Munich  - Aviation giant EADS posted a 77-per-cent-drop in third-quarter core profits, blaming a declining dollar as hitting profits for the Airbus aircraft manufacturer.

Earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) fell to 201 million euros (301 million dollars) from 860 million euros in the third quarter of 2008, the company said with the aircraft sector having also been badly battered by the economic crisis.

"The A380 programme is still a matter of concern," European Aeronautic, Defence & Space & Co Chief Executive Louis Gallois said releasing the grou's latest earnings, but he added: "Industrial and financial reviews are underway."

EADS also reported a net loss of 87 million euros for the quarter compared with net earnings of 679 million euros in the same period last year.

Shares in EADS remained almost unchanged at 13.26 euros following the release of the results. (dpa)