Cites Strong Export Markets As Contributor To Increased Shipments

These are heady times for sales of general aviation aircraft... and if you need further proof, one only needs to look to the numbers released Friday by the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA), that show shipments and billings of general aviation airplanes grew steadily through the third quarter of 2006.

Shipments of general aviation (GA) airplanes for the first nine months of this year totaled 2,842 units -- a robust increase of 18.9 percent over the same period last year, while industry-wide billings were $13.2 billion, up 28.6 percent. While US shipments led the way... according to GAMA, the global increase in general aviation has played a significant role in the growth, as well.

"General aviation plays an indispensable role in contributing to the vitality of the US economy and now we are seeing GA playing an ever increasing role in the global marketplace," said Pete Bunce, GAMA’s President and CEO.

Piston-engine aircraft shipments totaled 1,957 units compared to 1,653 units delivered in 2005, a 18.4 percent increase. Turboprop shipments increased from 228 units last year to 256 units this year. Business jet shipments were 629, a 23.3 percent increase over the 510 units delivered through the first nine months in 2005.

"Our manufacturers have seen growth in all airplane segments, part of which we attribute to strengthening sales in Europe, and into Russia, China, and India," said Bunce. "Business people and government officials are recognizing the dynamic role that general aviation plays in building a vibrant economy and, as our manufacturers continue to bring new innovations to market, we expect this trend to continue."

GAMA is an international trade association headquartered in Washington, DC representing over 50 of the world's leading manufacturers of general aviation aircraft, engines, avionics and related equipment. GAMA's members also operate fleets of aircraft, fixed based operations, and pilot training and maintenance training facilities.

FMI: www.gama.aero