WASHINGTON, DC — Figures released today by the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) show that in the first half of 2013, total worldwide general aviation airplane shipments rose 8.9% over last year, from 931 shipments to 1,014 shipments. Billings worldwide reached $10.4 billion, up 26.4% from the same period last year, when they totaled $8.2 billion.
This marks the first time since 2008 that airplane revenues have exceeded $10 billion in the first six months of the year, GAMA officials noted.
Single and twin-engine turboprop shipments continued their positive trajectory, increasing 3.8% and 70.6% respectively this year. Piston engine airplanes also increased to 455 in the first six months, an increase of 16.1% compared to 2012. However, business jet shipments were down 4.1% over the same period last year, from 295 in 2012 to 283 in 2013.
“We are encouraged to see a strong increase in billings this quarter, but the mixed results in shipments — and the differences in performance among sectors — demonstrate that GA airplane manufacturers still face some strong headwinds as the global economy recovers,” GAMA President and CEO Pete Bunce said. “That’s why we continue to engage lawmakers and regulators across the globe to improve certification processes and to facilitate the introduction of new, safety-enhancing products to market at a reasonable cost. GAMA is especially pleased that the Small Airplane Revitalization Act passed the U.S. House unanimously last month and is moving swiftly through the U.S. Senate. We look forward to seeing this bill become law and continuing our work with officials around the world to enhance safety and hasten our industry’s recovery.”
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