Cirrus Tanks Heavily Over Previous Q, Skycatcher Deliveries Plummet -- But Piper, Diamond, Socata Fare Better

OK.... there's a little good news, some not so good news and (for a change) not a whole lot of really bad news... but no matter which way you look at it, 2012 is not shaping up (yet) to be the recovery year that GA was hoping for.

The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) has just released the industry's shipment and billings figures for the first quarter. In the first three months of 2012, total worldwide general aviation (GA) airplane shipments fell 2.1 percent, from 377 units in 2011 to 369 units this year. Billings for general aviation airplanes totaled $3.39 billion in the first three months, down 8.0 percent. 

Piston-powered airplane shipments totaled 184 units in the first three months of 2012 compared to 188 units delivered during the same time period in 2011, a 2.1 percent decrease. Turboprop shipments were up 3.3 percent from 61 units in 2011 to 63 units in 2012. Business jet shipments totaled 122 units, a 4.7 percent decrease over the 128 units delivered during this same period in 2011.

"The first quarter shipment data shows mixed performance across the segments," said GAMA's President and CEO, Pete Bunce.  

"One continuing concern is the lack of available financing around the world. An important step forward would be for the U.S. Congress to quickly reauthorize the Export-Import Bank. The lending authority of the bank spurs sales which are essential to revitalizing the manufacturing sector. The House passed their version of the legislation yesterday and we urge the Senate to quickly follow-suit." 

Notes: The 2012 shipment report includes two additional manufacturers, Thrush Aircraft and Air Tractor.   Additionally, Gulfstream Aerospace deliveries are now identified at time of "outfitted" as opposed to "green."  The 2011 shipment report has been updated for Gulfstream Aerospace and now includes Thrush Aircraft deliveries.

GAMA is the international trade association representing over 75 of the world's leading manufacturers of general aviation airplanes and rotorcraft, engines, avionics, components and related services. GAMA's members also operate repair stations, fixed based operations, pilot and maintenance training facilities and they manage fleets of aircraft.

FMI: www.GAMA.aero, www.gama.aero/media-center/press-releases/content/gama-issues-first-quarter-shipments-and-billings