Boeing Commercial Airplane CEO Upbeat In Remarks To Open
Farnborough International Airshow
With the Boeing 787 Dreamliner making its dramatic
introduction on the international stage, Boeing Commercial
Airplanes President and CEO Jim Albaugh said the company is working
hard to stay ahead of the competition as the market begins to
rebound. He made the remarks in a press briefing to open the
Farnborough International Airshow.
Addressing the current business environment, Albaugh explained
that despite some continued uncertainties, Boeing's overall view of
the market is becoming more positive as the world regains its
economic footing. "The market is clearly coming back and I
feel very confident about how we are positioned to regain -- and
retain -- leadership in this business," Albaugh said.
Pointing to more than 3,304 unfilled orders for Boeing
commercial airplanes as of June 30, Albaugh noted that customers
continue to show their preference in the market place for the
Next-Generation 737 and the 777. "We continue to invest in these
very successful programs to constantly deliver more value to our
customers."
Albaugh also confirmed that, in alignment with Boeing's strategy
to continuously innovate and improve its products, there are
attractive near-and-long-term options for product improvement.
"Boeing will set a strategic direction with respect to further
developing the 737 and new airplane designs within a few months.
Our decision will be determined by the best way to meet the future
needs of our customers," he said.
Dreamliner Landing At Farnborough
Albaugh also provided a status on 787 Dreamliner and 747-8
flight testing, noting that both airplanes will deliver great
results for airline customers. "With hundreds of flights completed,
we continue to make progress with the 787 Dreamliner and 747-8
Freighter in flight test and are focused on ensuring that both
airplanes are ready to enter service so they start earning revenue
for our customers," Albaugh said.
With the global economy starting to improve, Albaugh noted that
production rate decisions -- such as the June announcement of an
increase in Next-Generation 737 production rates -- are a clear
indication that Boeing will move as needed to match market
demand.
In addition to discussing opportunities on the airplane side,
Albaugh commented on the growing commercial airplane services
market. "Boeing remains committed to capturing a growing share of
this attractive market," Albaugh said. "We see significant
opportunities in areas such as flight training, modifications and
information management."
Next Generation B737-900
Albaugh also commented on the growing trend of airlines
outsourcing maintenance. "Our airline customers want to save money,
focus on their core business and access outside expertise. We see
tremendous opportunities in helping our customers meet those
needs."