Textron Adjusts Business Jet Outlook (TXT)

Textron Inc. TXT today reported that it is adjusting aircraft production schedules and reducing headcount at its Cessna business unit due to continued weakness in new aircraft orders. The company still expects 2010 earnings per share from continuing operations excluding special charges to be in the range of $0.55 to $0.65. Manufacturing free cash flow from continuing operations for the year is now expected to be approximately $400 million, compared to a previous target of $500 - $550 million, reflecting lower expected jet deliveries. Higher finance receivable liquidations at Textron Financial should more than offset the lower expected cash from manufacturing operations, as the company now expects to reduce receivables by $2.4 billion this year, up from its previous target of $2.0 billion and its original target of $1.6 billion. During the third quarter, the company repaid the $665 million balance remaining on the Textron Inc. $1.25 billion bank line. The company continues to be on track to reduce net debt below $5.5 billion by the end of the year.