Aerospace industry starts 2019 with 20% jump in aircraft deliveries

While new aircraft orders placed in January saw little change year-on-year, backlog orders remain at the second highest level on record, beaten only by December 2018.

This year, manufacturers expect to set a ninth consecutive annual record for deliveries, at nearly 1,800 large commercial aircraft.

Single-aisle engine deliveries increased by 29% in January 2019, the best January to date at 134 single-aisle engines delivered. Total engine deliveries of 170 are a positive start to the year with backlog orders still at record levels.

The first monthly delivery figures for 2019 came after final 2018 UK Index of Production statistics for 2018, which showed a 4.5% decline in UK aircraft manufacturing. The decline recorded despite continuing strong global growth in the industry highlighted the challenge for UK manufacturers to remain competitive in international markets and overcome problems generated by ongoing Brexit uncertainty.

ADS chief executive Paul Everitt said: “The global aerospace industry has made a strong start to 2019 and ADS is forecasting another record for aircraft deliveries. This should be great news for the UK, but our prospects are being put at risk by the threat of a no deal Brexit.

“There was a worrying slowdown in the UK aerospace supply chain in 2018, as many businesses have put investment on hold until our future relationship with the European Union is resolved. Companies are spending increasing amounts of time and money seeking to mitigate the worse impacts of a no deal Brexit.

“It is essential Government and Parliament vote for the Withdrawal Agreement and Political Declaration. This will secure the time needed to negotiate the detail of our future relationship with the European Union, protect UK jobs and our future prosperity.”

ADS Group www.ads.org.uk