Today, the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) released its report of general aviation aircraft shipments and billings through the second quarter of 2021. Piston, turboprop, business jet and helicopter deliveries increased across all segments during the first six months of 2021 as compared to the same period of 2020.
“Through the first six months of 2021, we can see that the industry continues to progress in its recovery efforts. While it is encouraging to see segments improve from 2020, we still trail when compared to how the industry was faring before the onset of the pandemic. Efforts to address ongoing supply chain issues, strengthen our workforce and enhance environmental sustainability will continue to be at the forefront as interest and demand for aircraft remains robust,” said GAMA President and CEO Pete Bunce.
Aircraft shipments through the second quarter of 2021, when compared to the same period in 2020, saw piston airplane deliveries increase 12.3%, with 565 units; turboprop airplane deliveries increase 45.4%, with 221 units; and business jet deliveries increase 8.2%, with 264 units. The value of airplane deliveries through the second quarter of 2021 was $8.6 billion, an increase of approximately 9.4%.
Turbine helicopter deliveries through the second quarter of 2021, when compared to the same period in 2020, saw an increase of 33%, with 258 units; and piston helicopter deliveries saw an increase of 31.7%, with 83 units.
First Half Aircraft Shipments and Billings
| Aircraft Type | 2020 | 2021 | % Change |
| Piston Airplanes | 503 | 565 | 12.3% |
| Turboprops | 152 | 221 | 45.4% |
| Business Jets | 244 | 264 | 8.2% |
| Total Airplanes | 899 | 1,050 | 16.8% |
| Total Airplane Billing | $7.9B | $8.6B | 9.4% |
| Piston Helicopters | 63 | 83 | 31.7% |
| Turbine Helicopters | 194 | 258 | 33% |
| Total Helicopters | 257 | 341 | 32.7% |
| Total Helicopter Billing | $1B | $1.4B | 37.7% |
GAMA’s complete 2021 second quarter report can be found at gama.aero.
