WASHINGTON, D.C. — The latest figures from the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) show that airplane shipments fell 9.1% to 1,015 for the first half of the year, while billings dropped 4.6% to $10.4 billion, compared to the same period a year ago.
Rotorcraft shipments also decreased, from 502 to 447, and billings were down an estimated 16.8% to $1.9 billion for the first six months.
The number of piston airplanes delivered fell 11.8%, from 526 to 464. Turboprop shipments also declined 9.9% to 246 airplanes.
Business jet manufacturers shipped 305 airplanes compared to 318 airplanes last year, a drop of 4.1%. Piston rotorcraft declined to 130 shipments, while turbine rotorcraft dropped from 358 in 2014 to 317 in 2015, an 11.5% decline.
“While the second quarter generally improved over the first, our industry is still being buffeted by volatile global markets and contraction within the energy sector,” GAMA President and CEO Pete Bunce said. “Robust new product development continues in each of our member companies, accentuating the need for streamlined certification processes and efficient validation mechanisms between regulatory authorities. Finally, fair global competitiveness for all GAMA members rests on the need for a global level playing field. Therefore, Export-Import Bank reauthorization remains a key priority for manufacturers.”
Two incentives that may boost piston aircraft sales. Pass the Pilots Bill of Rights 2 (the elimination of the third class medical for most recreational flying, and provide a cost effective ADS out solution for those older, relative inexpensive airplanes, that a whole lot of aircraft owners have in their hangars.
Pass the Pilots Bill of Rights 2 and many of us will buy an airplane. I know I will.
I’ll also pick up my IFR rating…both are big investments, and not a smart one to make right now given the cost and uncertainty of the current third class medical (which I currently hold, btw).
Want to stimulate the piston engine market and flight schools and everything that goes with it? Pass medical reform now.