Airbus deliveries outstrip Boeing

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CHICAGO (Reuters) -- Boeing Co. says it delivered 281 jets in 2003, marking the first year in its history that European rival Airbus delivered more planes to the world's airlines.

Although Airbus, 80 percent owned by the European Aeronautic Defence and Space Company (EADS), won't release its official totals until January 15, it delivered its 300th plane in 2003 to Singapore Airlines just before Christmas.

It is expected to come in slightly above the 300 threshold for the full year.

Boeing, based in Chicago but running its commercial jet operations from Seattle, had projected 280 deliveries in 2003 after delivering about a hundred more in 2002.

This year's result is the lowest level since the 271 tallied in 1996.

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