Advancing UK Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space Solutions Worldwide

Aerospace

Aircraft manufacturer productivity peaks

The number of commercial aircraft delivered in August 2024 was higher than in any August since 2018 according to ADS, despite lagging orders.

Image copyright Shutterstock
 
ADS figures highlight the fourth consecutive August of improved aircraft deliveries, with 90 aircraft delivered. Despite a 3% growth in August aircraft deliveries, challenges in the supply chain mean that 2024 delivery rates are lagging 9% behind 2023 figures.  

Aircraft orders placed in 2024 to date are two thirds behind 2023 figures. ADS figures highlight that the 68 aircraft ordered in August 2024 is 58% lower than the same month in 2023. Year-to-date, 682 aircraft have been ordered, 65% less than at the same point in 2023.  

Advertisement
Security & Policing Rectangle

The number of aircraft currently on backlog order is 8% higher than it was 12 months ago at 15,651. ADS estimates that production of these aircraft is worth £244 billion to the UK and represents over a decade’s worth of work.

Aimie Stone, Chief Economist at ADS Group commented: “The aerospace sector’s continuing rate ramp up is reflected in this month’s increased aircraft deliveries. Despite this success, the industrial capacity of the sector continues to be limited by challenges in the supply chain and regulatory uncertainty.

Advertisement
ODU RT

“We now need to see the UK Government deliver on its promise for a comprehensive industrial strategy, formed in partnership with a range of stakeholders that includes industry, to ensure the aerospace sector’s full potential can be realised.”

ADS recently released its 2024 Aerospace Sector Outlook, showcasing the sector’s value add of £10.9 billion to the UK economy, an increase of 16% compared to 2013 figures. The figures highlight 104,000 direct jobs in the aerospace sector, with a median salary of £48.7k – 39% higher than UK average, with the vast majority (88 percent) located outside of London and the Southeast.

Advertisement
General Atomics LB
Global aircraft deliveries in 2025 highest in seven years

Aerospace

Global aircraft deliveries in 2025 highest in seven years

3 February 2026

More aircraft were delivered in 2025 than in the previous seven years prior, with 25% more aircraft delivered in 2025 than in 2024 – at 1,411 compared with 1,128 the previous year – according to ADS, the trade association for the UK’s aerospace, defence, security and space sectors.

ABT sets framework for OEM battery development

Aerospace Defence Security

ABT sets framework for OEM battery development

2 February 2026

UK battery pack manufacturer Alexander Battery Technologies (ABT), has set out a clearer framework for how OEMs can approach battery development.

AGS secures £745m refinancing package

Aerospace

AGS secures £745m refinancing package

2 February 2026

AGS Airports (AGS) - which operates Aberdeen, Glasgow and Southampton airports and collectively handles over 11 million passengers annually - has completed a £745 million refinancing package, with support from Allied Irish Bank (AIB).

Helen Hardy appointed CEO of CILT (UK)

Aerospace

Helen Hardy appointed CEO of CILT (UK)

2 February 2026

The Board of Trustees of The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (UK) is pleased to confirm the appointment of Helen Hardy as Chief Executive Officer (CEO), following a successful seven-month period as Interim CEO.

Advertisement
PTC rectangle
Report exposes airports’ long term investment and financial viability challenge

Aerospace

Report exposes airports’ long term investment and financial viability challenge

2 February 2026

ACI EUROPE recently released a landmark report on the future viability of the airport industry, based on research conducted by the Boston Consulting Group (BCG): 'Decoupling Financial Viability from Volume Growth: Charting the Way Forward for Europe’s Airports'.

Cranfield recognised with Gold Employer Recognition Award

Aerospace Defence

Cranfield recognised with Gold Employer Recognition Award

30 January 2026

Cranfield University has successfully revalidated its prestigious Gold Employer Recognition Scheme status, awarded by the Ministry of Defence to organisations that support the Armed Forces community and share the values in the Armed Forces Covenant.

Advertisement
PTC rectangle
Advertisement
Babcock LB Babcock LB