Boeing Responds to Current Business Environment

Boeing is taking a series of actions to address the changed business environment in light of last week's terrorist attacks against the United States.

Given the impacts of the horrific attacks of September 11, and the resulting capacity reductions now anticipated by its airline customers, Boeing's Commercial Airplanes unit is setting in place plans to reduce its employment by approximately 20,000 to 30,000 people by the end of 2002. This includes a reduction in force in related support personnel at Boeing's Shared Services Group.

"We profoundly regret that these actions will impact the lives of so many of our highly-valued employees," said Alan Mulally, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "However, it is critical that we take these necessary steps now to size the Commercial Airplanes business to support the difficult and uncertain environment faced by our airline customers."

Revised delivery projections for Boeing Commercial Airplanes, which are assessments based on an uncertain future and depend upon customer business decisions, are as follows: Deliveries for 2001, which had been expected to be 538 aircraft, could be as low as 500 depending on customer ability to take delivery in the near term. For 2002, deliveries are estimated to be in the low 400s, compared to the 510 to 520 previously forecast. Current estimates for 2003 indicate a downward delivery trend will continue. Boeing will add further clarity about 2003 as it gains insight into the market's direction. These estimates are in line with the initial 20 percent capacity reduction projections provided by U.S. carriers and its assessment of world airline traffic trends.

The company is working closely with the government on improving air transport safety and security. It has also launched an internal initiative under the direction of its chief technology officer to solicit and review ideas from Boeing engineers for improving these areas. At the same time, the company is working to apply its extensive capabilities in intelligence gathering, communications and space, as well as military aircraft and missiles, in the war against terrorism.

"The company is ready to apply all of its wide-ranging technological resources in stepping up to the challenges created by these tragic events," said Boeing chairman and CEO Phil Condit. "We are making tough business decisions and working closely with our commercial and government customers to rebuild public confidence in a safe and secure U.S. air transport system."

"These actions will also enhance the company's ability to maintain its solid financial position, strong liquidity and premier debt ratings. These are critical factors in times of business uncertainty and financial stress," Condit said.