But Piston Deliveries Continue To Slip

On Thursday, the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) announced second quarter shipment and billings figures. Industry billings continue at a record-setting pace totaling $12.1 billion, a 24.1 percent increase in the first half of 2008.

"Shipments in the business jet and turboprop segments continue to rise steadily," said GAMA President and CEO, Pete Bunce. "Expanding worldwide markets are having a very positive affect on the turbine segments of our industry."

Turboprop shipments increased from 186 units in the first half last year to 222 units in 2008. Business jet shipments totaled 663 units in the first half of 2008, a 39.3 percent increase over the 476 units delivered in the second quarter of 2007.

Another, less-welcome trend is also evident: the continued fall of piston aircraft sales. Piston-powered airplane shipments totaled 1034 units compared to 1226 units delivered in the first half of 2007, a 15.7 percent decrease.

Despite that decline, Bunce remains optimistic.

"Although total shipments in the piston segment are down for the first half of 2008, we believe recent success of the world’s premier general aviation show in Oshkosh, Wisconsin is a good indicator of sustained enthusiasm for the light end of the market," said Bunce. "The Experimental Aircraft Association reported that attendance at last week’s AirVenture held steady.

"Despite uncertainty with fuel prices and strength of the North American economy, the energy surrounding the entire spectrum of general aviation remains robust," Bunce continued. "Our piston manufacturers continue to generate excitement through new product introductions that incorporate innovative technologies and are paying increased attention to growth opportunities in the international market."

FMI: www.gama.aero