Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a fourth quarter revenue of $15.6 million, a 14.5% increase from the previous year, contributing to an annual revenue of $98.6 million, up 48% from 2023 [7][27] - The net loss for Q4 2024 was $12.8 million, improved from a net loss of $31.1 million in Q4 2023, driven by increased fleet utilization [26] - Adjusted EBITDA for 2024 was $37.3 million, doubling from $18.7 million in 2023 [30] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The acquisition of SMS contributed approximately $3 million in revenue over the first six months of ownership [16] - Revenue from return to service work on Spanish scoopers was about $10.1 million in 2024, expected to decrease by 50% in 2025 [28][35] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The wildfire season in 2024 was more active, with 8.9 million acres consumed compared to 2.7 million acres in 2023 [11] - The company is targeting multi-year and exclusive use contracts to ensure revenue stability amid increasing wildfire threats [13] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to enhance its competitive edge through partnerships and technological advancements, particularly with SMS and Ignis Technologies [16][18] - There is a focus on diversifying the customer base and increasing year-round revenue through strategic state contracts [34] Management Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the early start of the wildfire season and the potential for increased year-round revenue [32] - The company anticipates generating another year of positive cash flow in 2025, despite expected negative adjusted EBITDA in Q1 due to seasonal factors [37] Other Important Information - The company ended 2024 with total cash and cash equivalents of $39.3 million, up from $33.3 million at the end of September 2024 [30] - Compliance with all debt covenants was confirmed, with plans to remove going concern disclosures in the upcoming 10-K filing [40] Q&A Session Summary Question: What can you tell us about the delivery and operational cadence of the Spanish Scoopers in Europe for the fire season relative to your most recent expectation - The Spanish scoopers are on track with maintenance schedules, with the first receiving a certificate of airworthiness and the second expected to follow within sixty days [44] Question: How do you feel about your cash balance and do you expect it to be sufficient to support working capital and operations in the US and upgrade of the Spanish scoopers and their initial operations in Europe - The company feels confident about its cash position, ending the year with over $39 million, which is sufficient for working capital needs and operations [48] Question: Does the revenue guide for 2025 reflect the fact that we are looking at a full year continuing resolution before the fiscal year 2025-2026 budgets are passed - The revenue guidance for 2025 assumes funding at the same level as prior years, without factoring in potential increases in appropriations [51] Question: How would you expect lower fuel prices and travel costs to affect open and flight operations costs and is this reflected in your guidance - The company did not reflect lower fuel prices in its guidance but sees it as potential upside if prices decrease throughout the year [55]
Bridger Aerospace(BAER) - 2024 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript