Netherlands-based EADS, the owner of Airbus, has today reported better-than-expected results for the full year 2011.
Despite what it called a “volatile macro-economic context”, in 2011 EADS continued to grow and to improve financial performance, particularly thanks to commercial momentum backed by strong air traffic figures.
EADS’ order book in 2011 stood at a record €541 billion; and revenues amounted to €49.1 billion, up seven per cent from a year earlier.
The company said growth was driven in part by increased commercial activity at Eurocopter, which offset a slight decrease at its Astrium and Cassidian businesses.
Physical deliveries during the year were high, with 534 aircraft from Airbus Commercial, 503 helicopters from Eurocopter and the 46th consecutive successful launch of the Ariane 5 space rocket.
Commenting on the results, Louis Gallois, CEO of EADS, said: “In 2011, EADS achieved financials above expectation and demonstrated that it is a healthy growth story. The order intake in commercial aircraft has elevated our order book to record levels and I am pleased that the civilian helicopter market has also significantly gained momentum.
“Our strong cash generation protects the company and allowed us to secure important acquisitions, mainly in the field of services. The stage is set for EADS to turn the corner towards increased profitability.”
He concluded: “Certainly, 2012 will have challenges in store for us. We continue to devote the highest management attention to our key programmes, especially the A350. We will also have to monitor the uncertain economic environment and the outcome of discussions with governments on the future of defence procurement programmes. It is essential that these talks, notably in Germany, show fast and sound results for both sides.”
EADS is a global leader in aerospace, defence and related services. In 2011,
the group—which comprises Airbus, Astrium, Cassidian and Eurocopter—employed over 133,000 worldwide.
