The latest figures from ADS, the UK trade organisation for the aerospace, defence, security and space sectors, reveal 370 aircraft order cancellations were recorded in the first four months of the year. Deliveries of planes also hit a record low in April.
The impact on the industry is expected to be felt for several years before production can be fully restored to pre-crisis levels.
The record low of 20 aircraft deliveries in April was made up of 13 single-aisle aircraft and seven widebody.
The overall aircraft order backlog fell below 14,000 due to cancellations. However, if demand and production rates are ultimately restored to pre-crisis levels, aircraft orders still represent up to £215 billion in value to the UK.
To ensure a strong restart and recovery for the aerospace industry, the organisation has set out five priorities for action:
“This can be done through the UK leading the re-opening of international aviation, putting in place additional public support for development of new low carbon technologies, bringing forward defence and space programmes and establishing long-term funding mechanisms to help our supply chain survive and prosper as growth returns to the sector.
“Following the announcement of a 14-day quarantine period, we are asking the Government to move to a more targeted approach, such as ‘air bridges’, which would see the controlled reestablishment of air routes and overseas travel, where it is safe to do so, and as soon as possible to any low risk country. The alternative risks major damage to the arteries of UK trade with key industry supply chains, whilst pushing the UK to the back of the queue as states begin conversations for opening up their borders.”
ADS Group www.adsgroup.org.uk