Boeing reported record fourth-quarter revenue of US$24.5 billion on higher deliveries and core earnings per share (non-GAAP) that increased 23 per cent to US$2.31, reflecting strong performance across the company. Fourth-quarter 2014 core operating earnings (non-GAAP) increased to US$2.3 billion and GAAP earnings from operations increased to US$2 billion. Fourth-quarter 2013 results included a US$406 million non-cash charge related to the A-12 settlement.

“Strong operating performance in the final quarter of 2014 propelled us to some of our best-ever results and sealed a fifth consecutive year of core operating earnings growth. By responding to strong demand with market-leading and proven products and capabilities, and delivering them more efficiently, we are strengthening a powerful business platform that is providing increased returns for our shareholders,” said Boeing chairman and CEO Jim McNerney.

“Our Commercial Airplanes business successfully increased production rates and set an industry record for annual deliveries while also growing its backlog to new highs on record new orders for the year. Our Defense, Space & Security team navigated a challenging market environment to achieve solid revenue and healthy margins while also winning significant new contracts,” said McNerney.

“For 2015, we will continue to build on our commercial airpcraft market leadership, strengthening and repositioning our defense, space and security business and working to better meet the needs of our customers by focusing on improving productivity, executing to development plans and delivering our industry-leading portfolio of innovative aerospace products and services.”