Shipments of general aviation aircraft worldwide were up in the first six months of 2022 in nearly all categories, according to the latest figures from the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA).
GAMA’s latest General Aviation Aircraft Shipment and Billing Report shows that aircraft shipments through the second quarter of 2022, when compared to the same period in 2021, saw piston airplanes increase 9.4% with 638 delivered, turboprops increase 11.8% with 247, and business jets increase 9.5% with 289.
The value of airplane deliveries through the second quarter of 2022 was $9.1 billion, an increase of 5.2%.
Helicopter shipments were steady when compared to the second quarter of 2021, according to the report. Piston helicopter deliveries increased 4.8% with 87 delivered, and turbine helicopter deliveries decreased 0.8% with 257.
“Demand for general aviation aircraft continues at a robust pace. Since the initial setbacks of the pandemic, we have seen some segments make strides with growing backlogs and high rates of operations while others are still diligently working to navigate the path to recovery,” said GAMA President & CEO Pete Bunce. “Despite ongoing supply chain and workforce issues, our industry continues to make progress and strategically posture for the future, which is a true testament to our strength and durability.”
638 piston aircraft *worldwide* for the half-year, 387 in the USA, including all of 8 piston twins. With an average age of 48 years, attrition of the light GA fleet is significantly higher than this and has been for a while. Hardly numbers to celebrate.