The global business and general aircraft delivery tally saw a modest rise for first nine months of 2012, according to the latest statistics from the General Aviation Manufacturers Association as economic uncertainty continues to impede consumer confidence.
Between January and September shipments increased by just over 4% to 1,393 aircraft compared with 1,337 deliveries during the same period last year. Industry billings were up by 1.4% during the same time from $12.1 to $12.3 billion.
"Purchase decisions continue to be delayed due to fiscal uncertainty in our North American and European markets," says GAMA chief executive Pete Bunce. "Now that the US election is behind us, we hope that legislators quickly act on the nation's budget crisis so that individuals and businesses can begin to chart their own long-range fiscal paths," he continues.
Business jet shipments remained virtually flat over the nine-month period as demand for aircraft in the bottom half of the sector remains sluggish.
Between January and September 428 aircraft were shipped - only one more year on year. The piston engine aircraft sector fared better with 597 single and twin-engined types delivered during the first three quarters - compared with 577 during the same period in 2011. In contrast, turboprops recorded a 10.5% climb in shipments to 368 aircraft as owners and operators turn to these types in increasing numbers for their versatility and cost efficiencies.
Source: Flight International
