Orders for the metal, used in everything from cars and airplanes to windows and soda cans, began sliding last fall as the world economy weakened. Stockpiles grew, prices plunged and aluminum makers started scaling back production worldwide. Analysts say plants are losing money, but that prices may recover modestly this summer. Alcoa Chief Executive Klaus Kleinfeld said he believed the current government economic stimulus packages would spark a surge in aluminum demand. "While our financial performance in the quarter was adversely affected by the economy-driven drop in demand, we launched operational and financial measures that will significantly improve our profitability and cash flow in 2009 and beyond," the CEO said in a press statement. For Investors : "We also see both near-term and long-term catalysts that should improve the prospects for the aluminum industry," he said. "Current stimulus programs that target infrastructure and energy efficiency will create a demand for ... aluminum.