Boeing's operations in Alabama contribute $1.2 billion annually and create more than 9,000 jobs in the state, according to a recent study.

The study, conducted by the University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, on behalf of Boeing, was based on data for 2003. Among the major economic impacts in 2003:

• More than 9,000 direct and indirect jobs created in the state.

• $625 million spent by all Boeing operations at more than 400 Alabama businesses.

• About $1.5 million contributed to charitable organizations.

• An improvement in the standard of living in the region through high-paying, nonpolluting technical jobs. Compensation for the average Boeing job in 2003 was twice that for the average Alabama job.

The 3,300 Boeing people in Alabama work on programs including Ground-based Midcourse Defense, the International Space Station and Delta Launch Vehicles.