Jet problems fail to stall Boeing

Boeing has attempted to put on a brave front, despite the dark cloud hanging over its new 787 Dreamliner, as it posted better-than-expected earnings and told investors it did not anticipate any significant financial impact from the grounding of the jets.

Aviation watchdogs in the US and Japan are still trying to get to the bottom of problems with the planes' lithium-ion batteries, two of which burnt out earlier this year. The planes were then grounded by regulators.

Boeing said it was continuing to produce the planes, although it had suspended deliveries. The company, which said booked earnings of $1.28 per share for its fourth quarter, above hopes of around $1.19, expects to deliver 60 Dreamliners this year.

Although it added 2013 forecasts assumed "no significant impact" from the 787 woes, chief executive Jim McNerney said the group was focused on resolving the problems.