Foreign business news in brief

SEATTLE: Boeing Co, the world’s largest jet maker, said it delivered 71 commercial aircraft in the first quarter, down 35% from the corresponding quarter of 2002, as its airline customers struggle to survive. 

The company's jetliner unit shipped 32 new transports in March after rolling out 15 in January and 24 in February, putting it on track to reach its forecast of 280 deliveries for the full year. Many analysts view that as a “best case” projection, given the threat of further bankruptcy filings by airlines battered by a huge travel slump. – Reuters