(PTI): The parent company of the plane maker Airbus says it has lost 87mn euros ($130mn) in the third quarter of 2009, due to a weak US dollar.

The European Aeronautic Defense and Space Company (EADS) was also hit by cost increases, the economic downturn, and a crisis in the airline industry that forced its Airbus unit to lower the prices of its jets.

The major aircraft and defense company also warned that it is also being affected by charges relating to its delayed A400M and A380 programs during the fourth quarter.

The third quarter loss compares to a 679-million-euro profit a year earlier.

“The long-term dollar level is an important driver for EADS’ earnings power over the coming years,” the company said.

Earlier this month, South Africa cancelled a major contract for eight A400M military aircraft, citing rising costs and delivery delays.