10-QPeriod: Q3 FY2002

BOEING CO Quarterly Report for Q3 Ended Sep 30, 2002

Filed November 6, 2002For Securities:BABA-PA

Summary

Boeing Company's third quarter 2002 report reflects a challenging operational period, marked by a significant decrease in net earnings compared to the prior year, largely influenced by a substantial non-cash charge related to the adoption of new accounting standards for goodwill. Despite a decline in overall sales, the company demonstrated resilience in certain segments, such as Military Aircraft and Missile Systems, which saw revenue growth. However, the Commercial Airplanes segment continued to be impacted by the subdued aviation market, leading to reduced deliveries and revenues. Significant efforts are underway to manage costs and adapt to market conditions, including a planned reorganization of defense and space operations. The company also faces ongoing scrutiny regarding its financial practices and potential litigation, though management asserts these will not materially impact its financial position.

Key Highlights

  • 1Net earnings for the third quarter of 2002 were $372 million, a decrease from $650 million in the prior year period, impacted by various non-recurring items and accounting changes.
  • 2Total sales for the nine months ended September 30, 2002, decreased by 5.0% to $40.4 billion compared to $42.5 billion in the same period of 2001.
  • 3The adoption of SFAS No. 142 resulted in a significant $1,827 million after-tax charge (cumulative effect of accounting change) in the first nine months of 2002, leading to a net loss of $98 million for the period.
  • 4Commercial Airplanes segment revenues declined due to a severe downturn in the commercial aviation market, with aircraft deliveries falling to 73 in Q3 2002 from 120 in Q3 2001.
  • 5Military Aircraft and Missile Systems segment revenues increased by 14.2% in the third quarter of 2002, driven by higher deliveries and order volumes.
  • 6Boeing Capital Corporation (BCC) experienced a significant drop in operating earnings to $16 million in Q3 2002 from $109 million in Q3 2001, primarily due to charges related to deteriorating aircraft values and customer credit ratings.
  • 7The company announced plans to reorganize its Military Aircraft and Missile Systems and Space and Communications segments into a new Integrated Defense Systems (IDS) business unit, expected to be reflected in reporting from Q1 2003.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary reason for the net loss of $98 million in the first nine months of 2002 was the adoption of SFAS No. 142, 'Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets.' This accounting standard change resulted in a significant non-cash charge of $1,827 million (after tax) related to goodwill impairment, classified as a cumulative effect of accounting change.

The Commercial Airplanes segment is facing significant challenges due to the severe downturn in the commercial aviation market. Revenues for the third quarter of 2002 decreased to $6.1 billion from $8.0 billion in the prior year, reflecting a drop in aircraft deliveries. The company anticipates that demand for new aircraft will remain diminished for longer than previously expected.

The A-12 litigation remains a significant contingency. The U.S. Court of Federal Claims upheld the government's default termination, and an appeal is pending. While the company believes its existing loss provision of $350 million is adequate, a negative outcome on appeal could lead to an additional pre-tax loss of approximately $1,460 million, covering repayment obligations and remaining inventory costs.

Boeing Capital Corporation's operating earnings have declined substantially. This is attributed to charges taken in the third quarter of 2002 related to the deterioration of aircraft values and customer credit ratings, particularly impacting airlines like United Airlines. United Airlines' financial difficulties pose a risk, and while currently current on payments, a default could materially affect Boeing's financial position.