Q1 Aircraft Billings Rise $4.47 Billion

Propeller airplane and turbine helicopter deliveries increased in the first quarter (Q1) of 2021 when compared to the same quarter last year.  Shipments of business jets and piston helicopters were flat in Q1 of this year, according to the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA). 

Piston airplane deliveries rose 7.3 percent and turboprops saw an increase of 18.3 percent in the first quarter of 2021.  Business jet shipments dropped by one to 113 business jets this year compared to 114 in Q1 2020.

Turbine helicopter shipments rose 8.2 percent as 92 were delivered in Q1 2021 versus the 85 delivered in the same period in 2020.  Piston helicopter deliveries were down by one unit as 36 shipped in Q1 2021 while 37 shipped in the same period in 2020.

Total airplane billings increased 18.1 percent to $3.93 billion, and total helicopter billings rose 26.2 percent to $544 million for Q1 2021.

GAMA CEO Pete Bunce said, “The first quarter of 2021 shows progress for the industry.  It is encouraging to see manufacturers begin to bounce back from the impacts of the pandemic.  Although, we are not yet in the clear.  The industry continues to face headwinds, especially with ongoing supply chain issues and pandemic-related restrictions and constraints to global travel.”