CHICAGO — Aircraft manufacturer Boeing says it ended 2009 with 481 commercial airplane deliveries, about 28 percent higher than the year before when a massive strike impeded production.

The Chicago company said it took 142 net commercial orders for the year as the recession led many carriers to pull back on near- and medium-term orders.

Boeing Co. has unfilled orders for 851 of its much-delayed 787. The 787 program has been plagued by ill-fitting parts and other problems.

The company has unfilled orders for 3,375 airplanes, including 2,076 737s.

Boeing expects to provide 2010 commercial airplane delivery guidance on Jan. 27. (AP)