The regional aircraft industry's production levels dropped to an all-time low last year in the wake of the collapse in demand for 50-seat jets. But orders were up and as production rates increase turboprops are becoming significant players again.
ATR, Bombardier and Embraer's combined shipments fell by just under 20% in 2006 to 234 aircraft - a record low for the industry since the regional jet era began. However, production is already ramping up thanks to increasing demand for ATR and Bombardier turboprops and Embraer's large regional jet types. The Bombardier CRJ700/900 is the only regional aircraft expected to see a decline in shipments this year.
Output in 2007 is likely to return to 2005 levels (around 290 units), but the split between the two aircraft categories will be significantly different: turboprop deliveries, which accounted for just 15% of regional production in 2005, rose to a 30% share last year and are expected to reach almost 40% in 2007, when production will exceed 100 units for the first time since 2000.
Following the dire situation in 2005 - when regional jet orders declined to just 83 - the industry has seen a strong recovery with over 340 sales. Of these, the majority were for the large regional jets (the CRJ900 and E-170/190 family) but the turboprop market also continues to gather pace, with 97 orders being placed.Source: Flight International
