General aviation shipments ticked up in the first quarter of 2025, with double-digit increases across all categories of fixed-wing aircraft and more modest increases for rotorcraft.
According to figures released by the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA), airplane shipments climbed 18 percent between the first quarter of 2024 and Q1 2025, while rotorcraft shipments grew by 1.6 percent over the same interval.
Among fixed-wing aircraft, turboprops led the way, with 133 delivered compared to 103 this time last year, representing a 23 percent increase. Piston aircraft saw a 19.3 percent rise while business jets climbed 11 percent. Overall, shipments grew from 531 to 627.
Airplane billings rose from $4 billion to $5 billion.
There was smaller growth in rotorcraft. Fifty-four piston rotorcraft were delivered in Q1 2025, compared to 53 in Q1 2024, and turbine rotorcraft deliveries moved up from 131 to 133. Overall rotorcraft shipments grew from 184 to 187.
Total billings for rotorcraft increased 12 percent, from $685 million to $769 million.
Supply chain and workforce issues have slowed momentum for the industry in the past, but in the last few quarters, GAMA reported that shipment figures have been robust and growing.
