UK’s Aerospace Industry Confident of a Successful 2017
- Commercial aircraft backlog now stands at 13,564, worth up to £225bn to UK industry
- ADS forecasts a rise in production rates for 2017 that will see around 1,528 aircraft deliveries
- Highest ever January for engine orders; engine order book tops 23,000 for first time.
The UK’s aerospace industry has seen a solid start to 2017, with 69 new aircraft coming off the production line in January representing up to £1.4bn for the economy. Although these figures contrast with an exceptional December 2016, when 181 new aircraft were produced, they represent a realistic January delivery rate and resilience to the challenge of a record-breaking finish to the previous year.
A major order for single aisle engines placed this January has pushed the engine backlog up to record breaking levels. With 624 added to the order book, manufacturers now have 23,392 to deliver.
Paul Everitt, Chief Executive of ADS Group, commented: “January’s figures show a confident start to the year for the aerospace industry. 2017 is set to be a defining year for UK industry as it asserts its strengths in tough international markets against the challenge of Brexit.
“Through the launch of its industrial strategy Green Paper, the government has reaffirmed long-term commitment to work with the aerospace industry – through the Aerospace Growth Partnership – in support of R&D and supply chain competitiveness. This approach is encouraging world-leading companies to invest in new facilities, technology and skills, and positioning the UK to win work on future aircraft programmes.”
Commercial Aircraft Order Data - January 2017