WASHINGTON, D.C. — In 2014, total worldwide general aviation airplane shipments rose 4.3%, while billings were up 4.5%.
That’s according to the latest figures released by the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) at the association’s annual “State of the Industry” press conference.
GAMA President and CEO Pete Bunce reported that in 2014, a total of 2,454 aircraft were delivered, up from 2,353 in 2013
Billings for GA airplanes worldwide increased to $24.5 billion, up 4.5 percent from $23.4 billion in 2013.
Shipments of piston-engine airplanes were positive, rising 9.6% in 2014, with 1,129 delivered.
Business jet shipments also rose, posting a 6.5% gain, with 722 delivered in 2014, up from the 678 business jets shipped in 2013.
Turboprop shipments declined, however, by 6.5% in 2014 to 603 deliveries.
Rotorcraft shipments slowed for both piston and turbine aircraft compared to the previous year. A total of 230 rotorcraft and 741 turbine rotorcraft were shipped in 2014, which is a 31.3% and a 22.4% reduction, respectively, from the strong deliveries posted in 2013.
“The mixed results among segments indicate that the general aviation manufacturing industry is still facing headwinds given the tepid U.S. economic recovery and the political and economic uncertainies in Europe,” Bunce said.
He noted that the year-end numbers “make crystal clear the need for GAMA’s priorities in 2015 — specifically, reform that facilitates the introduction of new safety-enhancing products to market, reduces the inconsistent application of regulations, and strengthens the global engagement and cooperation among aviation authorities. We will continue to press forward on these issues, especially as the FAA reauthorization moves forward this year in the U.S. Congress and major general aviation regulatory change takes shape in Europe.”
http://generalaviationnews.com/2015/02/11/ga-posts-growth-in-2014/