Boeing experienced a 61% in commercial airplane orders in 2009.

Airplane manufacturer Boeing has posted its results for 2009, showing a significant drop in orders as the global economic crisis hits the air travel market.

The disappointing results come after the announcement from Ryanair in December 2009 that it had pulled out of negotiations with the aircraft maker after a successful deal could not be reached.

According to a statement published by the company yesterday (7 December), the company received a total of 263 orders – a significant fall from the 662 orders in 2008. Net orders, which include account cancellations, had fallen to 142 for the year.

However, 481 planes were delivered in 2009 – 28% higher than the previous year.

Despite the drop in orders, which has been attributed to the global recession and a drop in interest in air travel, Boeing remains optimistic about its future.

Jim Albaugh, Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and Chief Executive, said: “2009 was not without its challenges but it also was a year of exciting achievements for our company and our industry.

“With signs of economic recovery emerging in 2010, we look forward to better days ahead.”

The Boeing backlog remains at 3,375 aircraft orders, with 851 of those for the 787 Dreamliner, which had its first flight at the end of 2009. The first delivery of the 787 Dreamliner is scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2010.