10-KPeriod: FY2002

BOEING CO Annual Report, Year Ended Dec 31, 2002

Filed February 27, 2003For Securities:BABA-PA

Summary

The Boeing Company's 2002 Form 10-K details a challenging year, marked by a significant decline in net earnings primarily due to a substantial goodwill impairment charge. While total revenues slightly decreased, the Commercial Airplanes segment experienced a notable revenue drop, reflecting the ongoing economic downturn and the lingering effects of the September 11th terrorist attacks on the airline industry. However, the Military Aircraft and Missile Systems segment saw revenue growth, indicating resilience in the defense sector. Despite the financial headwinds, Boeing continued its strategic investments in product development, particularly in next-generation aircraft and military modernization programs. The company's backlog remained substantial, providing a degree of visibility, but concerns were raised regarding the health of commercial airline customers and the potential impact of economic instability on future orders. Boeing Capital Corporation's performance was also affected by market conditions, with increased impairment charges and valuation allowances. The report also highlights the company's proactive management of its workforce, with employment reductions implemented in response to decreased demand. Looking ahead, Boeing projected lower revenues for 2003 and signaled a phased recovery for the commercial aviation sector, contingent on broader economic improvements and resolution of geopolitical uncertainties.

Key Highlights

  • 1Net earnings significantly declined to $492 million in 2002 from $2,827 million in 2001, largely due to a $1.8 billion goodwill impairment charge.
  • 2Total revenues decreased to $54.1 billion in 2002 from $58.2 billion in 2001, primarily driven by a decline in the Commercial Airplanes segment.
  • 3The Commercial Airplanes segment saw revenues drop to $28.4 billion from $35.1 billion, with commercial jet aircraft deliveries falling to 381 units from 527.
  • 4Military Aircraft and Missile Systems segment revenue increased to $14.0 billion from $12.5 billion, showcasing strength in the defense sector.
  • 5Contractual backlog remained robust at $104.2 billion at the end of 2002, though down from $106.6 billion in 2001.
  • 6Boeing Capital Corporation (BCC) experienced a decrease in operating earnings to $482 million from $562 million, impacted by $426 million in asset impairment charges and valuation allowances.
  • 7The company implemented workforce reductions, with the total workforce decreasing to 166,000 at the end of 2002 from 188,000 in 2001.

Frequently Asked Questions

Boeing's overall financial performance in 2002 was significantly impacted by a large goodwill impairment charge, which led to a substantial decrease in net earnings to $492 million compared to $2.8 billion in 2001. Total revenues also saw a slight decline to $54.1 billion, primarily due to a downturn in the Commercial Airplanes segment. However, the Military Aircraft and Missile Systems segment showed revenue growth.

The aftermath of the September 11th attacks continued to impact Boeing's Commercial Airplanes segment in 2002, contributing to reduced aircraft deliveries and revenue. The company incurred specific charges and made adjustments related to employee severance, inventory valuation, and vendor penalties linked to the events, though some of these were partially offset by recoveries or favorable contract negotiations.

The Commercial Airplanes segment faced significant challenges in 2002 due to the economic downturn and its effects on the airline industry. The company projected lower revenues for 2003 and indicated a phased recovery for air travel, with airline profitability and airplane order recovery expected in late 2003 to 2004. Boeing continued to invest in new aircraft development, including a new 200-250 seat airplane targeted for entry into service in 2008.

Boeing Capital Corporation's operating earnings decreased in 2002, largely due to $426 million in asset impairment charges and increased valuation allowances stemming from the deterioration of aircraft values and airline customer credit ratings. Despite these challenges, BCC continued to grow its portfolio, but the concentration of business with airlines facing financial difficulties presented a significant risk.