While the data just released from the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) showed trends that weren’t unexpected, the degree of downturn for the industry points to a more significant slump than most people prepared for. The total number of aircraft shipped to date in 2020 declined 21.5 percent from the same period last year. Billings were also down just over 20 percent. The helicopter side of the industry received an even tougher blow, with deliveries down nearly 40 percent with billings declining 35.5 percent. On the airplane side of the business, turboprops took the biggest hit with deliveries down slightly more than 34 percent. Piston helicopters saw the greatest decline amongst the rotorcraft fleet, down 45.2 percent.
GAMA’s Q2 Delivery Report Shows Declines Across the Board
Key Takeaways:
- The general aviation industry experienced a significant slump in Q2 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with total aircraft shipments down 21.5% and helicopter deliveries falling nearly 40%.
- This downturn was primarily caused by supply chain degradation and operational restrictions, although the supply chain has begun to stabilize with effective COVID-19 mitigation protocols in place.
- Despite international travel restrictions, US domestic business aviation flight activity is recovering to about 85% of pre-pandemic levels, and piston, turboprop, and rotorcraft flight activity has actually increased, attracting new travelers to general aviation.
Key takeaways sponsored by Aviator Pro | Start Your Training ->
See a mistake? Contact us.
