• by Erik Sass  @eriksass1, August 3, 2011

While other radio broadcasters seem to be stuck in the doldrums, Clear Channel Radio posted healthy revenue growth in the second quarter, according to parent company CC Media Holdings, whose results were also buttressed by a strong performance at Clear Channel Outdoor, both in the U.S. and internationally.

Total revenues at Clear Channel Communications increased 8% from $1.49 billion in the second quarter of 2010 to $1.6 billion in the second quarter of 2011, thanks in part to a 4% increase in radio revenue to $780.9 million. Much of the gain was attributed to Clear Channel's acquisition of Westwood One's traffic business, which accounted for some $28 million of the roughly $32 million increase.

Both the domestic and overseas divisions of Clear Channel Outdoor also posted gains, with the U.S. division growing 5% to $340.8 million and overseas jumping 19% to $448.4 million. (Some of that gain was attributed to currency fluctuations.)

The U.S. growth was attributed to increased spending on bulletin, airport and shelter displays, "and particularly digital displays." However, the expense involved in deploying new digital displays also served to drive up costs somewhat. So far, the company has deployed a total 711 digital displays in 37 markets, including 96 installed in the first half of 2011.

Although total costs for CC Media Holdings rose to $1.05 billion (including $23 million in additional expenses from the Westwood One traffic acquisition) operating income also increased 10% from $456.9 million to $503.2 million.