During the first quarter of 2022, general aviation manufacturers delivered more aircraft than the same time last year, but the overall value of the deliveries was lower, according to the latest General Aviation Aircraft Shipment and Billing Report from the General Aviation Manufacturers Association.
“It is reassuring to see aircraft deliveries continue to show strong progress as we emerge from impacts of the pandemic,” said GAMA President & CEO Pete Bunce. “It is especially encouraging to see piston airplane deliveries continue their positive trajectory and exceed last year’s numbers, as well as the first quarter numbers of 2020 and 2019.”
The report also gives one reason why billings were down 5.9% for airplanes and 17.3% for helicopters, even though both categories posted healthy increases in deliveries.
“This report shows increasing light airplane deliveries from a number of companies that have leveraged the new CS/Part 23 airworthiness standards for both new aircraft models and upgrades,” Bunce explained. “The upward trajectory in the light airplane segment is attributable to the regulatory reforms undertaken by several regulatory bodies that enable new technology and new aircraft and entrants. We are optimistic that further implementation of these standards across global regulators will continue to advance safety while bringing new and exciting aircraft to the GA market.”
Turboprop airplane deliveries saw the largest percentage year-over-year increase at 31% with 110 delivered during the first quarter (January through March 2022). When compared to the first quarter of 2021, piston airplane shipments increased 13.9% with 263 delivered, while business jet shipments increased 4.4% with 118 delivered.
Total billings for airplanes was $3.7 billion, a 5.9% decrease from the $4 billion billed in the same period in 2021.
Turbine helicopter deliveries increased 6.5% with 98 deliveries, while piston helicopters increased 8.3% with 39 deliveries.
Total billings for helicopters was $468 million, down 17.3% from the $544 million in sales in the same time last year.
You can see the full report here.