GRAHAM WARWICK / WASHINGTON DC
Deliveries predicted to climb until 2005, then tail off as new model order backlogs clear
Civil helicopter deliveries increased in 2003 and are expected to grow modestly until 2005, then decline gradually as order backlogs for new models are worked off, says Forecast International. The firm's latest market analysis is projecting 2003-12 shipments of almost 9,500 aircraft, including 3,600 piston-powered models, valued at just under $19 billion.
Newtown, Connecticut-based Forecast expects Eurocopter's commercial market dominance to continue, noting that Bell has yet to announce a new strategic business plan. Robinson Helicopter, with its low-cost piston-powered product line, is expected to continue to lead other manufacturers in terms of aircraft deliveries. Forecast expects MD Helicopters to double deliveries by 2006, after overcoming problems with suppliers that delayed shipments in 2003.
Orders from law-enforcement agencies are projected to gain momentum as the US Border Patrol, Department of Homeland Security and Federal Emergency Management Agency define their equipment requirements.
Forecast expects the offshore-support sector to grow after 2005 and the emergency-medical service sector is expected to continue growing, with operators in Europe and the USA scheduled soon to begin replacing the popular Eurocopter BK117.
Source: Flight International
