UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K

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

For the Year Ended September 30, 2005
Commission File Number 1-6560

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

DELAWARE   34-0728587
(State or other jurisdiction of   (IRS Employer Identification No.)
Incorporation or organization)    
     

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

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

        Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

 

Title of each class                Name of exchange on which registered
  Class A Common Stock, par value $.10 per share                 New York and Pacific Stock Exchange

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None

Indicate by check mark if the Registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.
[  ] Yes [X] No.

Indicate by check mark if the Registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.
[  ] Yes [X] No.

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 [X] Yes [  ] No.

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K [  ].

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an accelerated filer (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act) [X] Yes [  ] No

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act) [   ] Yes [X ] No

On March 31, 2005, the aggregate market value of the common shares held by nonaffiliates of the Registrant (based upon the closing price of these shares on the New York Stock exchange) was approximately $54.9 million (excluding shares deemed beneficially owned by affiliates of the Registrant under Commission Rules).

On November 30, 2005, the number of shares outstanding of each of the Registrant’s classes of common stock were as follows:

Class A Common Stock, $0.10 Par Value
Class B Common Stock, $0.10 Par Value
 22,604,761
   2,621,412

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE:
Portions of the registrant’s definitive proxy statement for the 2005 Annual Meeting of Stockholders’ to be held on March 8, 2006, which the Registrant intends to file within 120 days after September 30, 2005, are incorporated by reference into Part III of this Form 10-K.


THE FAIRCHILD CORPORATION
INDEX TO
ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K
FOR FISCAL YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2005

PART I
                                                                                                                  

     Item 1A.    Risk Factors

     Item 1.       Business

     Item 2.       Properties

     Item 3.       Legal Proceedings

     Item 4.       Submission of Matters to a Vote of Stockholders

PART II

     Item 5.       Market for Common Stock, Related Stockholder Matters and issuer Purchases of
                        Common Stock

     Item 6.       Selected Financial Data

     Item 7.       Management's Discussion and Analysis of Results of Operations and Financial Condition

     Item 7A.    Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

     Item 8.       Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

     Item 9.       Changes in and Disagreements on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

     Item 9A.    Controls and Procedures

PART III

     Item 10.     Directors and Executive Officers of the Company

     Item 11.     Executive Compensation

     Item 12.     Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management

     Item 13.     Certain Relationships and Related Transactions

     Item 14.     Principal Accounting Fees and Services

PART IV

     Item 15.     Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules
                    
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PART I

        All references in this Annual Report on Form 10-K 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 30, 2005, September 30, 2004 and June 30, 2003. The “transition period” refers to the three months ended September 30, 2003.

Change of Fiscal Year End

        In December 2003, the Company changed its fiscal year end from June 30 to September 30. This annual report presents certain information for the period between July 1, 2003 and September 30, 2003 as the Transition Period.

Item 1A.  RISK FACTORS

        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 annual report. These risks include:

        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 annual report, 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.

ITEM 1.  BUSINESS

General

        The Fairchild Corporation was incorporated in October 1969, under the laws of the State of Delaware. 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 and distributes them to commercial airlines and air cargo carriers, fixed-base operators, corporate aircraft operators and other aerospace companies worldwide. Our real estate operations segment owns and leases a shopping center located in Farmingdale, New York, and owns and rents two improved parcels 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. These operations comprise our sports & leisure segment.

        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. In addition, we earned additional proceeds of $12.5 million in each of fiscal 2005 and 2004 and may also earn additional cash proceeds up to $12.5 million per year over each of the next two years, if the number of commercial aircraft delivered by Boeing and Airbus exceeds specified annual levels.

        On December 21, 2005, we signed a definitive agreement to sell our Farmingdale, New York, power shopping center, Airport Plaza, to KRC Acquisition Corp., acting on behalf of a joint venture comprised of Kimco Realty Corporation and a fund managed by a major investment bank, for approximately $95 million. The purchaser has agreed to deposit into escrow $4.75 million to ensure its obligations and to seek the approval of our mortgage lender to assume our existing mortgage loan of approximately $53.8 million, or to defease the loan. The closing will take place following purchaser’s obtaining consent of the mortgage lender to its loan assumption, which could occur as early as February 2006. If the loan is defeased, the transaction may not close until as late as July 2006. The sale does not include several other undeveloped parcels of real estate that we own in the Town, the largest of which is under contract of sale to the market chain, Stew Leonards. We decided to sell the shopping center to enhance our financial flexibility, allowing us to invest in existing operations or pursue other opportunities.

Financial Information about Business Segments

        Our business segment information is incorporated herein by reference from Note 16 of our Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data”.

Narrative Description of Business Segments

Sports & Leisure Segment

        Our sports & leisure segment, also known as Fairchild Sports, is engaged in the design and retail sale of motorcycle apparel, protective clothing, helmets and technical accessories for motorcyclists in Europe and the design and distribution of such apparel and helmets in the United States. The Fairchild Sports group is made up of the worldwide operations of Hein Gericke, PoloExpress, and Intersport Fashions West (IFW). Hein Gericke currently operates 145 retail shops in Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. PoloExpress currently operates 87 retail shops in Germany and one shop in Switzerland. IFW, located in Tustin, California, is a designer and distributor of motorcycle accessories, and other protective apparel, and helmets, under several labels, including 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. 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. Our sports & leisure segment accounted for approximately 73% of our consolidated revenues in fiscal 2005.

         Products

        Products for the Hein Gericke and PoloExpress companies include motorcycle apparel, helmets, boots, protective clothing, and technical accessories for motorcycle enthusiasts. The majority of the products are sold at retail stores leased by us and operated by shop partners who sell our products in accordance with agreements with us permitting the shop partner to operate and maintain an individual store. Shop partners are paid a commission based on the performance of their store. All inventory in the stores is owned by us and until sold remains our property. Mail order and internet sales do not make up a material percentage of the total sales. The Hein Gericke retail stores sell predominantly Hein Gericke brand products, and the Polo retail stores sell predominantly Polo brand products. Both the Hein Gericke and Polo retail stores sell products of other manufacturers. The products are manufactured by third parties located principally in Asia, and the products are shipped to our leased warehouses, where they are temporarily stored until shipped to the individual retail stores for sale. The main warehouses for Hein Gericke are located in Düsseldorf, Germany, and Harrogate, England, and the main warehouse for PoloExpress is located in Düsseldorf, Germany.

        IFW is a designer and distributor of motorcycle apparel, boots and helmets under several labels, including Hein Gericke. In addition, IFW designs and produces apparel under private labels for third parties, including Honda and Yamaha. IFW also recently created the G-Line women’s motorcycle product line designed specifically for women.

         Sales and Markets

        Hein Gericke and PoloExpress mainly sell their products in Europe through their retail stores. Both Hein Gericke and PoloExpress operate stores throughout Europe with Hein Gericke having stores in Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom, and PoloExpress has operating stores in Germany and Switzerland. Approximately 67% of the sales are to customers in Germany and 15% are to customers in the United Kingdom. Since the vast majority of the sales are through these retail stores, we have a very large number of customers. Mainly due to the prevailing weather in Western Europe, our business is very seasonal with a historic trend of a higher volume of sales and profits during the months of March through September.

        IFW sells as a designer and distributor in the United States, to companies such as Honda, Yamaha, Harley-Davidson Dealers and other Independent Dealers.

        In total, the sports & leisure segment had foreign sales (outside the United States) of 89% and domestic sales of 11%.

         Competition

        Hein Gericke and PoloExpress face competition from other European retail sellers of motorcycle equipment and clothing, including Harley-Davidson, Louis and Dianese. There is a large market for motorcycle enthusiasts in Europe and competition is tight among the retailers. We believe that key market positions are held by PoloExpress and Hein Gericke, combined, in Germany, and Hein Gericke in the United Kingdom.

Aerospace Segment

        Our aerospace segment consists of aerospace operations that are conducted through our subsidiary Banner Aerospace Holding Company I, Inc. We offer a wide variety of aircraft parts and component repair and overhaul services. The aircraft parts which we distribute are either purchased on the open market or acquired from OEMs as an authorized distributor. No single distributor arrangement is material to our financial condition. Our aerospace segment accounted for approximately 24% of our consolidated revenues in fiscal 2005.

         Products

        Products of the aerospace operations include rotable parts, such as flight data recorders, radar and navigation systems, instruments, hydraulic and electrical components, space components and certain defense related items.

        Rotable parts are sometimes purchased as new parts, but are generally purchased in the aftermarket and are then overhauled by us or for us by outside contractors, including OEMs or FAA-licensed facilities. Rotables are sold in a variety of condition such as new, overhauled, serviceable and “as is”. Rotables may also be exchanged instead of sold. An exchange occurs when an item in inventory is exchanged for a customer’s part and the customer is charged an exchange fee.

        An extensive inventory of products and a quick response time are essential in providing support to our customers. Another key factor in selling to our customers is our ability to maintain a system that traces a part back to the manufacturer or repair facility. We also offer immediate shipment of parts in aircraft-on-ground situations.

        Through our FAA-licensed repair station, we provide a number of services such as component repair and overhaul services. Component repair and overhaul capabilities include pressurization, instrumentation, avionics, aircraft accessories and airframe components.

         Sales and Markets

        Our aerospace operations sell products in the United States and abroad to commercial airlines, air cargo carriers, fixed-base operators, corporate aircraft operators, distributors and other aerospace companies. Our aerospace operations conduct marketing efforts through direct sales forces, outside representatives and, for some product lines, overseas sales offices. Sales in the aviation aftermarket depend on price, service, quality and reputation.

        Our aerospace segment’s business does not experience significant seasonal fluctuations nor depend on a single customer. Approximately 58% of our aerospace sales are to domestic purchasers, some of which may represent offshore users.

      Competition

        Our aerospace operation competes with AAR Corp, Volvo Aero Services, Duncan Aviation, Stevens Aviation; OEMs such as Honeywell, Rockwell Collins, Raytheon, and Litton; other repair and overhaul organizations; and many smaller companies.

        We face intense competition in the aerospace industry, as we are one of many companies competing for business. Quality, performance, service and price are generally the prime competitive factors in the aerospace industry. We seek to maintain a higher level of quality and performance over our competitors.

Real Estate Operations Segment

        Our real estate operations segment owns and operates a 451,000 square foot shopping center located in Farmingdale, New York, owns and leases to Alcoa a 208,000 square foot manufacturing facility located in Fullerton, California, and also owns and leases to PCA Aerospace a 58,000 square foot manufacturing facility located in Huntington Beach, California. We have two tenants that each occupy more than 10% of the rentable space of the shopping center. As of September 30, 2005, approximately 98% of the shopping center was leased. Tenants leasing space at our shopping center include: Staples; Modell’s; Jillian’s; Borders Books; Comp USA; Radio Shack; Hallmark; and others. In addition, Home Depot leases a portion of the shopping center real estate. The Fullerton property is leased to Alcoa through October 2007. Rental revenue from our real estate operations segment represents approximately 3% of our consolidated revenues. Our real estate operations segment represents approximately 25% of our total assets.

Foreign Operations

        Our operations are located throughout the world. Inter-area sales are not significant to the total revenue of any geographic area. Export sales are made by U.S. businesses to customers in non-U.S. countries, whereas foreign sales are made by our non-U.S. subsidiaries. For our sales results by geographic area and export sales, see Note 17 of our Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data”.

Backlog of Orders

        Substantially all of the products we sell are provided to our customers immediately. Backlog is not an important component to our overall business.

Suppliers

        In 2005, our sports and leisure segment purchased approximately 30% of its products from Kido Industrial Co, Ltd. In 2005, our aerospace segment purchased approximately 28% of its products from Universal Avionics Systems. We are not materially dependent upon any other single supplier, but we are dependent upon a wide range of subcontractors, vendors and suppliers of materials to meet our commitments to our customers. From time to time, we enter into exclusive supply contracts in return for logistics and price advantages. We do not believe that any one of these exclusive contracts would impair our operations if a supplier failed to perform.

Research and Patents

        We own patents relating to the design of certain of our products and have licenses of technology covered by the patents of other companies. We do not believe that any of our business segments are dependent upon any single patent.

Personnel

        As of September 30, 2005, we had approximately 550 employees. Approximately 220 of these were based in the United States, and 330 were based in Europe. None of our employees were covered by collective bargaining agreements. Overall, we believe that relations with our employees are good.

Environmental Matters

        A discussion of our environmental matters is included in Note 15, “Contingencies”, to our Consolidated Financial Statements, included in Part II, Item 8, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” and is incorporated herein by reference.

Available Information

        Our Internet address is www.fairchild.com. We make available free of charge, on our Internet website, our annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, and amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically file such material with, or furnish it to, the SEC.

ITEM 2.  PROPERTIES

        As of September 30, 2005, we owned or leased buildings totaling approximately 2,366,000 square feet, of which approximately 728,000 square feet were owned and 1,638,000 square feet were leased.

        Our Sports & Leisure segment’s properties consisted of approximately 1,540,000 square feet which is all leased. We lease and operate 233 retail stores in Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. The stores which were in operation as of September 30, 2005 aggregated approximately 1,200,000 square feet. Our 156 stores in Germany aggregated 940,000 square feet, and our 45 stores in the United Kingdom aggregated 130,000 square feet. The remaining 130,000 square feet are leased by the 32 stores in Austria, Belgium, France, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and Switzerland. The sports & leisure segment leases 219,000 square feet of warehouse space, including 161,000 square feet in Germany, 29,000 square feet in England and 29,000 square feet in the United States. The primary offices of the sports & leisure segment are located in Düsseldorf, Germany; Harrogate, England; and Tustin, California.

        Our Aerospace segment’s properties consisted of approximately 87,000 square feet, with principal operating facilities concentrated in California, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, and Texas. Our real estate operations segment owns a shopping center consisting of approximately 451,000 square feet and also owns and leases a 208,000 square foot manufacturing facility located in Fullerton, California and a 58,000 square foot manufacturing facility in Huntington Beach, California. We lease our corporate headquarters in McLean, Virginia as well as office space in New York, New York. Corporate office space is approximately 22,000 square feet.

        The following table sets forth the location of the larger properties used in our continuing operations, their square footage, the business segment or groups they serve and their primary use. Each of the properties owned or leased by us is, in our opinion, generally well maintained. All of our occupied properties are maintained and updated on a regular basis.

Location   Owned or
Leased
      Square
       Footage
     Business Segment      Primary Use
Farmingdale, New York Owned 451,000        Real Estate Operations      Rental
Düsseldorf, Germany Leased 255,000        Sports & Leisure      Office &
      Warehousing
Fullerton, California Owned 208,000        Real Estate Operations      Rental
Huntington Beach, California Owned 58,000        Real Estate Operations      Rental
Tustin, California Leased 44,000        Sports & Leisure      Office &
     Warehousing
Titusville, Florida Leased 37,000        Aerospace      Distribution
Harrogate, United Kingdom Leased 34,000        Sports & Leisure      Office &
     Warehousing
Atlanta, Georgia Leased 29,000        Aerospace      Distribution
McLean, Virginia Leased 17,000        Corporate      Office
Wichita, Kansas Owned 11,000        Aerospace      Distribution

        We have additional property located in Farmingdale, New York, which we are attempting to market, lease and/or develop.

        Information concerning our long-term rental obligations at September 30, 2005, is set forth in Note 14 to our Consolidated Financial Statements, included in Part II, Item 8, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data”, of this Annual Report, and is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 3.   LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

        A discussion of our legal proceedings, including the settlement of the stockholder derivative lawsuit, is included in Note 15, “Contingencies”, to our Consolidated Financial Statements, included in Part II, Item 8, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data”, of this annual report and is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 4.   SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF STOCKHOLDERS

There were no matters submitted to a vote of security holders during the fourth quarter of the fiscal year covered by this report.

PART II

ITEM 5.   MARKET FOR COMMON STOCK, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF COMMON STOCK

Market Information

        Our Class A common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange and Pacific Stock Exchange under the symbol “FA”. Our Class B common stock is not listed on any exchange and is not publicly traded. Class B common stock can be converted to Class A common stock at any time at the option of the holder. Information regarding our Class A and Class B common stock is incorporated herein by reference from Note 10 of our Consolidated Financial Statements included in Part II, Item 8, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data”.

        Information regarding the quarterly price range of our Class A common stock is incorporated herein by reference from Note 18 of our Consolidated Financial Statements included in Part II, Item 8, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data”.

        We are authorized to issue 5,141,000 shares of our Class A common stock under our 1986 non-qualified stock option plan, and 250,000 shares of our Class A common stock under our 1996 non-employee directors stock option plan. At the beginning of the fiscal year, we had 695,098 shares available for grant under the 1986 non-qualified stock option plan and 203,500 shares available for grant under the 1996 non-employee directors stock option plan. At the end of the fiscal year, we had 807,581 shares available for grant under the 1986 non-qualified stock option plan and 193,000 shares available for grant under the 1996 non-employee directors stock option plan. Information regarding our stock option plans is incorporated herein by referenced from Note 11 of our Consolidated Financial Statements included in Part II, Item 8, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data”.

Holders of Record

        We had approximately 957 and 35 record holders of our Class A and Class B common stock, respectively, at September 30, 2005.

Dividends

        We have not paid any dividends in the last two fiscal years. The agreement between us and Alcoa, under which we sold our Fairchild Fasteners business on December 3, 2002, provides that, for a period of five years after the closing, we will 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; provided, however, that we may engage in a merger or sale of substantially all of our assets to a third party that assumes our obligations under the acquisition agreement and that such provision of the agreement shall not prevent us from exercising our fiduciary duties to our stockholders. See Note 21 of our Consolidated Financial Statements included in Part II, Item 8, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data”.

Sale of Unregistered Securities

        There were no sales or issuance of unregistered securities in the last fiscal quarter for the 2005 fiscal year. Sales or issuance of unregistered securities in previous fiscal quarters were reported on Form 10-Q for each such quarter.

Securities Authorized for Issuance under Equity Compensation Plans

        The following table provides information as of September 30, 2005, with respect to compensation plans under which our equity securities are authorized for issuance.

Total Equity compensation plans approved by shareholders
Number of securities to be issued upon exercise of outstanding options 815,087 
Weighted average exercise price of outstanding options $         3.70 
Number of securities remaining available for future issuance 1,000,581 

ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

Five-Year Financial Summary
(In thousands, except per share data)

Years Ended   3 Month
Transition
  Period
   Ended
Years ended June 30,
 




Summary of Operations: 9/30/05 9/30/04 9/30/03 2003 2002 2001
 




Net sales     $ 341,587   $ 318,132   $ 14,857   $ 59,633   $ 64,648   $ 89,637  
Rental revenue       10,830     9,886     2,304     8,699     7,159     7,510  
Gross margin       133,940     124,882     4,591     18,350     17,783     25,135  
Operating loss       (27,550 )   (13,026 )   (5,585 )   (48,930 )   (17,411 )   (16,879 )
Net interest expense (income)       14,958     13,615     (686 )   24,207     44,925     53,382  
Income tax benefit (provision)       (2,384 )   10,761     (9 )   (446 )   15,984     28,676  
Loss from continuing operations       (33,097 )   (7,662 )   (1,999 )   (83,260 )   (50,443 )   (37,830 )
Loss per share from continuing operations:    
     Basic and Diluted     $ (1.31 ) $ (0.30 ) $ (0.08 ) $ (3.31 ) $ (2.01 ) $ (1.51 )
Other Data:    
Capital expenditures       12,070     13,210     1,133     9,761     2,106     2,765  
Cash provided by (used for) operating activities       (13,959 )   (15,559 )   (6,971 )   (122,521 )   19,388     (40,156 )
Cash provided by (used for) investing activities       27,701     (94,826 )   28     605,516     (9,632 )   18,233  
Cash provided by (used for) financing activities       (13,807 )   116,622     1,523     (485,842 )   (9,655 )   15,438  
Balance Sheet Data:    
Total assets       447,060     496,809     344,199     357,815     992,118     1,164,030  
Long-term debt, less current maturities       101,303     115,354     4,277     2,815     434,736     466,154  
Stockholders' equity       109,917     139,414     135,515     137,816     230,222     363,767  
    Per outstanding common share     $ 4.36   $ 5.53   $ 5.38   $ 5.47   $ 9.15   $ 14.47  

        The table above does not include the operating results of discontinued operations in the “Summary of Operations” section, including the fasteners business, which was sold on December 3, 2002 to Alcoa; and Fairchild Aerostructures, which was sold on June 24, 2005 to PCA Aerospace.

        Effective July 1, 2001, we adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 142, “Accounting for Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets.” If we were to eliminate goodwill amortization, the comparable loss from continuing operations, as adjusted, would be $(38,426), or $(1.52) per share, in 2001.

ITEM 7. 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 IFW. Our principal operations are conducted through these entities. Our consolidated financial statements present the results of our former fastener business, Fairchild Aerostructures, and APS, 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 included elsewhere in this report.

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 finance and successfully operate our retail businesses; our ability to accurately predict demand for our products; our ability to receive timely deliveries from vendors; our ability to raise cash to meet seasonal demands; our dependence on the retail and aerospace industries; our ability to maintain customer satisfaction and deliver products of quality; our ability to properly assess our competition; our ability to improve our operations to profitability status; our ability to liquidate non-core assets to meet cash needs; our ability to attract and retain highly qualified executive management; our ability to achieve and execute internal business plans; weather conditions in Europe during peak business season and on weekends; labor disputes; competition; worldwide political instability and economic growth; military conflicts, including terrorist activities; 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.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

        On December 12, 2001, the Securities and Exchange Commission issued Release No. 33-8040, “Cautionary Advice Regarding Disclosure About Critical Accounting Policies.” Critical accounting policies are those that involve subjective or complex judgments, often as a result of the need to make estimates. In response to Release No. 33-8040, we reviewed our accounting policies. The following areas require the use of judgments and estimates: the valuation of long-lived assets, impairment of goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite lives, pension and postretirement benefits, income taxes, environmental and litigation accruals and revenue recognition. Estimates in each of these areas are based on historical experience and a variety of assumptions that we believe are appropriate. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

        Valuation of Long-Lived Assets: We review our long-lived assets for impairment, including property, plant and equipment, and identifiable intangibles with definite lives, whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets may not be fully recoverable. To determine recoverability of our long-lived assets, we evaluate the probability that future undiscounted net cash flows will be greater than the carrying amount of our assets. Impairment is measured based on the difference between the carrying amount of our assets and their estimated fair value.

        Impairment of Goodwill and Intangible Assets With Indefinite Lives: Goodwill and intangible assets deemed to have an indefinite lives are not amortized. Instead of amortizing goodwill and intangible assets deemed to have an indefinite life, these assets are tested for impairment annually, or immediately if conditions indicate that such an impairment could exist.

        Pension and Postretirement Benefits: We have defined benefit pension plans covering certain of our employees. Our funding policy is to make the minimum annual contribution required by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 or local statutory law. The accumulated benefit obligation for pensions and postretirement benefits was determined using a discount rate of 5.625% and 6.0% at September 30, 2005 and 2004, respectively, and an estimated return on plan assets of 8.5% at September 30, 2005 and 2004. Assumed health care cost trend rates have a significant effect on the amounts reported for health care plans. For measurement purposes, in 2005, we assumed a 10.0% annual rate of increase in the cost per capita of claims covered under health care benefits. Beginning in 2006, the trend rate is assumed to decrease each year by 0.5% to a rate of 5% in 2016 and remain at that level thereafter. The effect of any change in these assumptions may result in a large change to the accumulated benefit obligation.

        Deferred and Noncurrent Income Taxes: Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets, we consider whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. We consider the scheduled reversal of deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income, and tax planning strategies in making this assessment. All of our deferred tax assets were fully reserved at September 30, 2005 and September 30, 2004.

        Environmental Matters: Our current and prior 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 had a material effect on our financial condition, results of operations, or net cash flows, and 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 other facilities owned, or previously owned, by us, which 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. At least once each calendar quarter, we thoroughly review our environmental matters and adjust our accrual to equal the estimated probable amount that it will cost us in connection with these matters. We believe that we have recorded adequate accruals in our consolidated financial statements to complete such investigation and take any necessary corrective actions or make any necessary contributions or other payments. 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.

        Legal Matters: 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. At the end of each calendar quarter, we thoroughly review our legal matters and adjust our accrual to equal the estimated probable amount that it will cost us in connection with these matters. In the opinion of management, the ultimate resolution of the legal proceedings will not have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, future results of operations, or net cash flows.

        Revenue Recognition: Revenues are recognized immediately upon the sale of merchandise by our retail stores. Sales and related costs are recognized on shipment of products and/or performance of services, when collection is probable. Lease and rental revenue are recognized on a straight-line basis over the life of the lease. Shipping and handling amounts billed to customers are classified as revenues.

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. Our real estate operations segment owns and leases a shopping center located in Farmingdale, New York, and owns and rents two improved parcels located in Southern California.

        For the year ended September 30, 2005, we reported a loss from continuing operations before income taxes of $30.6 million, as compared to a loss of $18.0 million in 2004. The increased loss resulted primarily from poor operating results by Hein Gericke and IFW in our sports and leisure segment. Our loss in fiscal 2005 contributed significantly to our $14.0 million use of cash in our operating activities. As of September 30, 2005, we have unrestricted cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments of $23.3 million, and available borrowing under lines of credit of $9.9 million. In addition, we expect to receive net cash of $12.5 million from Alcoa in February 2006, under the terms of our 2002 sale agreement and $3.0 million in January 2006, related to the settlement of our stockholders derivative litigation.

        We have undertaken a number of actions, which we believe will improve the results of Hein Gericke in 2006 and beyond including:

        In addition, we plan to:

        We expect that cash on hand, cash proceeds due to us from Alcoa and the stockholder derivative litigation, cash available from lines of credit, and proceeds received from dispositions of short-term investments, will be adequate to satisfy our cash requirements during the next twelve months.

        In order to improve our liquidity, on December 21, 2005, we signed a definitive agreement to sell our Farmingdale, New York, power shopping center, Airport Plaza, to KRC Acquisition Corp., acting on behalf of a joint venture comprised of Kimco Realty Corporation and a fund managed by a major investment bank, for approximately $95 million. The purchaser has agreed to deposit into escrow $4.75 million to ensure its obligations and to seek the approval of our mortgage lender to assume our existing mortgage loan of approximately $53.8 million, or to defease the loan. The closing will take place following purchaser’s obtaining consent of the mortgage lender to its loan assumption, which could occur as early as February 2006. If the loan is defeased, the transaction may not close until as late as July 2006. The sale does not include several other undeveloped parcels of real estate that we own in the Town, the largest of which is under contract of sale to the market chain, Stew Leonards. We decided to sell the shopping center to enhance our financial flexibility, allowing us to invest in existing operations or pursue other opportunities.

        Our cash needs are generally the highest during the second and third quarters of our fiscal year, when our sports and leisure segment purchases inventory in advance of the spring and summer selling seasons.

        During fiscal 2005, we had an €7.0 million (approximately $8.4 million) seasonal facility to help fund these cash needs. That facility was repaid and has expired. In December 2005, the Guaranty Committee of the German State of North Rhine Westphalia recommended approval for an 80% guaranteed seasonal financing facility, up to €11.0 million. One German bank has committed to provide funding for €5.5 million (approximately $6.6 million) of the seasonal facility and we anticipate completion of approval, loan agreements, and funding in January 2006. We are holding ongoing discussions with a second German bank, to receive a commitment for the remaining €5.5 million of the seasonal facility, but we have not received a positive indication that it will be approved. If we are unable to obtain a commitment from a second bank, we believe that our cash resources will be sufficient to meet our seasonal needs.

      In December 2005, we entered into discussions with an investment bank concerning our capital requirements. On December 26, 2005, we engaged the investment bank to provide us, among other things, with a commitment to place a short-term loan to us of $20 million, against our agreement to sell our shopping center to KRC Acquisition Corp. The investment bank has indicated to us that it is highly confident that it can consummate the loan, if needed, during the period of our seasonal trough.

        In the event that our cash needs are substantially higher than projected, particularly during our seasonal trough, we will take additional actions to generate the required cash. These actions may include one or any combination of the following:

        However, if we need to implement one or more of  these actions, there nevertheless remains some uncertainty that we will actually receive a sufficient amount of cash in time to meet all of our needs during the seasonal trough.  Even if sufficient cash is realized, any or all of these actions may have adverse affects on our operating results and/or businesses.

During the next several months, we plan to:

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

         Significant 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 ($14.8 million at September 30, 2005). Mr. Esser has the right to put such interest to us at any time during April of 2008 for €12.0 million ($14.5 million at September 30, 2005). 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 two years. On October 18, 2005, we reached an agreement with Mr. Esser, regarding his continued employment, and entered into an employment agreement with Mr. Esser through December 31, 2008. Through September 30, 2005, in addition to his base salary, Mr. Esser received a profit distribution of approximately €0.6 million, which reduces, on a Euro for Euro basis, the call or put option price we must pay for his interest. As of September 30, 2005, the €11.4 million ($13.8 million) collateralized obligation for the put option, net of distributions, was included in other long-term liabilities. The €11.4 million ($13.8 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 September 30, 2005. 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 included in our segment known as sports & leisure. Our sports & leisure segment is a highly seasonal business, with an 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 during October to February. We acquired these companies because we believe they have potential growth, 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 145 retail shops in Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. PoloExpress currently operates 87 retail shops in Germany and one shop in Switzerland. IFW, located in Tustin, California, is a designer and distributor of motorcycle accessories, protective and other apparel, and helmets, under several labels, including 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.

        On June 24, 2005, we completed the sale of our Fairchild Aerostructures business for $6.0 million to PCA Aerospace. The cash received from PCA Aerospace is subject to a post-closing adjustment based upon the net working capital of the business on January 1, 2005, compared with its net working capital as of June 24, 2005, which we have estimated to be approximately $1.5 million, and is included in accounts receivable at September 30, 2005. PCA Aerospace disputes the working capital post-closing adjustment, and also alleges that we owe PCA Aerospace $4.4 million. We have notified PCA Aerospace of our dispute of these claims. In connection with the sale, we have deposited with an escrow agent approximately $0.4 million to secure indemnification obligations we may have to PCA Aerospace. The escrow period is eighteen months. We decided to sell Fairchild Aerostructures, which was included in our aerospace segment, because we believe we received adequate fair value for a business whose performance was below our expectations and because its business was unrelated to other businesses we own. We used $0.9 million of the proceeds from the sale to repay a portion of our CIT revolving credit facility and we plan to use the remaining proceeds from the sale to reinvest in our existing operations. In 2005, we recorded a $1.1 million gain on the disposal of discontinued operations, as a result of the sale of Fairchild Aerostructures.

        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. 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 stated threshold levels, up to a maximum of $12.5 million per year. Deliveries exceeded the threshold aircraft delivery level needed for us to earn the full $12.5 million contingent payment for 2004 and 2003, respectively. Accordingly, we recognized a $12.5 million gain on disposal of discontinued operations in fiscal 2005 and fiscal 2004.The remaining threshold aircraft delivery levels are 570 in 2005; and 650 in 2006. 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 3, 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 3, 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.

      Consolidated Results

        Because of the November 1, 2003 acquisition of Hein Gericke, PoloExpress, and IFW, collectively now known as Fairchild Sports, and the sale of the fasteners business on December 3, 2002, the discussion below cannot be relied upon as a trend of our future results. Additionally, 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.

        We currently report in three principal business segments: sports & leisure, aerospace, and real estate operations. The following table provides the revenues and operating income (loss) of our segments on a historical and pro forma basis for the years ended September 30, 2005 and 2004, the three month transition period ended September 30, 2003, and the year ended June 30, 2003, respectively. The pro forma results represent the impact of our acquisition of Hein Gericke, PoloExpress, and IFW, as if this transaction had occurred at the beginning of each of our fiscal periods. The pro forma information is based on the historical financial statements of these companies, giving effect to the aforementioned transactions. The prior period historical results of the operations and entities we acquired are based upon the best information available to us and these financial statements were not audited. 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.

Actual Pro Forma
 
 
               
               
               
(In thousands)
              
              
              
  Years Ended
  3 Month
 Transition
   Period
   Ended
       
       
 Year
 Ended
       
       
  Year
 Ended
  3 Month
 Transition
   Period
   Ended
       
       
 Year
 Ended
 
 
9/30/05 9/30/04 9/30/03 6/30/03 9/30/04 9/30/03 6/30/03
 
 
Revenues
Sports & Leisure Segment     $ 257,094   $ 242,732   $   $   $ 253,818   $ 69,733   $ 254,339  
Aerospace Segment       84,493     75,400     14,854     59,608     75,400     14,854     59,608  
Real Estate Operations Segment       11,209     9,926     2,304     8,699     9,926     2,304     8,699  
Corporate and Other           1     3     25     1     3     25  
Intercompany Eliminations       (379 )   (41 )           (41 )        
 
 
Total     $ 352,417   $ 328,018   $ 17,161   $ 68,332   $ 339,104   $ 86,894   $ 322,671  
 
 
Operating Income (Loss)    
Sports & Leisure Segment     $ (5,406 ) $ 7,308   $   $   $ 6,602   $ 4,217   $ 3,917  
Aerospace Segment (a)       6,093     4,030     358     (4,143 )   3,945     358     (4,143 )
Real Estate Operations Segment       3,870     2,768     850     2,735     2,768     850     2,735  
Corporate and Other (a)       (32,107 )   (27,132 )   (6,793 )   (47,522 )   (27,132 )   (6,793 )   (47,522 )
 
 
Total     $ (27,550 ) $ (13,026 ) $ (5,585 ) $ (48,930 ) $ (13,817 ) $ (1,368 ) $ (45,013 )
 
 
  (a) The fiscal 2005 and fiscal 2004 operating results include an impairment charge of $2.9 million and $1.2 million, respectively, in the corporate and other segment to reflect the write down the value of a landfill development partnership, in which we are a limited partner. The fiscal 2003 operating results include impairment expenses of $6.6 million to write down goodwill at our aerospace segment and a $0.1 million write down of intangible assets of a start-up company in our corporate and other segment.

        Revenues increased by $24.4 million, or 7.4%, in fiscal 2005, as compared to fiscal 2004. The increase in fiscal 2005 was due to the prior period only including eleven 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 U.S. dollar, and increased sales at our aerospace segment. Revenues increased by $259.7 million in fiscal 2004, as compared to fiscal 2003. The increase was due primarily to the acquisition of Hein Gericke, PoloExpress and IFW on November 1, 2003. Revenues in fiscal 2004 also benefited from increased revenues at our aerospace segment and real estate operations segment. In fiscal 2003, the aerospace industry was adversely affected by the attacks of September 11, 2001, and weakness in the overall economy. During this period, reduction in travel and financial difficulties of major commercial airlines affected the demand for products we sell at our aerospace businesses.

        Gross margin as a percentage of sales was 38.1%, 38.3%, 24.7%, and 25.7%, in fiscal 2005, fiscal 2004, the three month transition period ended September 30, 2003, and fiscal 2003, respectively. The current year change in margins reflects a slight reduction in margins at our sports & leisure segment. The improvement in margins in the other periods reflects the higher gross margins earned from retail sales at the sports & leisure segment, which was acquired on November 1, 2003. Gross margin as a percentage of rental revenue at our real estate segment was 36.3%, 32.0%, 39.8%, and 34.9%, in fiscal 2005, fiscal 2004, the three month transition period ended September 30, 2003, and fiscal 2003, respectively.

        Selling, general and administrative expense increased by $19.0 million in fiscal 2005, as compared to fiscal 2004, due primarily to us owning our sports & leisure segment for 11 months in fiscal 2004, and $5.0 million of the increase due to a stronger Euro as compared to the U.S. dollar in fiscal 2005. Selling, general and administrative expense for fiscal 2003, includes $1.1 million of severance expense, $13.7 million of one-time change of control payments required under contracts with our top four executives as a result of the sale of our fastener business, and $10.4 million of bonuses awarded to our top four executives as a result of the sale of our fasteners business. The top four executives have also relinquished their right to any other future change of control payments. Excluding these items, selling, general & administrative expense as a percentage of revenues was 44.7%, 42.2%, 56.0%, and 59.7%, in fiscal 2005, fiscal 2004, the three month transition period ended September 30, 2003, and fiscal 2003, respectively.

        Pension and postretirement expense primarily includes inactive and retired employees of businesses that we sold and retained the pension and postretirement liability. At September 30, 2005, only approximately fifty of our current employees are active participants in these plans. Pension and postretirement expense increased by $0.2 million in fiscal 2005, as compared to fiscal 2004.

        Other income decreased by $3.6 million in fiscal 2005, as compared to fiscal 2004, due primarily to $1.6 million of proceeds received from a title insurance claim settlement recognized in fiscal 2004 and $1.0 million of foreign currency gains recognized in fiscal 2004, as compared to foreign currency losses of $0.2 million in fiscal 2005. Other income increased $0.4 million in fiscal 2004, as compared to fiscal 2003, due primarily other income recognized at our sports & leisure segment from shop partner reimbursements of costs, offsetting income recognized in 2003 from the sale of non-core assets.

        Impairment charges of $2.9 million, $1.2 million, $6.7 million, were recognized in 2005, 2004 and 2003, respectively. The fiscal 2005 and 2004 results represent primarily impairment expenses to write down the value of a landfill development partnership, in which we are a limited partner and were required to consolidate in accordance with FASB Interpretation 46R beginning January 1, 2004. A recent decision by us to no longer provide funds to the landfill development partnership caused the additional impairment recognition in fiscal 2005. The fiscal 2003 impairment charges included $6.6 million to write down goodwill at our aerospace segment and a $0.1 million write down of intangible assets of a start-up company in our corporate and other segment.

        Restructuring charges of $0.6 million in 2004 included the costs to close all fifteen of the GoTo Helmstudio retail locations in Germany. All of the charges were the direct result of activities that occurred as of June 30, 2004. The restructuring charges included an accrual for the remaining lease costs of the closed stores, the write-off of store fittings, and for severance. These costs were classified as restructuring and were the direct result of a formal plan to close the GoTo Helmstudio locations and terminate its employees. Such costs are nonrecurring in nature. Other than a reduction in our existing cost structure, none of the restructuring costs will result in future increases in earnings or represent an accrual of future costs of our ongoing business.

        Operating loss for 2005, 2004, and 2003 was $27.6 million, $13.0million, and $48.9 million, respectively. The $14.6 million increase in operating loss in 2005, as compared to 2004, was due primarily to a $12.7 million decrease in operating income at our sports and leisure segment (see segment discussion below). Operating loss for 2003, includes the $13.7 million of one-time change of control payments required under contracts with our top four executives as a result of the sale of the fastener business, and $10.4 million of bonuses awarded to our top four executives as a result of the sale of the fasteners business. In addition, the operating loss for 2003 includes the $6.6 million goodwill impairment at our aerospace segment and $1.1 million of severance expense.

        Net interest expense increased by 9.9%, or $1.3 million, in fiscal 2005 to $15.0 million, as compared to fiscal 2004, due primarily to a $0.6 million increase in non-cash interest,  from an increase in deferred loan fees expensed in the current period and a higher average outstanding debt obtained in fiscal 2005 as compared to fiscal 2004.  Net interest expense was $13.6 million and $24.2 million in fiscal 2004 and fiscal 2003, respectively. The results for 2003 included interest expense, prior to the repayment in December 2002, of all of our then outstanding senior subordinated notes, term loan and revolving credit facilities. These repayments were made from proceeds of the sale of the fastener business on December 3, 2002.

        Investment income was $6.0 million for fiscal 2005, and included $5.3 million of stock and dividends received from the demutalization of an insurance company, $0.5 million in other dividend income, $0.2 million of realized gains from the sale of investments, and a $0.8 million increase in the fair market value of investments classified as trading securities, offset partially by a $0.8 million investment impairment. Investment income was $3.7 million in 2004, including $2.8 million of stock and dividends received from the demutalization of an insurance company, $1.1 million in other dividend income and $0.3 million of gains realized from the sale of investments, partially offset by $0.5 million from the decline in fair market value of trading securities. We recorded a nominal investment loss in 2003. The investment results of 2003 included $0.3 million of dividend income, $0.6 million of realized gains on investments liquidated, and $0.5 million of fair market value increases to our trading securities, offset by a $2.4 million write down for impaired investments.

        The fair market value adjustment of our position in a ten-year $100 million interest rate contract improved by $5.9 million in fiscal 2005, $4.9 million in fiscal 2004 and $2.7 million in the three month transition period ended September 30, 2003. The fair market value adjustment of our position in this interest rate contract decreased by $7.7 million in fiscal 2003. 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 movement in fair market value of the contract in the three most recent periods.

        The overall tax provision for fiscal 2005 was $0.9 million, representing $2.1 million of foreign taxes and $0.3 million of state taxes in continuing operations, offset partially by a $1.4 million tax benefit in discontinued operations, which consists primarily of the tax effect from the carryback of environmental payments in the periods October 1, 2003 to September 30, 2004, and October 1, 2004 to September 30, 2005, which reduced the noncurrent income tax liability of $41.5 million at September 30, 2004. No federal tax expense was accrued in 2005 due to a domestic tax loss. In 2004, we recorded a federal income tax benefit of $24.2 million ($10.8 million in continuing operations and $13.4 million in discontinued operations) which resulted from the tax effect from the carryback of net operating losses of $39.4 million, arising from the periods July 1, 2003 to September 30, 2003 and October 1, 2003 to September 30, 2004, which reduced the noncurrent income tax liability of $68.5 million at June 30, 2003 and a $13.4 million favorable resolution of the tax audit of Kaynar Technologies, Inc. for its final year ended April 30, 1999, and our tax year ended June 30, 1999. We recorded an income tax provision of $0.4 million in fiscal 2003 on pre-tax losses from continuing operations. A tax provision was recorded due primarily from state income taxes.

        Earnings (loss) from discontinued operations includes the results of the fasteners business prior to its sale, Fairchild Aerostructures, prior to its sale, APS prior to its sale, and certain legal and environmental expenses associated with our former businesses. The loss from discontinued operations for fiscal 2005 consists primarily of an accrual of $2.0 million of environmental liabilities at locations of operations previously sold, and $2.5 million to cover legal expenses associated with businesses we sold several years ago, offset partially by $1.9 million of collections of old accounts receivable from businesses we previously sold. The loss from discontinued operations for fiscal 2004 consists primarily of an accrual of $7.6 million of environmental liabilities at locations of operations previously sold, and $0.8 million to cover legal expenses associated with a business we sold several years ago.  The 2003 earnings from discontinued operations reflect our ownership of the fastener business during the first five months of fiscal 2003, prior to its sale on December 3, 2002.

        In 2005, we recognized a $13.6 million gain on the disposal of discontinued operations, as a result of $12.5 million additional proceeds earned from the sale of the fastener business and the $1.1 million gain recognized on the sale of Fairchild Aerostructures. In 2004, we recorded a $9.5 million gain on the disposal of discontinued operations, as a result of additional proceeds earned from the sale of the fastener business. In 2003, we recorded a $29.8 million gain on the disposal of discontinued operations, net of $20.5 million of taxes, as a result of the sale of the fastener business.

        Other comprehensive income includes foreign currency translation adjustments, unrecognized actuarial loss on pensions, and unrealized periodic holding changes in the fair market value of available-for-sale investment securities. In 2005, other comprehensive income included a $7.5 million decrease in the minimum pension liability $0.2 million decrease in the fair market value of available-for-sale securities and a $1.4 million decrease in unrealized foreign currency translations due to the strengthening of the U.S. Dollar against the Euro. In 2004, a $1.8 million decrease in the minimum pension liability was offset by a $1.2 million increase in the fair market value of available-for-sale securities, and a $0.5 million improvement in unrealized foreign currency translations due to the strengthening of the Euro against the U.S. Dollar. In 2003, other comprehensive income included a decrease of $60.8 million due to the recognition of an additional minimum pension liability due primarily to unrecognized actuarial losses, offset partially by an increase of $19.6 million in foreign currency translation adjustments which were realized as part of the sale of our fasteners business, and a $1.8 million increase in the fair market value of unrealized holding gains on investment securities.

         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 Hein Gericke and Polo. Hein Gericke currently operates 145 retail shops in Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. Polo currently operates 87 retail shops in Germany and one shop in Switzerland. 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 Hein Gericke. In addition, IFW designs and produces apparel under private labels for third parties. The sports and leisure segment is a seasonal business, with an historic trend of a higher volume of sales and profits during March through September. Unfavorable weather conditions in Europe during March 2005 and April 2005 adversely effected the 2005 season.

        On a pro forma basis, sales in our sports & leisure segment increased by $3.3 million, or 1.3%, in 2005, as compared 2004. The increase is due primarily to the weighted average strengthening of the Euro and British pound as compared to the United States dollar during 2005, as compared to 2004. Same store sales increased by 0.7% in 2005, while sales at IFW decreased by 21%, due primarily to a reduction in sales to Harley-Davidson. Additionally, the impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates favorably affected the translation of European sales into U.S. dollars, by an aggregate of $9.4 million in 2005. Average retail sales per square foot was approximately $0.190 million in 2005, as compared to $0.198 million in 2004. Our Hein Gericke operations in the United Kingdom have been adversely affected by a sharp decline, which has recently occurred in the retail marketplace within the United Kingdom. On a pro forma basis, the operating results in our sports & leisure segment decreased by $12.0 million during 2005, as compared to 2004. The operating loss in 2005 was adversely affected by difficult trading conditions in Germany and the United Kingdom, which led to $2.8 million of higher promotional costs in an effort to preserve sales. Lower sales volume in Germany and the United States reduced our profitability, costing us $4.6 million of margin contribution. Sales were impacted at all Hein Gericke locations as the implementation of a new ERP system interrupted stock replenishment at all stores for one to two months at the beginning of the busy season in 2005. New shops in the United Kingdom increased our overhead by $1.9 million, and the development of a new global web shop cost us $0.9 million. On a pro forma basis, sales in our sports & leisure segment decreased by $0.5 million in 2004, as compared to 2003. The decrease in 2004 was due primarily to the closing of 19 low performing stores in 2004. On a pro forma basis, operating income in our sports & leisure segment increased by $3.9 million in 2004, as compared to 2003. Operating income improved due primarily to staff efficiencies realized at the acquisition date and reductions in rent expense, offset partially by $0.7 million of severance costs and $0.6 million of restructuring charges recognized in 2004.

        Since the November 1, 2003 acquisition, Hein Gericke has initiated steps to advance its retail business in Germany. Hein Gericke is focusing on more efficient advertising and marketing to restore brand recognition and increase customer traffic previously enjoyed by Hein Gericke in Germany. A new ERP computer system operational at Polo, was expanded to encompass the operations of Hein Gericke. The new ERP computer system enables the business to operate in a more efficient manner. 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. We have also redesigned several stores to better present our products to customers.

         Aerospace Segment

        Our aerospace segment has five 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, and one location provides overhaul and repair capabilities. 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 $9.1 million, or 12.1%, in fiscal 2005, as compared to fiscal 2004. Sales in our aerospace segment increased by $15.8 million, or 26.5%, in fiscal 2004, as compared to fiscal 2003. The improvement in sales reflects a large order which was delivered in 2004 and 2005. 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 for our products is still adversely affected by the continued financial difficulties of major commercial airlines.

        Operating income increased by $2.1 million, or 51.2%, in fiscal 2005, as compared to fiscal 2004, reflecting the increase in volume of sales and a 1.8% increase in gross margin. Operating income increased by $8.2 million in fiscal 2004, as compared to fiscal 2003. The results for 2003 were adversely affected by a $6.6 million impairment charge to write down goodwill. Excluding the goodwill impairment, operating income increased by $3.3 million in 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, owns and leases to Alcoa a 208,000 square foot manufacturing facility located in Fullerton, California, and also owns and leases to PCA Aerospace a 58,000 square foot manufacturing facility located in Huntington Beach, California. We have two tenants that each occupy more than 10% of the rentable space in the shopping center. Rental revenue was $11.2 million in 2005, $9.9 million in 2004, $2.3 million for the three month transition period ended September 30, 2003, and $8.7 million in 2003. Rental revenue increased by $1.3 million, or 12.9%, in fiscal 2005, as compared to fiscal 2004, reflecting a $0.7 million lease settlement with a defaulting office tenant, tenants paying higher average rents, offset partially by the July 2004 sale of a property located in Chatsworth, California that generated rental revenue of $0.4 million in 2004. Rental revenue increased by 14.1% in 2004, as compared to 2003, reflecting tenants occupying an additional 28,000 square feet of the shopping center. The weighted average occupancy rate of the shopping center was 97.2%, 96.3%, 90.3%, and 87.1% in fiscal 2005, fiscal 2004, the three month transition period ended September 30, 2003, and fiscal 2003, respectively. The average effective annual rental rate per square foot of the shopping center was $23.38, $20.78, $20.23, and $20.27, in fiscal 2005, fiscal 2004, the three month transition period ended September 30, 2003, and fiscal 2003, respectively. As of September 30, 2005, 100% of the retail space and approximately 98% of all leasable space at the shopping center was leased.

        Operating income increased by $1.1 million to $3.9 million in 2005, as compared to $2.8 million in 2004. In 2005, depreciation expense and real estate taxes increased by $0.1 million and $0.2 million, respectively, as a result of leasehold improvements enhancing the value of the portion of the shopping center that was placed into service in 2005. In 2005, legal and bad debt expense decreased by $0.1 million and $0.1 million, respectively. Operating income increased by $0.1 million to $2.8 million in 2004, as compared to $2.7 million in 2003. In 2004, depreciation expense and real estate taxes increased by $0.2 million and $0.3 million, respectively, as a result of leasehold improvements enhancing the value of the portion of the shopping center that was placed into service in 2004. In 2004, insurance and legal expense increased by $0.3 and $0.2, respectively, as a result of increased insurance premiums and various legal matters.

        In April 2005, we engaged Eastdil Realty Company, LLC, to explore opportunities for the sale of our shopping center. In October 2005, our Board of Directors’ authorized management to sell the shopping center. on December 21, 2005, we signed a definitive agreement to sell its Farmingdale, New York, power shopping center, Airport Plaza, to KRC Acquisition Corp., acting on behalf of a joint venture comprised of Kimco Realty Corporation and a fund managed by a major investment bank, for approximately $95 million. The purchaser has agreed to deposit into escrow $4.75 million to ensure its obligations and to seek the approval of our mortgage lender to assume our existing mortgage loan of approximately $53.8 million, or to defease the loan. The closing will take place following purchaser’s obtaining consent of the mortgage lender to its loan assumption, which could occur as early as February 2006. If the loan is defeased, the transaction may not close until as late as July 2006.

        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. The Huntington Beach property is leased to PCA Aerospace through October 2007, and is expected to generate revenues and operating income of $0.4 million per year. We can cause PCA Aerospace to purchase the Huntington Beach property at the greater of fair market value or $6.0 million under a put option we hold which can be exercised upon the earlier of the time when a mortgage loan, which encumbers the property, is paid off (currently due in October 2007, but with extension options) or January 31, 2012. PCA Aerospace also holds a similar purchase option. At September 30, 2005, the book value of the Huntington Beach property was $3.0 million and we believe the current fair market value is approximately $5.5 million.

      Corporate

        The operating loss at corporate increased by $5.0 million in fiscal 2005, as compared to fiscal 2004, due primarily to the costs of complying with the Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002 and impairment expenses to write down the value of a landfill development partnership, in which we are a limited partner and were required to consolidate in accordance with FASB Interpretation 46R beginning January 1, 2004. We recently decided to no longer provide funds to the landfill development partnership, resulting in $2.9 million impairment recognition in fiscal 2005, in addition the $1.2 million impairment recognized in fiscal 2004. The operating results at corporate improved by $20.4 million in fiscal 2004 as compared to fiscal 2003. The operating results at corporate in 2003 included $13.7 million of one-time change of control payments required under contracts with our top four executives as a result of the sale of the fastener business, and $10.4 million of bonuses awarded to them as a result of the sale of the fastener business.

        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, or was, a shareholder of The Fairchild Corporation and purported to bring actions derivatively on behalf of the Company, claiming, among other things, that Fairchild executive officers received excessive pay and perquisites and that the Company’s directors approved such excessive pay and perquisites in violation of fiduciary duties to the Company. The complaints name, as defendants, all of the Company’s directors, its Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, its President and Chief Operating Officer, its former Chief Financial Officer, and its General Counsel. While the Company and its Officers and Directors believe it and they have meritorious defenses to these suits, and deny liability or wrongdoing with respect to any and all claims alleged in the suits, it and its Officers and Directors elected to settle to avoid onerous costs of defense, inconvenience and distraction. On April 1, 2005, we mailed to our shareholders a Notice of Hearing and Proposed Settlement of The Fairchild Corporation Stockholder Derivative Litigation. On May 18, 2005, the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware in and for New Castle County declined to approve that proposed settlement of the actions. On October 24, 2005, we mailed to our shareholders a Notice of Hearing and Proposed Supplemental Settlement of The Fairchild Corporation Stockholder Derivative Litigation. On November 23, 2005, the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware in and for New Castle County approved the proposed settlement of these actions. The Court’s order became final on December 23, 2005. At September 30, 2005, we have estimated the remaining legal fees due to be $1.8 million. We will seek reimbursement from our insurance carries for legal costs incurred in connection with this matter.

FINANCIAL CONDITION, LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

        Total capitalization as of September 30, 2005 and September 30, 2004 was $232.8 million and $277.6 million, respectively. The fiscal 2005 change in capitalization included a net decrease of $15.3 million in debt resulting from approximately $10.0 million of repayments net of additional borrowings, and a $1.0 million decrease due to the foreign currency effect on debt denominated in euros. Stockholders’ equity decreased by $29.5 million, due primarily to our $21.9 million reported net loss and other comprehensive loss, offset partially by $1.0 million received on the repayment of shareholder loans. Our combined cash and investment balances totaled $98.2 million on September 30, 2005, as compared to $109.4 million on September 30, 2004, and included restricted investments of $64.6 million and $75.0 million at September 30, 2005 and September 30, 2004, respectively. Total capitalization as of September 30, 2004 and September 30, 2003 amounted to $277.6 million and $143.8 million, respectively. The change in capitalization included a $130.0 million net increase in debt as a result of our acquisition of Hein Gericke, PoloExpress, and IFW; obtaining financing on our shopping center and real estate; and receiving a revolving credit line based on the assets of our aerospace segment. Equity increased by $3.9 million, due primarily to our reported net earnings. Our combined cash and investment balances totaled $109.4 million on September 30, 2004, as compared to $110.9 million on September 30, 2003.

        Net cash used for operating activities for 2005 was $14.0 million. The working capital uses of cash in 2005 included a $10.0 million decrease in accounts receivable, a $7.6 million increase in other non-current assets, and a $4.5 million decrease in inventory, offset partially by a $10.2 million decrease in accounts payable and other accrued liabilities, and a $0.4 million increase in other current assets. The working capital sources of cash were offset by $14.2 million of non-cash charges and working capital changes provided from discontinued operations, and our $12.5 million net cash loss, after deducting non-cash expenses of $11.0 million for depreciation, $1.4 million from the amortization of deferred loan fees, $2.9 million loss from impairments, offset partially by the $5.9 million from the reduction in the fair market value of an interest rate contract. Net cash used for operating activities for fiscal 2004 was $15.6 million. The primary use of cash for operating activities in 2004 was a $16.5 million increase in inventories, a $16.2 million decrease in accounts payable and other accrued liabilities, and a $16.8 million increase in accounts receivable, offset partially by a $32.5 million decrease in trading securities, and our $3.4 million net earnings. Net cash used for operating activities for 2003, was $122.5 million. The working capital uses of cash in 2003 included $47.4 million of cash used for investments in trading securities, $7.4 million contributed to fund our pension plan, $13.7 million of one-time change of control payments, $10.4 million of bonuses, and $30.4 of non-cash charges and working capital changes provided to discontinued operations.

        Net cash provided by investing activities for fiscal 2005 was $27.7 million, and included $12.5 million received from Alcoa as additional earn-out proceeds from our December 2002 sale of our fastener business, $9.5 million of proceeds received from investment securities, $10.5 million of net proceeds received from the sale of non-core property, and $6.0 million received from the sale of Fairchild Aerostructures in June 2005, offset by $12.1 million of capital expenditures. Net cash used for investing activities was $94.8 million in 2004 and included our acquisition funding of $73.0 million, net of $15.0 million of cash included in the businesses we acquired. Net cash provided by investing activities for 2003, was $605.5 million. In 2003, the primary source of cash was $657.1 million of proceeds from the sale of our fastener business, $13.4 million of net cash proceeds received from notes receivable, and $2.5 million cash proceeds received from net assets held for sale. Net cash provided by investing activities was offset partially by $54.7 million of new investments, $9.8 million of capital expenditures, including the purchase of a manufacturing facility located in Fullerton, California, and $2.9 million of investing activities used for discontinued operations.

        Net cash used for financing activities was $13.8 million for fiscal 2005, which reflects $14.1 million of debt repayments, net, offset partially by $1.0 million received on repayment of shareholder loans. Net cash provided by financing activities was $116.6 million for 2004, which reflected $55.0 million borrowed to finance our shopping center, the long-term financing of $43.4 million for our acquisition of Hein Gericke, PoloExpress, and IFW, $13.0 million borrowed to finance property, and $9.0 million borrowed from a revolving credit facility at our aerospace segment. Net cash used by financing activities was $485.8 million for 2003, which reflected the repayment of essentially all of our debt, except for a $3.4 million margin loan and $3.2 million of debt at Fairchild Aerostructures.

        Our principal cash requirements include supporting our current operations, general and administrative expenses, capital expenditures, and the payment of other liabilities including postretirement benefits, environmental investigation and remediation costs, litigation settlements and related costs. We expect that cash on hand, cash generated from the earnout due to us from Alcoa and proceeds due to us from the stockholder derivative litigation, cash available from lines of credit, and proceeds received from dispositions of short-term investments, will be adequate to satisfy our cash requirements during the next twelve months.

        In order to improve our liquidity, on December 21, 2005, we signed a definitive agreement to sell our Farmingdale, New York, power shopping center, Airport Plaza, to KRC Acquisition Corp., acting on behalf of a joint venture comprised of Kimco Realty Corporation and a fund managed by a major investment bank, for approximately $95 million. The purchaser has agreed to deposit into escrow $4.75 million to ensure its obligations and to seek the approval of our mortgage lender to assume our existing mortgage loan of approximately $53.8 million, or to defease the loan. The closing will take place following purchaser’s obtaining consent of the mortgage lender to its loan assumption, which could occur as early as February 2006. If the loan is defeased, the transaction may not close until as late as July 2006. The sale does not include several other undeveloped parcels of real estate that we own in the Town, the largest of which is under contract of sale to the market chain, Stew Leonards. We decided to sell the shopping center to enhance our financial flexibility, allowing us to invest in existing operations or pursue other opportunities.

        Our cash needs are generally the highest during the second and third quarters of our fiscal year, when our sports and leisure segment purchases inventory in advance of the spring and summer selling seasons.

        During fiscal 2005, we had an €7.0 million (approximately $8.4 million) seasonal facility to help fund these cash needs. That facility was repaid and has expired. In December 2005, the Guaranty Committee of the German State of North Rhine Westphalia  recommended approval for an 80% guaranteed seasonal financing facility, up to €11.0 million. One German bank has committed to provide funding for €5.5 million (approximately $6.6 million) of the seasonal facility and we anticipate completion of approval, loan agreements, and funding in January 2006. We are holding ongoing discussions with a second German bank, to receive a commitment for the remaining €5.5 million of the seasonal facility, but we have not received a positive indication that it will be approved. If we are unable to obtain a commitment from a second bank, we believe that our cash resources will be sufficient to meet our seasonal needs.

     In December 2005, we entered into discussions with an investment bank concerning our capital requirements. On December 26, 2005, we engaged the investment bank to provide us, among other things, with a commitment to place a short-term loan to us of $20 million, against our agreement to sell our shopping center to KRC Acquisition Corp. The investment bank has indicated to us that it is highly confident that it can consummate the loan, if needed, during the period of our seasonal trough.

             In the event that our cash needs are substantially higher than projected, particularly during our seasonal trough, we will take additional actions to generate the required cash. These actions may include one or any combination of the following:

        However, if we need to implement one or more of these actions, there nevertheless remains some uncertainity that we will actually receive a sufficient amount of cash in time to meet all of our needs during the seasonal trough. Even if sufficient cash is realized, any or all of these actions may have adverse affects on our operating results and/or businesses..

                 We may also consider raising cash to meet subsequent needs of our operations by issuing additional stock or debt, entering into partnership arrangements, liquidating assets or other means. Should the sale of our shopping center be delayed or not occur, we may be forced to liquidate other non essential assets, and significantly reduce overhead expenses.

        In December 2005, we obtained an additional amendment of a covenant on our loan agreement with two German banks. The amendment provides a permanent waiver of specified inventory and accounts receivables that must be maintained by Hein Gericke Deutschland. The agreement requires Hein Gericke Deuschland to maintain a 1.5 ratio of current assets to net financial liabilities.

        In December 2005, we received German Government approval for an 80% guaranteed seasonal financing facility, up to €11.0 million. One German bank has committed to provide funding for €5.5 million of the seasonal facility and we anticipate these funds will be available in early January. We are holding ongoing discussions with a second German bank, to receive a commitment for the remaining €5.5 million of the seasonal facility. If we are unable to finalize the full seasonal line of credit, which we are negotiating, we may not have sufficient liquidity during the fiscal 2006 seasonal trough to support both our operations and our corporate needs. If this were to occur during the seasonal trough, we believe we could generate sufficient additional cash through the sale of non-core assets, including investments, to satisfy our cash requirements, recognizing, however, that there are impediments to the timely disposition of non-core assets, which could adversely affect realization of their fair values. Because of the seasonal trough, we may also be required to reduce corporate expenses; however, such reductions may affect our efficiency, or result in the loss of personnel necessary for our business.

        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 substantially increased our audit and related costs. We estimate that we will incur expenses of approximately $2.9 million in relation to audit and related fees in fiscal 2005, as compared to only $0.8 million in fiscal 2004. These increases are significant for a company of our size. We are considering all options for reducing costs, including opportunities to take our company private in the coming year.

        In February 2005, we announced our intention to purchase up to 500,000 shares of our outstanding Class A Common Stock. Through September 30, 2005, we acquired 61,800 shares at an average price of $3.12 per share, and have not purchased any shares since May 11, 2005.

Off Balance Sheet Items

        On September 30, 2005, approximately $4.7 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. These guarantees were assumed by us when we acquired the sports & leisure business. We have guaranteed loans to shop partners for the purchase store fittings in certain locations where well sell our products. The loans are secured by the store fittings purchased to outfit our retail stores.

Contractual Obligations

        At September 30, 2005, we had contractual commitments to repay debt (including capital lease obligations), and to make payments under operating leases. Principal payments due under these long-term obligations (excluding pension obligations) are as follows:

2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 Thereafter Total
 
Long-term debt and capital lease obligations     $ 21,571   $ 23,020   $ 9,034   $ 17,224   $ 1,836   $ 50,097   $ 122,782  
Operating lease commitments       20,528     16,355     13,219     9,455     6,399     26,195     92,151  
 
Total contractual cash obligations     $ 42,099   $ 39,375   $ 22,253   $ 26,679   $ 8,235   $ 76,292   $ 214,933  
 

        We have entered into standby letter of credit arrangements with insurance companies and others, issued primarily to guarantee our payments of workers compensation. At September 30, 2005, we had contingent liabilities of $2.0 million on commitments related to outstanding letters of credit..

        On September 30, 2005, we reflected a $5.1 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.

        Our operations enter into purchase commitments in the normal course of business.

        Prior to the sale of our fastener business, the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation had contacted us to understand the impact of the sale of our fasteners business on our ability to fund our long-term pension obligations. The PBGC expressed concern that our retirement plan would be underfunded by $86 million after the sale of our fasteners business. We provided the PBGC with information, which represented the underfunding to be $42 million, using the PBGC plan termination assumptions. During 2003, we contributed $7.4 million of cash to fund this pension plan. Based upon our actuary’s recent assumptions and projections, we do not expect additional cash contributions to this pension plan to be required until 2009. Current actuarial projections indicate contribution requirements of $1,180 in 2009, $1,970 in 2010 and a total of $11,420 in 2011 through 2015.  We are required to make annual cash contributions of approximately $0.3 million to fund a small pension plan.

        In addition, we have $27.5 million classified as other long-term liabilities at September 30, 2005, including $13.8 million due to purchase the remaining 7.5% interest in PoloExpress in April 2008. The remaining $13.4 million of other long-term liabilities include environmental and other liabilities, which do not have specific payment terms or other similar contractual arrangements.

        At September 30, 2005, we have $198.3 million of federal income tax loss carryforwards expiring 2018 through 2025, and $4.5 million of unused alternative minimum tax credit carryforward that does not expire. These federal income tax loss carryforwards may be reduced by adjustments during the income tax audits of 1995 to 1998 or 2000 to 2005, which have not been completed. As the periods of assessment for 1995 to 2001 have expired, additional tax may be collected from us only for 2002 to 2005. Nonetheless, the tax losses of $236.5 million arising in 1995, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000 and 2001 may still be reduced for determining the proper amount of net operating loss available to be carried forward to years after 2001. The gains on the disposal of discontinued operations that we reported between 1995 to 2005, for federal income tax, may be significantly increased if our tax positions are not sustained with respect to the sales of several businesses; and the repayment with property, of debt under a bank credit agreement in which both we and our subsidiaries were liable, is not treated as tax free under Section 361 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. If all of these adjustments were made for 1995 to 2005, the federal income tax loss carryforwards would be substantially reduced, and we may be required to pay additional tax and interest of up to $42.2 million, which has already been provided. The amount of additional tax and interest to be paid by the Company depends on the amount of income tax audit adjustments, which are made and sustained for 1995 to 2005. These adjustments, if any, would be made at a future date, which is presently uncertain, and therefore we cannot predict the timing of cash outflows. To the extent a favorable final determination of the recorded tax liabilities occurs, appropriate adjustments will be made to decrease the recorded tax liability in the year such favorable determination occurs. We recorded a federal income tax benefit of $1.4 million in 2005 which results primarily from the carryback of net operating losses under the 10 year carryback rules in Section 172 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, arising from October 1, 2004 to September 30, 2005 and the favorable resolution of tax audits of Intersports Fashions West Inc. for year ended September 30, 2003 and of a subsidiary in France for years ended June 30 of 1999 to 2002. We recorded a federal income tax benefit of $27.0 million in 2004 which results primarily from the carryback of net operating losses arising from July 1, 2003 to September 30, 2003 and October 1, 2003 to September 30, 2004, and the favorable resolution of the tax audit of Kaynar Technologies, Inc. for its final year ended April 30, 1999 and for our year ended June 30, 1999. We have a $42.2 million non-current income tax liability at September 30, 2005, which includes the tax effects of net operating loss carryforwards, temporary differences, and permanent differences. It is presently uncertain when a final determination will occur since no Internal Revenue Service audits of 1995 to 1998 or 2000 to 2004 have been completed. 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 us at the beginning of our next fiscal year. 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.

        In March 2005, The Financial Accounting Standards Board published FASB Interpretation No. 47, “Accounting for Conditional Asset Retirement Obligation”, to clarify that an entity must recognize a liability for the fair value of a conditional asset retirement obligation when incurred if the liability’s fair value can be reasonably estimated. FIN 47 also defines when an entity would have sufficient information to reasonably estimate the fair value of an asset retirement obligation. FIN 47 is intended to provide a more consistent recognition of liabilities relating to asset retirement obligations, additional information about expected future cash outflows associated with those obligations, and additional information about investments in long-lived assets, because it recognizes additional asset retirement costs as part of the assets’ carrying amounts. FIN 47 is effective no later than the end of our fiscal year ending September 30, 2006. We are currently assessing the possible impact, if any, of implementing this standard.

        In June 2005, The Financial Accounting Standards Board has published Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 154, “Accounting Changes and Error Corrections”, which requires retrospective application to prior periods’ financial statements of every voluntary change in accounting principle unless it is impracticable. The Statement replaces APB Opinion No. 20, “Accounting Changes”, and FASB Statement No. 3, “Reporting Accounting Changes in Interim Financial Statements”, although it carries forward some of their provisions. The FASB believes that the Statement’s requirements will enhance the consistency of financial information between periods and is the result of the FASB’s efforts to improve the comparability of cross-border financial reporting by working with the International Accounting Standards Board toward development of a single set of high-quality accounting standards. Statement 154 is effective for accounting changes and corrections of errors made in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2005. We do not anticipate any impact from adopting this new standard.

ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

             We are exposed to certain market risks as part of our ongoing business operations, including risks from changes in interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates that could impact our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. We manage our exposure to these and other market risks through regular operating and financing activities. We may use; derivative financial instruments on a limited basis as additional risk management tools and not for speculative investment purposes.

       Interest Rate 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.

        In fiscal 2005, we have recognized $5.9 million of non-cash income as a result of the reduction in the fair market value for our interest rate swap liability from $11.1 million, at September 30, 2004, to $5.1 million at September 30, 2005.

        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 hedge 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 is 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 rate
   Market value of contract at September 30, 2005
   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
            4.46%
           $(5,146)
           $(4,846)
           $(5,446)
               March 31, 2009
   Interest Rate Cap
        $15,414
          N/A
         6.0%
          N/A
         3.03%
          $1
          $1
          $1

 

     Foreign Currency Risk: We are exposed to foreign currency risks that arise from normal business operations. These risks include the translation of local currency balances of our foreign subsidiaries, intercompany loans with foreign subsidiaries and transactions denominated in foreign currencies. Our objective is to minimize our exposure to these risks through our normal operating activities and, if we determine appropriate, we may consider utilizing foreign currency forward contracts in the future. For the year ended September 30, 2005, approximately 75% of our total revenues were derived from customers outside of the United States, with approximately 65% of our total revenues denominated in currencies other than the United States dollar. We estimate that revenue and operating expenses for the year ended September 30, 2005 were higher by $9.4 million and $9.9 million, respectively, as a result of changes in exchange rates as compared to the year ended September 30, 2004. At September 30, 2005 we had $40.9 million of working capital (current assets minus current liabilities) denominated in foreign currencies. At September30, 2005, we had no outstanding foreign currency forward contracts. The following table shows the approximate split of these foreign currency exposures by principal currency at September 30, 2005:

Euro UK Pound Swiss Franc   Total
Exposure




Revenues     83%   16%   1%   100%
Expenses       82%   17%   1%   100%
Working Capital       74%   24%   2%   100%

     A hypothetical 10% strengthening of the dollar during 2005 versus the foreign currencies in which we have exposure would have reduced revenue by approximately $20.7 million and reduced operating expenses by approximately $21.0 million, resulting in an operating loss of $0.3 million less than actually reported. Working capital at September 30, 2005, would have been approximately $3.7 million lower than actually reported, if we had used this hypothetical stronger dollar. These numbers were estimated using the different hypothetical rate for the entire year and applying it evenly to all non United States dollar transactions.

     Inflation: We believe that inflation has not had a material impact on our results of operations for the year ended September 30, 2005. However, we cannot assure you that future inflation would not have an adverse impact on our operating results and financial condition.

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

        The following consolidated financial statements of the Company and the report of our independent auditors, are set forth below.

Page
 
 
Report of KPMG LLP, Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm (Fiscal 2005, 2004, 2003 and the
transition period ended September 30, 2003)

Report of KPMG LLP, Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm of Managements Assessment
of Internal Controls

Consolidated Balance Sheets as of September 30, 2005 and 2004

Consolidated Statements of Operations and Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) for each of the
   Three Years Ended September 30, 2005, September 30, 2004, June 30, 2003, and the Transition
   Period ended September 30, 2003

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity for each of the Three Years Ended September 30, 2005,
              September 30, 2004, June 30, 2003, and the Transition Period ended September 30, 2003

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for each of the Three Years Ended September 30, 2005,
             September 30, 2004, June 30, 2003, and the Transition Period ended September 30, 2003

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
     29


     30

     31



     33


     35


     36

     37

Supplementary information regarding “Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)” is set forth under Item 8 in Note 18 to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

The Board of Directors and Stockholders ofThe
Fairchild Corporation:

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of The Fairchild Corporation and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of September 30, 2005 and 2004, and the related consolidated statements of operations and other comprehensive income (loss), stockholders’ equity and cash flows for the years ended September 30, 2005 and 2004, the three-month period ended September 30, 2003, and the year ended June 30, 2003. These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of The Fairchild Corporation and subsidiaries as of September 30, 2005 and 2004, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for the years ended September 30, 2005 and 2004, the three-month period ended September 30, 2003 and the year ended June 30, 2003, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the effectiveness of The Fairchild Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2005, based on the criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO), and our report dated December 29, 2005 expressed an unqualified opinion on management’s assessment of internal control over financial reporting and an adverse opinion on the effective operation of internal control over financial reporting.

/s/ KPMG LLP

McLean, Virginia
December 29, 2005

THE FAIRCHILD CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In thousands)

ASSETS September 30,
    2005
September 30,
     2004
 
CURRENT ASSETS:            
Cash and cash equivalents     $ 12,582   $ 12,849  
Short-term investments       15,698     16,595  
Accounts receivable-trade, less allowances of $2,767 and $2,878       18,535     27,340  
Inventories - finished goods       90,856     95,312  
Current assets of discontinued operations           4,389  
Prepaid expenses and other current assets       8,857     8,426  
 
Total Current Assets       146,528     164,911  
 
Property, plant and equipment, net of accumulated    
  depreciation of $34,024 and $24,796       132,929     144,510  
Noncurrent assets of discontinued operations           1,106  
Goodwill and intangible assets       42,665     44,298  
Investments and advances, affiliated companies       3,786     4,441  
Prepaid pension assets       31,239     29,398  
Deferred loan costs       2,672     3,748  
Long-term investments       69,887     79,959  
Notes receivable       6,787     9,355  
Other assets       10,567     15,083  
 
TOTAL ASSETS     $ 447,060   $ 496,809  
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

THE FAIRCHILD CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In thousands, except per share data)

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
                                     
September 30,
    2005
September 30,
     2004
 
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
Bank notes payable and current maturities of long-term debt     $ 21,571   $ 22,864  
Accounts payable       23,027     26,873  
Accrued liabilities:    
    Salaries, wages and commissions       10,187     12,235  
    Insurance       7,335     10,410  
    Interest       617     985  
    Other accrued liabilities       18,647     18,569  
    Income taxes       1,031     173  
Current liabilities of discontinued operations           1,529  
 
Total Current Liabilities       82,415     93,638  
 
LONG-TERM LIABILITIES:    
Long-term debt, less current maturities       101,303     115,354  
Fair value of interest rate contract       5,146     11,088  
Other long-term liabilities       27,483     25,445  
Pension liabilities       51,099     43,028  
Retiree health care liabilities       27,459     27,369  
Noncurrent income taxes       42,238     41,473  
 
TOTAL LIABILITIES       337,143     357,395  
 
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY:    
Class A common stock, $0.10 par value; 40,000 shares authorized,    
  30,480 (30,387 in Sept. 2004) shares issued and 22,605 (22,573 in    
   Sept. 2004); shares outstanding; entitled to one vote per share       3,047     3,038  
Class B common stock, $0.10 par value; 20,000 shares authorized,    
  2,621 (2,621 in Sept. 2004) shares issued and outstanding; entitled    
  to ten votes per share       262     262  
Paid-in capital       232,457     232,766  
Treasury stock, at cost, 7,875 (7,814 in Sept. 2004) shares    
   of Class A common stock       (76,352 )   (76,459 )
Retained earnings       20,206     41,490  
Notes due from stockholders       (109 )   (1,061 )
Cumulative other comprehensive loss       (69,594 )   (60,622 )
 
TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY       109,917     139,414  
 
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY     $ 447,060   $ 496,809  
 

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

THE FAIRCHILD CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
(In thousands, except per share data)

            
            
            
 Years Ended

  3 Month
Transition
  Period
   Ended
 Year
Ended
 



9/30/05 9/30/04 9/30/03 6/30/03
 



REVENUE:
  Net sales     $ 341,587   $ 318,132   $ 14,857   $ 59,633  
  Rental revenue       10,830     9,886     2,304     8,699  
 



        352,417     328,018     17,161     68,332  
COSTS AND EXPENSES:    
  Cost of goods sold       211,582     196,409     11,183     44,317  
  Cost of rental revenue       6,895     6,727     1,387     5,665  
  Selling, general & administrative       157,499     138,505     9,606     66,014  
  Pension and postretirement       6,445     6,626     637     3,689  
  Other (income) expense, net       (5,909 )   (9,529 )   (67 )   (9,149 )
  Amortization of intangibles       560     537          
  Impairment charges       2,895     1,206         6,726  
  Restructuring charges           563          




      379,967     341,044     22,746     117,262  
 
OPERATING LOSS       (27,550 )   (13,026 )   (5,585 )   (48,930 )
 
Interest expense       (16,720 )   (15,440 )   (611 )   (34,176 )
Interest income       1,762     1,825     1,297     9,969  
 



Net interest income (expense)       (14,958 )   (13,615 )   686   (24,207 )
Investment income (loss)       6,009     3,733     24     (977 )
Fair market value increase (decrease) in interest rate    
 contract       5,942     4,924     2,650     (7,673 )
 



Loss from continuing operations before income taxes       (30,557 )   (17,984 )   (2,225 )   (81,787 )
Income tax (provision) benefit       (2,384 )   10,761     (9 )   (446 )
Equity in earnings (loss) of affiliates, net       (156 )   (439 )   199     (1,066 )
Minority interest, net               36     39  
 



Loss from continuing operations       (33,097 )   (7,662 )   (1,999 )   (83,260 )
Earnings (loss) from discontinued operations, net       (3,183 )   (11,934 )   (836 )   189  
Gain on disposal of discontinued operations, net       13,575     9,521         29,784  
Income tax benefit from discontinued operations       1,421     13,436         95  
 



NET EARNINGS (LOSS)     $ (21,284 ) $ 3,361   $ (2,835 ) $ (53,192 )
 



Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:    
Foreign currency translation adjustments       (1,393 ) $ 529   $ (10 ) $ 19,580  
Minimum pension liability       (7,457 )   (1,811 )       (60,806 )
Unrealized holding changes on derivatives       114     105     25     (126 )
Unrealized periodic holding changes on available-for-sale    
   securities       (236 )   1,242     516     1,796  
 



Other comprehensive income (loss)       (8,972 )   65     531     (39,556 )
 



COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)     $ (30,256 ) $ 3,426   $ (2,304 ) $ (92,748 )
 



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

THE FAIRCHILD CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
(In thousands, except per share data)

             
             
             
 Years Ended
   3 Month
 Transition
   Period
    Ended
 Year
Ended
 



 9/30/05  9/30/04  9/30/03  6/30/03
 



BASIC AND DILUTED EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE:                    
 Loss from continuing operations     $ (1.31 ) $ (0.30 ) $ (0.08 ) $ (3.31 )
 Earnings (loss) from discontinued operations, net       (0.13 )   (0.48 )   (0.03 )   0.01
 Gain on disposal of discontinued operations, net       0.54   0.38       1.19
 Income tax benefit from discontinued operations       0.06   0.53        
 



NET EARNINGS (LOSS)     $ (0.84 ) $ 0.13 $ (0.11 ) $ (2.11 )
 



Weighted average shares outstanding:    
  Basic       25,224     25,192     25,184     25,170  
  Diluted       25,224     25,192     25,184     25,170  

 

 

 

 

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

THE FAIRCHILD CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
(In thousands, except share data)


ClassA
Common
Stock

ClassB
Common
Stock


Paid-in
Capital


Treasury
Stock


Retained
Earnings

Notes
Due From
Stockholders
Cumulative
Other
Comprehensive
Loss (a)



Total
 
Balance, July 1, 2002     $ 3,035   $ 262   $ 232,797   $ (76,532 ) $ 94,156   $ (1,831 ) $ (21,662 ) $ 230,225  
Net loss                       (53,192 )           (53,192 )
Cumulative translation adjustment                               19,580     19,580  
Proceeds received from stock options exercised               19                     19  
Issuance of deferred compensation units       2         (75 )   73                  
Proceeds from stockholders loan repayments                           323         323  
Net change in fair market value of cash flow hedges                               (126 )   (126 )
Excess of additional pension liability over unrecognized prior service cost                               (60,806 )   (60,806 )
Net unrealized holding changes on    
Available-for-sale securities                               1,796     1,796  
 
Balance, June 30, 2003       3,037     262     232,741     (76,459 )   40,964     (1,508 )   (61,218 )   137,819  
Net loss                       (2,835 )           (2,835 )
Cumulative translation adjustment                               (10 )   (10 )
Change in fair market value of cash flow hedges                               25     25  
Net unrealized holding changes on    
available-for-sale securities                               516     516  
 
Balance, September 30, 2003       3,037     262     232,741     (76,459 )   38,129     (1,508 )   (60,687 )   135,515  
Net earnings                       3,361             3,361  
Cumulative translation adjustment                               529     529  
Proceeds received from stock options exercised       1         25                     26  
Proceeds from stockholders loan repayments                           447         447  
Change in fair market value of cash flow hedges                               105     105  
Excess of additional pension liability over unrecognized prior service cost                               (1,811 )   (1,811 )
Net unrealized holding changes on    
available-for-sale securities                               1,242     1,242  
 
Balance, September 30, 2004       3,038     262     232,766     (76,459 )   41,490     (1,061 )   (60,622 )   139,414  
Net loss                       (21,284 )           (21,284 )
Cumulative translation adjustment                               (1,393 )   (1,393 )
Proceeds received from deferred    
compensation units exercised       9         (309 )   300                  
Purchase of treasury shares                   (193 )               (193 )
Proceeds from stockholders loan repayments                           952         952  
Change in fair market value of cash flow hedges                               114     114  
Excess of additional pension liability over unrecognized prior service cost                               (7,457 )   (7,457 )
Net unrealized holding changes on    
available-for-sale securities                               (236 )   (236 )
 
Balance, September 30, 2005     $ 3,047   $ 262   $ 232,457   $ (76,352 ) $ 20,206   $ (109 ) $ (69,594 ) $ 109,917  
 
(a) – At September 30, 2005, cumulative other comprehensive loss was comprised of a $70,074 excess of additional pension liability over unrecognized prior service cost, $970 of unrecognized losses from foreign currency translation adjustments, $1,748 of unrealized holding gains on available-for-sale securities, and $298 of the remaining unamortized expense of the transitional fair market value of the interest rate contract. At September 30, 2004, cumulative other comprehensive loss was comprised of a $62,617 excess of additional pension liability over unrecognized prior service cost, $423 of gains unrecognized from foreign currency translation adjustments, $1,984 of unrealized holding gains on available-for-sale securities, and $412 of the remaining unamortized expense of the transitional fair market value of the interest rate contract.

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

THE FAIRCHILD CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(In thousands)

           
           
           
Years Ended
   3 Month
 Transition
   Period
    Ended
       
       
  Year
  Ended
 



9/30/05 9/30/04 9/30/03 6/30/03
 



Cash flows from operating activities:                    
  Net earnings (loss)     $ (21,284 ) $ 3,361   $ (2,835 ) $ (53,192 )
  Depreciation and amortization       11,025     8,045     1,026     4,049  
  Deferred loan fee amortization       1,410     851         11,016  
  Loss from impairments       2,895     1,206         6,726  
  Gain on sale of property, plant, and equipment, net       (645 )   (39 )   (163 )   (764 )
  Equity in earnings (loss) of affiliates, net of distributions       156     494     (199 )   1,066  
  Paid-in kind interest income                   (7,536 )
  Unrealized holding (gain) loss on interest rate contract       (5,942 )   (4,924 )   (2,650 )   7,673  
  Realized (gain) loss from sale and impairment of investments       (7,022 )   (4,263 )       1,214  
  Change in trading securities       8,097     32,518     2,674     (47,377 )
  Change in accounts receivable       10,182     (16,822 )   4,024     (5,215 )
  Change in inventories       4,456     (16,520 )   511     (4,795 )
  Change in prepaid expenses and other current assets       (431 )   (3,114 )   (522 )   (1,376 )
  Change in other non-current assets       7,648     (3,804 )   (567 )   (636 )
  Change in accounts payable, accrued liabilities and other long-term    
   liabilities       (10,265 )   (16,167 )   (9,343 )   19,356  
  Non-cash charges and working capital changes of discontinued operations       (14,239 )   3,619     1,073     (52,730 )
 



  Net cash used for operating activities       (13,959 )   (15,559 )   (6,971 )   (122,521 )
 
Cash flows from investing activities:    
  Purchase of property, plant and equipment       (12,070 )   (13,210 )   (1,133 )   (9,761 )
  Proceeds from sale of plant, property and equipment       10,502     4,264          
  Change in available-for-sale investment securities, net       9,532     (18,585 )   3,696     (54,637 )
  Equity investment in affiliates       499             (80 )
  Acquisitions, net of cash acquired           (72,982 )   (1,767 )    
  Net proceeds received from the sale of discontinued operations       18,500     5,736         657,050  
  Changes in net assets held for sale               (113 )   2,456  
  Changes in notes receivable       963     97     (596 )   13,405  
  Investing activities of discontinued operations       (225 )   (146 )   (59 )   (2,917 )
 



  Net cash provided by (used for) investing activities       27,701     (94,826 )   28     605,516  
 
Cash flows from financing activities:    
  Proceeds from issuance of debt       29,894     226,494     1,800     58,542  
  Debt repayments       (44,013 )   (103,907 )   (45 )   (542,228 )
  Issuance of Class A common stock           26         19  
  Purchase of treasury stock       (193 )            
  Payment of financing fees       (377 )   (3,553 )       (1,164 )
  Proceeds from stockholder loan repayments       952     447         323  
  Financing activities of discontinued operations       (70 )   (2,885 )   (232 )   (1,334 )
 



  Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities       (13,807 )   116,622     1,523     (485,842 )
  Effect of exchange rate changes on cash       (202 )   11     4     54  
 



Net change in cash and cash equivalents       (267 )   6,248     (5,416 )   (2,793 )
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of the period       12,849     6,601     12,017     14,810  
 



Cash and cash equivalents, end of the period     $ 12,582   $ 12,849   $ 6,601   $ 12,017  
 



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

THE FAIRCHILD CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(In thousands, except share and per share data)

1.     SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES:

        General: All references in the notes to the consolidated financial statements to the terms “we,” “our,” “us,” the “Company” and “Fairchild” refer to The Fairchild Corporation and its subsidiaries.

        Corporate Structure: 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 Fairchild Aerostructures and APS, as discontinued operations.

        Nature of Business Operations: 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 and distributes them to commercial airlines, and air cargo carriers, fixed-base operators, corporate aircraft operators and other aerospace companies worldwide. Our real estate operations segment owns and leases a shopping center located in Farmingdale, New York, and owns and rents two improved parcels located in Southern California.

        Fiscal Year: Our fiscal year ends September 30. On December 24, 2003, we announced that we elected to change our fiscal year end from June 30th to September 30th. All references to “fiscal” in connection with “2005” and “2004” or a future year shall mean the 12 months ended September 30th. All references herein to “2003” mean the fiscal year ended June 30, 2003, respectively. We are also reporting our results for the three month transition period ended September 30, 2003.

        Consolidation Policy: The accompanying consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States and include our accounts and all of the accounts of our subsidiaries. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

        Revenue Recognition: Revenues are recognized immediately upon the sale of merchandise by our retail stores. Sales and related costs are recognized on shipment of products and/or performance of services, when collection is probable. Lease and rental revenue are recognized on a straight-line basis over the life of the lease. Shipping and handling amounts billed to customers are classified as revenues.

        Shipping and Handling Costs: Shipping and handling costs are expensed as incurred and included in cost of goods sold.

        Concentration of Credit Risk: Financial instruments that potentially subject us to a concentration of credit risk consist principally of cash, cash equivalents and trade receivables. We sell approximately 24% of our products throughout the world to a large number of customers, primarily in the aerospace industry. To reduce credit risk, we perform ongoing credit evaluations of our customers’ financial condition. Generally, we do not require collateral. We invest available cash in money market securities of financial institutions with high credit ratings and United States treasury securities. We also invest restricted funds in longer term opportunities which, while speculative, we believe will result in better rates of return. Investment portfolios are subject to fluctuations in market value.

        Cash Equivalents/Statements of Cash Flows: For purposes of the Statements of Cash Flows, we consider all highly liquid investments with original maturity dates of three months or less as cash equivalents. Cash is invested in short-term treasury bills and certificates of deposit. Total net cash disbursements (receipts) made by us for income taxes and interest expense were as follows:

            
            
            
Years Ended
  3 Month
 Transition
   Period
   Ended
     
     
 Year
Ended
 



9/30/05 9/30/04 9/30/03 6/30/03
 



Interest     $ 15,349   $ 14,809   $ 2,234   $ 28,759  
Income taxes       520     263     2,611     823  

        Restricted Cash and Investments: On September 30, 2005 and September 30, 2004, we had restricted investments of $64,619 and $75,033, respectively, all of which are maintained as collateral for certain debt facilities, our interest rate contract, environmental matters, and escrow arrangements. The restricted funds are invested in money market funds, equity securities, U.S. government securities, or high investment grade corporate bonds. Restricted cash and investments are classified as short-term and long-term investments on September 30, 2005 and September 30, 2004.

        Investments: Management determines the appropriate classification of our investments at the time of acquisition and reevaluates such determination at each balance sheet date. Trading securities are carried at fair value, with unrealized holding gains and losses included in investment income. Available-for-sale securities are carried at fair value, with unrealized holding gains and losses, net of tax, reported as a separate component of stockholders’ equity, except to the extent that unrealized losses are deemed to be other than temporary, in which case such unrealized losses are reflected in earnings. Investments in equity securities and limited partnerships that do not have readily determinable fair values are stated at cost and are categorized as other investments. Realized gains and losses are determined using the specific identification method based on the trade date of a transaction. Interest on government and corporate obligations are accrued at the balance sheet date. Investments in companies in which ownership interests range from 20 to 50 percent are accounted for using the equity method.

        Accounts Receivable: Accounts receivable is stated at the amount we expect to collect. We provide an allowance for doubtful accounts equal to the estimated uncollectible amounts. Our estimate is based on historical collection experience and a review of the current status of trade accounts receivable. Account balances are charged against the allowance after collection efforts have been exhausted and the potential recovery is considered remote. It is reasonably possible that our estimate of allowance for doubtful accounts will change in the future. Changes in the allowance for doubtful accounts are as follows:

             
             
             
 Years Ended
  3 Month
Transition
  Period
   Ended
      
      
  Year
 Ended
 



9/30/05 9/30/04 9/30/03 6/30/03
 



Beginning balance     $ 2,878   $ 1,229   $ 1,350   $ 2,527  
From acquired companies           1,983          
Charges to cost and expenses       614     143     57     (61 )
Charges to other accounts (a)       (183 )   161         1  
Amounts written off       (542 )   (638 )   (178 )   (1,117 )
 



Ending balance     $ 2,767   $ 2,878   $ 1,229   $ 1,350  
 



    (a)        Represent recoveries of amounts written off in prior periods and foreign currency translation adjustments.

        Inventories: Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined using the first-in, first-out ("FIFO") method. Market is determined based on net realizable value. Appropriate consideration is given to obsolescence, excess quantities, and other factors in evaluating net realizable value.

        Properties and Depreciation: The cost of property, plant and equipment is depreciated over the estimated useful lives of the related assets. The cost of leasehold improvements is depreciated over the lesser of the length of the related leases or the estimated useful lives of the assets. Our machinery and equipment is depreciated over a 5 to 10 year range. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method for financial reporting purposes and accelerated depreciation methods for Federal income tax purposes. We own and operate a shopping center located in Farmingdale, New York, which is recorded at cost and includes financing costs, interest costs, and real estate taxes incurred during the original construction period. Ordinary repairs and maintenance are expensed as incurred and major replacements and improvements are capitalized. Building and improvements are depreciated on a straight-line basis over an estimated useful life of 30 years. Tenant improvements and costs incurred to prepare tenant space for occupancy are depreciated on a straight-line basis over the terms of the respective leases or the assets’ remaining useful lives, whichever is shorter. Depreciation expense was $10,465 in 2005, $7,508 in 2004, $1,026 for the three month transition period ended September 30, 2003, and $4,049 in 2003. Property, plant and equipment consisted of the following:

Sept. 30,
   2005
Sept. 30,
   2004
 

Land     $ 43,672   $ 53,652  
Building and improvements       80,580     79,359  
Machinery and equipment       13,442     8,920  
Transportation vehicles       19,237     15,523  
Furniture and fixtures       6,471     5,180  
Construction in progress       3,551     6,672  
 

Property, plant and equipment, at cost       166,953     169,306  
Less: Accumulated depreciation       34,024     24,796  
 

Net property, plant and equipment     $ 132,929   $ 144,510  
 

        Leases: We recognize rental income and rental expense based on a straight-line basis over the minimum contractual lease term. Lease incentives, if any, including free rent are also recognized on a straight line basis.

        Amortization of Goodwill and Intangible Assets: Goodwill and intangible assets deemed to have an indefinite life are tested for impairment annually, or immediately if conditions indicate that such an impairment could exist. We allocated to intangible assets $34.0 million of our purchase price associated with our fiscal 2004 acquisition of Hein Gericke, PoloExpress and Intersport Fashions West. Approximately $31.3 million of the intangible assets we acquired were determined to have indefinite lives. In 2005 and 2004, we recognized $560 and $537, respectively, of amortization expense for intangible assets with definite lives. Annual amortization expense will be approximately $560 in each of the next four years. In fiscal 2003, we recognized an impairment charge of $6,617 to goodwill at one of our business unit’s within our aerospace segment. (See Note 3).

        Deferred Loan Costs: Costs incurred in connection with the issuance of debentures and credit facilities are deferred and amortized, using the effective interest method over the term of the agreements. Amortization expense of these loan costs was $1,410 in 2005, $851 in 2004, $0 in the three month transition period ended September 30, 2003, and $11,016 in 2003. In connection with proceeds from the December 2002 sale of the fastener business, we repaid our bank credit agreement in the United States, all of the outstanding $225 million senior subordinated notes, and our $30,750 term loan agreement on our shopping center. The remaining $9,903 of deferred loan fees associated with the bank credit agreement and senior subordinated notes were expensed as interest expense during 2003.

        Valuation of Long-Lived Assets: We review our long-lived assets for impairment, including property, plant and equipment, and identifiable intangibles with definite lives, whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets may not be fully recoverable. To determine recoverability of our long-lived assets, we evaluate the probability that future undiscounted net cash flows will be greater than the carrying amount of our assets. Impairment is measured based on the difference between the carrying amount of our assets and their estimated fair value. Impairment charges of $2.9 million, $1.2 million, and $6.7 million, were recorded in 2005, 2004, and 2003, respectively. A decision in the fourth quarter of 2005 by us to no longer provide funds to the landfill development partnership caused impairment recognition of $2.9 million in fiscal 2005. The 2004 impairment charges included $1.2 million to write down the long-lived assets of a limited partnership interest which we are required to consolidate in accordance with FASB Interpretation 46R. The 2003 impairment included the $6.6 million write down of goodwill at our aerospace segment and the $0.1 million write down of intangible assets of a start-up company in our corporate and other segment.

        Income Taxes: Income taxes are accounted for under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates would be recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date.

        Other Obligations: We have $27.5 million classified as other long-term liabilities at September 30, 2005, including $13.8 million due to purchase the remaining 7.5% interest in PoloExpress in April 2008. The remaining $13.7 million of other long-term liabilities include environmental and other liabilities, which do not have specific payment terms or other similar contractual arrangements.

        Foreign Currency Translation: The financial position and operating results of our foreign operations are consolidated using the local currencies of the countries in which they are located as the functional currency. 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 statement of operations in the period in which they occur.

        Advertising Expense: We expense the production costs of advertising the first time the advertising takes place, except for direct response advertising. Direct response advertising consists primarily of catalog book production, printing, and postage costs, which is capitalized and amortized over its expected period of future benefits, not to exceed the remainder of the fiscal year when it is incurred. Advertising expense was $16,621 for 2005, $15,981 for 2004, $54 for the three month transition period ended September 30, 2003, and $182 for 2003.

        Research and Development: Company-sponsored research and development expenditures are expensed as incurred and were insignificant in 2005, 2004, the three month transition period ended September 30, 2003, and 2003.

        Stock-Based Compensation: As permitted by Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation”, we 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 2005, 2004, the three month transition period ended September 30, 2003, or 2003. If stock options granted in 2005, 2004, the three month transition period ended September 30, 2003, and 2003 were accounted for based on their fair value as determined under SFAS 123, pro forma results would be as follows:

           
           
           
Years Ended
 3 Month
Transition
  Period
  Ended
       
       
  Year
  Ended
 



9/30/05 9/30/04 9/30/03 6/30/03
 



Net earnings (loss), as reported     $ (21,284 ) $ 3,361   $ (2,835 ) $ (53,192 )
Total stock-based employee compensation expense    
 determined under the fair value based method for all    
 awards, net of tax       (150 )   (334 )   (75 )   (547 )
 



 Pro forma     $ (21,434 ) $ 3,027   $ (2,910 ) $ (53,739 )
 



Basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share:    
 As reported     $ (0.84 ) $ 0.13   $ (0.11 ) $ (2.11 )
 Pro forma       (0.85 )   0.12     (0.12 )   (2.14 )

        The weighted average grant date fair value of options granted during 2005, 2004, and 2003 was $1.42, $3.12, and $3.07, respectively. Options were not granted in the three month transition period ended September 30, 2003. The fair value of each option granted is estimated on the grant date using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The following significant assumptions were made in estimating fair value:

2005 2004 2003
 
Risk-free interest rate 3.6%-4.2% 3.4% 3.0%-3.3%
Expected life in years 4.94 4.92 4.95
Expected volatility 61%-63% 72% 72
Expected dividends None None  None

        For additional information on stock options see Note 11.

        Fair Value of Financial Instruments: The carrying amount reported in the consolidated balance sheets approximates the fair value for our cash and cash equivalents, investments, specified hedging agreements, short-term borrowings, current maturities of long-term debt, and all other variable rate debt (including borrowings under our credit agreements). The carrying amount of our other fixed rate long-term debt approximates fair value as determined by the market value of recent trades or estimated using discounted cash flow analyses, based on our current incremental borrowing rates for similar types of borrowing arrangements (See Note 6). Fair values of our other off-balance-sheet instruments (letters of credit, commitments to extend credit, and lease guarantees) are based on fees currently charged to enter into similar agreements, taking into account the remaining terms of the agreements and the other parties’ credit standing.

        Discontinued Operations: In October 2001, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 144, “Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-lived Assets”, which supersedes SFAS No. 121. Though it retains the basic requirements of SFAS 121 regarding when and how to measure an impairment loss, SFAS 144 provides additional implementation guidance. SFAS 144 applies to long-lived assets to be held and used or to be disposed of, including assets under capital leases of lessees; assets subject to operating leases of lessors; and prepaid assets. SFAS 144 also expands the scope of a discontinued operation to include a component of an entity, and eliminates the current exemption to consolidation when control over a subsidiary is likely to be temporary. This statement is effective for our fiscal year beginning on July 1, 2002. Accordingly, we have accounted for the sale of the fastener business, Fairchild Aerostructures and APS as discontinued operations. (See Note 21).

        Use of Estimates: The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

        Reclassifications: Certain amounts in our prior years’ consolidated financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the 2005 presentation.

        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 us at the beginning of our next fiscal year. 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.

        In March 2005, The Financial Accounting Standards Board published FASB Interpretation No. 47, “Accounting for Conditional Asset Retirement Obligation”, to clarify that an entity must recognize a liability for the fair value of a conditional asset retirement obligation when incurred if the liability’s fair value can be reasonably estimated. FIN 47 also defines when an entity would have sufficient information to reasonably estimate the fair value of an asset retirement obligation. FIN 47 is intended to provide a more consistent recognition of liabilities relating to asset retirement obligations, additional information about expected future cash outflows associated with those obligations, and additional information about investments in long-lived assets, because it recognizes additional asset retirement costs as part of the assets’ carrying amounts. FIN 47 is effective no later than the end of our fiscal year ending September 30, 2006. We are currently assessing the possible impact, if any, of implementing this standard.

        In June 2005, The Financial Accounting Standards Board has published Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 154, “Accounting Changes and Error Corrections”, which requires retrospective application to prior periods’ financial statements of every voluntary change in accounting principle unless it is impracticable. The Statement replaces APB Opinion No. 20, “Accounting Changes”, and FASB Statement No. 3, “Reporting Accounting Changes in Interim Financial Statements”, although it carries forward some of their provisions. The FASB believes that the Statement’s requirements will enhance the consistency of financial information between periods and is the result of the FASB’s efforts to improve the comparability of cross-border financial reporting by working with the International Accounting Standards Board toward development of a single set of high-quality accounting standards. Statement 154 is effective for accounting changes and corrections of errors made in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2005. We do not anticipate any impact from adopting this new standard.

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 ($14.8 million at September 30, 2005). Mr. Esser has the right to put such interest to us at any time during April of 2008 for €12.0 million ($14.5 million at September 30, 2005). 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 two years. We also signed an employment agreement with Mr. Esser through December 31, 2008. Through September 30, 2005, in addition to his base salary, Mr. Esser received a profit distribution of approximately €0.6 million, which reduces, on a Euro for Euro basis, the call or put option price we must pay for his interest. As of September 30, 2005, the €11.4 million ($13.8 million) collateralized obligation for the put option, net of distributions, was included in other long-term liabilities. The €11.4 million ($13.8 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 September 30, 2005. 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 included in our segment known as sports & leisure. Our sports & leisure segment is a highly seasonal business, with an 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 during 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. At September 30, 2005, Hein Gericke operated 145 retail shops in Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom and PoloExpress operated 87 retail shops in Germany and one shop in Switzerland. IFW, located in Tustin, California, is a designer and distributor of motorcycle accessories, protective and other apparel, and helmets, under several labels, including 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.   GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS

        Intangible assets with finite lives are amortized over their estimated useful lives. Instead of amortizing goodwill and intangible assets deemed to have an indefinite life, goodwill is tested for impairment annually, or immediately if conditions indicate that such impairment could exist. We have selected the first day of our fourth quarter (July 1) as our annual impairment test date. The determination of impairment is a two-step process. The first step compares the carrying value of a reporting unit to the fair value of a reporting unit with goodwill. If the fair value of the reporting unit is less than the carrying value, a second step is performed to determine the amount of goodwill impairment. The second step allocates the fair value of the reporting unit to the reporting unit’s net assets other than goodwill. The excess of the fair value of the reporting unit over the amounts assigned to its net assets other than goodwill is considered the implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill. The implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill is then compared to the carrying value of its goodwill and any shortfall represents the amount of goodwill impairment. The fair market value of a reporting unit is determined by considering the market prices of comparable businesses and the present value of cash flow projections. In fiscal 2003, we recognized an impairment charge of $6.6 million to goodwill at one business unit within our aerospace segment.

        The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill and intangible assets are as follows:

Sports and
  Leisure
  Segment
         
Aerospace
 Segment
            
Discontinued
  Operations
      
      
 Total
 



Total goodwill as of July 1, 2002     $   $ 17,438   $ 257,111   $ 274,549  
Goodwill impairment           (6,617 )       (6,617 )
Sale of discontinued operations               (257,111 )   (257,111 )
 



Goodwill on June 30, 2003 and September 30, 2003           10,821         10,821  
Intangible assets from acquisitions       34,014             34,014  
Amortization expense on intangible assets       (537 )           (537 )
 



Goodwill and intangible assets at September 30, 2004       33,477     10,821   $     44,298  
Amortization expense on intangible assets       (560 )           (560 )
Foreign currency translation adjustment       (1,073 )           (1,073 )
 



Goodwill and intangible assets at September 30, 2005     $ 31,844   $ 10,821   $   $ 42,665  
 



4.     CASH EQUIVALENTS AND INVESTMENTS

        Cash equivalents and investments at September 30, 2005 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 short-term investments and long-term 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:

September 30, 2005 September 30, 2004
 
 
Aggregate Aggregate
 
 
Fair
Value
 Cost
Basis
Fair
Value
 Cost
Basis
 
 
 Cash and cash equivalents:                    
      U.S. government securities     $ 16   $ 16   $ 3,905   $ 3,905  
      Money market and other cash funds       12,566     12,566     8,944     8,944  
 
 
 Total cash and cash equivalents       12,582     12,582   $ 12,849   $ 12,849  
 
 
 Short-term investments:    
      Money market funds - restricted     $ 4,965   $ 4,965   $ 4,227   $ 4,227  
      U.S. government securities - restricted               1,947     1,947  
      Trading securities - corporate bonds               6,978     6,978  
      Trading securities - equity securities       10,733     10,733     3,443     3,607  
 
 
 Total short-term investments     $ 15,698   $ 15,698   $ 16,595   $ 16,759  
 
 
 Long-term investments:    
      U.S. government securities - restricted     $ 9,547   $ 9,547   $ 23,866   $ 23,868  
      Money market funds - restricted       10,672     10,672     4,462     4,462  
      Corporate bonds - restricted       23,741     24,319     24,331     24,680  
      Equity securities - restricted       15,694     15,065     16,200     15,065  
      Available-for-sale equity securities       5,309     3,612     5,160     4,168  
      Other investments, at cost       4,924     4,924     5,940     5,940  
 
 
 Total long-term investments     $ 69,887   $ 68,139   $ 79,959   $ 78,183  
 
 
 
 
 
Total cash equivalents and investments     $ 98,167   $ 96,419   $ 109,403   $ 107,791  
 
 

        On September 30, 2005 and September 30, 2004, we had restricted investments of $64,619 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. On September 30, 2005, cash of $9,070 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. For additional information on Debt see Note 6.

        On September 30, 2005, we had gross unrealized holding gains from available-for-sale securities of $2,445 and gross unrealized losses from available-for-sale securities of $697. On September 30, 2004, we had gross unrealized holding gains from available-for-sale securities of $2,128 and gross unrealized losses from available-for-sale securities of $352. We use the specific identification method to determine the gross realized gains (losses) from sales of available-for-sale securities. Investment income (loss) is summarized as follows:

            
            
            
Years Ended
 3 Month
Transition
  Period
  Ended
     
     
Year
Ended
 



9/30/05 9/30/04 9/30/03 6/30/03
 



Gross realized gain from sales of available-for-sale securities     $ 248   $ 277   $   $ 633  
Change in unrealized holding gain (loss) from trading securities       746     (479 )   19     516  
Gross realized loss from impairments       (825 )           (2,395 )
Dividend income       5,840     3,935     5     269  
 



      $ 6,009   $ 3,733   $ 24   $ (977 )
 



5.     INVESTMENTS AND ADVANCES, AFFILIATED COMPANIES

        Our carrying value of investments and advances, affiliated companies is summarized as follows:

Sept. 30,
   2005
Sept. 30,
   2004
 

Voyager Kibris     $ 3,780   $ 4,348  
Others       6     93  
 

      $ 3,786   $ 4,441  
 

        In June 2003, we acquired a 30% interest in Voyager Kibris, Ltd, which owns and operates a hotel and casino located in Northern Cyprus. Our share of equity in earnings (loss), net of tax, of unconsolidated affiliates was $(156) for 2005; $(439) for 2004; $199 for the three month transition period ended September 30, 2003; and $(1,066) for 2003. On September 30, 2005, approximately $303 of undistributed losses of 50 percent or less currently owned affiliates accounted for using the equity method were included in our $20,206 consolidated retained earnings.

6.     NOTES PAYABLE AND LONG-TERM DEBT

        At September 30, 2005 and September 30, 2004, notes payable and long-term debt consisted of the following:

Sept 30,
  2005
Sept 30,
  2004
 

Revolving credit facilities - Fairchild Sports     $ 8,917   $ 9,785  
Current maturities of long-term debt       12,654     13,079  
 

Total notes payable and current maturities of long-term debt       21,571     22,864  
 

Term loan agreement - Shopping center       53,981     54,600  
Term loan agreement - Fairchild Sports       25,301     34,403  
Promissory note - Real Estate       13,000     13,000  
CIT revolving credit facility - Aerospace       8,164     12,252  
GMAC credit facility - Fairchild Sports       3,650     3,941  
Capital lease obligations       4,597     3,378  
Other notes payable, collateralized by assets       5,264     6,859  
Less: current maturities of long-term debt       (12,654 )   (13,079 )
 

Net long-term debt       101,303     115,354  
 

Total debt     $ 122,874   $ 138,218  
 

Credit Facilities at Fairchild Sports

        At September 30, 2005, our German subsidiary, Hein Gericke Deutschland GmbH and its German partnership, PoloExpress, had outstanding borrowings of $31.2 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 ($5.9 million outstanding, and $6.1 million available at September 30, 2005), at interest rates of 3.5% over the three-month Euribor (5.6% at September 30, 2005), and matures annually. Outstanding borrowings under the term loan facility have blended interest rates, with $20.2 million (€16.8 million) bearing interest at 1% over the three-month Euribor rate (3.1% at September 30, 2005), with an interest rate cap protection in which our interest expense would not exceed 6% on 50% of debt, and the remaining $5.1 million (€4.2 million) bearing interest at a fixed rate of 6%. The term loans 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 Deutschland and PoloExpress to maintain compliance with certain covenants. The most restrictive of the covenants requires Hein Gericke Deutschland to maintain equity of €44.5 million ($53.6 million at September 30, 2005), as defined in the loan contracts. No dividends may be paid by Hein Gericke Deutschland unless such covenants are met and dividends may be paid only up to its consolidated after tax profits. As of September 30, 2005, Hein Gericke borrowed approximately $8.4 million (€7.0 million) from our subsidiary, Fairchild Holding Corp., which is not subject to restriction against repayment. The loan agreements have certain restrictions on other forms of cash flow from Hein Gericke Deutschland. In addition, the loan covenants require Hein Gericke Deutschland and PoloExpress to maintain inventory and receivables in excess of €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 by €7.4 million the covenant requirement. 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. Our lenders granted a waiver on this matter. Also, an amendment dated April 27, 2005 was signed by all parties to the loan agreement modifying the covenant through December 2005. In December 2005, a further amendment of this covenant, extending the terms through the life of the loan agreement, was executed by all parties. At September 30, 2005, we were in compliance with the loan covenants.

        At September 30, 2005, our subsidiary, Hein Gericke UK Ltd had outstanding borrowings of $3.6 million (£2.1 million) on its £5.0 million ($8.8 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 $4.2 million at September 30, 2005.

        On January 21, 2005, our subsidiary, PoloExpress, finalized a €7.0 million ($8.4 million) seasonal loan agreement with Bayerische Hypo- und Vereinsbank AG at interest based upon the three-month average Euribor rate plus a 3.6% margin. The loan, for the purpose of financing purchases of inventory for the 2005 season, was repaid during the quarter ended June 30, 2005. (See Note 22).

        Under an $8.0 million line of credit agreement with City National Bank that expires on June 30, 2006, our subsidiary, IFW may borrow up to $3.0 million for working capital needs and the remainder for letters of credit. Letters of credit which mature may be converted to a banker’s acceptance with a maturity date of up to 90 days. Interest is payable monthly at the bank’s prime interest rate. The interest rate at September 30, 2005 was 6.75%. At September 30, 2005, $2.5 million and $0.5 million were outstanding under this facility in the form of banker’s acceptance notes and for working capital requirements, respectively. The line of credit is collateralized by substantially all assets of IFW, is guaranteed by us, and contains financial covenants. The most restrictive covenants include maintaining a tangible net worth plus subordinated debt of not less than $5.5 million and a ratio of total senior liabilities to tangible net worth plus subordinated debt of not more than 2-to-1. The Company was in compliance with these covenants as of September 30, 2005.

Term Loan Agreement - Shopping Center

        At September 30, 2005, our subsidiary, Republic Thunderbolt, LLC, has outstanding borrowings of $54.0 million on a non-recourse 10-year term loan financing of our Airport Plaza shopping center in Farmingdale, New York. The interest rate is fixed at 6.2% for the term of the loan and the loan matures in January 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 monthly 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, the loan may be assumed by other parties, or after June 2006, defeased. The loan is secured by the assets of our shopping center. On September 30, 2005, approximately $6.6 million of the loan proceeds were being invested in a long-term escrow account as collateral to fund certain contingent environmental matters. (See Note 22).

Credit Facility at Aerospace Segment

        At September 30, 2005, we have outstanding borrowings of $8.2 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 and $1.3 million was available for future borrowings at September 30, 2005. Borrowings under the facility are collateralized by a security interest in the assets of our aerospace segment. The loan bears interest at 1.0% over prime (7.75% at September 30, 2005) and we pay a non-usage fee of 0.5%. The credit facility matures in January 2007.

Promissory Note - Real Estate

        At September 30, 2005, 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% (10.26% at September 30, 2005), 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 prepayment penalty of 5% if prepaid after September 2005, and before September 2006; and 3% if prepaid between September 2006 and October 30, 2007. On September 30, 2005, approximately $1.2 million of the loan proceeds were held in escrow to fund specific improvements to the mortgaged property.

Guarantees

        At September 30, 2005, we included $1.3 million as debt for guarantees assumed by us of retail shop partners indebtedness incurred for the purchase of store fittings in Germany. These guarantees were issued by our subsidiary in the sports & leisure segment. In addition, at September 30, 2005, approximately $4.7 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.

Letters of Credit

        We have entered into standby letter of credit arrangements with insurance companies and others, issued primarily to guarantee payment of our workers’ compensation liabilities. At September 30, 2005, we had contingent liabilities of $1,961, on commitments related to outstanding letters of credit which were secured by restricted cash collateral. At September 30, 2004, we had contingent liabilities of $2,275, on commitments related to outstanding letters of credit which were secured by restricted cash collateral.

Debt Maturity Information

        The annual maturity of our bank notes payable and long-term debt obligations (exclusive of capital lease obligations) for each of the five years following September 30, 2005, are as follows: $19,238 for 2006; $21,258 for 2007; $8,631 for 2008; $17,124 for 2009; and $1,836 for 2010.

7.     DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES

        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.

        In fiscal 2005, we have recognized $5.9 million of non-cash income as a result of the reduction in the fair market value for our interest rate swap liability from $11.1 million, at September 30, 2004, to $5.1 million at September 30, 2005.

        The fair market value adjustment of these agreements will 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 hedge 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 which 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.

Expected maturity date February 19, 2008 March 31, 2009
Type of interest rate contract Variable to Fixed Interest Rate Cap
Variable to fixed contract amount $ 100,000  $15,414 
Fixed LIBOR rate 6.745% N/A 
EURIBOR cap rate N/A  6.0%
Average floor rate N/A  N/A 
Weighted average forward LIBOR rate 4.46% 3.03%
Market value of contract at September 30, 2005 $ (5,146) $ 1 
Market value of contract if interest rates increase by 1/8 % $ (4,846) $ 1 
Market value of contract if interest rates decrease by 1/8% $ (5,446) $ 1 

8.     PENSIONS AND POSTRETIREMENT BENEFITS

Defined Benefit Plans

        The Company and its subsidiaries sponsor three qualified defined benefit pension plans, two supplemental executive retirement plans, and several other postretirement benefit plans. We use a September 30 measurement date for all of our plans. The following table sets forth the benefit obligation; fair value of plan assets; and the funded status of our plans:

Pension Benefits Postretirement Benefits
 
 
9/30/05 9/30/04 9/30/05 9/30/04
 
 
Change in benefit obligation:                    
  Benefit obligation at beginning of year     $ 201,522   $ 207,807   $ 51,302   $ 52,535  
      Service cost       534     2,074     42     83  
      Interest cost       11,529     11,685     2,901     2,961  
      Plan participants' contributions               1,001     919  
      Amendments       (4,307 )       (15,575 )    
      Actuarial (gain) loss       7,026     (1,423 )   805     254  
      Settlements       (965 )            
      Benefits paid       (16,898 )   (18,621 )   (5,617 )   (5,450 )


 

   Benefit obligation at end of year     $ 198,441   $ 201,522   $ 34,859   $ 51,302  


 

Change in plan assets:    
      Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year     $ 169,189   $ 176,137   $   $  
      Actual return on plan assets       10,468     9,655          
      Employer contribution       820     2,914     4,616     4,531  
      Plan participants' contributions               1,001     919  
      Expenses       (302 )   (896 )        
      Benefits paid       (16,893 )   (18,621 )   (5,617 )   (5,450 )


 

      Fair value of plan assets at end of year     $ 163,282   $ 169,189   $   $  


 

Funded status     $ (35,159 ) $ (32,333 ) $ (34,859 ) $ (51,302 )
Unrecognized net actuarial loss       85,373     81,320     21,703     22,204  
Unrecognized prior service cost       1,699     2,341     (18,129 )   (2,771 )


 

Net amount recognized     $ 51,913   $ 51,328   $ (31,285 ) $ (31,869 )


 

        Information for amount recognized in our balance sheets and for pension plans with an accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets at September 30, 2005 and September 30, 2004 are as follows:

Pension Benefits Postretirement Benefits




9/30/05 9/30/04 9/30/05 9/30/04




Amounts recognized in our balance sheets:                    
          Prepaid benefit cost     $ 31,239   $ 29,398   $   $  
          Accrued benefit cost       (51,099 )   (43,028 )   (31,285 )   (31,869 )
          Intangible Assets