Airbus said it beat rival Boeing in aircraft production in 2009, maintaining its place as the world’s largest plane-maker, but warned that a troubled military transport program is endangering the rest of the company.
CEO Tom Enders said Airbus should cancel the delayed and over-budget A400M project if customer governments fail to commit more funds soon because it is swallowing money and resources.
The issue overshadowed news that Airbus delivered a record 498 aircraft in 2009, above its 2008 tally of 483 and Chicago-based Boeing’s 481.
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The increase masks what Enders called a “big disappointment” with Airbus’ newest plane, the A380 superjumbo, which has suffered from costly delays. Airbus delivered 10 A380s last year, below its initial goal of 18.