UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

Quarterly Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

For the Quarterly Period Ended December 31, 2004
Commission File Number 1-6560

THE FAIRCHILD CORPORATION
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware
(State of incorporation or organization)

34-0728587
(I.R.S.   Employer Identification No.)

1750 Tysons Boulevard, Suite 1400, McLean, VA 22102
(Address of principal executive offices)

(703) 478-5800
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the Registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past ninety (90) days.

YES _X_ NO ___

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an accelerated filer (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

YES _X_ NO ___

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.

 
   Title of Class
 Class A Common Stock, $0.10 Par Value
 Class B Common Stock, $0.10 Par Value
Outstanding at
December 31, 2004

       22,573,204
         2,621,412


THE FAIRCHILD CORPORATION INDEX TO QUARTERLY REPORT ON FORM 10-Q
FOR THE QUARTER ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2004

 
PART I.     FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1.    Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2004 (Unaudited) and
               September 30, 2004

               Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited) for the Three Months
               Ended December 31, 2004 and December 31, 2003

               Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited) for the Three Months
                Ended December 31, 2004 and December 31, 2003

              Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Item 2.   Management's Discussion and Analysis of Results of Operations and Financial Condition

Item 3.   Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure About Market Risk

Item 4.    Controls and Procedures


PART II.    OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.   Legal Proceedings

Item 2.    Changes in Securities and Use of Proceeds

Item 5.   Other Information

Item 6.   Exhibits
Page
 
 
 
    3


    5


    6

    7

   17

   25

   26




   27

   27

   27

   27

        All references in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q to the terms “we,” “our,” “us,” the “Company” and “Fairchild” refer to The Fairchild Corporation and its subsidiaries. All references to “fiscal” in connection with a year shall mean the 12 months ended September 30th.

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

THE FAIRCHILD CORPORATION AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

December 31, 2004 (Unaudited) and September 30, 2004
(In thousands)

ASSETS
12/31/04 9/30/04


Cash and cash equivalents     $ 4,986   $ 12,849  
Short-term investments       9,841     16,595  
Accounts receivable-trade, less allowances of $3,233 and $2,950       40,418     28,834  
Inventories:    
   Finished goods       114,983     95,804  
   Work-in-process       1,766     1,439  
   Raw materials       534     616  


        117,283     97,859  
        12,407     8,774  


Total Current Assets       184,935     164,911  


Property, plant and equipment, net of accumulated    
  depreciation of $38,089 and $36,075       147,315     145,589  
Goodwill and intangible assets, net       44,153     44,298  
Investments in and advances to affiliated companies       3,983     4,441  
Prepaid pension assets       60,546     60,693  
Deferred loan costs, net       3,660     3,748  
Long-term investments       79,014     79,959  
Notes receivable       9,184     9,355  
Other assets       13,733     15,110  


TOTAL ASSETS     $ 546,523   $ 528,104  


        The accompanying Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.

THE FAIRCHILD CORPORATION AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

December 31, 2004 (Unaudited) and September 30, 2004
(In thousands, except per share data)

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

 
12/31/04 9/30/04


CURRENT LIABILITIES:            
Bank notes payable and current maturities of long-term debt     $ 30,934   $ 22,934  
Accounts payable       31,850     27,853  
Accrued liabilities:    
    Salaries, wages and commissions       11,997     12,341  
    Insurance       9,098     10,381  
    Interest       866     985  
    Other accrued liabilities       21,158     18,971  
    Income taxes           173  


Total Current Liabilities       105,903     93,638  


LONG-TERM LIABILITIES:    
Long-term debt, less current maturities       116,209     115,354  
Fair value of interest rate contract       9,413     11,088  
Other long-term liabilities       26,436     25,445  
Pension liabilities       73,969     74,323  
Retiree health care liabilities       27,711     27,369  
Noncurrent income taxes       43,187     41,473  


TOTAL LIABILITIES       402,828     388,690  


STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY:    
Class A common stock, $0.10 par value; 40,000 shares authorized,    
  30,387 shares issued and 22,573 shares outstanding; entitled to    
  one vote per share       3,038     3,038  
Class B common stock, $0.10 par value; 20,000 shares authorized,    
  2,621 shares issued and outstanding; entitled    
  to ten votes per share       262     262  
Paid-in capital       232,766     232,766  
Treasury stock, at cost, 7,814 shares of Class A common stock       (76,459 )   (76,459 )
Retained earnings       42,393     41,490  
Notes due from stockholders       (592 )   (1,061 )
Cumulative other comprehensive income       (57,713 )   (60,622 )


TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY       143,695     139,414  


TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY     $ 546,523   $ 528,104  


        The accompanying Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.

THE FAIRCHILD CORPORATION AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (Unaudited)

For The Three (3) Months Ended December 31, 2004 and 2003
(In thousands, except per share data)

Three Months Ended


REVENUE: 12/31/04 12/31/03


   Net sales     $ 66,790   $ 41,882  
   Rental revenue       2,422     2,342  


        69,212     44,224  
 COSTS AND EXPENSES:    
   Cost of goods sold       45,066     28,781  
   Cost of rental revenue       1,706     1,486  
   Selling, general & administrative       33,113     23,256  
   Other (income) expense, net       (1,767 )   (3,116 )
   Amortization of intangibles       143      


        78,261     50,407  
   
 OPERATING LOSS       (9,049 )   (6,183

)

   

 Interest expense

      (5,464 )   (5,393 )
 Interest income       424     190  


 Net interest expense       (5,040 )   (5,203 )
 Investment income       131     154  
 Increase in fair market value of interest rate contract       1,675     2,090  


 Loss from continuing operations before taxes       (12,283 )   (9,142 )
 Income tax benefit (provision)       (70 )   2,487  
 Equity in loss of affiliates, net       (200 )    
 Minority interest, net           81  


 Loss from continuing operations       (12,553 )   (6,574 )
 Earnings (loss) from discontinued operations, net       956     (1,525 )
 Gain on disposal of discontinued operations, net       12,500     5,934  


 NET EARNINGS (LOSS)     $ 903   $ (2,165 )


 Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:    
 Foreign currency translation adjustments       2,430     1,133  
 Minimum pension liability       (1,376 )    
 Unrealized holding changes on derivatives       27     17  
 Unrealized periodic holding changes on securities       1,828     (5 )


 Other comprehensive income       2,909     1,145  


 COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)     $ 3,812 $ (1,020 )


BASIC AND DILUTED EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE:    
 Loss from continuing operations     $ (0.50 ) $ (0.26 )
 Earnings (loss) from discontinued operations, net       0.04     (0.06 )
 Gain on disposal of discontinued operations, net       0.50     0.23  


 NET EARNINGS (LOSS)     $ 0.04   $ (0.09 )


Basic and diluted weighted average shares outstanding:       25,195     25,190  


        The accompanying Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.

THE FAIRCHILD CORPORATION AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Unaudited)

For The Three (3) Months Ended December 31, 2004 and 2003
(In thousands)



12/31/04 12/31/03


Cash flows from operating activities:            
    Net earnings (loss)     $ 903   $ (2,165 )
    Depreciation and amortization       2,422     1,919  
    Amortization of deferred loan fees       873     396  
    Unrealized holding gain on interest rate contract       (1,675 )   (2,090 )
    Undistributed loss of affiliates, net       200      
    Change in trading securities       5,959     33,282  
    Change in operating assets and liabilities       (23,583 )   (11,477 )
    Non-cash charges and working capital changes of
    discontinued operations
          (28 )


    Net cash provided by (used for) operating activities       (14,901 )   19,837  
 Cash flows from investing activities:    
    Purchase of property, plant and equipment       (2,687 )   (1,759 )
    Net proceeds received from (used for) investment
    securities, net
      4,554     (5,710 )
    Acquisition of subsidiary, net of cash acquired           (53,929 )
    Equity investment in affiliates       258      
    Changes in notes receivable       212     317  


    Net cash provided by (used for) investing activities       2,337     (61,081 )
 Cash flows from financing activities:    
    Proceeds from issuance of debt       7,587     108,848  
    Debt repayments       (4,255 )   (4,844 )
    Payment of financing fees           (326 )
    Issuance of Class A common stock           20  
    Loan repayments from stockholders       469      


    Net cash provided by financing activities       3,801     103,698  
 Effect of exchange rate changes on cash       900     13  


 Net change in cash and cash equivalents       (7,863 )   62,467  
 Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of the year       12,849     6,601  


 Cash and cash equivalents, end of the period     $ 4,986   $ 69,068  


        The accompanying Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.

THE FAIRCHILD CORPORATION AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)

(In thousands, except share data)

1.     FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

        The condensed consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2004, and the condensed consolidated statements of operations and cash flows for the periods ended December 31, 2004 and 2003 have been prepared by us, without audit. In the opinion of management, all adjustments necessary (consisting only of normal accruals) to present fairly the financial position, results of operations and cash flows at December 31, 2004, and for all periods presented, have been made.

        The condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles for interim financial statements and the Securities and Exchange Commission’s instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in complete financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles have been condensed or omitted. These condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and notes thereto included in our 2004 Annual Report on Form 10-K. The results of operations for the periods ended December 31, 2004 and 2003 are not necessarily indicative of the operating results for the full year. Certain amounts in the prior year’s quarterly financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the current presentation.

        The financial position and operating results of our foreign operations are consolidated using, as the functional currency, the local currencies of the countries in which they are located. The balance sheet accounts are translated at exchange rates in effect at the end of the period, and income statement accounts are translated at average exchange rates during the period. The resulting translation gains and losses are included as a separate component of stockholders’ equity. Foreign currency transaction gains and losses are included in our income statement in the period in which they occur.

         Stock-Based Compensation

        In December 2004, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123R, “Share-Based Payment.” Statement 123R amends certain aspects of Statement 123 and now requires a public entity to measure the cost of employee services received in exchange for an award of equity instruments based on the grant-date fair value of the award. That cost will be recognized over the period during which an employee is required to provide service in exchange for the award, (usually the vesting period). No compensation cost is recognized for equity instruments for which employees do not render the requisite service. Statement 123R provides some flexibility in allowing entities to determine the valuation model used to calculate fair value, and whether to implement Statement 123R on a prospective basis, a modified prospective basis or retroactively. The statement becomes effective for our first interim reporting period that begins after June 15, 2005. We are currently evaluating the effect of Statement 123R. Such effect is not likely to be materially different from amounts we have previously disclosed in our filings since adopting Statement 123.

        As permitted by Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation”, and until we adopt Statement 123R, we will use the intrinsic value based method of accounting prescribed by Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, for our stock-based employee compensation plans. Accordingly, no compensation cost has been recognized for the granting of stock options to our employees in the three months ended December 31, 2004 and December 31, 2003. If stock options previously granted were accounted for based on their fair value as determined under Statement 123, our pro forma results would be as follows:

Three Months Ended


12/31/04 12/30/03


Net earnings (loss), as reported     $ 903   $ (2,165 )
Total stock-based employee compensation expense    
  determined under the fair value based method for    
  all awards, net of tax       (37 )   (84 )


Pro forma net earnings (loss)     $ 866   $ (2,249 )


Basic and diluted loss per share:    
    As reported     $ 0.04   $ (0.09 )
    Pro forma     $ 0.03   $ (0.09 )

        The pro forma effects of applying SFAS 123 are not representative of the effects on reported net results for future years. Additional grants are expected in future years.

        No options were granted during the three months ended December 31, 2004. The weighted average grant date fair value of options granted during the three months ended December 31, 2003 was $3.12. The fair value of each option granted is estimated on the grant date using the Black-Scholes option pricing model.

2. ACQUISITIONS

        On November 1, 2003, we acquired for $45.5 million (€39.0 million) substantially all of the worldwide business of Hein Gericke and the capital stock of Intersport Fashions West (IFW) from the Administrator for Eurobike AG in Germany. Also on November 1, 2003, we acquired for $23.4 million (€20.0 million) from the Administrator for Eurobike AG and from two subsidiaries of Eurobike AG all of their respective ownership interests in PoloExpress and receivables owed to them by PoloExpress. We used available cash from investments that were sold to pay the Administrator $14.8 million (€12.5 million) on November 1, 2003 and borrowed $54.1 million (€46.5 million) from the Administrator at a rate of 8%, per annum. On May 5, 2004 we received financing from two German banks and paid the note due to the Administrator. The aggregate purchase price for these acquisitions was approximately $68.9 million (€59.0 million), including $15.0 million (€12.9 million) of cash acquired.

        On January 2, 2004, we acquired for $18.8 million (€15.0 million) all but 7.5% of the interest owned by Mr. Klaus Esser in PoloExpress. Mr. Esser retained a 7.5% ownership interest in PoloExpress, but Fairchild has the right to call this interest at any time from March 2007 to October 2008, for a fixed purchase price of €12.3 million ($16.8 million at December 31, 2004). Mr. Esser has the right to put such interest to us at any time during April of 2008 for €12.0 million ($16.4 million at December 31, 2004). On January 2, 2004, we used available cash to pay Mr. Esser $18.8 million (€15.0 million) and provided collateral of $15.0 million (€12.0 million) to a German bank to issue a guarantee to Mr. Esser to secure the price for the put Mr. Esser has a right to exercise in April of 2008. The transaction includes an agreement with Mr. Esser under which he agrees with us not to compete with PoloExpress for five years. We also signed an employment agreement with Mr. Esser for two years. Through December 31, 2004, in addition to his base salary, Mr. Esser received a profit distribution of approximately €0.5 million, which reduces the 2008 put option. As of December 31, 2004, the €11.5 million ($15.6 million) collateralized obligation for the put option, net of distributions, was included in other long-term liabilities and the €12.0 million ($16.4 million) restricted cash is invested in a capital protected investment and money market funds, and is included in long-term investments.

        The total purchase price exceeded the estimated fair value of the net assets acquired by approximately $34.0 million. The excess of the purchase price over net tangible assets was all allocated to identifiable intangible assets, including brand names “Hein Gericke” and “Polo”, and reflected in goodwill and intangible assets in the consolidated financial statements as of December 30, 2004. Since their acquisition on November 1, 2003, we have consolidated the results of Hein Gericke, PoloExpress and IFW into our financial statements.

        Hein Gericke, PoloExpress and IFW are now included in our segment known as sports & leisure. Our sports & leisure segment is a highly seasonal business, with a historic trend for higher volumes of sales and profits during March through September when the weather in Europe is more favorable for individuals to use their motorcycles than October to February. We acquired these companies because we believe they have potential upside, and may provide a platform for other entrees into related leisure businesses. The acquired companies are European leaders of this industry and opportunities for expansion are significant in Europe and the United States. Hein Gericke currently operates 142 retail shops in Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. PoloExpress currently operates 87 retail shops in Germany. IFW, located in Tustin, California, is a designer and distributor of motorcycle accessories, protective and other apparel, and helmets, under several labels, including First Gear and Hein Gericke. In addition, IFW designs and produces apparel under private labels for third parties. IFW also distributes in the United States, products manufactured by or for other companies, under their own label. The acquisition has lessened our dependence on the aerospace industry.

3.     CASH EQUIVALENTS AND INVESTMENTS

        Cash equivalents and investments at December 31, 2004 consist primarily of investments in United States government securities, investment grade corporate bonds, and equity securities which are recorded at market value. Restricted cash equivalent investments are classified as short-term or long-term investments depending upon the length of the restriction period. Investments in common stock of public corporations are recorded at fair market value and classified as trading securities or available-for-sale securities. Other investments do not have readily determinable fair values and consist primarily of investments in preferred and common shares of private companies and limited partnerships. A summary of the cash equivalents and investments held by us follows:

December 31, 2004   September 30, 2004


Aggregate Aggregate


  Fair
 Value
Cost
Basis
Fair
Value
 Cost
Basis


 Cash and cash equivalents:                    
      U.S. government securities     $ 634   $ 634   $ 3,905   $ 3,908  
      Money market and other cash funds       4,352     4,352     8,944     8,941  




 Total cash and cash equivalents     $ 4,986   $ 4,986   $ 12,849   $ 12,849  




 Short-term investments:    
      U.S. government securities - restricted     $ 922   $ 922   $ 1,947   $ 1,947  
      Money market funds - restricted       5,267     5,267     4,227     4,227  
      Trading securities - corporate bonds       3,498     3,498     6,978     6,978  
      Trading securities - equity securities       154     154     3,443     3,607  




 Total short-term investments     $ 9,841   $ 9,841   $ 16,595   $ 16,759  




 Long-term investments:    
      U.S. government securities - restricted     $ 20,836   $ 20,840   $ 23,866   $ 23,868  
      Money market funds - restricted       4,791     4,791     4,462     4,462  
      Corporate bonds - restricted       24,122     24,680     24,331     24,680  
      Equity securities - restricted       17,397     15,214     16,200     15,065  
      Available-for-sale equity securities       5,928     4,159     5,160     4,168  
      Other investments       5,940     5,940     5,940     5,940  




 Total long-term investments     $ 79,014   $ 75,624   $ 79,959   $ 78,183  




Total cash equivalents and investments     $ 93,841   $ 90,451   $ 109,403   $ 107,791  




        On December 31, 2004 and September 30, 2004, we had restricted investments of $73,335 and $75,033 respectively, all of which are maintained as collateral for certain debt facilities, our interest rate contract, the Esser put option, environmental matters, and escrow arrangements. In addition, cash of $3,113 is held by our European subsidiaries which have debt agreements that place restrictions on the amount of cash that may be transferred outside the borrowing companies.

4. DEBT

        At December 31, 2004 and September 30, 2004, notes payable and long-term debt consisted of the following:

 Dec. 31,
   2004
Sept. 30,
  2004


Revolving credit facility - Sports & Leisure     $ 13,392   $ 7,945  
Current maturities of long-term debt       17,542     14,989  


Total notes payable and current maturities of long-term debt     $ 30,934   $ 22,934  


Term loan agreement - Shopping center       54,444     54,600  
Term loan agreement - Sports & Leisure       35,952     34,403  
Promissory note - Real Estate       13,000     13,000  
CIT revolving credit facility - Aerospace       12,431     12,252  
GMAC credit facility - Sports & Leisure       4,148     3,941  
Capital lease obligations       4,130     3,378  
Other notes payable, collateralized by assets       9,646     8,769  
Less: current maturities of long-term debt       (17,542 )   (14,989 )


Net long-term debt       116,209     115,354  


Total debt     $ 147,143   $ 138,288  


         Credit Facilities at Sports & Leisure Segment

        At December 31, 2004, our German subsidiary, Hein Gericke Deutschland GmbH and its German partnership, PoloExpress, have outstanding borrowing commitments of $49.3 million due under its credit facilities with Stadtsparkasse Düsseldorf and HSBC Trinkaus & Burkhardt KGaA. The revolving credit facility provides a credit line of €10.0 million ($13.6 million at December 31, 2004), at interest rates of 3.5% over the three-month Euribor, and matures annually. Outstanding borrowings under the term loan facility have blended interest rates, with $29.0 million (€21.3 million) bearing interest at 1% over the three-month Euribor rate, with an interest rate cap of 6% in which our interest expense would not exceed 6%, and the remaining $6.9 million (€5.1 million) bearing interest at a fixed rate of 6%. The term loan facilities mature on March 31, 2009 and are secured by the assets of Hein Gericke Deutschland GmbH and PoloExpress and specified guarantees provided by the German State of North Rhine-Westphalia.

        The loan agreements require Hein Gericke and PoloExpress to maintain compliance with certain covenants. The most restrictive of the covenants requires Hein Gericke to maintain equity of €44.5 million ($60.7 million), as defined in the loan contracts. No dividends may be paid by Hein Gericke unless such covenants are met and dividends may be paid only up to its consolidated after tax profits. As of December 31, 2004, Hein Gericke borrowed approximately $17.7 million (€13.0 million) and PoloExpress borrowed $0.3 million from our subsidiary, Fairchild Holding Corp., which may be repaid only if the covenants in the loan agreements are met. The loan agreements restrict all other forms of cash flow from Hein Gericke Deutschland. At December 31, 2004, we were in compliance with all of the loan covenants, except for one. Hein Gericke Deutschland and PoloExpress are required to maintain inventory and receivables in excess €50.0 million, with at least €25.0 million at Hein Gericke Deutschland. At December 31, 2004, inventory and accounts receivable at Hein Gericke Deutschland and PoloExpress were €57.4 million, which exceeded amounts required in the covenant requirement by €7.4 million. The inventory and accounts receivables at Hein Gericke Deutschland were €22.1 million, which was €2.9 million below the covenant requirement at Hein Gericke Deutschland. Noncompliance with any of the financial covenants without cure or waiver would constitute an event of default under the loan agreement and, at the option of lenders, permit an acceleration of the principal and interest outstanding, and a termination of the loan agreement. The company is in discussion with its lenders on this matter and expects that a waiver will be granted.

        At December 31, 2004, our subsidiary, Hein Gericke UK Ltd had outstanding borrowings of $4.1 million (£2.2 million) on its £5.0 million ($9.6 million) credit facility with GMAC. The loan bears interest at 2.25%, per annum, above the base rate of Lloyds TSB Bank Plc and matures on April 30, 2007. We must pay a 0.75% per annum non-utilization fee on the available facility. The financing is secured by the inventory of Hein Gericke UK Ltd and an investment with a fair market value of $4.4 million at December 31, 2004.

         Term Loan Agreement — Shopping Center

        At December 31, 2004, our subsidiary, Republic Thunderbolt, LLC, has outstanding borrowings of $54.4 million on a non-recourse 10-year term loan financing of our Airport Plaza shopping center in Farmingdale, New York with Column Financial, a subsidiary of Credit Suisse First Boston, LLC. The interest rate is fixed at 6.2% for the term of the loan and the loan matures in December 2014. The loan requires the maintenance of a lock-box arrangement, whereby rental revenues are deposited and funds are automatically withdrawn to satisfy the monthly loan payments. After the loan payments are made, the remaining funds are then disbursed to us. The loan does not have a subjective acceleration clause. In addition, the loan may not be prepaid until three months before its maturity, however, after February 11, 2005, the loan may be assumed by other parties. The loan is secured by the assets of our shopping center. On December 31, 2004, approximately $7.1 million of the loan proceeds were being invested in a long-term escrow account as collateral to fund certain contingent environmental matters.

         Credit Facility at Aerospace Segment

        At December 31, 2004, we have outstanding borrowings of $12.4 million on a $20.0 million asset based revolving credit facility with CIT. The amount that we can borrow under the facility is based upon inventory and accounts receivable at our aerospace segment. The loan bears interest at 1.0% over prime and we will pay a non-usage fee of 0.5%. The credit facility matures in January 2007.

         Promissory Note – Real Estate

        At December 31, 2004, we have an outstanding loan of $13.0 million with Beal Bank, SSB. The loan is evidenced by a Promissory Note dated as of August 26, 2004, and is secured by a mortgage lien on the Company’s real estate in Huntington Beach CA, Fullerton CA and Wichita KS. Interest on the note is at the rate of one-year LIBOR (determined on an annual basis), plus 6%, and is payable monthly. The loan matures on October 31, 2007, provided that the Company may extend the maturity date for one year, during which time the interest rate shall be one-year LIBOR plus 8%. The promissory note agreement contains a premium prepayment clause of 10% if prepaid prior to September 2005; 5% if prepaid after September 2005, and before September 2006; and 3% if prepaid between September 2006 and October 2007. On December 31, 2004, approximately $1.2 million of the loan proceeds were held in escrow to fund specific improvements to the secured property.

         Guarantees

        At December 31, 2004, we have included $1.6 million as debt for guarantees assumed by us of retail shop partners indebtedness incurred for the purchase of fittings in retail shops in Germany. These guarantees were issued by our subsidiary in the sports & leisure segment. In addition, on December 31, 2004, approximately $4.1 million of bank loans received by retail shop partners in the sports & leisure segment were guaranteed by our subsidiaries and are not reflected on our balance sheet because these loans have not been assumed by us.

5.     PENSIONS AND POSTRETIREMENT BENEFITS

        The Company and its subsidiaries sponsor three qualified defined benefit pension plans and several other postretirement benefit plans. The components of net periodic benefit cost from these plans are as follows:

Pension Benefits Postretirement Benefits




Three Months Ended Three Months Ended




12/31/04 12/31/03 12/31/04 12/31/03




Service cost     $ 107   $ 183     $ 22   $ 10  
Interest cost       2,708     2,788       737     775  
Expected return on plan assets       (3,555 )   (3,703 )          
Amortization of:    
  Prior service cost       78     72       (54 )   (37 )
  Actuarial (gain)/loss       810     758       320     390  




Net periodic benefit cost     $ 148   $ 98     $ 1,025   $ 1,138  




        Our funding policy is to make the minimum annual contribution required by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 or local statutory law. Based upon our actuary’s current assumptions and projections, we do not expect additional cash contributions to the largest pension plan to be required until 2008. Current actuarial projections indicate contribution requirements of $500 in 2008, $2,250 in 2009, and a total of $13,050 in 2010 through 2014. We are required to make annual cash contributions of approximately $0.2 million to fund a small pension plan.

        We also sponsor two supplemental executive retirement plans. The amount of expense recognized for the supplemental executive retirement plans were approximately $393 and $637 for the three months ended December 31, 2004 and December 31, 2003, respectively.

6.     EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE

        The following table illustrates the computation of basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share:

Three Months Ended


Basic earnings (loss) per share: 12/31/04 12/31/03


Loss from continuing operations   $ (12,553 ) $ (6,574 )


 Weighted average common shares outstanding       25,195     25,190  


 Basic loss from continuing operations per share     $ (0.50 ) $ (0.26 )


Diluted earnings (loss) per share:    
 Loss from continuing operations     $ (12,553 ) $ (6,574 )


 Weighted average common shares outstanding       25,195     25,190  
 Options       antidilutive     antidilutive


 Total shares outstanding       25,195     25,190  


 Diluted loss from continuing operations per share     $ (0.50 ) $ (0.26 )


        Stock options entitled to purchase 1,029,603 and 1,333,446 shares of Class A common stock were antidilutive and not included in the earnings per share calculation for the three months ended December 31, 2004 and December 31, 2003, respectively.

7.     EQUITY SECURITIES

        We had 22,573,204 shares of Class A common stock and 2,621,412 shares of Class B common stock outstanding at December 31, 2004. Class A common stock is traded on both the New York and Pacific Stock Exchanges. There is no public market for the Class B common stock. The shares of Class A common stock are entitled to one vote per share and cannot be exchanged for shares of Class B common stock. The shares of Class B common stock are entitled to ten votes per share and can be exchanged, at any time, for shares of Class A common stock on a share-for-share basis.

8.     PRO FORMA FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)

        The following table sets forth our unaudited pro forma results of operations for the three months ended December 31, 2003, reflecting our acquisition of Hein Gericke, PoloExpress and IFW (completed on November 1, 2003). The pro forma results are based on our historical financial statements of the entities we acquired. The unaudited pro forma statements of operations give effect to each of these transactions as if the transactions occurred on October 1, 2003. The pro forma financial results are presented for informational purposes only and are not intended to be indicative of either future results of our operations or results that might have been achieved had the transactions actually occurred since the beginning of the fiscal periods. The summary unaudited consolidated pro forma financial results are qualified by and should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and notes thereto included in our September 30, 2004 Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Three Months Ended

12/31/03

Net revenues     $ 52,968  
Operating loss       (6,840 )
Loss from continuing operations       (7,556 )
Loss from continuing operations, per share     $ (0.30 )

9.     CONTINGENCIES

         Environmental Matters

        Our operations are subject to stringent government imposed environmental laws and regulations concerning, among other things, the discharge of materials into the environment and the generation, handling, storage, transportation and disposal of waste and hazardous materials. To date, such laws and regulations have not had a material effect on our financial condition, results of operations, or net cash flows, although we have expended, and can be expected to expend in the future, significant amounts for the investigation of environmental conditions and installation of environmental control facilities, remediation of environmental conditions and other similar matters.

        In connection with our plans to dispose of certain real estate, we must investigate environmental conditions and we may be required to take certain corrective action prior or pursuant to any such disposition. In addition, we have identified several areas of potential contamination related to, or arising from other facilities owned, or previously owned, by us, that may require us either to take corrective action or to contribute to a clean-up. We are also a defendant in several lawsuits and proceedings seeking to require us to pay for investigation or remediation of environmental matters, and for injuries to persons or property allegedly caused thereby, and we have been alleged to be a potentially responsible party at various “superfund” sites. We believe that we have recorded adequate accruals in our financial statements to complete such investigation and take any necessary corrective actions or make any necessary contributions. No amounts have been recorded as due from third parties, including insurers, or set off against, any environmental liability, unless such parties are contractually obligated to contribute and are not disputing such liability.

        In October 2003, we learned that volatile organic compounds had been detected in amounts slightly exceeding regulatory thresholds in a town water supply well in East Farmingdale, New York. Recent sampling of groundwater from the extraction wells to be used in the remediation system for this site has indicated that contaminant levels at the extraction point are significantly higher than previous sampling results indicated. These compounds may, to an as yet undetermined extent, be attributable to a groundwater plume containing volatile organic compounds, which may have had its source, at least in part, from plant operations conducted by a predecessor of ours in Farmingdale. We are aiding East Farmingdale in its investigation of the source and extent of the volatile organic compounds, and may assist it in treatment.

        As of December 31, 2004, the consolidated total of our recorded liabilities for environmental matters was approximately $11.6 million, which represented the estimated probable exposure for these matters. On December 31, 2004, $3.8 million of these liabilities were classified as other accrued liabilities and $7.8 million were classified as other long-term liabilities. It is reasonably possible that our exposure for these matters could be approximately $17.7 million.

        The sales agreement with Alcoa includes an indemnification for legal and environmental claims in excess of $8.4 million, for our fastener business. To date, Alcoa has contacted us concerning potential environmental and legal claims which, while disputed, could consume up to $7.6 million of the $8.4 million accrual for the indemnification liability. Accordingly, there is no additional accrual for these environmental claims at December 31, 2004.

         Asbestos Matters

        On January 21, 2003, we and one of our subsidiaries were served with a third-party complaint in an action brought in New York by a non-employee worker and his spouse alleging personal injury as a result of exposure to asbestos-containing products. The defendant, which is one of many defendants in the action, had purchased a pump business from us, and asserts the right to be indemnified by us under its purchase agreement. This case was discontinued as to all defendants, thereby extinguishing the indemnity claim against us in the instant case. However, the purchaser has notified us of, and claimed a right to indemnity from us in relation to many other asbestos-related claims filed against it. We have not received enough information to assess the impact, if any, of the other claims. During the last fifteen months, we have been served directly by plaintiffs’ counsel in eleven cases related to the same pump business. Two of the eleven cases were dismissed as to all defendants, based upon forum objections. We, in coordination with our insurance carriers, intend to aggressively defend ourselves against these claims.

        During the same period, we have resolved nine similar (non-pump business) asbestos-related lawsuits that were previously served upon the Company. In seven cases, we were voluntarily dismissed, without payment of consideration to plaintiffs. The remaining two cases were settled for nominal amounts.

        Our insurance carriers have participated in the defense of all of the aforementioned asbestos claims, both pump and non-pump related. Although insurance coverages vary, depending upon the policy period(s) and product line involved in each case, management believes that our insurance coverage levels are adequate, and that asbestos claims will not have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, future results of operation, or net cash flow.

         Other Matters

        Two actions, styled Noto v. Steiner, et al., and Barbonel v. Steiner, et al., were commenced on November 18, 2004, and November 23, 2004, respectively, in the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware in and for Newcastle County, Delaware. The plaintiffs allege that each is a shareholder of The Fairchild Corporation and purport to bring actions derivatively on behalf of the Company, claiming, among other things, that Fairchild executive officers have received excessive pay and prerequisites in violation of fiduciary duties to the Company. The Company expects the two actions to be consolidated for trial. The complaints name, as defendants, all of the Company’s directors, its Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, its President and Chief Operating Officer, its Chief Financial Officer, and its General Counsel. The Company has reported the matters to its insurance carriers and intends to defend the allegations.

        We have an unsettled demand from Alcoa to pay $8.2 million as a post-closing balance sheet adjustment based upon the net working capital of the fastener business on December 3, 2002, compared with its net working capital at March 31, 2002. This dispute is the subject of a pending arbitration which should be decided during the second quarter of our fiscal year. In addition, Alcoa has asserted other claims which, if proven, would, according to Alcoa, aggregate in excess of $5.0 million. If Alcoa is correct and these other claims exceed $5.0 million, we may be required to reimburse Alcoa for the full amount, without benefit of a threshold set forth in the acquisition agreement under which we sold our fastener business to Alcoa. On March 5, 2004, Alcoa paid us approximately $4.8 million of $8.8 million due to us from the $12.5 million we earned for commercial aircraft deliveries in 2003, less amounts we settled with Alcoa for then uncollected accounts receivable, taxes, and liabilities to former employees. Alcoa, without our authorization, held back “in escrow” $4.0 million, which Alcoa agreed was due to the Company, pending resolution of a post-closing balance sheet adjustment dispute. There is no provision in the agreements between the Company and Alcoa permitting Alcoa to create an escrow for the disputed post-closing balance sheet adjustment. We have notified Alcoa of our dispute of these matters and claims, and expect that resolution will require litigation, arbitration, or alternative dispute resolution methods. At December 31, 2004, we had not recorded an accrual for these disputes with Alcoa.

        We are involved in various other claims and lawsuits incidental to our business. We, either on our own or through our insurance carriers, are contesting these matters. In the opinion of management, the ultimate resolution of litigation against us, including that mentioned above, will not have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, future results of operations or net cash flows.

10.     BUSINESS SEGMENT INFORMATION

        We currently report in three principal business segments: sports & leisure, aerospace, and real estate operations. The following table provides the historical results of our operations for the three months ended December 31, 2004 and 2003, respectively.

Three Months Ended


12/31/04 12/31/03


Revenues            
Sports & Leisure Segment (a)     $ 43,109   $ 25,207  
Aerospace Segment       23,681     16,674  
Real Estate Operations Segment       2,544     2,342  
Corporate and Other           1  
Intercompany Eliminations       (122 )    


Total     $ 69,212   $ 44,224  


Operating Income (Loss)    
Sports & Leisure Segment (a)     $ (5,518 ) $ (3,286 )
Aerospace Segment       1,080     55  
Real Estate Operations Segment       761     766  
Corporate and Other       (5,372 )   (3,718 )


Total     $ (9,049 ) $ (6,183 )


Loss From Continuing Operations Before Taxes    
Sports & Leisure Segment (a)     $ (6,633 ) $ (3,992 )
Aerospace Segment       784     (24 )
Real Estate Operations Segment       (338 )   217  
Corporate and Other       (6,096 )   (5,343 )


Total     $ (12,283 ) $ (9,142 )


Assets       12/31/04     9/30/04  


Sports & Leisure Segment     $ 181,186   $ 161,517  
Aerospace Segment       52,036     52,618  
Real Estate Operations Segment       130,286     130,569  
Corporate and Other       183,015     183,400  


Total     $ 546,523   $ 528,104  


(a)     – Includes the results from our sports & leisure segment since its acquisition on November 1, 2003.

11.     DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS

         Fastener Business

        On December 3, 2002, we completed the sale of our fastener business to Alcoa Inc. for approximately $657 million in cash and the assumption of certain liabilities. The cash received from Alcoa is subject to a post-closing adjustment based upon the net working capital of the fastener business on December 3, 2002, compared with its net working capital as of March 31, 2002. During the four-year period from 2003 to 2006, we are entitled to receive additional cash proceeds of $0.4 million for each commercial aircraft delivered by Boeing and Airbus in excess of threshold levels up to a maximum of $12.5 million per year. The threshold aircraft delivery levels are 505 in 2003; 515 in 2004; 570 in 2005; and 650 in 2006.

        Based upon press releases issued by Boeing and Airbus, and other publicly available information, 605 commercial aircraft were delivered by Boeing (285 aircraft) and Airbus (320 aircraft) in 2004. These deliveries exceeded the 547 threshold aircraft delivery level needed for us to earn the full $12.5 million contingent payment for 2004, as set forth in the agreement to sell our fastener business to Alcoa. Accordingly, we recognized $12.5 million as a gain on disposal of discontinued operations in our first quarter ended December 31, 2004.

        Alcoa, without our authorization, has held back “in escrow” $4.0 million, from the $12.5 million additional proceeds due to us from the 2003 contingent payment, pending resolution of the closing balance sheet matter. There is no provision in the agreements between the Company and Alcoa permitting Alcoa to create an escrow for the disputed post-closing balance sheet adjustment. We have notified Alcoa of our dispute of these matters and claims, and expect that resolution will require litigation, arbitration, or alternative dispute resolution methods. At December 31, 2004, we had not recorded an accrual for the $4.0 million held back by Alcoa. The dispute with respect to the closing date balance sheet is already the subject of a pending arbitration which should be decided during the second quarter of our fiscal year

        On December 3, 2002, we deposited with an escrow agent $25 million to secure indemnification obligations we may have to Alcoa. The escrow period remains in effect to December 2, 2007, but funds may be held longer if claims are timely asserted and remain unresolved. The escrow is classified in long-term investments on our balance sheet. In addition, for a period ending on December 2, 2007, we are required to maintain our corporate existence, take no action to cause our own liquidation or dissolution, and take no action to declare or pay any dividends on our common stock.

12.     SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

        On January 21, 2005, our subsidiary, PoloExpress, finalized a seasonal loan agreement with Bayerische Hypo- und Vereinsbank AG (HVB), pursuant to which HVB will advance approximately €7.0 million to PoloExpress. The loan is for the purpose of financing purchases of inventory for the 2005 season. The loan matures in one-third installments on each of April 15, May 15, and June 15 of 2005. The loan bears interest based upon the three-month average Euribor rate plus a 3.6% margin.

ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS AND FINANCIAL CONDITION

        The Fairchild Corporation was incorporated in October 1969, under the laws of the State of Delaware. We have 100% ownership interests (directly and indirectly) in Fairchild Holding Corp. and Banner Aerospace Holding Company I, Inc. Fairchild Holding Corp. is the owner (directly and indirectly) of Republic Thunderbolt, LLC and effective November 1, 2003 and January 2, 2004, acquired ownership interests in Hein Gericke, PoloExpress, and Intersport Fashions West. Our principal operations are conducted through these entities. Our consolidated financial statements present the results of our former fastener business, and APS, a small business sold in 2004, as discontinued operations.

        The following discussion and analysis provide information which management believes is relevant to the assessment and understanding of our consolidated results of operations and financial condition. The discussion should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto.

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT

        Certain statements in this filing contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 with respect to our financial condition, results of operation and business. These statements relate to analyses and other information, which are based on forecasts of future results and estimates of amounts not yet determinable. These statements also relate to our future prospects, developments and business strategies. These forward-looking statements are identified by their use of terms and phrases such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “predict,” “project,” “will” and similar terms and phrases, including references to assumptions. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, including current trend information, projections for deliveries, backlog and other trend estimates that may cause our actual future activities and results of operations to be materially different from those suggested or described in this financial discussion and analysis by management. These risks include: our ability to find, finance, acquire and successfully operate one or more new businesses; product demand; weather conditions in Europe during peak business periods; timely deliveries from vendors; our ability to raise cash to meet seasonal demands; our dependence on the aerospace industry; customer satisfaction and quality issues; labor disputes; competition; our ability to achieve and execute internal business plans; worldwide political instability and economic growth; military conflicts; reduced airline revenues as a result of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on the United States, and their aftermath; reduced airline travel due to infectious diseases; and the impact of any economic downturns and inflation.

        If one or more of these and other risks or uncertainties materializes, or if underlying assumptions prove incorrect, our actual results may vary materially from those expected, estimated or projected. Given these uncertainties, users of the information included in this financial discussion and analysis by management, including investors and prospective investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. We do not intend to update the forward-looking statements included in this filing, even if new information, future events or other circumstances have made them incorrect or misleading.

EXECUTIVE OVERVIEW

        Our business consists of three segments: sports & leisure, aerospace, and real estate operations. Our sports & leisure segment is engaged in the design and retail sale of protective clothing, helmets and technical accessories for motorcyclists in Europe and the design and distribution of such apparel and helmets in the United States. Our aerospace segment stocks a wide variety of aircraft parts, then distributes them to commercial airlines and air cargo carriers, fixed-base operators, corporate aircraft operators and other aerospace companies worldwide, and also manufactures airframe components. Our real estate operations segment owns and leases a shopping center located in Farmingdale, New York, and owns and rents to Alcoa, an improved parcel located in Southern California.

        On November 1, 2003, we acquired substantially all of the worldwide operations of Hein Gericke, PoloExpress, and Intersport Fashions West (IFW), collectively now known as Fairchild Sports. Hein Gericke currently operates 142 retail shops in Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. PoloExpress (also known as Polo) currently operates 87 retail shops in Germany. IFW, located in Tustin, California, is a designer and distributor of motorcycle apparel, boots and helmets under several labels, including First Gear and Hein Gericke. In addition, IFW designs and produces apparel under private labels for third parties, including Harley-Davidson. IFW also distributes in the United States, products manufactured for other companies, under their own labels. Fairchild Sports is a seasonal business, with a historic trend of a higher volume of sales and profits during the months of March through September.

        On December 26, 2003, we obtained a $55 million, ten-year term loan financing of our shopping center on a non-recourse basis.

        On January 2, 2004, we acquired all but 7.5% of the remaining interest in PoloExpress.

        In January 2004, we obtained a $20.0 million asset based revolving credit facility with CIT. The amount that we can borrow under the facility is based upon the inventory and accounts receivable on-hand at our aerospace segment. The loans bear interest at a rate of 1.0% over prime and we will pay a non-usage fee of 0.5%.

        On May 5, 2004, we obtained financing of €41.0 million at the sports & leisure segment from two German banks and satisfied a €46.5 million note payable which had become due. Interest is based on the three-month Euribor rate.

        On August 26, 2004, we obtained a $13.0 million, three-year term loan financing on the real estate we own in Fullerton, California; Huntington Beach, California; and Wichita, Kansas.

        On January 21, 2005, we obtained €7.0 million seasonal loan financing at the sports & leisure segment.

During the next several months, we will endeavor to:

  • Develop Hein Gericke brand recognition through presently targeted customers and market expansion.
  • Integrate and restructure the components of Fairchild Sports to enhance operational efficiencies, by centralizing
    worldwide procurement and improving information systems.
  • Complete Sarbanes-Oxley Section 404 internal control compliance efforts on a worldwide basis.
  • Generate cash from borrowings and sale of non-core assets to support our operations and corporate needs.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

      Business Transactions

        On November 1, 2003, we acquired for $45.5 million (€39.0 million) substantially all of the worldwide business of Hein Gericke and the capital stock of Intersport Fashions West (IFW) from the Administrator for Eurobike AG in Germany. Also on November 1, 2003, we acquired for $23.4 million (€20.0 million) from the Administrator for Eurobike AG and from two subsidiaries of Eurobike AG all of their respective ownership interests in PoloExpress and receivables owed to them by PoloExpress. We used available cash from investments that were sold to pay the Administrator $14.8 million (€12.5 million) on November 1, 2003 and borrowed $54.1 million (€46.5 million) from the Administrator at a rate of 8%, per annum. On May 5, 2004 we received financing from two German banks and paid the note due to the Administrator. The aggregate purchase price for these acquisitions was approximately $68.9 million (€59.0 million), including $15.0 million (€12.9 million) of cash acquired.

        On January 2, 2004, we acquired for $18.8 million (€15.0 million) all but 7.5% of the interest owned by Mr. Klaus Esser in PoloExpress. Mr. Esser retained a 7.5% ownership interest in PoloExpress, but Fairchild has the right to call this interest at any time from March 2007 to October 2008, for a fixed purchase price of €12.3 million ($16.8 million at December 31, 2004). Mr. Esser has the right to put such interest to us at any time during April of 2008 for €12.0 million ($16.4 million at December 31, 2004). On January 2, 2004, we used available cash to pay Mr. Esser $18.8 million (€15.0 million) and provided collateral of $15.0 million (€12.0 million) to a German bank to issue a guarantee to Mr. Esser to secure the price for the put Mr. Esser has a right to exercise in April of 2008. The transaction includes an agreement with Mr. Esser under which he agrees with us not to compete with PoloExpress for five years. We also signed an employment agreement with Mr. Esser for two years. Through December 31, 2004, in addition to his base salary, Mr. Esser received a profit distribution of approximately €0.5 million, which reduces the 2008 put option. As of December 31, 2004, the €11.5 million ($15.6 million) collateralized obligation for the put option, net of distributions, was included in other long-term liabilities and the €12.0 million ($16.4 million) restricted cash is invested in a capital protected investment and money market funds, and is included in long-term investments.

        The total purchase price exceeded the estimated fair value of the net assets acquired by approximately $34.0 million. The excess of the purchase price over net tangible assets was all allocated to identifiable intangible assets, including brand names “Hein Gericke” and “Polo”, and reflected in goodwill and intangible assets in the consolidated financial statements as of December 30, 2004. Since their acquisition on November 1, 2003, we have consolidated the results of Hein Gericke, PoloExpress and IFW into our financial statements.

        Hein Gericke, PoloExpress and IFW are now included in our segment known as sports & leisure. Our sports & leisure segment is a highly seasonal business, with a historic trend for higher volumes of sales and profits during March through September when the weather in Europe is more favorable for individuals to use their motorcycles than October to February. We acquired these companies because we believe they have potential upside, and may provide a platform for other entrees into related leisure businesses. The acquired companies are European leaders of this industry and opportunities for expansion are significant in Europe and the United States. Hein Gericke currently operates 142 retail shops in Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. PoloExpress currently operates 87 retail shops in Germany. IFW, located in Tustin, California, is a designer and distributor of motorcycle accessories, protective and other apparel, and helmets, under several labels, including First Gear and Hein Gericke. In addition, IFW designs and produces apparel under private labels for third parties. IFW also distributes in the United States, products manufactured by or for other companies, under their own label. The acquisition has lessened our dependence on the aerospace industry.

      Consolidated Results

        Because Fairchild Sports is a highly seasonal business, with a historic trend of a higher volume of sales and profits during the months of March through September, the discussion below can not be relied upon as a trend of our future results.

        We currently report in three principal business segments: sports & leisure, aerospace, and real estate operations. The following table provides the sales and operating income of our segments on a historical and pro forma basis for the three months ended December 31, 2004 and December 31, 2003, respectively. The pro forma results represent the impact of our acquisition of Hein Gericke, PoloExpress, and IFW, as if this transaction had occurred on October 1, 2003. The pro forma information is based on the historical financial statements of these companies, giving effect to the aforementioned transactions. The pro forma information is not necessarily indicative of the results of operations, that would actually have occurred if the transactions had been in effect since the beginning of each fiscal period, nor are they necessarily indicative of our future results.

Three Months Ended



Actual Pro Forma

12/31/04 12/31/03 12/31/03



Revenues                
Sports & Leisure Segment (a)     $ 43,109   $ 25,207   $ 33,951  
Aerospace Segment       23,681     16,674     16,674  
Real Estate Operations Segment       2,544     2,342     2,342  
Corporate and Other           1     1  
Intercompany Eliminations       (122 )        



Total     $ 69,212   $ 44,224   $ 52,968  



Operating Income (Loss)    
Sports & Leisure Segment (a)     $ (5,518 ) $ (3,286 ) $ (3,943 )
Aerospace Segment       1,080     55     55  
Real Estate Operations Segment       761     766     766  
Corporate and Other       (5,372 )   (3,718 )   (3,718 )



Total     $ (9,049 ) $ (6,183 ) $ (6,840 )



(a)     – Actual results for the three months ended December 31, 2003, include only two months of results from our sports & leisure segment since its acquisition on November 1, 2003.

        Revenues increased by $25.0 million, or 56.5%, in the first quarter of fiscal 2005, as compared to the first quarter of fiscal 2004. The increase was due primarily to the prior period only including two months of activity from our acquisition of Hein Gericke, PoloExpress and IFW on November 1, 2003, our foreign sales benefiting from a stronger euro as compared to the dollar, and increased sales at our sports & leisure segment. Revenues in the first quarter of fiscal 2005 also benefited from a 42% increase in revenues at our aerospace segment.

        Gross margin as a percentage of sales was 32.5% and 31.3% in the first three months of fiscal 2005 and fiscal 2004, respectively. The increase in margins reflects three months of results from our sports & leisure segment in the current quarter, as compared to only two months in the prior quarter. Our sports & leisure segment has higher gross margins than our other businesses. Gross margin as a percentage of rental revenue decreased to 29.6% in the first three months of fiscal 2005 as compared to 36.5% in the first three months of fiscal 2004 due primarily to higher real estate taxes and professional fees and the sale of the Chatsworth, California facility in July 2004.

        Selling, general and administrative expense increased $9.9 million for the three months ended December 31, 2004, as compared to the first three months of fiscal 2004. Selling, general and administrative expense for the three months ended December 31, 2004, included three months of expense from our sports & leisure segment acquired on November 1, 2003 as compared to only two months in the prior period.

        Other income decreased $1.4 million for the three months ended December 31, 2004 as compared to the three months ended December 31, 2003. The results for the three months ended December 31, 2003 included $1.8 million of realized foreign currency gains as a result of cash and investments in a euro denominated account which benefited from the strengthening of the euro against the United States dollar.

        Net interest expense was $5.0 million and $5.2 million for the three months ended December 31, 2004 and December 31, 2003, respectively.

        The fair market value adjustment of our position in a ten-year $100 million interest rate contract improved by $1.7 million and $2.1 million in the first three months of fiscal 2005 and fiscal 2004, respectively. The fair market value adjustment of this agreement will generally fluctuate, based on the implied forward interest rate curve for 3-month LIBOR. If the implied forward interest rate curve decreases, the fair market value of the interest rate contract will increase and we will record an additional charge. If the implied forward interest rate curve increases, the fair market value of the interest rate contract will decrease, and we will record income. Increasing interest rates have caused the favorable change in fair market value of the contract in these periods.

        The tax provision for the three months ended December 31, 2004, represents foreign taxes withheld and state taxes. No federal tax benefit was accrued due to an annual projected domestic loss and our foreign operations reporting a loss for the quarter. The tax provision for the three months ended December 31, 2003, represents foreign taxes withheld and state taxes. No federal tax provision was accrued due to our net tax loss.

        Earnings (loss) from discontinued operations include the results of certain legal and environmental expenses associated with our former businesses. The earnings from discontinued operations for the first three months of fiscal 2005 resulted from a $0.3 million reduction in our environmental accrual due to a settlement of a matter for an amount lower than its expected cost and a tax benefit of $0.5 million realized from the carryback of environmental remediation payments. The loss from discontinued operations for the first quarter of fiscal 2004 includes an accrual of $0.8 million for legal expenses relating to a business we sold several years ago and a $1.0 million cost of severance for a former fastener employee.

        We recognized a $12.5 million and $5.9 million gain on the disposal of discontinued operations, as a result of additional proceeds earned from the sale of the fastener business in the three months ended December 31, 2004, and December 31, 2003, respectively. No income tax expense was recorded due to our overall net tax loss.

Segment Results

Sports & Leisure Segment

        Our sports & leisure segment, which we purchased from the Administrator of Eurobike AG and Mr. Klaus Esser, designs and sells motorcycle apparel, protective clothing, helmets, and technical accessories for motorcyclists. Primary brand names of our products include Polo, Hein Gericke, and First Gear. Hein Gericke currently operates 142 retail shops in Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. Polo currently operates 87 retail shops in Germany. For the most part, the Hein Gericke retail stores sell Hein Gericke brand items, and the Polo retail stores sell Polo brand products. Both the Hein Gericke and Polo retail stores sell products of other manufacturers, the inventory of which is owned by the Company. IFW, located in Tustin, California, is a designer and distributor of motorcycle apparel, boots and helmets under several labels, including First Gear and Hein Gericke. In addition, IFW designs and produces apparel under private labels for third parties, including Harley-Davidson. IFW also distributes in the United States, products manufactured by or for other companies, under their own label. The sports and leisure segment is a seasonal business, with an historic trend of a higher volume of sales and profits during the months of March through September.

        On a pro forma basis, sales in our sports & leisure segment increased by $9.2 million during the three months ended December 31, 2004, as compared to the three months ended December 31, 2003. The increase is due to the strengthening of the euro as compared to the United States dollar during the three months ended December 31, 2004, as compared to the three months ended December 31, 2003, additional inventory in our stores, and enhancements to the products available during the off-season period. On a pro forma basis, the operating loss in our sports & leisure segment increased by $1.6 million during the three months ended December 31, 2004, as compared to the three months ended December 31, 2003. The operating loss in the current quarter was adversely effected by the strengthening of the euro as compared to the United States dollar and slightly lower gross margins.

        Since the November 1, 2003 acquisition, Hein Gericke has initiated steps to advance its retail business in Germany. Hein Gericke is focusing on better advertising and greater marketing to restore brand recognition previously enjoyed by Hein Gericke in Germany. In early 2005, a new ERP computer system, now operational at Polo, will be expanded to encompass the operations of Hein Gericke. The new ERP computer system will enable the business to operate in a more efficient manner. Hein Gericke and Polo increased the procurement of goods for delivery to meet the seasonal increase in sales. We believe relations with the suppliers of Fairchild Sports have improved since our acquisition. We have initiated a program to focus on optimal store location. This includes closing or relocating low performing stores, and opening new stores in England and elsewhere in Western Europe. Since the acquisition, we have opened seven stores in Germany, five stores in the England, and one store in Italy, and we have closed nineteen low performing stores in Germany. We have also redesigned several stores to better present our products to customers.

Aerospace Segment

        Our aerospace segment has six locations in the United States, and is an international supplier to the aerospace industry. Four locations specialize in the distribution of avionics, airframe accessories, and other components, one location provides overhaul and repair capabilities, and one location manufactures airframe components. The products distributed include: navigation and radar systems, instruments, and communication systems, flat panel technologies and rotables. Our location in Titusville, Florida, overhauls and repairs landing gear, pressurization components, instruments, and avionics. Customers include original equipment manufacturers, commuter and regional airlines, corporate aircraft and fixed-base operators, air cargo carriers, general aviation suppliers and the military. Sales in our aerospace segment increased by $7.0 million, or 42.0%, in the first quarter of fiscal 2005, as compared to the first quarter of fiscal 2004. Sales in our aerospace segment are not anticipated to sustain a growth rate at these levels in the coming quarters, as demand in the aerospace industry is still adversely affected by the events of September 11, 2001, and the continued financial difficulties of major commercial airlines.

        Operating income increased by $1.0 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2005, as compared to the first quarter of fiscal 2004, reflecting the increase in volume of sales and a small increase in gross margin as a percentage of sales.

Real Estate Operations Segment

            Our real estate operations segment owns and operates a 451,000 square foot shopping center located in Farmingdale, New York, and also owns and leases to Alcoa a 208,000 square foot manufacturing facility located in Fullerton, California. We have two tenants that each occupy more than 10% of the rentable space in the shopping center. Rental revenue increased by 8.6% in the first quarter of fiscal 2005, as compared to the first quarter of fiscal 2004, reflecting tenants occupying an additional 6,000 square feet of the shopping center and us receiving higher average rents. The weighted average occupancy was 96.6% during the first three months of fiscal 2005, as compared to 95.3% in the first three months of fiscal 2004. The average effective annual rental rate per square foot was $21.44 and $19.53 during the first three months of fiscal 2005 and fiscal 2004, respectively. As of December 31, 2004, approximately 97% of the shopping center was leased. We anticipate that rental income will increase during 2005, as a result of new leases for approximately 12,000 square feet, entered into at the end of fiscal 2004. The Fullerton property is leased to Alcoa through October 2007, and is expected to generate revenues and operating income in excess of $0.5 million per year.

             Operating income remained stable in the first quarter of fiscal 2005, as compared to the first quarter of fiscal 2004. For the quarter ended December 31, 2005, the increase in rental revenue was offset by additional depreciation expense and real estate taxes that increased by $0.1 million.

Corporate

        The operating loss at corporate increased by $1.7 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2005 as compared to the first quarter of fiscal 2004. The first quarter of fiscal 2004 included $1.8 million of gains realized on foreign currency on cash we held in euros and investments in a euro denominated account which benefited from the strengthening of the euro against the United States dollar.

FINANCIAL CONDITION, LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

        Total capitalization as of December 31, 2004 and September 30, 2004 was $290.8 million and $277.7 million, respectively. The three-month change in capitalization included an $8.9 million net increase in debt resulting from additional borrowings net of repayments of approximately $3.3 million and the difference due to the foreign currency effect on debt denominated in euros. Equity increased by $4.3 million, due primarily to our $0.9 million reported net income, and a $2.9 million favorable increase in other comprehensive income from a favorable fluctuation in foreign currency of $2.4 million and a $1.8 million increase in unrealized holding changes in our available-for-sale investments, offset partially, by a $1.0 minimum pension liability adjustment. Our combined cash and investment balances totaled $93.8 million on December 31, 2004, as compared to $109.4 million on September 30, 2004, and included restricted investments of $73.3 million and $75.0 million at December 31, 2004 and September 30, 2004, respectively.

        Net cash used for operating activities for the three months ended December 31, 2004, was $14.9 million and included a $6.0 million liquidation of trading securities used to fund our cash requirements, including our $19.4 million increase in inventory. Net cash provided by operating activities for the three months ended December 31, 2003, was $19.8 million and reflected the $33.3 million liquidation of trading securities used to fund the acquisition of Hein Gericke, PoloExpress and IFW. Excluding assets and liabilities acquired from our acquisition, the working capital uses of cash in the first three months of fiscal 2004 included a $18.2 million increase in inventory, offset by a $20.7 million increase of accounts payable and other accrued liabilities.

        Net cash provided by investing activities for the three months ended December 31, 2004 was $2.3 million, and included $4.6 million of proceeds received from investment securities, offset partially by $2.7 million of capital expenditures. Net cash used for investing activities for the three months ended December 31, 2003 was $61.1 million, and included our acquisition funding of $53.9 million, net of $15.0 million cash acquired.

        Net cash provided by financing activities was $3.8 million for the three months ended December 31, 2004, which reflects $3.3 million of net borrowings, and $0.5 million received on repayment of shareholder loans. Net cash provided by financing activities was $103.7 million for the three months ended December 31, 2003, which reflected $55.0 million borrowed to finance our shopping center and the short-term financing of €46.5 million for our acquisition of Hein Gericke, PoloExpress, and IFW.

        Our principal cash requirements include supporting our current operations and general administrative structure, capital expenditures, and the payment of other liabilities including postretirement benefits, environmental investigation and remediation obligations, and litigation settlements and related costs. We expect that cash on hand, cash generated from operations, cash available from borrowings, and proceeds received from dispositions of assets, including investments, will be adequate to satisfy our cash requirements during the next twelve months. On December 31, 2004, our foreign operations had cash of $3.1 million. However, debt agreements in place at our foreign locations restrict the amount of cash that can be transferred to our other subsidiaries. We may consider raising cash to meet the needs of our operations by issuing additional stock or debt, entering into partnership arrangements, liquidating non essential assets or other means.

        On January 21, 2005, our subsidiary, PoloExpress finalized a seasonal loan agreement with Bayerische Hypo- und Vereinsbank AG (HVB), pursuant to which HVB will advance €7.0 million to PoloExpress for financing purchases of inventory for the 2005 seasonal trough.

        Upon the filing of our Annual Report on Form 10-K, we have satisfied our filing requirements of providing one year of audited financial statements of the companies we acquired on November 1, 2003, collectively now known as Fairchild Sports, and we are no longer restricted from raising additional capital though the public markets or prohibited from granting stock options.

        The costs of being a small to mid-sized public company have increased substantially with the introduction and implementation of controls and procedures mandated by the Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002. Audit fees and audit related fees have significantly increased over the past two years. Our increased costs also include the effects of acquisitions and additional costs related to compliance with various financing agreements. We expect the costs to comply with Section 404 of the Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002 alone may double again our audit and audit related costs. We estimate that we may incur expenses of approximately $3.0 million in relation to audit and related fees in fiscal 2005. Our audit fee in 2002 was approximately $0.4 million. These increases are significant for a company of our size. We will consider all options for reducing costs and may consider opportunities to take our company private in the coming year.

Off Balance Sheet Items 

        On December 31, 2004, approximately $4.1 million of bank loans received by retail store partners were guaranteed by our subsidiaries in the sports & leisure segment. These loans have not been assumed by us.

Contractual and Other Obligations

        At December 31, 2004, we had contractual commitments to repay long term debt, including capital lease obligations. Payments due under these long-term obligations for the fiscal years ending September 30 are as follows: $14.7 million for 2005; $11.4 million for 2006; $26.7 million for 2007; $23.0 million for 2008; $5.7 million for 2009; and $51.7 million thereafter.

        We have entered into standby letter of credit arrangements with insurance companies and others, issued primarily to guarantee our future performance of contracts. At December 31, 2004, we had contingent liabilities of $2.1 million on commitments related to outstanding letters of credit.

        On December 31, 2004, we have reflected a $9.4 million obligation due under a ten-year $100 million interest rate swap agreement which expires on February 19, 2008. Interest on the swap agreement is settled quarterly.

        In addition, we have $26.4 million classified as other long-term liabilities at December 31, 2004, including environmental and other liabilities, which do not have specific payment terms or other similar contractual arrangements.

        Currently, we are not being audited by the IRS for any years. We have a $43.2 million tax liability at December 31, 2004. However, based on tax planning strategies, we do not anticipate having to satisfy the tax liability over the short-term.

        Should any of these liabilities become immediately due, we would be obligated to obtain financing, raise capital, and/or liquidate assets to satisfy our obligations.

RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

        In December 2004, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123R, “Share-Based Payment.” Statement 123R amends certain aspects of Statement 123 and now requires a public entity to measure the cost of employee services received in exchange for an award of equity instruments based on the grant-date fair value of the award. That cost will be required to be recognized over the period during which an employee is required to provide service in exchange for the award, (usually the vesting period). No compensation cost is recognized for equity instruments for which employees do not render the requisite service. Statement 123R provides some flexibility in allowing entities to determine the valuation model to use in calculating fair value, and whether to implement Statement 123R on a prospective basis, a modified prospective basis or retroactively. The statement becomes effective for our interim reporting period that begins July 1, 2005. We are currently evaluating the effects of Statement 123R. Such effect is not likely to be materially different from amounts we have previously disclosed in our filings since adopting Statement 123.

ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURE ABOUT MARKET RISK

        In fiscal 1998, we entered into a ten-year interest rate swap agreement to reduce our cash flow exposure to increases in interest rates on variable rate debt. The ten-year interest rate swap agreement provided us with interest rate protection on $100 million of variable rate debt, with interest being calculated based on a fixed LIBOR rate of 6.24% to February 17, 2003. The variable rate debt that was fixed by the interest rate swap was repaid by us on December 3, 2002. On February 17, 2003, the bank, with which we entered into the interest rate swap agreement, did not exercise a one-time option to cancel the agreement, and accordingly the transaction proceeds, based on a fixed LIBOR rate of 6.745% from February 17, 2003 to February 19, 2008.

        We have recognized $1.7 million in our income statement for the non-cash increase in the fair market value of the interest rate contract in the three months ended December 31, 2004 as a result of the reduction in the fair market value for our interest rate swap agreement to $9.4 million.

        The fair market value adjustment of these agreements will generally fluctuate based on the implied forward interest rate curve for 3-month LIBOR. If the implied forward interest rate curve decreases, the fair market value of the interest contract will increase and we will record an additional charge. If the implied forward interest rate curve increases, the fair market value of the interest hedge contract will decrease, and we will record income.

        In May 2004, we issued a floating rate note with a principal amount of €25.0 million. Embedded within the promissory note agreement is an interest rate cap protecting one half of the €25.0 million borrowed. The embedded interest rate cap limits to 6%, the 3-month EURIBOR interest rate that we must pay on the promissory note. We paid approximately $0.1 million to purchase the interest rate cap. In accordance with SFAS 133, the embedded interest rate cap is considered to be clearly and closely related to the debt of the host contract and is not required to be separated and accounted for separately from the host contract. We are accounting for the hybrid contract, comprised of the variable rate note and the embedded interest rate cap, as a single debt instrument.

        The table below provides information about our financial instruments that are sensitive to changes in interest rates. Notional amounts are used to calculate the contractual payments to be exchanged under the contract. Weighted average variable rates are based on implied forward rates in the yield curve at the reporting date.

(In thousands)
   Expected maturity date
   Type of interest rate contract
   Variable to fixed contract amount
   Fixed LIBOR rate
   EURIBOR cap rate
   Average floor rate
   Weighted average forward LIBOR/EURIBOR rate
   Market value of contract at December 31, 2004
   Market value of contract if interest rates increase by 1/8%
   Market value of contract if interest rates decrease by 1/8%

February 19, 2008
Variable to Fixed
     $100,000
      6.745%
       N/A
       N/A
      3.56%
     $(9,413)
     $(8,952)
     $(9,702)

 March 31, 2009
Interest Rate Cap
     $14,512
       N/A
      6.0%
       N/A
      3.12%
       $16
       $19
       $13

ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

        The term “disclosure controls and procedures” is defined in Rules 13a-14(c) and 15d-14(c) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. These rules refer to the controls and other procedures of a company that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by a company in the reports that it files under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within required time periods. Our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer have evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of a date within 90 days before the filing of this quarterly report, which we refer to as the Evaluation Date. They have concluded that, as of the Evaluation Date, such controls and procedures were effective at ensuring that the required information was disclosed on a timely basis in our reports filed under the Exchange Act.

Changes in Internal Controls

        Our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer have evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this quarterly report, which we refer to as the evaluation date. We maintain a system of internal accounting controls that are designed to provide reasonable assurance that our books and records accurately reflect our transactions and that our established policies and procedures are followed. We are currently implementing a new ERP computer system, now operational at Polo, to encompass the operations of Hein Gericke. We anticipate that the new ERP computer system will enable the business to operate in a more efficient manner and enhance internal controls.There were no other significant changes to our internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect our internal controls during the quarter ended December 31, 2004.

PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

        The information required to be disclosed under this Item is set forth in Footnote 9 (Contingencies) of the Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) included in this Report.

Item 2. Changes in Securities and Use of Proceeds

        Pursuant to the sale of our fastener business to Alcoa, we have agreed that the Company may not declare dividends on its common stock for a period of five years (ending on December 3, 2007).

Item 5. Other Information

1.     The Board of Directors has established a Governance and Nominating Committee consisting of non-employee independent directors, which, among other functions, identifies individuals qualified to become board members, and selects, or recommends that the Board select, the director nominees for the next annual meeting of shareholders.  As part of its director selection process, the Committee considers recommendations from many sources, including:  management, other board members and the Chairman.  The Committee will also consider nominees suggested by stockholders of the Company. Stockholders wishing to nominate a candidate for director may do so by sending the candidate’s name, biographical information and qualifications to the Chairman of the Governance and Nominating Committee c/o the Corporate Secretary, The Fairchild Corporation, 1750 Tysons Blvd., Suite 1400, McLean VA  22102.

        In identifying candidates for membership on the Board of Directors, the Committee will take into account all factors it considers appropriate, which may include (a) ensuring that the Board of Directors, as a whole, is diverse and consists of individuals with various and relevant career experience, relevant technical skills, industry knowledge and experience, financial expertise, including expertise that could qualify a director as a “financial expert,” as that term is defined by the rules of the SEC, local or community ties, and (b) minimum individual qualifications, including strength of character, mature judgment, familiarity with the Company’s business and industry, independence of thought and an ability to work collegially. The Committee also may consider the extent to which the candidate would fill a present need on the Board of Directors.

2.     Over the past several years, we have disclosed certain legal proceedings in France involving Mr. Jeffrey Steiner, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Company. A special committee consisting of all of the Company’s independent directors has been reviewing issues arising from these proceedings, including, among other things, reimbursement of approximately $5.5 million for legal fees and other amounts advanced by the Company on behalf of Mr. Steiner in connection with the proceedings.

Item 6. Exhibits

(a)     Exhibits:

         *31 Certifications required by Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act.

         *32 Certifications required by Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act.

        * Filed herewith.

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Company has duly caused this report to the signed on its behalf by the undersigned hereunto duly authorized.

For THE FAIRCHILD CORPORATION
(Registrant) and as its Chief
Financial Officer:

 

By:   /s/ JOHN L. FLYNN
            John L. Flynn
            Chief Financial Officer and
            Senior Vice President, Tax

Date: February 9, 2005