Crisis sees worst quarter ever recorded for aircraft deliveries

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Just 19 aircraft, 10 wide-body and nine single-aisle, were ordered during the period from April-June, a total reduction of 88 per cent in the same period last year and a 97 per cent decrease on Q2 2018, which saw 160 and 577 orders respectively.

The three months to June saw a slowing in the global economy including travel bans, grounded fleets and impacts on global trade, with many of the expected aircraft deliveries for the period being deferred. Aircraft deliveries for Q2 2020 were the lowest on record at just 94, compared to 317 in the same period last year.  June figures were the strongest of the three month period as restrictions started to ease, with 46 aircraft deliveries.

Despite orders facing the lowest Q2 on record, the total backlog of aircraft firm orders remains relatively high at 13,673 aircraft. The remaining order backlog represents many years’ worth of work for global aerospace manufacturers and potentially up to £210 billion to UK industry.

ADS Chief Executive Paul Everitt said: “The impact of COVID19 on international aviation and aerospace is clear to all. We are now seeing aircraft return to our skies and increasing consumer confidence. The outlook for the coming months remains uncertain, but industry is confident demand will accelerate through 2021 and beyond.

“The UK Government has provided essential help and support during the pandemic and more will be required to safeguard manufacturing capability and capacity. Last week the Government confirmed its strategic intent with the launch of the Jet Zero Council and significant funding for new aerospace technology programmes.

“The coming months will be challenging for many aerospace businesses as they manage the significant reduction in demand.”