WASHINGTON, D.C. — The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) has reported that worldwide deliveries of general aviation airplanes in the first nine months of 2011 dropped 9.8% as compared to the same period last year, to a total of 1,227. Industry billings fell 10.2%, from $13.5 billion to $12.1 billion.
“These shipments and billings numbers show some improvement over the sharper decline experienced in first half of 2011,” said Pete Bunce, GAMA’s president and CEO. “However, considering the fragility of the economies in the traditional markets of North America and Europe, this is not the time for new, undue government burdens to be imposed on general aviation. Misguided tax policies that single out our industry unquestionably endanger jobs. Policymakers should be focused on initiatives that encourage investment in our industry and grow jobs.”
Piston-powered airplane shipments totaled 577 compared to 633 delivered in the first nine months of the year, an 8.8% decrease. Turboprop shipments declined 5.9% to 223 in 2011, compared to 237 during this same period in 2010. Business jet shipments totaled 427, a 13% decrease as compared to 491 delivered in the first nine months of last year.
For more information: GAMA.aero
