Airbus(US:EADSY)2020-02-19 12:38Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In 2019, Airbus reported revenues of EUR 70.5 billion, an increase of 11% year-on-year, driven by higher deliveries and a favorable product mix [26] - EBIT adjusted reached EUR 6.9 billion, up 19% year-on-year, exceeding the initial guidance of approximately 16% [27] - Free cash flow before M&A and customer financing was EUR 3.5 billion, up 21% year-on-year [28] - The reported net loss was EUR 1.4 billion, with a loss per share of EUR 1.75 [31] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Commercial Aircraft delivered a record 863 aircraft, an 8% increase from 2018, with a strong demand for products despite geopolitical tensions [7][41] - The A220 family achieved 654 net orders, confirming its leadership in its category, while the A320 family saw 642 deliveries [18][45] - In Helicopters, the order intake amounted to EUR 7.2 billion, with a book-to-bill ratio of more than one for the third consecutive year [20] - Defence and Space saw a disappointing book-to-bill ratio of 0.48, with an order intake of EUR 8.5 billion [22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Global passenger traffic grew by more than 4%, with airline profitability remaining strong at approximately $29 billion [16] - The backlog of aircraft reached 7,482 units, with a year-on-year increase in backlog value by around EUR 12 billion [18] - The company faced challenges from tariffs imposed by the U.S. on Airbus aircraft, impacting U.S. customers [14] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Airbus aims to position itself for sustainable growth while managing the heavy burden on free cash flow from penalty payments and compliance-related provisions [13] - The company is focused on improving operational efficiency, particularly in the ACF program, and plans to increase production rates for the A320 family [61] - Investment in digitalization and innovation remains a priority to prepare for future challenges [63] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in sustaining operational improvements in EBIT and cash generation despite challenges from compliance settlements and export restrictions [11] - The company is closely monitoring the evolving coronavirus situation and its potential impact on production and deliveries [16][99] - Airbus expects to deliver approximately 880 commercial aircraft in 2020, with EBIT adjusted guidance of around EUR 7.5 billion [57] Other Important Information - Airbus proposed a dividend of EUR 1.8 per share, reflecting a 9% increase from 2018 [12] - The company recorded a charge of EUR 1.2 billion related to the A400M program, impacting free cash flow [11] - The net pension deficit stood at EUR 8.4 billion at the end of 2019, with commitments to further fund this deficit [37] Q&A Session Summary Question: A320 rate rises and production locations - Airbus confirmed that A320 family production will continue at existing sites, with plans to increase the mix of A321 deliveries moving forward [67] Question: Weakness in Defense and Space - Management acknowledged the significant decline in profitability in Defense and Space and outlined plans to adjust the cost base to restore margins [68] Question: Midterm visibility and conditions for commitments - Management indicated that conditions such as Brexit and the resolution of compliance issues need to be met before providing midterm visibility [70][76] Question: Impact of coronavirus on airlines and lessors - Management is monitoring the situation closely, noting a significant reduction in traffic in China and potential short-term delivery deferrals [99][100] Question: Non-organic growth opportunities - Airbus is exploring non-organic growth opportunities while maintaining financial discipline, focusing on areas that align with strategic goals [100]