BUTLER NATIONAL CORP - Annual Report: 2023 (Form 10-K)

Forward-Looking Statements

Statements made in this report, other reports and proxy statements filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, communications to stockholders, press releases, and oral statements made by representatives of the Company that are not historical in nature, or that state the Company or management intentions, hopes, beliefs, expectations or predictions of the future, may constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"). Forward-looking statements can often be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology, such as "could," "should," "will," "intended," "continue," "believe," "may," "expect," "hope," "anticipate," "goal," "forecast," "plan," "guidance" or "estimate" or the negative of these words, variations thereof or similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance or results. They involve risks, uncertainties, and assumptions. It is important to note that any such performance and actual results, financial condition or business, could differ materially from those expressed in such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to, those discussed in this Item 1A. Risk Factors and elsewhere herein or in other reports filed with the SEC. Other unforeseen factors not identified herein could also have such an effect. We undertake no obligation to update or revise forward-looking statements to reflect changed assumptions, the occurrence of unanticipated events or changes in future operating results, financial condition or business over time.

The forward-looking statements in this report are only predictions and actual events or results may differ materially. In evaluating such statements, a number of risks, uncertainties and other factors could cause actual results, performance, financial condition, cash flows, prospects and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, the forward-looking statements. These risks, uncertainties and other factors include those set forth in Item 1A (Risk Factors) of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, including the following factors:

Except as expressly required by the federal securities laws, the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise after the date of this report. Results of operations in any past period should not be considered indicative of the results to be expected for future periods. Fluctuations in operating results may also result in fluctuations in the price of the Company's common stock.

Investors should also be aware that while the Company, from time to time, communicates with securities analysts; Company policy is to not disclose any material non-public information or other confidential commercial information. Accordingly, shareholders should not assume that the Company agrees with any statement or report issued by any analyst irrespective of the content of the statement or report. Furthermore, the Company has a policy against issuing or confirming financial forecasts or projections issued by others. Thus, to the extent that reports issued by securities analysts contain any projections, forecasts or opinions, such reports are not the responsibility of Butler National Corporation.

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PART I

General

Butler National Corporation (“Butler National” the “Company”, “we”, “us”, or “our”) was incorporated in 1960. Our companies design, engineer, manufacture, sell, integrate, install, repair, modify, overhaul, service and distribute a broad portfolio of aerostructures, aircraft components, avionics, accessories, subassemblies and systems (“Aerospace Products”). We serve a broad, worldwide spectrum of the aviation industry, including owners and operators, of private, commercial, regional, business and government aircraft.

In addition, our companies provide management services in the gaming industry, which includes owning the land and building for the Boot Hill Casino and Resort in Dodge City, Kansas (“Professional Services”).

Products and Services

The Company has two operating segments for financial reporting purposes: (a) Aerospace Products, whose companies’ revenues are derived from system design, engineering, manufacturing, sale, distribution, integration, installation, repairing, modifying, overhauling and servicing of aerostructures, avionics, aircraft components, accessories, subassemblies and systems; and (b) Professional Services, whose companies provide professional management services in the gaming industry, sports wagering, and professional architectural services.

Aerospace Products. The Aerospace Products segment includes the manufacture, sale and service of structural modifications, electronic equipment, and systems and technologies enhancing aircraft. Additionally, we operate Federal Aviation Administration (the “FAA”) Repair Stations. Companies in Aerospace Products concentrate on Learjets, Beechcraft King Air, and Cessna turboprop aircraft.

Products. The aviation-related products that the companies within this group design, engineer, manufacture, integrate, install, repair and service include:

Modifications. The companies in Aerospace Products have authority, pursuant to Federal Aviation Administration Supplemental Type Certificates (“STCs”) and Parts Manufacturer Approval (“PMA”), to build required parts and subassemblies and to make applicable installations. Companies in Aerospace Products perform modifications in the aviation industry including:

Special Mission Electronics. We supply defense-related, commercial off-the-shelf products to various commercial entities and government agencies and subcontractors in order to update or extend the useful life of aircraft with older components and technology. These products include:

Professional Services. The Professional Services segment includes the management of a gaming and related dining and entertainment facility in Dodge City, Kansas. Boot Hill Casino and Resort features approximately 500 slot machines, 16 table games and a sportsbook. A Company in Professional Services also provide licensed architectural services, including commercial and industrial building design services.

Boot Hill. Butler National Service Corporation (“BNSC”), and BHCMC, LLC (“BHCMC”), companies in Professional Services, manage The Boot Hill Casino and Resort in Dodge City, Kansas (“Boot Hill”) pursuant to the Lottery Gaming Facility Management Contract, by and among BNSC, BHCMC and the Kansas Lottery, as subsequently amended (“Boot Hill Agreement”). As required by Kansas law, all games, gaming equipment and gaming operations, including sports wagering, at Boot Hill are owned and operated by the Kansas Lottery. On September 1, 2022, sports wagering became legal in the State of Kansas.  The Company entered into a provider contract with DraftKings for interactive/mobile sports wagering.  In addition to an online platform, the Company also opened a temporary physical sports book in 2022 and now features a permanent DraftKings branded sports book at Boot Hill that opened on February 28, 2023.

Architectural Services. A Company in Professional Services provides licensed architectural, including commercial and industrial building design.  The Company is in the process of winding down its architectural business. 

Proprietary Rights

We do not currently hold any patents, franchises or concessions. In our overhaul and repair business, original equipment manufacturers (“OEMs”) of equipment that we maintain for our customers often include language in repair manuals that relate to their equipment, asserting broad claims of proprietary rights to the contents of the manuals used in our operations. There can be no assurance that OEMs will not try to enforce such claims, including the possible use of legal proceedings. In the event of such legal proceedings, there can be no assurance that such actions against the Company will be unsuccessful. However, we believe that our use of OEM manufacture and repair manuals is lawful.

Seasonality

Our Aerospace Products businesses are generally not seasonal. We believe that our Professional Services businesses, however, are subject to seasonality based on local weather conditions, agricultural and petroleum prices, employment levels and the travel habits of visitors in the market service area.

Raw Materials and Replacement Parts

Backlog

Our backlog as of April 30, 2023 and 2022 was as follows:

Our backlog as of July 24, 2023, totaled $27,993 for Aerospace Products. The backlog includes orders with signed contracts which may not be completed within the next fiscal year. There can be no assurance that all orders will be completed or that some may ever commence.

Dependence on Significant Customers

During the fiscal year ending April 30, 2023 we derived 33.3% of our revenue from five customers, and we had one "major customer" (10 percent or more of consolidated revenue) that provided 14.3% of total revenue. At April 30, 2023, we had one customer that accounted for 31.7% of our total accounts receivable.

Competition

We compete in the aerospace and casino gaming industries. In the aerospace industry, we compete against peer companies of which some are divisions or subsidiaries of other large companies, in the manufacture of aircraft structures, systems components, subassemblies and parts in addition to services related to aircraft modifications. Competition for the repair and overhaul of aviation components comes from three primary sources, some of whom possess greater financial and other resources than we have: OEMs, governmental support depots, and other independent repair and overhaul companies.  As technology advances, the concept of repair and overhaul changes.  Items that were formerly repaired are now being replaced.  Many governments maintain aircraft support depots in their military organizations that maintain and repair the aircraft they operate. Other independent service organizations also compete for the repair and overhaul business. Participants in the aerospace industry compete primarily based on size of business and technical staffing, quality, turnaround time, capacity and price.

The casino entertainment business is highly competitive. The industry is comprised of a diverse group of competitors that vary considerably in size and geographic diversity, quality of facilities and amenities available, marketing and growth strategies and financial condition. We compete with other casino facilities in the Kansas region. We also compete with other non-gaming resorts and vacation destinations, various other entertainment businesses, and other forms of gaming, such as state lotteries, on-track and off-track wagering, video lottery terminals and card parlors.

Government Regulation and Industry Oversight

The aerospace industry is highly regulated in the United States by the FAA and in other countries by similar agencies. Our products and aircraft modifications must be certified by the FAA.  This certification involves designing, engineering, and testing of specific aircraft models.  Our businesses, which sell defense products and services directly to the U.S. government or through its contractors, can be subject to various laws and regulations governing pricing and other factors.

We must also satisfy the requirements of our customers that are subject to FAA regulations and provide these customers with products and repair services that comply with the applicable government regulations. The FAA regulates flight operations and requires that aircraft components meet FAA stringent standards.  We are subject to inspections by the FAA and may be subjected to fines and other penalties (including orders to cease production) for noncompliance with FAA regulations.  In addition, the FAA requires that various maintenance routines be performed on aircraft components. We currently satisfy these maintenance standards allowing component repair and overhaul services at our FAA-approved repair stations.

The FAA licensing process may be costly and time-consuming. To obtain an FAA license, an applicant must satisfy all applicable regulations of the FAA governing repair stations.  FAA regulations require that an applicant have experienced personnel, inspection systems, suitable facilities and equipment. In addition, the applicant must demonstrate a need for the license. Because an applicant must procure manufacturing and repair manuals relating to each particular aircraft component in order to obtain a license with respect to that component, the application process may involve substantial time and cost. Such licenses, which are ongoing in duration, are required for us to perform authorized maintenance, repair, and overhaul services for our customers and are subject to revocation by the government for non-compliance with applicable regulations. We believe that we possess all licenses and certifications that are material to the conduct of our business.

Our non-U.S. sales are subject to both U.S. and non-U.S. governmental regulations and procurement policies and practices, including regulations relating to import-export control, tariffs, investment, exchange controls, anti-corruption and repatriation of earnings. Non-U.S. sales are also subject to varying currency, political and economic risks.

Our Professional Services businesses are subject to various federal, state and local laws and regulations in addition to gaming regulations. These laws and regulations include, but are not limited to, restrictions and conditions concerning gaming, employment, alcoholic beverages, food service, smoking, currency transactions, taxation, zoning and building codes, and marketing and advertising. Such laws and regulations could change or could be interpreted differently in the future, or new laws and regulations could be enacted. Material changes, new laws or regulations, or material differences in interpretations by courts or governmental authorities could adversely affect our operating results.

Our operations are also subject to a variety of worker and community safety laws. For example, the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, or OSHA, mandates general requirements for safe workplaces for all employees in the United States. We believe that our operations are in material compliance with OSHA's health and safety requirements.

Moreover, our gaming management operations are regulated largely by the Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission and the Kansas Lottery. The gaming industry, in general, is highly regulated and we must maintain our licenses and pay gaming taxes to continue our operations. Each gaming facility is subject to extensive regulation under the laws, rules and regulations where it is located. These laws, rules and regulations generally relate to the responsibility, financial stability, integrity and character of the owners, managers, contractors and persons with financial interests in the gaming operations.  The process of obtaining such necessary licenses, registrations, or other approvals often involves substantial disclosure of confidential or proprietary information about us and our officers, directors, key personnel and, in certain instances, beneficial owners of our debt or equity securities, and requires a determination by the regulators as to our suitability. Authorities have broad discretion and may require any beneficial holder of our securities directly or indirectly owing five percent 5% of the ownership interest to file an application, make personal or confidential disclosures, be investigated, and be subject to a determination of suitability. If such beneficial holder is found unsuitable, these restrictions may require a holder of our securities to dispose of the securities, or, if the holder refuses or is unable to dispose of the securities, we may be required to repurchase the securities.

The Company’s business is also impacted by various other laws and regulations, including, but not limited to, local, state, federal, and international tax codes, import and export controls and customs laws, employment and employment-related laws, environmental laws, intellectual property laws, and consumer protection statutes. The Company from time to time incurs costs in the ordinary course of business in connection with maintaining compliance with these evolving and at times overlapping regulatory regimes.

While we are firmly committed to full compliance with all applicable laws and have developed appropriate policies and procedures to comply with the requirements of the evolving regulatory regimes, we cannot provide assurance that our compliance program will prevent all violations of applicable laws or regulations, or that a violation by us or our personnel will not result in a monetary fine or suspension or revocation of one or more of our licenses.

Human Capital Resources

Other than persons employed by our gaming management subsidiaries there were 104 full time and 3 part time employees on April 30, 2023 compared to 107 full time and 5 part time employees on April 30, 2022. As of July 24, 2023, staffing was 101 full time and 4 part time employees. Our staffing at Boot Hill Casino on April 30, 2023 was 205 full time and 59 part time employees and 180 full time employees and 60 part time employees on April 30, 2022. As of July 24, 2023 our staffing at Boot Hill Casino was 207 full time employees and 56 part time employees.

We believe our success as a company depends on the strength of our workforce.  Each leader of an operating subsidiary, reporting to our President and Chief Executive Officer, is responsible for developing and executing our human capital strategy.  This includes recruiting, hiring, training and retention as well as providing recommendations for the development of our compensation and benefits programs.

As the success of our business is fundamentally connected to the well-being of our people, we offer benefits that support their physical, financial and emotional well-being. We provide our employees with access to affordable and convenient medical programs intended to meet their physical and emotional needs and the needs of their families.  To foster retention, employees with fifteen or more years of service receive an annual retention bonus.

As an added benefit for employees, we offer a 401(k) savings plan with a Company match as well as paid vacation and personal days. These benefits are in addition to the Company’s market-based compensation program designed to maintain competitive compensation packages for all employees.

None of our employees are subject to collective bargaining agreements.

Executive Officers of the Registrant

Our executive officers are:

Officers are elected by the Board of Directors of Butler National Corporation and serve at the discretion of the Board. All of the officers of the Company are subject to an employment agreement with the Company.  Clark D. Stewart terminated his employment effective May 9, 2023 and Craig D. Stewart was terminated on January 20, 2023.  Following the departures of Clark Stewart and Craig Stewart, the Company only has two "executive officers" pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 3b-7.

Available Information

For more information about us, visit our website at www.butlernational.com. The contents of the website are not part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Our electronic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") (including all Forms 10-K, 10-Q and 8-K, and any amendments to these reports) are available free of charge through our website immediately after we electronically file with or furnish them to the SEC.  The SEC maintains an Internet site that contains reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding issuers who file electronically with the SEC at www.sec.gov.

Item 1A.  RISK FACTORS

The following statements on risk factors contain "forward looking statements" within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking statements can often be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology, such as "could," "should," "will," "intended," "continue," "believe," "may," "expect," "hope," "anticipate," "goal," "forecast," "plan," "guidance" or "estimate" or the negative of these words, variations thereof or similar expressions. Forward looking statements are not guarantees of future performance or result and involve risks, uncertainties, and assumptions. Stockholders should be aware of certain risks, including those described below and elsewhere in this Form 10-K, which could adversely affect the value of their holdings and could cause our actual results to differ materially from those projected in any forward looking statements. We undertake no obligation to update or revise forward looking statements to reflect changed assumptions, the occurrence of unanticipated events or changes in future operating results, financial condition or business over time.

Risks Related to Our Business and Operations

Our Aerospace Products business is subject to significant customer concentration risk. 

During the fiscal year ending April 30, 2023, we derived 33.3% of our revenue from five customers, and we had one "major customer" (10 percent or more of consolidated revenue) that provided 14.3% of total revenue. At April 30, 2023, we had one customer that accounted for 31.7% of our total accounts receivable. Our business operations in Tempe, Arizona sell almost entirely to one customer. A loss of business from, or the bankruptcy or insolvency of, one or more of any of these major customers may have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations, liquidity and cash flows.

We depend on government spending for a significant portion of our revenues.

We are a supplier, either directly or as a subcontractor, to the U.S. Government and its agencies. We depend on government spending for a significant portion of our business. The United States financing or assistance in facilitating foreign objectives around the world impacts our business at our Avcon Industries, Inc. and Butler National - Tempe subsidiaries. If the flow of United States support globally would decrease, it would have a detrimental impact. If the U.S. Government ceased doing business with us or significantly decreased the amount of business it does with us, it may have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations, liquidity and cash flows.

We operate in a cyclical industries and an economic downturn could negatively impact our operations.

Historically, adverse conditions in the local, regional, national and global economies have negatively affected our operations, and may continue to negatively affect our operations in the future. During periods of economic contraction, our revenues may decrease while some of our costs remain fixed or even increase, resulting in decreased earnings.

The gaming activities that we offer represent discretionary expenditures and participation in such activities may decline during economic downturns, during which consumers generally earn less disposable income. An uncertain economic outlook may adversely affect consumer spending in our gaming operations and may have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations, liquidity and cash flows.

Our Aerospace Products business is subject to the general health of the aviation industry, which can be cyclical. During periods of economic expansion, when capital spending normally increases, we generally benefit from greater demand for our aviation products and services. During periods of economic contraction, when capital spending normally decreases, we generally are adversely affected by declining demand for our aerospace products and services. Such conditions may also inhibit our ability to obtain products and materials from our suppliers or may negatively impact the affordability of such products and materials. Aviation industry conditions are impacted by numerous factors over which we have no control, including political, regulatory, economic and military conditions, environmental concerns, weather conditions and fuel pricing. Any prolonged cyclical downturn may adversely affect customer demand in our Aerospace Products business and may have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations, liquidity and cash flows.

Lack of regulatory approval may lead to difficulties or delays in the development, production, testing and marketing of products, which could adversely affect our business.

Our Aerospace Products business is subject, in part, to regulatory procedures enacted or administered by the Federal Aviation Administration ("FAA"). Accordingly, our business may be adversely affected in the event the Company is unable to comply with such regulations relative to its current products or if any new products or services to be offered by the Company are not formally approved by such agency. Proposed aviation modification products depend upon the issuance by the FAA of a Supplemental Type Certificate with related parts manufacturing authority. Such certifications for future aircraft modification products may not be issued within our expected time frames or issued at all, which may have a material adverse effect on our business. Similarly, the loss of one or more of our current licenses or certifications may also have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations, liquidity and cash flows.

We rely on highly skilled personnel and, if we are unable to retain or motivate key personnel or hire qualified personnel, our results of operations could be impacted.

Retention and recruitment of employees are important to the financial condition and business objectives of the Company. Our cost-effective and quality products and services depends on well-trained employees. Likewise, research and development to generate new products and services in our Aerospace Products business is dependent on trained personnel. The Company relies on various engineering resources, both internally and externally, to perform engineering and certification work to develop new products. The new products have been vital to our growth and sustained revenues and critical to satisfying customer requirements. A loss of consultants or engineers would adversely affect the financials of the Company. Certain individuals in the Company hold specific expertise in engineering. Additionally, key personnel are particularly important in maintaining relationships with the operations related to the FAA and the State of Kansas. For our electronic control manufacturing business, the coding or programming of the electronics in the controls for the business is performed by one person. The inability to make code or product alterations or to produce new products could adversely impact the financial condition of the Company. Critical expertise is not diversified among multiple individuals. We also depend on a limited number of key personnel to manage and operate our business, including our executive officers. The leadership of these key personnel has been, and we expect will continue to be, a significant element of our success. Several of the tasks each our executive officers perform lack redundancy. The departure, death or disability of any one of our executive officers or other extended or permanent loss of any of their services, or any negative industry perception with respect to any of them or their loss, could have a material adverse effect on our business. Our success depends heavily upon the continued contributions of these key persons, whose knowledge, leadership and technical expertise would be difficult to replace, and on our ability to attract and retain experienced professional staff. Losing key personnel may have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations, liquidity and cash flows.

We may face risks related to the geographic location of our casino.

Boot Hill Casino is located in Dodge City, Kansas. Consequently, a significant portion of our gaming business is dependent upon attracting local residents as well as out of town visitors and is subject to the general economic health of the region around Dodge City, Kansas. The economy of Dodge City, Kansas is significantly influenced by the agricultural sector of the national and local economy, which includes both agricultural farming and meat processing. As a result, changes in the economic climate, weather patterns, and market fluctuations for agricultural and petroleum products could cause our customers to see a decrease in discretionary income which may negatively influence our revenues from gaming. This may have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations, liquidity and cash flows.

Due to fixed contract pricing, increasing contract costs exposes us to reduced profitability.

We sell certain products and services to commercial, government, and defense customers under firm contracts providing for fixed units prices, regardless of costs incurred by us. Our Aerospace Products business generated approximately 60% of its 2022 revenue from fixed-price contracts. The costs of producing products or providing services may be adversely affected by increases in the cost of labor, materials, overhead, and other unknown variants, including manufacturing and other operational inefficiencies and differences between assumptions used by us to price a contract and actual results. Increased costs may result in cost overruns and losses on such contracts, which may adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations, liquidity and cash flows.

We are exposed to risks associated with our international sales.

We conduct our business in a number of foreign countries, some of which are politically unstable or subject to military or civil conflicts. Consequently, we are subject to a variety of risks that are specific to international operations, including the following:

Any measures adopted to reduce the potential impact of losses resulting from the risks of doing business internationally, may not be adequate, and the regions in which we operate might not continue to be stable enough to allow us to operate profitably or at all. Our international sales may be subject to local laws, regulations and procurement policies and practices which may differ from U.S. Federal Government regulation, including regulations related to products being installed on aircraft, and exchange controls. We are also exposed to risks associated with any relationships with foreign representatives, consultants, partners and suppliers for international sales and operations. Our ability to arrange safe travel to visit our international customers may put our ability to sell to such customers at risk, which may adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations, liquidity and cash flows.

We may make future acquisitions and our business may suffer if we are unable to successfully integrate such acquisitions into our company or otherwise manage the growth associated with investments and acquisitions.

We continually review, evaluate and consider potential investments and acquisitions in pursuing our business strategy. In evaluating such transactions, we are making difficult judgments regarding the value of business opportunities, technologies and other assets, and the risk and cost of potential liabilities. Acquisitions and investments involve certain other risks and uncertainties, including the difficulty in integrating newly-acquired businesses, the challenges in reaching our strategic objectives, benefits expected from acquisitions or investments, cost and revenue synergies, interest rates and financial conditions, and risk that markets do not evolve as anticipated and the targeted opportunity or technology do not prove to be those needed to be successful in those markets. Other risks include the diversion of our attention and resources from our current operations, the potential of impairment of acquired assets and the potential loss of key employees of acquired businesses. Failure to realize the benefits of an acquisition may adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations, liquidity and cash flows.

Operational challenges impacting our Aerospace Products business could result in failure to meet customer demand for new components.

Our aircraft modification business is extremely complex. Customer projects are often scheduled based upon the availability of certain components. These components are frequently acquired by the customer or by our Avcon Industries, Inc. subsidiary. Operational issues, including delays or defects in parts or supplier components, failure to meet internal performance plans, or delays or failures to achieve required regulatory approval, could result in additional out-of-sequence work and increased production costs, as well as delayed deliveries to customers. We and our suppliers are experiencing supply chain disruptions as a result of global supply chain constraints and labor instability. Supply chain issues impact overall productivity and may adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations, liquidity and cash flows.

Cyber security attacks, internal system or service failures, and misappropriation of data or other breaches of information security may adversely impact our business and operations.

We increasingly rely on information technology and other systems, including our own systems and those of service providers and third parties, to manage our business and employee data and maintain and transmit customers’ personal and financial information, payment settlements, and payment funds transmissions. In addition, third-party service providers and other business partners process and maintain proprietary business information and data. Our collection of such data is subject to extensive regulation by private groups, such as the payment card industry, as well as governmental authorities, including gaming regulatory authorities. Privacy regulations continue to evolve, and we have taken, and will continue to take, steps to comply by implementing processes designed to safeguard the confidential and personal information of our business, employees and customers.

Our information and processes and those of our service providers and other third parties, including our contractors and contractors of our service providers and vendors, are subject to the ever-changing threat of compromised security, in the form of a risk of potential breach, system failure, computer virus, or unauthorized or fraudulent use by customers, company employees, company contractors and other third parties including employees and contractors of third-party vendors. The steps we take to deter and mitigate the risks of breaches may not be successful, and any resulting compromise or loss of data or systems could adversely impact operations or regulatory compliance and could result in remedial expenses, fines, litigation, disclosures, and loss of reputation, potentially impacting our financial results.

Further, as cyber-attacks continue to evolve and become more sophisticated, we may incur significant costs in our attempts to modify or enhance our protective measures or investigate or remediate any actual or perceived vulnerability. Increased instances of cyber-attacks may also have a negative reputational impact that may result in a loss of customer confidence. Any failure to prevent or mitigate security breaches or cyber risk could result in interruptions to the services we provide and cause our customers to lose confidence in our products and services. The unauthorized access, acquisition or disclosure of consumer information could compel us to comply with disparate breach notification laws and otherwise subject us to proceedings by governmental entities, including gaming regulatory authorities, or others and substantial legal and financial liability. This could harm our business and reputation, disrupt our relationships with partners and diminish our competitive position.

Any system or service disruptions, including those caused by projects to improve our information technology systems, if not anticipated and appropriately mitigated, could disrupt our business, and impair our ability to effectively provide products and related services to our customers and could have a material adverse effect on our business. We could also be subject to systems failures, including network, software, or hardware failures, whether caused by us, third-party service providers, intruders or hackers, computer viruses, natural disasters, power shortages, or terrorist attacks. The failure or disruption of our communications or utilities could cause us to interrupt or suspend our operations or otherwise adversely affect our business. Although we utilize various procedures and controls to monitor and mitigate the risk of these threats, there can be no assurance that these procedures and controls will be sufficient. Moreover, expenditures incurred in implementing cyber security and other procedures and controls could impact our financial condition. Any cybersecurity incident or breach of our data or information systems may adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations, liquidity and cash flows.

We face the risk of fraud, theft, and cheating.

We face the risk that gaming customers may attempt or commit fraud or theft or cheat in order to increase winnings. Such acts of fraud, theft, or cheating could involve the use of counterfeit chips or other tactics, which may or may not occur in collusion with our employees. Internal acts of cheating could also be conducted by employees through collusion with dealers, surveillance staff, floor managers, or other casino or gaming area staff. Additionally, we also face the risk that customers may attempt or commit fraud or theft with respect to our non-gaming offerings or against other customers. Such risks include stolen credit or charge cards or cash, falsified checks, theft of retail inventory and purchased goods, and unpaid or counterfeit receipts. Failure to discover such acts or schemes in a timely manner could result in losses in our operations. Negative publicity related to such acts or schemes could have an adverse effect on our reputation. Any incidents of fraud, theft or cheating may adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations, liquidity and cash flows.

We are dependent on third-party platforms to offer sports wagering.

We signed agreements with DraftKings and Bally Corporation to facilitate online and mobile sports wagering. In calendar 2022, we commenced mobile sports wagering with DraftKings. Our Sports Wagering Management Contract with DraftKings has four years remaining and is scheduled to expire in 2027. If we cannot renew, we may have to enter into a similar contract with a different service provider. There is no guarantee that we will be able to negotiate favorable terms in any renewal or new contract. In addition, as we seek to launch online gaming and sports wagering applications in Kansas, we may need to hire additional qualified employees, such as engineers, IT professionals and other compliance personnel. Given the significant competition in this area for qualified candidates, we may be unable to recruit, hire, and retain such qualified candidates. Termination of our Sports Wagering Management contract with the State of Kansas or a failure to extend our relationship with DraftKings may adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations, liquidity and cash flows.

There can be no assurance our sports wagering operations will be continuous or remain profitable.

In 2022 Kansas legalized intra-state sports wagering and established extensive state licensing and regulatory requirements governing any such intra-state sports wagering. We launched online and mobile sports wagering applications in the fall of 2022. Our contracted sports wagering platform competes in a rapidly evolving and highly competitive market against an increasing number of competitors.

Additionally, we have entered into agreements with sports wagering vendors such as DraftKings and Bally Corporation and may enter into additional agreements with strategic partners and other third-party vendors to provide market access in certain jurisdictions. There can be no assurance that the Kansas audience will engage in sports wagering and online gaming products to the extent that we expect. The success of our sports wagering activity is dependent on a number of additional factors, many of which are beyond our control, including the ultimate tax rates and license fees charged by local and state jurisdictions in Kansas; our ability to gain market share in a new market; the timeliness and the technological and popular viability of our products; our ability to compete with new entrants in the market; changes in consumer demographics and public tastes and preferences; cancellations and delays in sporting seasons and sporting matches as a result of events such as players strikes or lockouts; and the availability and popularity of other forms of entertainment. There can be no assurance that we will be able to compete effectively or that our offerings will be successful and generate sufficient returns on our investment. Any of factors that impede sports wagering may adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations, liquidity and cash flows.

We are subject to certain change of control restrictions, which could make it more difficult to be acquired.

Some provisions of our Articles of Incorporation and our existing Shareholder Rights Agreement could make it more difficult for a potential acquirer to acquire a majority of our outstanding voting stock. This includes, but is not limited to, provisions that: provide for a classified Board of Directors, prohibit stockholders from taking action by written consent, and restrict the ability of stockholders to call special meetings. We are also subject to provisions of Kansas law K.S.A. 17-6427 that prohibit us from engaging in any business combination with any interested stockholder for a period of three years from the date the person became an interested stockholder, unless certain conditions are met, which could have the effect of delaying or preventing a change of control. In light of the highly regulated nature of our business and the authority of the regulatory agencies that monitor our business to monitor the composition of our shareholders, the Board has consistently believed these restrictions are appropriate. Nonetheless, these restrictions may result in missed opportunities for the Company and could result in a reduced share price of our common stock, which would harm our business.

Legal and Regulatory Risks

We are subject to significant government regulation and may need to incur significant expenses to comply with new or more stringent government regulation.

Our Aerospace Products business is subject to regulation by the FAA. We manufacture products and parts under FAA Parts Manufacturing Authority requiring qualification and traceability of all materials and vendors used by us. We make aircraft modifications pursuant to the authority granted by Supplemental Type Certificates issued by the FAA. We repair aircraft parts pursuant to the authority granted by our FAA Authorized Repair Station. Before we sell any of our products that are to be installed on an aircraft, they must meet certain standards of airworthiness established by the FAA or the equivalent regulatory agencies in certain other countries. New or more stringent government regulations may be adopted in the future. Changes in the availability of FAA resources to process approvals of modifications or in the regulations that impact our ability to export modifications may adversely affect our business. Likewise, adverse determinations or policy directives from the United States government with respect to controls and classifications of our Avcon Industries, Inc. products could adversely affect the financial condition of the Company. Our failure to comply with applicable regulations could result in the termination of or our disqualification from some of our material contracts, licenses, certificates, authorizations, or approvals, which could have a material adverse effect on our operations and financial condition. Related costs of compliance with, or liability for violations of, existing or future regulations may adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations, liquidity and cash flows.

The online gaming industry is heavily regulated and the Company’s failure to obtain or maintain applicable licensure or approvals, or otherwise comply with applicable requirements, could be disruptive to our business and could adversely affect our operations.

We are subject to regulation in connection with our management of a State of Kansas owned Lottery Gaming Facility. Kansas gaming authorities may require our management personnel, the Company and the managing subsidiaries, and key personnel of all entities to maintain a state-issued license or undergo background checks. Each State Gaming Agency has broad discretion in granting, renewing, and revoking licenses. Obtaining such licenses and approvals could be time consuming and may be unsuccessful or involve considerable expense, which could adversely affect our ability to successfully operate our business. Further, the failure of the Company or key personnel to obtain or retain a license could have a material adverse effect on the Company or on its ability to obtain or retain these licenses in other jurisdictions.

Our present and future stockholders are, and will continue to be, subject to review by regulatory agencies. We are subject to the Lottery Gaming Facility management contract approval process in the state of Kansas. This process requires that any entity or person directly or indirectly owing five percent 5% of the ownership interest of a management company must be found suitable to be an owner by the state of Kansas. If found unsuitable by any agency, the stockholder must offer all of the interest in Company stock held by such stockholder to the Company for cash at the current market bid price less a fifteen percent 15% administrative charge and the Company must purchase such interest within six months of the offer. The stockholder is required to pay all costs of investigation with respect to a determination of his her or their suitability. Any such forced sale may negatively affect the trading price and liquidity of our shares. In addition, regardless of ownership, each member of the Board of Directors and certain officers of the Company are subject to a finding of suitability by any Agency on a regular basis. If a Board member or officer were found unsuitable, we may be forced to dissociate with such person. Such forced dissociation may adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations, liquidity and cash flows.

Gaming regulation and law is evolving, which may adversely affect our business.

Gaming management operations are and will be subject to extensive gaming laws and regulations, many of which were recently adopted and have not been the subject of definitive interpretations and are still subject to proposed amendments and regulation. The political and regulatory environment in which the Company is and will be operating with respect to gaming activities is dynamic and rapidly changing. Some legislative efforts seek to enact a smoking ban that would impact our casino facility. Smoking is permitted in Indian casinos in the State of Kansas and in casinos in neighboring states. Such a ban, if enacted, would put us at a competitive disadvantage and may adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations, liquidity and cash flows. Additionally, certain political efforts seek a significant regulatory change for Indian gaming that, if enacted, could lead to Indian casino gaming over the internet throughout the state. Propositions have also been made that would make it easier for Indian tribes to place land into trust that would enable the tribes to conduct gaming operations. Additional gaming would increase competition for discretionary income from our gaming patrons. The State of Kansas may enact new legislation involving the expansion of gaming. We may not be able to respond quickly or effectively to regulatory, legislative, and other developments, and these changes may in turn impair our ability to offer our existing or proposed products and services or increase our expenses in providing these products and services. Adoption or changes in gaming laws and regulations could adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations, liquidity and cash flows.

We are subject to extensive taxation policies, which could adversely affect our business.

The federal government has, from time to time, considered a federal tax on casino revenues and may consider such a tax in the future. If such an increase were to be enacted, our ability to incur additional indebtedness in the future to finance casino development projects could be materially adversely affected. Additionally, gaming companies are currently subject to significant state and local taxes and fees, in addition to normal federal and state corporate income taxes, and such taxes and fees are subject to increase at any time. The Boot Hill Casino, pursuant to its Management Contract with the State of Kansas pays total taxes between 27% and 31% of gross gaming revenue, based on achievement of the following revenue levels: 27% on gross gaming revenue up to $180 million, 29% on amounts from $180 million to $220 million, and 31% on amounts above $220 million in gross gaming revenue. The Boot Hill Casino is contractually obligated to pay its proportionate share of certain expenses incurred by the Kansas Lottery Commission and the Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission, which amounted to $2.2 million during fiscal year ended April 30, 2023.

Changes in financial reporting regulations could have a materially adverse effect on our business.

The Company reports information to its stockholders and the general public pursuant to the regulations of various federal and state commissions and agencies. These regulations require conformance by the Company to Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, to pronouncements of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board ("PCAOB"), and to accounting and reporting directives issued by the commissions and agencies. The political and regulatory environment in which the Company operates is dynamic and rapidly changing, and adoption or changes in regulations defining accounting procedures or reporting requirements could increase expenditures to report required financial information, which may adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations, liquidity and cash flows.

Financial Risks

Our business requires financing and financing is dependent upon the stability of economic markets.

Our ability to manage and grow our business and to execute our business strategy is dependent, in part, on the continued availability of financing. Access to financing may be limited by various factors, including the condition of overall credit markets, the current high interest rate environment, general economic factors, state of the aviation or gaming industry, our financial performance, and credit ratings. Financing may not continue to be available to us on favorable terms, or at all. If we are unable to obtain additional capital when required, or on satisfactory terms, we may be precluded from maintaining or enhancing our properties, taking advantage of future opportunities, growing our business, acquiring new properties, or responding to competitive pressures.

We may be required in the future to record impairment losses related to assets we currently carry on our balance sheet.

We own and distribute aircraft parts and components. Recurring losses in certain operations could require us to evaluate the recoverability of the carrying value of the related assets and recognize an impairment charge through earnings to reduce the carrying value. In addition, if aircraft for which we offer replacement parts, components, or supply maintenance services are retired and there are fewer aircraft that require these parts or services, our revenues in the future may decline from historical trends.

We evaluate intangible assets for impairment annually during the fourth quarter and in any interim period in which circumstances arise that indicate our intangible asset may be impaired. Indicators of impairment include, but are not limited to, the loss of significant business or significant adverse changes in industry or market conditions. No events occurred during the periods presented indicating the existence of an impairment with respect to our intangible assets. Preparation of forecasts for use in the long-range plan and the selection of the discount rate involve significant judgments that we base primarily on existing firm orders, expected future orders and general market conditions. Significant changes in these forecasts or the discount rate selected could affect the estimated fair value and could result in an impairment charge in a future period.

We make a number of assumptions when determining the recoverability of our assets, including historical sales trends, current and expected usage trends, replacement values, residual values, future demand, and future cash flows. Differences between actual results and the assumptions utilized by us when determining the recoverability of our assets could result in impairment charges in future periods, which may adversely affect our results of operations, financial condition, liquidity and cash flows.

Risks Related to our Stock

Because our common stock is deemed a low-priced "Penny" stock, an investment in our common stock should be considered high risk and subject to marketability restrictions.

Since our common stock is a penny stock, as defined in Rule 3a51-1 under the Exchange Act, it will be more difficult for investors to liquidate their investment. Until the trading price of the common stock increases so that it no longer qualifies as a “penny stock,” if ever, trading in the common stock is subject to the penny stock rules of the Exchange Act. Those rules require broker-dealers, before effecting transactions in any penny stock, to:

Consequently, the penny stock rules may restrict the ability or willingness of broker-dealers to sell the common stock and may affect the ability of holders to sell their common stock in the secondary market and the price at which such holders can sell any such securities. These additional procedures could also limit our ability to raise additional capital in the future.

Our 401(k) profit sharing plan results in new shares being issued each year, which could have a materially adverse effect on our business.

Subject to the annual approval of the Board of Directors, 100% of every pre-tax dollar an employee contributes to their 401(k), up to 6% of the employee’s salary, and a portion of the Company’s profits is matched by the Company. Employees are 100% vested in the Company’s contributions immediately and our matching contribution, as approved by the Board of Directors, is paid on an annual basis with common stock of the Company. Competitive retirement plans are a requirement for hiring and retention of employees in the Company’s business segments. The Company’s 401(k) profit sharing plan also encourages employee participation in the 401(k) plan and encourages overall loyalty to the Company. Matching employee contributions with common stock of the Company leads to a dilution of outstanding common stock, which may result in a lower trading price of our common stock in the future. Historically, the Company has attempted to mitigate this dilutive effect by repurchasing the Company’s outstanding common stock through stock buy-back plans; however, the effectiveness of stock buy-back plans is limited due to volume and timing restrictions found in Rule 10b-18 of the Exchange Act. Stock repurchase plans are also subject to reauthorization by the Board of Directors from time to time and to the Company’s available cash flow.

We may conduct a reverse-stock split, which could expose us to certain risks.

The possibility of the Company undergoing a reverse-stock split has been discussed at prior annual meetings as a means to increase the common stock share price. We operate in competitive industries and the Company must consider all strategies to increase our common stock share price for stockholders. A reverse stock-split and subsequent increase in the common stock price could elicit a positive market reaction and attract new investors to the Company. There are also risks with a reverse stock-split. The market could react negatively to the consolidation and our common stock could come under renewed selling pressure, which would negatively affect the trading price of our common stock.

General Risk Factors

We operate in competitive markets, and competitive pressures could adversely affect our business.

The markets for our Aerospace Products to our commercial, government, and defense customers are highly competitive, and we face competition from a number of sources, both domestic and international. While we believe that we have unique products and proprietary designs that provide a competitive advantage to other modification businesses, the risk exists that other businesses could expand into the marketplace of our Aerospace Products business. Some of our competitors have substantially greater financial and other resources than we have, and others may price their products and services below our selling prices. These competitive markets also create pressure on our ability to hire and retain qualified technicians and other skilled labor needs. These competitive pressures may adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations, liquidity and cash flows.

Additionally, because of the rapid rate at which the gaming industry has expanded, and continues to expand, the gaming industry may be at risk of market saturation, both as to specific areas and generally. Overbuilding of gaming facilities by others at particular sites in competitive markets may have a material adverse effect on our ability to compete and on our operations. Other forms of entertainment, such as television, movies, sporting events and the Kansas Lottery operating iLottery, are more well-established and may be perceived by our users to offer greater variety, affordability, interactivity and enjoyment. We compete with these other forms of entertainment for the discretionary time and income of our users. It is possible that these secondary competitors could reduce the number of visitors to our facilities or the amount they are willing to wager with us, which may adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations, liquidity and cash flows.

Acts of terrorism and war could disrupt our business.

Terrorist attacks and other acts of war or hostility create many economic and political uncertainties. We cannot predict the extent to which terrorism, security alerts, war, or hostilities throughout the world will continue to directly or indirectly impact our business and operating results. Because of the threat of terrorist attacks and other acts of war or hostility in the future, premiums for certain insurance products have increased, and some types of insurance are no longer available. Given current conditions in the global insurance markets, we are substantially uninsured for losses and interruptions caused by terrorist acts and acts of war. If any such event were to affect our properties, it may adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations, liquidity and cash flows.

Inclement weather, natural or human-caused disasters and other conditions could seriously disrupt our business and operations.

Our gaming operations are subject to the weather and other conditions that could disrupt or reduce the number of customers who visit our casino. If weather conditions limit access to our casino or otherwise adversely impact our ability to operate our casino at full capacity, our revenue could suffer, which may adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations, liquidity and cash flows. We also face risks that the weather and other conditions could adversely affect the local industries in Dodge City, Kansas, where the Boot Hill Casino is located. The local economy in Dodge City is primarily fueled by the agriculture, meat processing and oil and gas industries. In the event the weather or other conditions severely disrupt these industries, we could see a reduction in the number of customers who visit our casino. In addition, natural or human-caused disasters or other catastrophic events such as pandemics, major fires, floods, blizzards, tornados and earthquakes could also adversely impact our business and operating results. Such events could lead to the loss of use of one or more of the facilities for which we provide management services for an extended period of time and disrupt our ability to attract customers to our gaming facilities. Any such event may adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations, liquidity and cash flows.

Rising inflation has increased costs related to materials and labor which has adversely impacted our operational capacity and lowered profitability.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the Consumer Price Index increased 6.5 percent in 2022. Many of our operating expenses are sensitive to increases in inflation including equipment prices, fuel costs, and employee-related costs. Insurance costs have also significantly increased with most major carriers. Furthermore, current inflationary pressures may increase costs for materials, supplies, and services. Rising inflation may also drive demand for increases in compensation for employees which may result in increased labor costs. With increasing costs, we may have to increase our prices to maintain the same level of profitability. If we are unable to increase our prices sufficiently to offset increasing expenses, then inflation may have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations, liquidity and cash flows.

Item 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

Not applicable.

Item 2. PROPERTIES

Corporate

Our corporate headquarters are located at One Aero Plaza, New Century, Kansas. We also own a 9,000 square foot facility for office and storage space at 19920 West 161st Street, in Olathe, Kansas.

Aerospace Products (dollars in thousands)

Butler National Corporation has an office and manufacturing operations at 4654 South Ash Ave, Tempe, Arizona in a 16,110 square foot owned facility.

Butler Avionics, Inc. and Butler National Aviation Certification Center are located at One Aero Plaza, New Century, Kansas in a 36,000 square foot leased facility with hangar and office space at the New Century Airport in New Century, Kansas.

Avcon Industries, Inc. is located at 714 North Oliver Road, Newton, Kansas, in a 47,000 square foot leased facility with hangar and office space at the municipal airport in Newton, Kansas. In addition, Avcon Industries, Inc. owns a 12,000 square foot hangar and office space at the municipal airport in Newton, Kansas.

Professional Services

BHCMC, LLC is located at 4000 W. Comanche in Dodge City, Kansas in a 60,000 square foot owned building known as the Boot Hill Casino facility. 

BHCMC, LLC has an administration center located at 2601 N. 14th Avenue in Dodge City, Kansas in a 29,000 square foot owned facility.

BCS Design, Inc. is located at 19930 W. 161st, Olathe, Kansas in a 10,800 square foot owned facility.

Management believes our properties have been well maintained, are suitable and adequate for us to operate at present levels, and the current productive capacity. The utilization of these facilities is appropriate for our existing real estate requirements. However, significant increases in customer orders, changes in product lines, and/or future acquisitions may require expansion of our current properties or the addition of new properties.

Item 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

As of July 31, 2023, there are no significant known legal proceedings pending against us. We consider all such unknown proceedings, if any, to be ordinary litigation incident to the character of the business. We believe that the resolution of any claims will not, individually or in the aggregate, have a material adverse effect on the financial position, results of operations, or liquidity of the Company.

Item 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES.

Not applicable.

PART II

Item 5.  MARKET FOR THE REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES.

COMMON STOCK (BUKS)

SECURITIES CONVERTIBLE TO COMMON STOCK

As of July 31, 2023, there were no Convertible Preferred shares or Convertible Debenture notes outstanding.

STOCK REPURCHASE PROGRAM

The Board of Directors approved a stock purchase program authorizing the repurchase of up to $4,000 of its common stock.  The program was established for the purpose of enabling Butler National Corporation (BNC) to flexibly repurchase its own shares in consideration of factors such as opportunities for strategic investment, BNC's financial condition and the price of its common stock as part of improving capital efficiency.  The program is currently authorized through July 31, 2025.

The table below provides information with respect to common stock purchases by the Company during the quarter ended April 30, 2023.

Item 6.  RESERVED

Item 7.  MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The following Management Discussion and Analysis (MD&A) is intended to help the reader understand our results of operations and financial condition for fiscal years 2023 and 2022 by discussing principle factors affecting the results of operations, liquidity and capital resources, as well as the critical accounting policies of the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiaries and affiliates. This MD&A is provided as a supplement to, and should be read in conjunction with, our consolidated financial statements and the accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements (Notes).

Our fiscal year ends on April 30. Fiscal years 2023 and 2022 consisted of 52 weeks and ended on April 30, 2023 and April 30, 2022, respectively. All references to years in this MD&A represent fiscal years unless otherwise noted.

Overview

We have two separate reporting segments: Aerospace Products and Professional Services. Aerospace Products and Professional Services do not share the same customers and suppliers and have substantially distinct businesses. The Aerospace Products operating segment provides products and services in the aerospace industry. Companies in Aerospace Products derive their revenue from system design, engineering, manufacturing, integration, installation, repairing, overhauling, servicing and distribution of aerostructures, avionics, aircraft components, accessories, subassemblies and systems. The Professional Services operating segment provides services in the gaming industry. Professional Services companies manage a gaming and entertainment facility and provide architectural services. These reporting segments operate through various subsidiaries and affiliates listed on Exhibit 21 to this Form 10-K.

Management is focused on increasing long-term shareholder value from increased cash generation, earnings growth, and prudently managing capital expenditures. We plan to do this by continuing to drive increased revenues from product and service innovations, strategic acquisitions, and targeted marketing programs.   Specifically, Butler National has actively worked on developing and promoting new STCs and continuing to develop its new sports wagering platform.

Butler National’s strategy is dependent on a number of ongoing factors as discussed under “Forward-Looking Statements” and Part 1, Item 1A, “Risk Factors.” The key factors that affect our operating results are the customer headcount at Boot Hill, the number of new STCs we are able to develop, our ability to market STCs in domestic and international markets, the growth of our new sports wagering platforms, and our ability to manage our cost structure for capital expenditures and operating expenses such as salaries, wages and benefits, claims and insurance expense, maintenance, and new equipment or raw materials.

Results Overview

Our fiscal 2023 revenue increased 5% to $75.2 million compared to $71.5 million in fiscal 2022. In fiscal 2023 the Professional Services revenue increased 2% primarily due to the development of sportsbook revenue.  There was also an increase of 8% in the Aerospace Products revenue in fiscal 2023 which can be attributed to aggressive marketing efforts for our new STC's.

Our fiscal 2023 net income was $4.5 million compared to net income of $12.2 million in fiscal 2022. Earnings per share was $0.06 for fiscal 2023 compared to $0.14 in fiscal 2022. We continue focusing on our margin expansion initiatives, including efficiencies in our implementation and operational processes and controlling general and administrative expenses. The fiscal 2023 operating income was $8.7 million, a decrease from $16.1 million in fiscal 2022.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Fiscal 2023 compared to Fiscal 2022

Revenue

Revenue increased to $75.2 million in fiscal 2023, compared to $71.5 million in fiscal 2022. See "Operations by Segment" below for a discussion of the primary reasons for the increase in revenue.

Professional Services derives its revenue from (a) professional management services in the gaming industry through Butler National Service Corporation ("BNSC") and BHCMC, LLC ("BHCMC"), and (b) professional architectural and management support services through BCS Design, Inc. ("BCS"). Revenue from Professional Services increased 2% to $38.0 million in fiscal 2023 compared to $37.2 million in fiscal 2022.  We established a new sports wagering platform that brought in $2.7 million of revenue that did not exist in FY 2022.  Furthermore, casino gaming revenue decreased $1.9 million due to a decrease in patron spend per visit.  We believe this was due primarily to increased inflation and drought conditions in our primary market area causing a decrease in discretionary spending.

Aerospace Products derives its revenue by designing, engineering, manufacturing, installing, servicing and repairing products for classic and current production aircraft. Aerospace Products revenue increased 8% to $37.1 million in fiscal 2023 compared to $34.3 million in fiscal 2022. The increase in revenue is primarily due to an increase in the aircraft modification business of $2.6 million.  The development of new STC's and our marketing efforts for them in both domestic and international markets supported this increase.

Costs and expenses

Costs and expenses related to Professional Services and Aerospace Products include the cost of engineering, labor, materials, equipment utilization, control systems, security and occupancy.

Costs and expenses increased 20% in fiscal 2023 to $66.5 million compared to $55.4 million in fiscal 2022.  Costs and expenses were 88% of total revenue in fiscal 2023, compared to 77% of total revenue in fiscal 2022.  The increase is primarily due to an increase in material and labor costs, a stock award and cash compensation of $492 awarded to a board member, and a $4.5 million severance accrual relating to a separation agreement with two former executive officers.  

Costs of Professional Services increased 11% in the year ended April 30, 2023, to $15.4 million compared to $14.0 million in the year ended April 30, 2022.  Costs were 20% of total revenue in the year ended April 30, 2023, as compared to 20% of total revenue in the year ended April 30, 2022.  The increase is directly related to an increase in labor costs.

Costs of Aerospace Products increased 15% in the year ended April 30, 2023, to $25.9 million compared to $22.4 million for the year ended April 30, 2022.  Costs were 34% of total revenue in the year ended April 30, 2023, as compared to 31% of total revenue in the year ended April 30, 2022.  The increase is directly related to an increase in material and labor costs.

Marketing and advertising expenses as a percent of total revenue was 7% in fiscal 2023, as compared to 7% in fiscal 2022. These expenses increased 3% to $5.2 million in fiscal 2023, from $5.1 million in fiscal 2022. Marketing and advertising expenses include advertising, sales and marketing labor, gaming development costs, and casino and product promotions. 

General, administrative and other expenses as a percent of total revenue was 27% in fiscal 2023, compared to 19% in fiscal 2022. These expenses increased 44% to $20.0 million in fiscal 2023, from $13.9 million in fiscal 2022.  The increase is primarily due to an increase of depreciation and amortization of $617, a stock award and cash compensation of $492 awarded to a board member, and $4.5 million severance accrual relating to a separation agreement with two former executive officers. 

Other income (expense)

Interest expense and other income were ($ 2.1) million in fiscal 2023 compared with interest and other income (expense) of ($0.6) million in fiscal 2022, a decrease of $ 1.5 million from fiscal 2022 to fiscal 2023.  Interest expense was $2.7 million in both 2023 and 2022.  Gain on sale of assts was $479 in fiscal 2023 compared to $75 in fiscal 2022.  The Company received notice of forgiveness of the Paycheck Protection Program loan of $2.0 million from the Small Business Administration in fiscal 2022.

Operations by Segment

We have two operating segments, Professional Services and Aerospace Products. The Professional Services segment includes revenue contributions and expenditures associated with casino management services and professional architectural and management support services. Aerospace Products derives its revenue by designing, engineering, manufacturing, installing, modifying, servicing and repairing products for aircraft.

 The following table presents a summary of our operating segment information for fiscal years 2023 and 2022:

Professional Services

The remaining management and Professional Services revenue includes professional management services in the gaming industry, and licensed architectural services. Professional Services revenue excluding Boot Hill Casino decreased 25% to $283 in fiscal 2023 compared to $378 in fiscal 2022.  The decrease is due to management's concerted efforts to wind down the architecture business.  

Aerospace Products

Outlook

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the Consumer Price Index increased 6.5 percent in 2022. Many of our operating expenses are sensitive to increases in inflation including equipment prices, fuel costs, and employee-related costs. Insurance costs have also significantly increased with most major carriers. Furthermore, inflationary pressures the market is currently experiencing may increase costs for materials, supplies, and services. Rising inflation may also drive demand for increases in compensation for employees which may result in increase in labor costs. With increasing costs, we may have to increase our prices to maintain the same level of profitability.

Liquidity and Capital Resources (in thousands)

Overview 

Butler National is a holding company. Our ability to fund our obligations depends on existing cash on hand, cash flow from our subsidiaries and our ability to raise capital. Our primary sources of liquidity and capital resources have been cash on hand, cash flow from operations, borrowings under our lines of credit and notes payable (as further described below) and proceeds from the issuance of debt and equity securities. We assess liquidity in terms of the ability to generate cash or obtain financing in order to fund operating, investing and debt service requirements. Our primary ongoing cash requirements include the funding of operations, capital expenditures, acquisitions and other investments in line with our business strategy and debt repayment obligations and interest payments. Our strategy has been to maintain moderate leverage and substantial capital resources in order to take advantage of opportunities, to invest in our businesses and develop new streams of income that may be profitable. As such, we have continued to invest in developing and marketing new STCs and growing our established sports wagering platform. We believe that our current banks will provide the necessary capital for our business operations. However, we continue to maintain contact with other banks that have an interest in funding our working capital needs to continue our growth in operations in 2023 and beyond.

Notes Payable and Lines of Credit

At April 30, 2023, the Company has a line of credit with Kansas State Bank in the form of a promissory note with an interest rate 8.4% totaling $2,000. The unused line at April 30, 2023 was $2,000. There were no advances made on the line of credit during the year ended April 30, 2023. The line of credit is due on demand and is secured by a first and second position on all assets of the Company.

One note with Academy Bank, N.A. for $30,916 secured by all of BHCMC's assets and compensation under the State management contract with an interest rate of 5.32% payable over seven years with an initial twenty-year amortization and a balloon payment of $19,250 at the end of seven years. The second note with Academy Bank, N.A. for $10,173 is secured by all of BHCMC's assets and compensation under the State management contract with an interest rate of 5.75% payable in full over five years. These notes contain a covenant to maintain a debt service coverage ratio of 1.3 to 1.0. These notes also contain a liquidity covenant requiring the Company to maintain an aggregate sum of $1.5 million of unrestricted cash. We are in compliance with these covenants at April 30, 2023.

There was a note payable to Fidelity State Bank and Trust Company for $158 for real estate purchased in Dodge City, Kansas.  The interest rate on this note is 6.25%. This note was paid in full in May 2023.

At April 30, 2023, there was a note payable with Bank of America, N.A. with a balance of $946. The interest rate on this note is at SOFR plus 1.75%.  The loan is secured by buildings and improvements having a net book value of $652.  This note matures in March 2029.

At April 30, 2023, there is a note payable with Bank of America, N.A. with a balance of $434.  The interest rate on this note is at SOFR plus 1.75%.  This loan is secured by buildings and improvements with a net book value of $702.  This note matures in March 2029.

At April 30, 2023, there was a note payable with Patriots Bank with an interest rate of 4.35% totaling $1,046.  This loan is secured by aircraft security agreements with a net book value of $358.  This note matures in March 2029.

At April 30, 2023, there is a note payable with an interest rate of 8.13% totaling $44 secured by equipment with a net book value of $41. This note matures in October 2025.

We are compliant with the covenants and obligations of each of our notes as of April 30, 2023, and July 31, 2023.

Cashflow Summary

Our use of cash in the last fiscal year is in line with our overall fiscal strategy to use moderate leverage to facilitate growth in existing businesses and to develop new streams of income. During fiscal 2023 our cash position increased by $9.5 million. Net income was $4.5 million.

Operating Activities

Cash flows from operating activities provided $20.9 million. Non-cash activities consisting of depreciation and amortization contributed $5.9 million, 401(k) stock issues contributed $783, gain on sale of airplanes and a building used $479, deferred compensation contributed $357, and stock awarded to a director provided $352. Deferred income taxes increased our cash position by $297. Accounts receivable decreased our cash position by $157. Inventories decreased our cash position by $75. Accounts payable and contract liability increased our cash position by $7.8 million. Contract assets decreased our cash position by $423. Prepaid expenses and other assets decreased our cash by $2.2 million, while gaming facility mandated payments increased our cash by $100. Accrued liabilities and other liabilities increased our cash position by $5.0 million.  Income taxes payable decreased our cash position by $821.

Investing Activities

Cash used in investing activities was $5.9 million. This was a decrease of $5.7 million from last year. The decrease was primarily attributable to the Company constructing a new hanger in FY 2022 to provide more space for our Aerospace segment. We invested $2.0 million towards STCs, $646 on building improvements, $714 on airplane upgrades, and $3.1 million on equipment and furnishings. We received $574 in proceeds from the sale of airplanes and a building.

Financing Activities

Cash used in financing activities was $5.5 million. This was a decrease of $5.7 million from last year. The decrease was primarily attributable to the Company having purchased the non-controlling interest in BHCMC, LLC in FY 2022. We made repayments on our debt of $5.2 million, reduced our lease liability by $259, and purchased company stock for $61. The stock acquired was placed in treasury.

Capital Expenditures

The Company anticipates capital expenditures in fiscal year 2023 to be approximately $7.0 million, consisting of $2.0 million on STC's and $5.0 million on equipment. We anticipate our cash balance will be sufficient to cover cash requirements through the current fiscal year.

Critical Accounting Estimates

We believe that there are several accounting policies that are critical to understanding our historical and future performance, as these policies affect the reported amount of revenue and other significant areas involving management judgments and estimates. These significant accounting policies relate to revenue from contracts with customers, inventory valuation and long-lived assets. These policies and our procedures related to these policies are described in detail below and under specific areas within this "Management Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations." In addition, Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements expands upon discussion of our accounting policies.

Revenue from Contracts with Customers – Aerospace Contracts

Methodology

We recognize revenue and profit based upon either (1) the percent completion method, in which sales and profit are recorded based upon the ratio of labor costs incurred to date to estimated total labor costs to complete the performance obligation, or (2) the point-in-time method, in which sales are recognized at the time control is transferred to the customer. For aerospace contracts that involve airplane modifications based on customer specific requirements, we generally recognize revenue and income using the percent completion method because of continuous transfer of control to the customer. Revenue is generally recognized using the percent completion method based on the extent of progress towards completion of the performance obligation, which allows for recognition of revenue as work on a contract progresses. Our general contract term is between one to twelve months. 

Management performs detailed quarterly reviews of all of our significant long-term contracts. Based upon these reviews, we record the effects of adjustments in profit estimates each period. If at any time management determines that in the case of a particular contract total costs will exceed total contract revenue, we record a provision for the entire anticipated contract loss at that time.

Judgment and Uncertainties

The percent completion revenue recognition model requires that we estimate future revenues and costs over the life of a contract. Revenues are estimated based upon the original contract price, with consideration being given to exercised contract options, change orders and, in some cases, projected customer requirements. Contract costs may be incurred over a period of several months, and the estimation of these costs requires significant judgment based upon the acquired knowledge and experience of program managers, engineers and financial professionals. Estimated costs are based primarily on anticipated purchase contract terms, historical performance trends, business base and other economic projections.

Effect if Actual Results Differ From Assumptions

While we do not believe there is a reasonable likelihood there will be a material change in estimates or assumptions used to calculate our revenue contracts and costs, estimating the percentage of work complete on certain programs is a complex task. As a result, changes to these estimates could have a significant impact on our results of operations. These products and services are an important element in our continuing strategy to increase operating efficiencies and profitability as well as broaden our business base. Management continues to monitor and update program cost estimates quarterly for these contracts. A significant change in an estimate on one or more of these contracts could have a material effect on our financial position and results of operations.

Inventory Valuation

Methodology

We have four types of inventory (a) raw materials, (b) contracts in process, (c) other work in process and (d) finished goods. Raw material includes certain general stock materials but primarily relates to purchases that were made in anticipation of specific programs that have not been started as of the balance sheet date. Raw materials are stated at the lower of the cost of the inventory or its fair market value. Contracts in process, other work in process and finished goods are valued at production cost comprised of material, labor and overhead. Contracts in process, other work in process and finished goods are reported at the lower of cost or net realizable value.

Judgment and Uncertainties

The process for evaluating inventory obsolescence or market value often requires the Company to make subjective judgments and estimates concerning future sales levels, quantities and prices at which such inventory will be sold in the normal course of business. We adjust our inventory by the difference between the estimated market value and the actual cost of our inventory to arrive at net realizable value. Changes in estimates of future sales volume may necessitate future write-downs of inventory value.

Effect if Actual Results Differ From Assumptions

Management reviews the inventory balance on an annual basis to determine whether any additional write-downs are necessary. Following the write-down of the inventory as discussed above, we believe this inventory is stated at net realizable value at April 30 2023, although an unanticipated lack of demand for aircraft or spare parts in the future could result in additional write-downs of the inventory value. Overall, management believes that our inventory is appropriately valued at April 30, 2023.

Long-lived Assets

Methodology

The Company accounts for its long-lived assets in accordance with ASC Topic 360-10, "Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets." ASC Topic 360-10 requires that long-lived assets be reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the historical cost carrying value of an asset may no longer be appropriate. The Company assesses the recoverability of the carrying value of an asset by estimating the future net cash flows expected to result from the asset, including eventual disposition. 

Judgment and Uncertainties

In years that management performs a qualitative assessment we consider the following qualitative factors: general economic conditions in the markets served by the segment, relevant industry-specific performance statistics, and forecasted results of operations.

For the quantitative impairment tests, management estimated the fair value of the long-lived asset group using an income methodology based on management's estimates of forecasted undiscounted cash flows over the estimated life of the assets. Changes in these estimates and assumptions could materially affect the results of our impairment testing.

An impairment loss is recognized for any excess of the carrying amount of the estimated undiscounted cash flows over the remaining life of the assets. No impairment charges were recorded in the fiscal year ended April 30, 2023.

Effect if Actual Results Differ From Assumptions

As with all assumptions, there is an inherent level of uncertainty and actual results, to the extent they differ from those assumptions, could have a material impact on fair value. For example, a reduction in customer demand would impact our assumed growth rate resulting in a reduced fair value. Potential events or circumstances could have a negative effect on the estimated fair value. The loss of a major customer or program could have a significant impact on the future cash flows associated with a long-lived asset group. We do not currently believe there to be a reasonable likelihood that actual results will vary materially from estimates and assumptions used to test our long-lived assets for impairment losses. However, if actual results are not consistent with our estimates or assumptions, we may be exposed to additional impairment charges that could be material.

Item 7A.  QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

Not applicable. 

Item 8.  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

The Financial Statements of the Registrant are set forth on pages 31 through 46 of this report.

Item 9.  CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

None.

Item 9A.  CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

We maintain a set of disclosure controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in our filings under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC rules and forms. Our principal executive and financial officers have evaluated our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this report on Form 10-K and have determined that such disclosure controls and procedures are effective, based on criteria in the Internal Control-Integrated Framework, issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission ("COSO").

Evaluation of disclosure controls and procedures

Disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in SEC rules and forms and that such information is accumulated and communicated to management, including the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosures.

In connection with the preparation of this Form 10-K, our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures as of April 30, 2023. Based on that evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of April 30, 2023.

Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

Management Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f). Under the supervision and with the participation of management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, we conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal controls over financial reporting based on the framework in Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by ("COSO"). Based on this evaluation, management has concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of April 30, 2023.

Our internal control over financial reporting includes policies and procedures that (1) pertain to maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect transactions and dispositions of the assets of the Company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the Company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the Company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of Company assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

This annual report does not include an attestation report of our independent registered public accounting firm regarding internal control over financial reporting because it is not required for a smaller reporting company.

Limitations on Controls

Our management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, does not expect that our disclosure controls or our internal control over financial reporting will prevent or detect all error and all fraud. A control system, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the control system's objectives will be met. The design of a control system must reflect the fact that there are resource constraints, and the benefits of controls must be considered relative to their costs. Further, because of the inherent limitations in all control systems, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that misstatements due to error or fraud will not occur or that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, have been detected. These inherent limitations include the realities that judgments in decision making can be faulty and that breakdowns can occur because of simple error or mistake. Controls can also be circumvented by the individual acts of some persons, by collusion of two or more people, or by management override of the controls. The design of any system of controls is based in part on certain assumptions about the likelihood of future events, and there can be no assurance that any design will succeed in achieving its stated goals under all potential future conditions. Projections of any evaluation of controls effectiveness to future periods are subject to risks. Over time, controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions or deterioration in the degree of compliance with policies or procedures.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

In our opinion, there were no material changes in the Company internal controls over financial reporting during the three months ended April 30, 2023 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, its internal controls over financial reporting.

Item 9B.  OTHER INFORMATION

None. 

Item 9C.  DISCLOSURE REGARDING FOREIGN JURISDICTIONS THAT PREVENT INSPECTIONS

Not applicable 

PART III

Item 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

Information required by this Item 10 will be presented in the Company’s definitive proxy statement for its annual meeting of shareholders, which will be held on October 3, 2023, and is incorporated herein by reference. Certain information regarding executive officers of Butler National Corporation is included above in Part I of this Form 10-K under the caption “Executive Officers of the Registrant” pursuant to Instruction 3 to Item 401(b) of Regulation S-K and General Instruction G(3) of Form 10-K.

Item 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

Information required by this Item 11 regarding executive compensation will be presented in the Company’s definitive proxy statement for its annual meeting of shareholders, which will be held on October 3, 2023, and is incorporated herein by reference.

Item 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

The following table provides information about our common stock that may be issued under our equity compensation plan as of April 30, 2023.

Information regarding security ownership of certain beneficial owners and management and related stockholder matters will be presented in the Company’s definitive proxy statement for its annual meeting of stockholders, which will be held on October 3, 2023, and is incorporated herein by reference.

Item 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE

Information required by this Item 13 regarding certain relationships, related party transactions and director independence will be presented in the Company’s definitive proxy statement for its annual meeting of shareholders, which will be held on October 3, 2023, and is incorporated herein by reference.

Item 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

Information required by this Item 14 regarding accounting fees and services will be presented in the Company’s definitive proxy statement for its annual meeting of stockholders, which will be held on October 3, 2023, and is incorporated herein by reference.

PART IV

Item 15. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

All other financial statements and schedules not listed have been omitted because the required information is inapplicable or the information is presented in the financial statements or related notes.

* Relates to management contract, compensatory plan or arrangement.

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

July 31, 2023

BUTLER NATIONAL CORPORATION

/s/ Christopher J. Reedy
Christopher J. Reedy, President
and Chief Executive Officer

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant in the capacities and on the dates indicated:

BUTLER NATIONAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

AS OF April 30, 2023 and 2022

(in thousands, except per share data)

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements

BUTLER NATIONAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED April 30, 2023 and 2022

(in thousands, except per share data)

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements 

BUTLER NATIONAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

FOR THE YEARS ENDED April 30, 2023 and 2022

(dollars in thousands)

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. 

BUTLER NATIONAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED April 30, 2023 and 2022

(dollars in thousands)

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. 

BUTLER NATIONAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands, except per share data)

The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Butler National Corporation (BNC) and its wholly-owned active subsidiaries, Avcon Industries, Inc., BCS Design, Inc., Butler National Service Corporation, Butler National Corporation-Tempe, Butler Avionics, Inc., Butler National, Inc., Butler Temporary Services, Inc., Kansas International Corporation, Kansas International DDC, LLC, and BHCMC, LLC (collectively, The Company). These consolidated financial statements and related notes are presented in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (“GAAP”), expressed in U.S. dollars. All amounts are in thousands, except share and par values, unless otherwise noted. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. The fiscal year end of the Company is April 30.

Avcon Industries, Inc. modifies business category aircraft at its Newton, Kansas facility. Modifications can include passenger-to-freighter configuration, addition of aerial photography capability, ISR modifications, and stability enhancing modifications. Butler Avionics, Inc. sells, installs and repairs avionics equipment (airplane radio equipment and flight control systems). Butler National, Inc. acquires airplanes, principally Learjets, to refurbish and sell. Butler Temporary Services, Inc. processes company payroll. Kansas International Corporation and Kansas International DDC, LLC own property. Butler National Corporation-Tempe is primarily engaged in the manufacture of electronics for weapon control systems used by the military. Butler National Service Corporation is a management consulting and administrative services firm providing business planning and financial coordination to Indian tribes interested in owning and operating casinos under the terms of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act of 1988. BHCMC, LLC provides management services for the Boot Hill Casino under a management agreement with the State of Kansas. BCS Design, Inc. provides professional architectural services.

SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES:

a) Accounts receivable: Accounts receivable are carried on a gross basis, with no discounting, less the allowance for doubtful accounts. Management estimates the allowance for doubtful accounts based on existing economic conditions, the financial conditions of the customers, and the amount and the age of past due accounts. Receivables are considered past due if full payment is not received by the contractual due date. Past due accounts are generally written off against the allowance for doubtful accounts only after all collection attempts have been exhausted. Allowance for doubtful accounts is calculated on the historical write-off of doubtful accounts of the individual subsidiaries. Invoices are generally considered a doubtful account if no payment has been made in the past 90 days. We review these policies on a quarterly basis, and based on these reviews, we believe adequate reserves are maintained.

b) Use of Estimates: The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. Future events and their effects cannot be determined with certainty. Therefore, the determination of estimates requires the exercise of judgment. Actual results could differ from those estimates, and any such differences may be material to our financial statements. Significant estimates include assumptions about collection of accounts receivable, the valuation and recognition of stock-based compensation expense, valuation for deferred tax assets and useful life of fixed assets.

c) Inventories: Inventories are priced at the lower of cost, determined on a first-in, first-out basis, or net realizable value. Inventories include material, labor and factory overhead required in the production of our products.

Inventory obsolescence is examined on a regular basis. When determining our estimate of obsolescence, we consider inventory that has been inactive for five years or longer and the probability of using that inventory in future production. The obsolete inventory generally consists of Falcon and Learjet parts and electrical components. 

d) Property and Related Depreciation: Machinery and equipment are recorded at cost and depreciated over their estimated useful lives. Depreciation is provided on a straight-line basis. 

Maintenance and repairs are charged to expense as incurred. The cost and accumulated depreciation of assets retired are removed from the accounts and any resulting gains or losses are reflected as income or expense.

e) Long-Lived Assets: The Company accounts for its long-lived assets in accordance with ASC Topic 360-10, "Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets." ASC Topic 360-10 requires that long-lived assets be reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the historical cost carrying value of an asset may no longer be appropriate. The Company assesses recoverability of the carrying value of an asset by estimating the future net cash flows expected to result from the asset, including eventual disposition. If the future net cash flows are less than the carrying value of the asset, an impairment loss is recorded equal to the difference between the asset's carrying value and fair value or disposable value.

f) Other Assets: Our other asset account includes assets of $5,500 related to the Kansas Expanded Lottery Act Management Contract privilege fee, $6,646 of gaming equipment we were required to pay for ownership by the State of Kansas Lottery, and JET autopilot intellectual property of $1,417, and miscellaneous other assets of $128.  BHCMC expects the $5,500 privilege fee to have a value over the remaining life of the initial Management Contract with the State of Kansas which will end in December 2024.  The State of Kansas approved a renewal management contract and an amendment to the current management contract for our professional services company BNSC via BHCMC. The renewal will take effect December 15, 2024, and continue until 2039, another 15 years. The Managers Certificate asset for use of gaming equipment is being amortized over a period of three years based on the estimated useful life of gaming equipment.  The JET intellectual property is fully amortized.  Amortization relating to other assets in the year ended  April 30, 2023 and 2022 was $715 and $689, respectively.

Other assets net values are as follows:

g) Supplemental Type Certificates: Supplemental Type Certificates (STCs) are authorizations granted by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for specific modification of a certain aircraft. The STC authorizes us to perform modifications, installations, and assemblies on applicable customer-owned aircraft. Costs incurred to obtain STCs are capitalized and subsequently amortized over seven years. The legal life of an STC is indefinite. We believe we have enough future sales to fully amortize our STC development costs. Amortization relating to STC's in the year ended  April 30, 2023 and 2022 was $1,267 and $1,295, respectively. 

h) Revenue Recognition: ASC Topic 606, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers”

Under ASC 606, revenue is recognized when a customer obtains control of promised services in an amount that reflects the consideration we expect to receive in exchange for those services. To achieve this core principal, the Company applies the following five steps:

1)    Identify the contract, or contracts, with a customer

A contract with a customer exists when (i) the Company enters into an enforceable contract with a customer that defines each party’s rights regarding the services to be transferred and identifies the payment terms related to these services, (ii) the contract has commercial substance and (iii) the Company determines that collection of substantially all consideration for services that are transferred is probable based on the customer’s intent and ability to pay the promised consideration.

2)    Identification of the performance obligations in the contract

At contract inception, an entity shall assess the goods or services promised in a contract with a customer and shall identify as a performance obligation each promise to transfer to the customer. Performance obligations promised in a contract are identified based on the services that will be transferred to the customer that are both capable of being distinct, whereby the customer can benefit from the service either on its own or together with other resources that are readily available from third parties or from the Company, and are distinct in the context of the contract, whereby the transfer of the services is separately identifiable from other promises in the contract. To the extent a contract includes multiple promised services, the Company must apply judgment to determine whether promised services are capable of being distinct and distinct in the context of the contract. If these criteria are not met the promised services are accounted for as a combined performance obligation.

3)    Determination of the transaction price

The transaction price is the amount that an entity allocates to the performance obligations identified in the contract and, therefore, represents the amount of revenue recognized as those performance obligations are satisfied. The transaction price is the amount of consideration to which an entity expects to be entitled in exchange for transferring promised goods or services to a customer.

4)    Allocation of the transaction price to the performance obligations in the contract

Once a contract and associated performance obligations have been identified and the transaction price has been determined, ASC 606 requires an entity to allocate the transaction price to each performance obligation identified. This is generally done in proportion to the standalone selling prices of each performance obligation (i.e., on a relative standalone selling price basis). As a result, any discount within the contract generally is allocated proportionally to all the separate performance obligations in the contract. The Company is applying the right to invoice practical expedient to recognize revenue. As a result, the entity bypasses the steps of determining the transaction price, allocating that transaction price and determining when to recognize revenue as it will recognize revenue as billed by multiplying the price assigned to the good or service, by the units.

5)  Recognition of revenue when, or as, we satisfy a performance obligation

Revenue is recognized when or as performance obligations are satisfied by transferring control of a promised good or service to a customer. Control transfers either over time or at a point in time. Revenue is recognized when control of the promised services is transferred to our customers, in an amount that reflects the consideration we expect to be entitled to in exchange for those services.

Aircraft modifications are performed under fixed-price contracts unless modified with a change order.  Significant payment terms are generally included in these contracts, requiring a 30% to 50% down payment on arrival of the aircraft and include milestone payments throughout the project.  Typically, contracts are less than one year in duration.  Revenue from fixed-priced contracts is recognized on the percentage-of-completion method, measured by the direct labor incurred compared to total estimated direct labor.  Direct labor best represents the progress on a contract.

Revenue from Aircraft Avionics and Special Mission Electronics are recognized when shipped. Payment for these Avionics products is due within 30 days of the invoice date after shipment.

Regarding warranties and returns, our products are special order and are not suitable for return. Our products are unique upon installation and tested prior to their release to the customer and acceptance by the customer. In the rare event of a warranty claim, the claim is processed through the normal course of business and may include additional charges to the customer. In our opinion, any future warranty work would not be material to the consolidated financial statements.

Gaming revenue is the gross gaming win as reported by the Kansas Lottery casino reporting systems, less the mandated payments by and for the State of Kansas. Electronic games-slots and table games revenue is the aggregate of gaming wins and losses. Liabilities are recognized for chips and "ticket-in, ticket-out" coupons in the customers' possession, and for accruals related to anticipated payout of progressive jackpots. Progressive gaming machines, which contain base jackpots that increase at a progressive rate based on the number of coins played, are deducted from revenue as the value of jackpots increase. Effective September 1, 2022, sports wagering became legal in the State of Kansas. The company is currently managing sports wagering through DraftKings sports wagering platform. The Company shares a percentage of the gross sports wagering win with its platform partner. Revenue from Gaming Management and other Corporate/Professional Services is recognized as the service is rendered. Food, beverage, and other revenue is recorded when the service is received and paid.

i) Fair Value Measurements: Fair value is an exit price, representing the amount that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants. As such, fair value is a market-based measurement that is determined based on assumptions that market participants would use in pricing an asset or a liability. Assets and liabilities recorded at fair value are measured and classified in accordance with a three-tier fair value hierarchy based on the observability of the inputs available in the market used to measure fair value:

Level 1 - Observable inputs that reflect quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in active markets.

Level 2 - Inputs that are based upon quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active, and model-based valuation techniques for which all significant inputs are observable in the market or can be derived from observable market data. Where applicable, these models project future cash flows and discount the future amounts to a present value using market-based observable inputs including interest rate curves, foreign exchange rates, and credit ratings.

Level 3 - Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activities.

The fair value hierarchy requires an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value.

For certain financial instruments, including cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments, accounts receivable, marketable securities, notes payable,  and accounts payable, the carrying amounts approximate fair value.  We do not have financial assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis.  Other financial assets and liabilities are carried at cost with fair value disclosed, if required.

We measure certain other instruments, including stock-based compensation awards settled in the stock also at fair value. The determination of fair value involves the use of appropriate valuation methods and relevant inputs into valuation models.

j) Slot Machine Jackpots: If the casino is not required to make payment of the jackpot (i.e. the incremental amount on a progressive machine) due to legal requirements, the jackpot is accrued as the obligation becomes unavoidable. This liability is accrued over the time period in which the incremental progressive jackpot amount is generated with a related reduction in casino revenue. No liability is accrued with respect to the base jackpot.

k) Gaming Facility Mandated Payment: Boothill Casino is contractually obligated to pay its proportionate share of certain expenses incurred by the Kansas Lottery Commission and the Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission, which amounted to $2,224 and $1,968 in the fiscal year ended April 30, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

l) Advanced Payments and Billings in Excess of Costs Incurred: We receive advances, performance-based payments and progress payment from customers which may exceed costs incurred on certain contracts. We classify advance payments and billings in excess of costs incurred, other than those reflected as a reduction of contracts in process, as contract liability in current liabilities.

m) Earnings Per Share: Earnings per common share is based on the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the year.

The computation of the Company basic and diluted earnings per common share is as follows:

n) Stock-based Compensation: The Company accounts for stock-based compensation under ASC 718, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation." These standards define a fair value based method of accounting for stock-based compensation. The cost of stock-based compensation is measured at the grant date based on the value of the award and is recognized over the vesting period. The value of the stock-based award is determined using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model, whereby compensation cost is the excess of the fair value of the award as determined by the pricing model at the grant date or other measurement date over the amount that must be paid to acquire the stock. The resulting amount is charged to expense on the straight-line basis over the period in which the Company expects to receive the benefit, which is generally the vesting period.

o) Income Taxes: The Company utilizes ASC 740, Accounting for Income Taxes. Amounts provided for income tax expense are based on income reported for financial statement purposes and do not necessarily represent amounts currently payable under tax laws. Deferred taxes, which arise principally from temporary differences between the period in which certain income and expense items are recognized for financial reporting purposes and the period in which they affect taxable income, are included in the amounts provided for income taxes. Under this method, the computation of deferred tax assets and liabilities give recognition to enacted tax rates in effect in the year the differences are expected to affect taxable income. Valuation allowances are established when necessary to reduce deferred tax assets to amounts that we expect to realize.

p) Cash and Cash Equivalents: Cash and cash equivalents consist primarily of cash and investments in a money market fund. We consider all highly liquid investments with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents. We maintain cash in bank deposit accounts that, at times, may exceed federally insured limits. At April 30, 2023 and 2022, we had $17,021 and $7,835, respectively in bank deposits that exceeded the federally insured limits.

q) Concentration of Credit Risk: We extend credit to customers based on an evaluation of their financial condition and collateral is not required. We perform ongoing credit evaluations of our customers and maintain an allowance for doubtful accounts.

r) Research and Development: We invested in research and development activities. The amount invested in the year ended April 30, 2023 and 2022 was $3,034 and $2,352 respectively.

s) Reclassifications: Certain reclassifications within the financial statement captions have been made to maintain consistency in presentation between years. These reclassifications have no impact on the reported results of operations.

In the following table, revenue is disaggregated by primary geographical market, major product line, and timing of revenue recognition.