R&B Falcon Reports 3Q Results

R&B Falcon Corporation reported a loss from continuing operations of $22.4 million for the three months ended September 30, 1999, compared with a loss from continuing operations of $28.2 million for the three months ended September 30, 1998. The loss for the quarter is directly attributable to reduced demand for drilling services, particularly in the shallow and inland water segments. Average fleet utilization for the third quarter of 1999 was 39 percent compared to 64 percent for the same quarter in the preceding year. For the nine months ended September 30, 1999 average fleet utilization was 40 percent compared to 77 percent for the same period in 1998. Revenues were $29.3 million lower in the third quarter of 1999 compared to the same quarter in the preceding year despite contributions of $62 million from Cliffs Drilling Company which was acquired in December, 1998. Revenue decreases were primarily related to the shallow water and inland water segments and resulted from lower dayrates and rig utilization. Operating expenses were $56.4 million lower in the current quarter than in the same quarter of the prior year. Excluding $57.4 million of third quarter operating expenses attributable to Cliffs Drilling Company, operating expenses were $113.8 million lower in the third quarter of 1999 compared to the same quarter of the prior year and reflects cost reductions, lower rig utilization and the cold stacking of some units, primarily in the shallow water and inland water segments.