10-QPeriod: Q3 FY2001

BOEING CO Quarterly Report for Q3 Ended Sep 30, 2001

Filed October 25, 2001For Securities:BABA-PA

Summary

Boeing's Q3 2001 10-Q filing reveals a mixed financial picture, heavily impacted by the events of September 11, 2001. While the company reported increased sales and net earnings for the nine months and quarter ended September 30, 2001, compared to the prior year, the full impact of the terrorist attacks is still unfolding. The filing notes a $100 million special charge related to severance costs due to decreased aircraft demand post-9/11, with further losses and costs anticipated in the coming months. Despite these challenges, Boeing's backlog remained substantial, though it saw a decrease from previous quarters. The company also highlighted ongoing litigation, including the A-12 aircraft contract dispute and a class-action securities lawsuit settlement. Investor attention should focus on the company's ability to navigate the immediate aftermath of 9/11, manage ongoing legal issues, and adapt its delivery and production forecasts.

Key Highlights

  • 1Net earnings for the nine months ended September 30, 2001, were $2.73 billion, a significant increase from $1.65 billion in the same period of 2000.
  • 2Sales increased by 16% year-over-year for the first nine months of 2001, reaching $42.5 billion.
  • 3The company recorded a $100 million special charge in Q3 2001 for severance costs related to the September 11th terrorist attacks, with more charges expected.
  • 4Commercial airplane deliveries for the nine months increased to 383 units from 359 in the prior year, but full-year delivery projections were revised downwards post-9/11.
  • 5Total contractual backlog decreased to $114.2 billion as of September 30, 2001, from $120.6 billion at the end of 2000.
  • 6The company settled a federal securities lawsuit for $92.5 million, which is expected to be covered by insurance and not impact earnings.
  • 7Boeing's liquidity remains a key focus, with credit ratings placed under review by major agencies following the September 11th events, although the company maintains significant credit facilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Boeing recorded a $100 million special charge in the third quarter of 2001 related to severance costs stemming from reduced aircraft demand post-9/11. The company anticipates further charges in the coming months for items such as additional severance, vendor terminations, asset impairments, and guarantees, though many of these are not yet estimable.

The attacks led to a reduction in anticipated commercial aircraft deliveries for the full year 2001. Previous projections of approximately 538 deliveries were revised downwards to around 522, compared to the 489 delivered in 2000.

Key legal issues include the ongoing A-12 aircraft contract dispute with the U.S. Navy, which has significant potential financial implications. Additionally, Boeing reached a $92.5 million settlement for a class-action securities lawsuit, which is expected to be covered by insurance. There is also an ongoing gender discrimination class-action lawsuit.

Total debt has increased, with significant portions attributable to Boeing Capital Corporation. Following the September 11th events, credit rating agencies placed Boeing's and BCC's ratings under review for potential downgrade, citing concerns about the impact on the company's business. However, Boeing has substantial revolving credit lines and commercial paper programs available for liquidity.