17 February 2010
With piston sales down 54.5%, turboprops down 17.6% and business jets down 33.7%, GA took a triple hit in 2009, as figures revealed today by the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) made for grim reading.
The figures, which reflect worldwide shipments and billings in GA for 2009 compared to 2008, also included a 21.4% dip in billing figures, from $24.8 billion in 2008 to $19.5 billion in 2009.
Commenting on what he described as “one of the toughest years ever for General Aviation manufacturing”, GAMA’s Chairman, Rob Wilson, did, however, identify some signs of hope.
“The inventory of used aircraft has peaked and is now declining, flying hours are on the rise, and inquiries for new orders are beginning to grow again. 2009 also showed that the fastest-expanding markets were again outside North America, illustrating worldwide recognition of the importance of General Aviation to conducting business in a global economy. While these positive factors give us reason for optimism, we know that a full recovery will take time. Our manufacturers continue to plan and invest for future growth and we are confident that our industry will remain a powerful engine for economic recovery and quality job creation around the world.” <a href=”http://www.gama.aero”>Click here for more</a>
