / Liquidity risk

A description of each risk, together with the policy for managing risk, is given below. 

34.1 Capital risk management
The Group manages its capital to ensure that the Company and its subsidiaries will be able to continue as going concerns while 
maximising the return to stakeholders through the optimisation of the debt and equity balances. 

The capital structure of the Group consists of debt, which includes the borrowings disclosed in Note 21 and obligations under 
leases disclosed in Note 23, cash and cash equivalents and equity, comprising issued capital, reserves and accumulated profit 
as disclosed in the consolidated statement of changes in equity and in Note 25. 

The Board of Directors reviews the capital structure on a regular basis. As part of this review, the Committee considers the cost 
of capital and the risks associated with each class of capital, against the purpose for which the debt is intended.

A combination of leases and borrowing are taken out to fund assets utilised by the Group. Borrowings are also secured to 
support the ongoing operations and future growth of the Group.

34.2 Market risk
The Group’s activities expose it primarily to the financial risks of changes in foreign currency exchange rates and interest 
rates. There has been no change to the Group’s exposure to market risks or the manner in which these risks are managed 
and measured. 

34.2.1 Foreign currency risk management
The Group undertakes transactions denominated in foreign currencies; consequently, exposures to exchange rate fluctuations 
arise. In particular, the Group is exposed to Sterling and Euro exchange rate fluctuations. The Group seeks to reduce foreign 
exchange exposures arising from transactions in various currencies through a policy of matching, as far as possible, receipts 
and payments across the Group in each individual currency. 

110 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

/ NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)/ FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020The table below summarises the FX exposure on the net monetary position of entities against their respective functional 
currency, expressed in each group’s presentational currency:

GBP
$’000

USD
$’000

EUR
$’000

HKD
$’000

Other
$’000

Total
$’000

At 31 December 2020

Borrowings

Entities with functional currency USD

–

(1,000)

Entities with functional currency GBP

Total borrowings

(52,197)

(52,197)

–

(1,000)

Obligations under leases

Entities with functional currency USD

–

(14,390)

Entities with functional currency GBP

(35,102)

–

Total obligation under leases

(35,102)

(14,390)

Cash

Entities with functional currency USD

Entities with functional currency GBP

Total cash

13

4,022

4,035

6,017

5,309

11,326

Net trade financial assets

Entities with functional currency USD

(84)

20,829

Entities with functional currency GBP

Total net trade financial assets*

5,319

5,235

2,766

23,595

Net exposure

Net monetary in USD entities

Net monetary in GBP entities

Total net exposure

(71)

–

(71)

–

8,075

8,075

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

345

345

(6)

123

117

(6)

468

462

–

–

–

–

–

–

51

–

51

334

–

334

385

–

385

*  Working capital comprises financial assets per Note 20 of $57,317k and financial liabilities per Note 24 of $28,383k

At 31 December 2019

Net exposure

Net monetary items in USD entities

Net monetary items in GBP entities

Net monetary items in CHF entities

Total net exposure

(45)

–

(3)

(48)

–

(65)

931

(2,100)

(2,220)

(2)

–

–

–

(2,102)

(2,285)

931

–

–

–

–

–

–

272

107

379

(282)

(65)

(347)

(10)

42

32

294

645

–

939

(1,000)

(52,197)

(53,197)

(14,390)

(35,102)

(49,492)

6,353

9,783

16,136

20,791

8,143

28,934

298

8,585

8,883

1,115

(3,675)

(5)

(2,565)

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020  111

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALSSTRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS34. Financial instruments (continued)
34.2 Market risk (continued)
34.2.1 Foreign currency risk management (continued)
Foreign currency sensitivity analysis
The following table details the Group’s sensitivity to a 10 per cent change in the relevant foreign currencies. This percentage 
has been determined based on the average market volatility in exchange rates in the previous 24 months. The sensitivity 
analysis includes only outstanding foreign currency denominated monetary items and adjusts their translation at the year end 
for a 10 per cent change in foreign currency:

GBP
$’000

USD
$’000

EUR
$’000

HKD
$’000

Other
$’000

Total
$’000

At 31 December 2020

Total effect on profit/(loss) of 
depreciation in foreign currency 
exchange rates

At 31 December 2019

Total effect on profit/(loss) of 
depreciation in foreign currency 
exchange rates

7

5

(808)

(46)

(39)

(3)

(889)

210

229

(93)

(94)

257

34.2.2 Interest rate risk management
The Group is exposed to interest rate risk as it finances fixed asset purchases using floating interest rates. 

The Group’s exposure to interest rates on financial liabilities is detailed in section 34.3 Liquidity risk management section. 
The Group’s exposure to interest rates on financial assets has been assessed by management as insignificant. 

Interest rate sensitivity analysis
The sensitivity analysis below has been determined based on the exposure to interest rates for non-derivative instruments at the 
balance sheet date. For floating rate liabilities, the analysis is prepared based on the average liability held by the Group over the 
year. A 1 per cent increase or decrease represents management’s assessment of the reasonably possible change in interest rates.

If interest rates had been 1% basis points higher and all other variables were held constant, the Group’s loss for the year ended 
31 December 2020 would increase by $522k (2019: $448k). The Company’s sensitivity to interest rates has increased during the 
current year due to the increase in the value of loans held. 

34.3 Liquidity risk management
Ultimate responsibility for liquidity risk management rests with the Board of Directors. The Group manages liquidity risk by 
maintaining adequate reserves and banking facilities, by continuously monitoring forecast and actual cash flows, and by 
matching the maturity profiles of financial assets and liabilities wherever possible. There has been no change to the Group’s 
exposure to liquidity risks or the manner in which these risks are managed and measured during the year. Further details are 
provided in the Strategic report.

The maturity profile of the financial liabilities is summarised below. The table has been drawn up based on the undiscounted 
cash flows of financial liabilities based on the earliest date on which the Group can be required to pay. 

At 31 December 2020

Trade and other payables (Note 24)

Lease liabilities (Note 23)

Bank borrowings

At 31 December 2019

Trade and other payables (Note 24)***

Lease liabilities (Note 23)**

Other loans

Bank borrowings***

Weighted 
average 
effective 
interest 
rate %

Less than 
1 year
$’000

2-5 years
$’000

After 
more than 
5 years
$’000

n/a

*

1.1%

n/a

*

6.1%

1.7%

40,074

8,404

–

52,353

19,811

848

–

–

21,172

52,197

–

23,835

627

44,767

–

45,776

–

–

38,173

–

–

Total 
$’000

40,074

75,352

52,197

52,353

81,819

1,475

44,767

*  Refer to Note 23 which provides the incremental borrowing rate for each category of lease

**  Restated to reconcile with Note 23

*** Restatements are detailed in Note 2 of the notes to the financial statements

112 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

/ NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)/ FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 202034.4 Credit risk management 
Credit risk refers to the risk that a counterparty will default on its contractual obligations resulting in financial loss to the Group. 
The Group endeavours to only deal with creditworthy counterparties and requesting payments on account, where appropriate, 
as a means of mitigating the risk of financial loss from defaults. The Group’s exposure is continuously monitored.

Financial assets, including trade receivables, consist of many customers, coming from diverse backgrounds and geographical 
areas. Ongoing review of the financial condition of the counterparty and ageing of financial assets is performed. Further 
details are in Note 20.

The carrying amount of financial assets recorded in the financial statements represents the Group’s maximum exposure to 
credit risk. There has been no change to the manner in which credit risks are managed and measured during the year.

35. Events after the balance sheet date
The following non-adjusting events occurred after the reporting date:

Jet East
As announced on 15 January 2021, the Group acquired 100% of the issued share capital of Jet East from East Coast Aviation, 
LLC which will significantly expand its existing US aircraft maintenance operations. 

The acquisition of Jet East has been transacted by the Group’s wholly owned US subsidiary Gama Aviation Engineering Inc 
(GAEI) for $7.7m in cash, with a further $1.0m in deferred cash payable over two years and the assumption of Jet East debt. 
The transaction has been entirely funded from the Group’s existing resources.

Details of the purchase consideration, the net assets acquired, and goodwill are as follows:

Cash paid 

Deferred consideration

Total consideration

$’000

7,700

953

8,653

Deferred consideration of $1.0m has been discounted at 2.5% to a present value of consideration.

A post-closing consideration adjustment for net assets acquired has not been recognised as part of the total consideration 
shown above. The post-closing adjustment is in process of being agreed and will be confirmed in the interim reporting for the 
first half of 2021. 

A provisional calculation of purchase price accounting has been performed. The purchase price accounting will be finalised once 
all facts and circumstances at acquisition date are established but within the twelve month measurement period permitted 
under IFRS 3 Business Combinations. Recognised amounts of identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed are as follows:

Property, plant and equipment 

Trade and other receivables non-current

Inventories

Trade and other receivables current

Cash and cash equivalents

Trade and other payables

Intangible assets – Brand

Intangible assets – Customer relationships 

Deferred tax liability

Goodwill 

Enterprise value

Borrowings

Total consideration

$’000
Provisional 
purchase 
price 
accounting

2,559

289

1,165

5,361

64

(3,682)

1,181

5,021

(1,736)

2,633

12,855

(4,202)

8,653

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020  113

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS35. Events after the balance sheet date (continued)
Acquisition costs of $662k were incurred in 2020, and further acquisition costs of $466k are expected to be incurred in 2021 
following the execution of the deal. As the latter these costs were contingent on the deal completing no accrual has been 
recognised at the reporting date.

Of the $4.2m borrowings assumed on acquisition, $2.65m has been settled to date and $1.55m remains outstanding.

Two significant identifiable intangible assets were identified separate from goodwill. An identifiable intangible asset relating 
to the brand of Jet East (and related trademarks, logos and domain names) has been identified as acquired as part of the 
transaction. The brand (including related trademarks, logos and domain names etc associated with the brand) is valued using 
the “relief from royalty” valuation method. There was also an identifiable intangible asset identified relating to the customer 
relationships acquired as part of the transaction. This intangible asset is valued using a “multi period excess earnings” 
valuation method.

The goodwill is attributable to the workforce in place and growth through extension of services and the acquisition of new 
customers. It will not be deductible for tax purposes.

In 2020, Jet East’s performance was negatively impacted by COVID-19. In 2020, it reported revenues of $28.2m (2019: $29.5m) 
and an underlying EBIT of $1.8m (2019: $1.2m) inclusive of a depreciation charge of $0.5m (2019: $0.3m). The net assets of Jet 
East as at 31 December 2020 were $4.6m (2019: $6.7m).

Wheels Up plans to list in Q2 2021 via merger with Aspirational Consumer Lifestyle Corporation 
Following the disposal of the US Air Associate to Wheels Up, a financial asset measured at amortised cost was recognised 
for deferred consideration on the sale (refer to Note 7 for further details). At 31 December 2020 the carrying amount of the 
financial asset is $18,034k (2019: nil), with $5,004k in current assets and $13,030k in non-current assets.

On 1 February 2021 Wheels Up announced plans to list in Q2 2021 via merger with Aspirational Consumer Lifestyle 
Corporation. The transaction values Wheels Up at an enterprise value of $2.1 billion and is expected to provide up to $790 
million in cash proceeds.

A consequence of a mandatory prepayment clause in the promissory note with Wheels Up stipulates that Wheels Up listing is 
a capital raise acceleration event. Within ten business days after the consummation of the capital raise, depending on certain 
parameters of the capital raise, some or all of the deferred consideration outstanding will be due to be settled in cash. This 
event has been treated as a non-adjusting event at the reporting date but does support the nil expected credit loss allowance 
on this financial asset at 31 December 2020.

Grant and surrender of share options
The following transactions in relation to ordinary shares of 1p each (“shares”) occurred after the reporting date:

1.  The Company granted options over a total of 1,025,000 shares, at 39.0p, to Directors and other employees on 26 March 2021. 

These options vest in three years and have no performance conditions

2.  Options over a total of 2,276,000 shares previously granted to Directors and other employees were agreed to be 

surrendered by those employees on 29 March 2021

3.  The Company agreed to grant options over a total of 1,138,000 shares, at 68.8p, to Directors and other employees on 

29 March 2021. These options vest in three years and have no performance conditions

4.  The Company agreed to grant options over a total of 1,817,805 shares, at 1p, to Directors and other employees on 

29 March 2021. These options vest in 2024 and are subject to a performance condition based on the Company’s average 
share price over the 30 days following release of the Company’s results for the year ending 31 December 2023

5.  The Company granted options over a total of 155,000 shares, at 1p, to Directors on 29 March 2021. These options vest 
immediately and have no performance conditions. Of these, an option for 25,000 shares was granted to Neil Medley in 
fulfilment of the final tranche of sign on shares due under his employment contract

The grant date and surrender date of the above transactions are as set out above. The Company and the respective employees 
agreed to the share-based payment arrangement on these dates, and this was the date that there was a shared understanding 
of the terms and conditions of the arrangement. In addition, the above listed transactions were subject to an approval process 
and the Remuneration Committee approved those transactions on 19 March 2021.

114 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

/ NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)/ FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020Change in UK tax rate
In the Spring Budget 2021, the UK Government announced that from 1 April 2023 the corporation tax rate will increase to 25%. 
Since the proposal to increase the rate to 25% had not been substantively enacted at the balance sheet date, its effects are not 
included in these financial statements. However, it is likely that the overall effect of the change, had it been substantively 
enacted by the balance sheet date, would be to increase the deferred tax asset and the related deferred tax liability, with no 
significant change in the tax charge.

Surrender of the remainder of a lease at Fairoaks airport
Gama Aviation (Engineering) Limited (GAEL), a subsidiary of the Group, is a lessee of property at Fairoaks airport. On 27 April 
2021, GAEL and the lessor released each other and their predecessors in title from all past, present and future claims, demands, 
liabilities and obligations in respect of the rights contained in a lease and of the lease covenants and from all liability for any 
subsisting breach of any of them and from all damages, actions, proceedings costs, claims, demands, expenses and from any 
liability for dilapidations and wants of repair, decoration or re-instatement at the property arising under the lease. At the 
reporting date, there was an obligation under leases of $1,758k and a right-of-use asset of nil. In addition, there was a closure 
provision of $486k for the unavoidable costs of closure. As a result of the surrender, a significant portion of these liabilities are 
expected to be released to the income statement in the 2021 financial year.

CASL
In May 2021, the Group received an offer for its 20 percent shareholding in CASL. The Board is currently considering the terms 
of the offer and is in negotiations with the counterparty. CASL was not held for sale at 31 December 2020 and this event is a 
non-adjusting event after the reporting date.

36. Related party transactions
Balances and transactions between the Company and its subsidiaries, which are related parties, have been eliminated on 
consolidation and are not disclosed in this note. Transactions between the Group and its associates are disclosed below.

The Company and its subsidiaries have a policy requiring full disclosure to, and pre-approval by, the Board of transactions 
contemplated with related parties.

List of related parties, including associates:
The following list is presented in accordance with the objectives of International Accounting Standard (IAS) 24 Related party 
disclosures and all relationships are disclosed according to their substance rather than their legal form.

 / Oneti Lebanon Sarl – is a company that is majority owned and controlled by Mr G A Khalek, brother of Mr M A Khalek (Chief 

Executive Officer). Mr M A Khalek holds 30% of the shares in Oneti Lebanon Sarl according to the corporate register in 
Lebanon, however the beneficial ownership of these shares was transferred to Mr G Khalek in 2008;

 / Mr G Khalek – the brother of Mr M A Khalek; 
 / Cedar Trading Investment Corporation – is a company beneficially owned by Mr G A Khalek;
 / Oneti SAL – a company that is majority owned and controlled by Mr G A Khalek;
 / Mr M A Khalek – has significant influence over the Company through his position as Chief Executive Officer and his 

ownership interest >20%; 

 / BBGA Ltd – is the national trade association in which Mr M A Khalek served as a director and Chairman until March 2019;
 / EBAA – is the European trade association in which Mr M A Khalek serves on the Board of Governors;
 / Merritt Property LLC – owns a 39% membership interest in Gama Aviation LLC and is owned by Thomas Connelly and John 

Tesei, who control Gama Aviation LLC;

 / Valentia Properties Limited – is owned by Mr M Peagram, a non-executive director of the Group, which invoices the Group 

for professional services. Mr M Peagram ceased to be a director of the Company during the prior year;

 / Golconda Investments Ltd – is owned by Mr R Steeves, a non-executive director of the Group until January 2019, which 

invoices the Group for professional services. Mr R Steeves ceased to be a director during the prior year;

 / Air Arabia/Felix Trading Company LLC – Felix Trading Company LLC (“Felix”) has a significant ownership interest in Gama 
Aviation FZE, which is controlled by the Group (see Note 17). The principals of Felix also have significant ownership interest 
in Air Arabia, which is a client of the Group;

 / Gama Aviation SPV – is a company registered in Abu Dhabi Global Market – a related party through potential ownership 
and control rights via the terms of a loan agreement and because the Group has significant influence over its operations 
(but not control);

 / Mr Canning Fok – is an Executive Director of CK Hutchison Holdings, a company which has an indirect shareholding 

of 29.8% in the Group; and

 / CK Hutchison Holdings – has an indirect shareholding of 29.8% in the Group

Associates 
 / GB Aviation Holdings LLC – is a joint venture in which the Group owns a 50% membership interest;
 / Gama Aviation LLC – an associate in which GB Aviation Holdings LLC owned a 49% member interest before disposal 

in March 2020 (Note 7); and

 / China Aircraft Services Limited – is an associate in which the Group owns a 20% equity interest

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020  115

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALSSTRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS36. Related party transactions
Trading transactions
During the year, Group companies entered into the following transactions with related parties who are not members 
of the Group:

Gama Aviation LLC (branding fee)**

Gama Aviation LLC (other trading balances)*

China Aircraft Services Limited

Valentia Properties Limited

Golconda Investments Ltd

Air Arabia/Felix Trading Company LLC

BBGA Ltd

Oneti Lebanon Sarl

Oneti SAL

Mr Canning Fok

M Khalek

Sale of services

Purchase of services

2020
$’000

625

1,552

1,993

–

–

25

–

–

–

1,646

23

2019
$’000

4,050

7,579 

747

–

2

644

–

–

–

1,016

48

2020
$’000

–

561

2,950

–

–

151

–

–

–

–

–

2019
$’000

–

857

3,271

11

5

150

3

4,922

112

–

–

*  For ease of understanding the branding fee and other trading balances have been separated in the summary table above.

**  In the current year branding fees are for the two months prior to disposal.

The following amounts were outstanding at the balance sheet date:

Gama Aviation LLC 

China Aircraft Services Limited

Oneti SAL

Merritt Property LLC

Air Arabia

Mr Canning Fok

GB Aviation Holdings LLC

Amounts owed by
related parties

Amounts owed to
related parties

2020  
$’000

23

970

–

–

204

138

40

2019
$’000

921

3,344

–

1,000

211

39

40

2020  
$’000

17

1,046

–

–

182

–

–

2019
$’000

139

4,224

36

–

25

–

–

Material transactions with related parties 
Gama Aviation LLC
During the year Gama Aviation LLC paid $3.75m (of which $0.625m was prior to disposal and $3.125m was post disposal) in cash 
to the Group in accordance with the branding agreement and a further $15.5m accelerated branding fee as part of the disposal 
of the associate (Note 7). 

Merritt Property LLC
As reported in the 2018 Annual Report, in January 2017 the Group entered into a Termination Agreement (the “Agreement”) 
with Gama Aviation LLC. The Agreement brought the previous branding agreement between the Group and Gama Aviation LLC 
to a close at the same time as the Group entered into a new branding agreement with GB Aviation Holdings LLC.

The Termination Agreement made provision for a final payment from Merritt Property LLC (which was a 39% owner of Gama 
Aviation LLC at the time) to the Group of $1.0m in lieu of branding fees forgone.

During the year the Group received cash consideration of $1.0m to settle the full amount due.

116 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

/ NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)/ FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020Oneti Lebanon Sarl
During 2019 the Group terminated a contract with Oneti Lebanon Sarl. Under the terms of the contract a termination payment 
of $2.9m was paid to Oneti. In addition, inventory previously held by Oneti was repurchased by the Group for a further payment 
of $2.1m. 

Of the total payments of $5.1m, $2.7m was paid directly to a business associate of Mr G Khalek and of the Group, and $2.4m was 
paid to Mr G Khalek. These payments were instructed by Mr G Khalek on behalf of Oneti Lebanon Sarl.

Mr Canning Fok
During the year, within the Asia Air Division, sales of services of $1,646k (2019: $1,016k) were made to Mr Canning Fok. 

Remuneration of key management personnel
The remuneration of the executive Directors of the Group, who are also the key management personnel of the Group, are set 
out below in aggregate for each of the categories specified in IAS 24 Related party disclosures. As all the key management 
personnel are remunerated in Pounds Sterling, the disclosure has been presented in that currency.

Short-term employee benefits

Post-employment benefits

Total

2020  
£’000

1,410

181

1,591

2019 
£’000

1,262

144

1,406

Details of Directors’ remuneration are given in the Remuneration Report on pages 36 to 40.

Ultimate controlling party
The Company’s ordinary shares are publicly traded on the Alternative Investment Market (AIM) of the London Stock Exchange. 
There is no single controlling party. 

37. Capital Commitments
In June 2017, as described in Note 29 above, a subsidiary company entered into a non-cancellable Build-Operate-Transfer and 
Service Concession agreement with Sharjah Airport Authority under which it is committed to construct a Business Aviation 
Centre (“BAC”) at Sharjah Airport. At 31 December 2020 the Group had other outstanding contracted commitments of nil 
(2019: $114k).

As part of the commitment to voluntary carbon offsetting, the Group has the intention to purchase verified emission reductions 
for 3,210 tonnes of CO2e during 2021. At the reporting date this has not been contracted.

38. Dividends
The Board does not recommend a dividend for 2020 (2019: 2.0 pence per share). 

Final dividend paid of nil (2019: 2.0p)

2020 
$’000

–

2019  
$’000

1,620

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020  117

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALSSTRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS/ PARENT COMPANY STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION
/ FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

Non-current assets

Investments

Current assets

Trade and other receivables 

Cash at bank and in hand

Total assets

Current liabilities

Trade and other payables

Net current assets

Total assets less current liabilities

Non-current liabilities: Borrowings

Total liabilities

Net assets

Capital and reserves

Called up share capital 

Share premium account

Merger reserve

Share-based payment reserve

(Accumulated losses)/accumulated profits 

Equity shareholder funds

2020
£’000

51,683

51,683

37,536

5,582

43,118

2019
Restated*
£’000

75,715

75,715

44,451

1,086

45,537

94,801

121,252

(21,223)

(21,223)

21,895

73,578

(11,845)

(11,845)

33,692

109,407

(38,242)

(59,465)

(33,955)

(45,800)

35,336

75,452

Note

3

4

5

6

7

636

46,278

–

1,714

636

46,278

21,415

1,276

5,847

7

(13,292)

35,336

75,452

*  Prior year borrowings have been separately presented on the face of the balance sheet. This presentational change is the only restatement. 

Refer to Note 1 for further details.

As permitted by Section 408 of the Companies Act 2006, no separate Company profit and loss account has been included 
in these financial statements. The Company made a loss after tax of £40,554k for the year (2019: loss of £48,976k).

The financial statements on pages 118 to 119 were approved by the Board of Directors on 26 May 2021 and signed on its 
behalf by

Daniel Ruback
Director

The notes on pages 120 to 123 form part of these parent company financial statements.

118 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

/ PARENT COMPANY STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
/ FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

At 1 January 2019

Loss for the year

Utilisation of merger reserve

Share-based payment contribution

Dividend paid 

At 31 December 2019

Loss for the year

Utilisation of merger reserve

Share-based payment contribution

Called up 
share 
capital
£’000

Share 
premium 
£’000

Share-based 
payment 
reserve 
£’000

636

46,278

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

623

–

–

653

–

636

46,278

1,276

21,415

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

438

1,714

Accumulated 
profit/ 
(accumulated 
losses)
£’000

Total
£’000

9,096

125,043

Merger 
reserve
£’000

68,410

–

(48,976)

(48,976)

(46,995)

46,995

–

(1,268)

5,847

–

–

653

(1,268)

75,452

–

438

–

(40,554)

(40,554)

(21,415)

21,415

–

–

–

–

At 31 December 2020

636

46,278

(13,292)

35,336

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020  119

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS/ NOTES TO THE PARENT COMPANY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
/ FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

1. Accounting policies
Statement of Compliance
These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Financial Reporting Standard 101 ‘The Reduced Disclosure 
Framework’ (FRS 101). The principal accounting policies adopted in the preparation of the financial statements are set out 
below. These policies have all been applied consistently throughout the period unless otherwise stated. The financial 
statements have been prepared on a historical cost basis. The Company’s financial statements are presented in Sterling.

Changes in accounting policies
There have been no changes in accounting policies during the year.

Restatement
Prior year borrowings of £33,955k have been separately presented on the face of the balance sheet and reclassified from 
current liabilities to non-current liabilities. While the revolving credit facility (the “RCF”) is settled and drawdown on a cyclical 
basis there is no right from the bank to demand full repayment within the next twelve months and on that basis, presentation 
within non-current liabilities is appropriate. This presentational change is the only restatement.

Disclosure exemptions adopted
The following disclosure exemptions have been adopted:

 / Preparation of a cash flow statement
 / The requirements in IAS 24 Related Party Disclosures to disclose related party transactions entered into between two 

or more members of the Group as they are wholly owned within the Group

 / Disclosure of key management personnel compensation
 / Capital management disclosures
 / Disclosures in respect of standards in issue not yet effective
 / The following disclosure exemption has also been adopted as equivalent disclosures are provided in the parent consolidated 

financial statements:

 / Reduced financial instruments disclosures relating to IFRS 7

Going concern
The financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis. The Company recorded a loss of £40,554k for the year 
(2019: loss of £48,976k), had net current assets of £21,895k (2019: net current assets £33,692k), and had net assets of £73,578k 
(2019: £109,407k).

The Directors have considered the cash flow requirement for the Group for a period including twelve months from the date of 
approval of these financial statements. Based on these projections the Directors consider that the Company and the Group will 
have sufficient cash resources during this period to pay its liabilities as they fall due.

Financial assets
Trade receivables and other receivables are subsequently measured at amortised cost less an expected credit allowance. The 
Company assesses on a forward-looking basis the expected credit loss associated with its financial assets. The impairment 
methodology applied depends on whether there has been a significant increase in credit risk. Any write-down of these assets 
is expensed to the income statement. To measure the expected credit losses, trade and other receivables have been grouped 
based on shared credit risk characteristics and the days past due. The Company has concluded that the expected loss rates 
for trade and other receivables excluding amounts owned by subsidiary undertakings is nil. Amounts owed by subsidiary 
undertakings are non-interest bearing, unsecured and repayable on demand. Refer to Note 4 for the expected loss allowance 
on amounts owed by subsidiary undertakings.

Taxation
The Company is part of a tax Group and surrenders losses for group relief.

Current tax, including UK corporation tax is provided at amounts expected to be paid (or recovered) using the tax rates and laws 
that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the balance sheet date.

Deferred tax balances are recognised in respect of all temporary differences that have originated but not reversed by the 
balance sheet date, except that the recognition of deferred tax assets is limited to the extent that the Company anticipates 
making sufficient taxable profits in the future to absorb the reversal of the underlying temporary differences. Deferred tax 
balances are not discounted.

Valuation of investments
Investments are stated at cost less any provision for impairment. Profits or losses arising from disposals of fixed asset 
investments are treated as part of the result from ordinary activities. At each balance sheet date Gama Aviation Plc reviews the 
carrying amount of its investments to determine whether there is any indication that these assets have suffered an impairment 
loss. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of the 
impairment loss (if any). Recoverable amount is the higher of fair value less costs to sell and value in use. In assessing the value 
in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects the 
current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the investment asset for which the estimates 
of future cash flows have not been adjusted. If the recoverable amount of an asset is estimated to be less than its carrying 
amount, the carrying amount of the asset is reduced to its recoverable amount. An impairment loss is recognised immediately 
in profit or loss. Refer to Note 3 for further details.

120 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

Critical accounting judgments and key sources of estimation uncertainty
In the application of the parent company accounting policies, the Directors are required to make judgments (other than those 
involving estimations) that have a significant impact on the amounts recognised and to make estimates and assumptions about 
the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and associated 
assumptions are based on historical experience and other factors that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ 
from these estimates.

The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised 
in the period in which the estimate is revised if the revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future 
periods if the revision affects both current and future periods.

Key sources of estimation uncertainty
The key assumptions concerning the future, and other key sources of estimation uncertainty at the reporting period, that may 
have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next financial 
year, are discussed below.

Investments impairment review
The investments impairment review requires the use of estimates related to future profitability and the cash-generating ability 
of the related businesses based on management’s assessment of future cash flows and other assumptions including discount 
rates and terminal growth. The estimates used may differ from the actual outcome. Details of the impairment review 
performed are set out in Note 3.

2. Profit/(loss) attributable to shareholders
As permitted by Section 408 of the Companies Act 2006, no separate Company profit and loss account has been included in 
these financial statements. The Company made a loss of £40,554k for the year (2019: loss of £48,976k). As at 31 December 
2020 the Company had accumulated losses amounting to £13,292k.

The Company did not pay an ordinary dividend in the year (2019: £1,268k) to shareholders in the period.

The total fees of the Group’s auditor, for services provided are analysed in Note 5 to the consolidated financial statements.

The average monthly number of employees (including executive Directors) was nil (2019: nil). There are no employees of the 
Company and the Directors are employed and remunerated by other companies within the Group. Details of the total average 
employee numbers and employee costs are included in Note 8 to the consolidated financial statements.

3. Investments

Balance at 1 January 2019

Additions – parent contribution in respect of share-based payments

Provision for impairment

Balance at 31 December 2019

Additions – parent contribution in respect of share-based payments

Provision for impairment

Closing balance at 31 December 2020

Total
£’000

122,057

653

(46,995)

75,715

438

(24,470)

51,683

In the current year an impairment of £24,470k (2019: £46,995k) has been made to reduce the investment carrying amount to 
the recoverable amount. The recoverable amount is the higher of fair value less costs to sell and VIU. Market capitalisation is 
used as a proxy for the fair value less cost to sell and the VIU is measured by discounting the future expected cash flows. The 
key assumptions and estimates used for VIU calculations are set out in Note 14 of the notes to the Group financial statements.

Given the impact of COVID-19 on share prices in the aviation sector in general, and the relative illiquidity of the Company’s 
shares in particular, the Directors believe that the Company’s current share price does not fully reflect the fair value of its 
investments in the Group. Accordingly, the investment carrying value has been reduced to £51,683k based on the VIU 
of each of the investments held.

The additions of £438k (2019: £653k) are in respect of share-based payment charges arising in relation to subsidiaries 
of the Company. 

Details of the Company’s subsidiaries at 31 December 2020 are set out in Note 17 to the Group financial statements.

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020  121

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALSSTRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALS/ NOTES TO THE PARENT COMPANY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)
/ FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

4. Trade and other receivables

Amounts falling due within one year:

Amounts owed by subsidiary undertakings

Tax and social security

Prepayments and accrued income

Other debtors

2020 
£’000

2019
 £’000

37,512

44,311

22

2

–

88

5

47

37,536

44,451

Amounts due from subsidiary undertakings are repayable on demand. Amounts due from subsidiary undertakings do not carry 
any interest charge.

In the current year, an impairment of £14,252k (2019: nil) has been made against amounts owed by subsidiary undertakings to 
reduce the carrying amount to the recoverable amount. Balances were impaired where subsidiaries have negative net assets 
and their future valuations (VIUs) do not exceed the carrying amount. The significant impairment is in relation to funding 
historically provided to Asia and Middle East Ground, where as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic there is increased uncertainty. 
The loss allowance on amounts owed by subsidiary undertakings at the reporting date is £16,748k (2019: £2,496k).

5. Trade and other payables

Amounts owed to subsidiary undertakings

Trade creditors

Accruals and deferred income

Other payables

2020 
£’000

2019

Restated* 
£’000

20,738

10,386

147

338

–

594

860

5

21,223

11,845

*  Prior year borrowings have been separately presented on the face of the balance sheet. This presentational change is the only restatement. 

Refer to Note 1 for further details.

Amounts due to subsidiary undertakings are carried at amortised cost, are repayable on demand, and do not carry any 
interest charge.

6. Borrowings

Amount due for settlement within 12 months: Bank borrowings

Amount due for settlement after 12 months: Bank borrowings

2020 
£’000

–

38,242

38,242

2019 
Restated*
£’000

–

33,955

33,955

*  Prior year borrowings have been separately presented on the face of the balance sheet and reclassified from current liabilities to non-current 

liabilities. This presentational change is the only restatement. Refer to Note 1 for further details

The principal features of bank borrowings are as follows.

I.  Bank borrowings in 2020 of £38,242k (2019: £33,955k) comprise of drawdowns from a revolving credit facility (the “RCF”) 

and a term loan (the “Loan”) both secured with HSBC

II.  A letter of awareness has been provided by CK Hutchison Holdings Ltd (CKHH), which has an indirect shareholding of 
29.8% in the Group, that CKHH’s current intention, while any amount is outstanding under the facility, is not to reduce 
its shareholding in the Company below 25.0% without consent from the lender or discharge of the facility. No legal 
implications are imposed on CKHH.

III.  During 2020 the Group completed the purchase of three Airbus H145 helicopters, which came into use on 1 June 2020 
in support of a long-term contract. The purchase was funded through a £20m Loan. The Loan is separate from the RCF 
which was transferred from RBS to HSBC on improved terms in November 2019.

122 

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020

IV.  The RCF is settled and drawdown on a cyclical basis with no right from the bank to demand full repayment within the 

next twelve months. The RCF, is presented in non-current liabilities

V.  The Loan and the RCF are subject to customary banking security arrangements

VI.  During the year the Company issued a debenture as security against the Loan and RCF

Interest

Maturity

Facility
’000

Drawn 
(Local 
currency)
’000

Drawn
(Presentation 
currency)
£’000

LIBOR + 0.94% 14 November 2022

USD 50,000

GBP 18,500

LIBOR + 1.12%

31 January 2023

GBP 20,000

GBP 20,000

Interest

Maturity

Facility
’000

Drawn 
(Local 
currency)
’000

Drawn
(Presentation 
currency)
£’000

LIBOR + 0.94% 14 November 2022

USD 50,000

GBP 17,500

USD 8,500

EUR 12,000

18,500 

20,000 

38,500

(258)

38,242

17,500

6,447

10,209

34,156

(201)

33,955

Bank borrowing before arrangement fees

Capitalised loan arrangement fees

Bank borrowings

2020

RCF

Term loan

2019

RCF

Bank borrowing before arrangement fees

Capitalised loan arrangement fees

Bank borrowings

7. Share capital and reserves

Issued and fully paid ordinary shares

At the beginning of the period

At the end of the period

Nominal  
value

2020  
number

2020  
£’000

2019  

number

2019  
£’000

1p

63,636,279

636

63,636,279

1p 63,636,279

636

63,636,279

636

636

Further details of movements in the Company’s authorised and issued share capital are given in Note 25 to the consolidated 
financial statements.

The share premium, share-based payment reserve and merger reserve are not distributable.

The Directors apply the guidance provided by ICAEW TECH 02/17 in determining reserves available for distribution.

8. Related party transactions
The Company has taken advantage of the exemption not to disclose transactions with 100% owned members of the Group 
headed by Gama Aviation Plc on the grounds that 100% of the voting rights of the Company are controlled within the Group, 
and the Company is included in the consolidated financial statements.

9. Events after the balance sheet date
Refer to Note 35 to the consolidated financial statements for details on non-adjusting events that occurred after the reporting 
date that are relevant to the Company.

GAMA AVIATION PLC ANNUAL REPORT 2020  123

STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALSSTRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCEFINANCIALSG

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Gama Aviation Plc
1st Floor
25 Templer Avenue
Farnborough
Hampshire
GU14 6FE
UK

gamaaviation.com

Consultancy, design and production
www.luminous.co.uk

Both the paper manufacturer 
and printer are registered to the 
Environmental Management 
System ISO14001 and are 
Forest Stewardship Council 
(FSC) chain-of-custody certified.

Design and production
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