Boeing has surprised analysts with better-than-expected results in the first quarter.
Thanks to airlines updating their fleets with more fuel-efficient 737 aircraft, the US giant reported net profit of $923m (£572m) for the first three months of the year, up 58% from the same period last year.
During that time it delivered 137 commercial aircraft, compared to 104 in the first quarter of 2011.
As a result of the positive announcement, Boeing shares rose 3.5% in early trading in New York.
Chief executive Jim McNerney said: “Our outlook for the year remains positive, and our team is focused on meeting our commitments to customers, profitably increasing commercial airplane production and delivery rates, and building on our strong position in defence, space and security markets."
