According to the General Aviation Manufacturers Association’s (GAMA) recently published Q1/23 General Aviation Aircraft Shipments and Billings Report, the aircraft manufacturing industry’s results for the first three months of 2023, when compared to 2022, point to increasing aircraft unit deliveries across most aircraft segments, while the overall value of aircraft shipments was slightly lower for airplanes and higher for helicopters.

“The continued health of general aviation manufacturing industry is encouraging, particularly in light of persistent supply chain, workforce and North American regulatory process challenges,” Pete Bunce, president and CEO of the GAMA, said. “Our manufacturers are focused on meeting this thriving product demand with new aircraft which incorporate advanced technologies that further enhance safety and fuel performance. During this transformative time in aerospace, our manufacturers continually demonstrate that our sector is the technology incubator for safety and sustainability. This message is being emphasized this week at EBACE in Geneva and will also be a focus at the Paris Airshow as we counter the short-sighted, irrational attacks directed upon business aviation in Europe. In stark contrast, emphasis on our demonstrated record of environmental sustainability leadership was very well received on Capitol Hill in early May when GAMA member company leaders participated in more than 125 meetings with U.S. legislators. Other issues discussed with senators and representatives across the political spectrum included the immediate need for a confirmed FAA administrator, improved training for the young FAA workforce, strengthened bilateral engagement and timely passage of an FAA reauthorization bill to provide clear, multi-year direction for the agency.” ­

When compared with Q1/22, piston airplane deliveries in Q1/23 increased 10.1% to 294 units, while turboprop deliveries increased 6.4% to 117 units and business jet deliveries were flat at 117 units. The value of airplane deliveries through Q1/23 was $3.7 billion.

According to the GAMA, helicopter shipments in Q1/23 were robust when compared to Q1/22, as piston helicopter deliveries increased 40% to 56 units and turbine helicopter deliveries increased 53% to 153 units.

First Quarter Aircraft Shipments and Billings