During the 1930s the factory became the biggest aircraft producer in Czechoslovakia and moved to Letňany in Prague, where production continues until present.

In the short span of 9 months, Fairchild went from initial production to being the second largest aircraft producer in the world.

And we've heard this all before; but this time, a major aircraft producer is interested.

Foreign aircraft producers have been courting Embraer because of the company's success in selling small passenger jets.

It was Canada's biggest aircraft producer and some years later it was acquired by General Dynamics.

"It sets Lockheed up throughout the 1990's and beyond 2000 as one of the biggest combat aircraft producers," Mr. Bitzinger said.

Starting from 1950, the factory developed much and became the biggest Polish aircraft producer.

Further cuts could hasten the demise of the Grumman Corporation on Long Island as a leading aircraft producer, analysts said.

The technology used by Russian commercial aircraft producers is mostly outdated.

The lead contractor for the deal is British Aerospace, a major aircraft producer that makes Tornado jets.