The Boeing Company (Chicago and Seattle) reported first quarter revenue increased 8 percent to $20.5 billion on higher commercial volume (Table 1). Core earnings per share (non-GAAP) increased 14 percent* to $1.76 when excluding a benefit of $0.19 per share for the 2012 research and development tax credit recorded in the first quarter of 2013. First quarter 2014 core operating earnings (non-GAAP) increased 12 percent to $2.1 billion and core operating margin (non-GAAP) increased to 10.2 percent reflecting continued strong operating performance. GAAP earnings from operations included previously announced non-cash charges totaling $334 million ($0.29 per share) for retirement plan changes.

Core earnings per share guidance for 2014 increased to between $7.15 and $7.35, from $7.00 to $7.20, to reflect the benefit of a tax settlement to be recognized in the second quarter of 2014. GAAP earnings per share guidance for 2014 is reaffirmed at between $6.10 to $6.30 as the tax settlement benefit was offset by the retirement plan charges. GAAP pension expense guidance for 2014 is now at approximately $3.2 billion, up from $3.1 billion, to reflect the retirement plan charges. The company reaffirmed its 2014 revenue, operating cash flow and deliveries guidance.

Boeing Commercial Airplanes first-quarter revenue increased to $12.7 billion on higher 787 and 737 deliveries. First-quarter operating margin improved to 11.8 percent reflecting the delivery volume and mix and lower period costs partially offset by higher R&D.

During the quarter, the 787 program reached a 10 per month production rate and completed preliminary design review on the 787-10. The company selected the Everett, Washington site as the location for a new composite wing center for the 777X. In April, the 737 program reached a production rate of 42 per month.

Commercial Airplanes booked 235 net orders during the quarter. Backlog remains strong with over 5,100 airplanes valued at $374 billion.

Read the full report: CLICK HERE