Lowest third quarter for aircraft orders since 2021, ADS reveals

• Q3 2025’s aircraft orders fell to their lowest level in four years, dropping by almost half
• Despite this, production activity has sustained, with the highest third quarter for aircraft deliveries since 2018 observed
• The current aircraft backlog is worth almost £260 billion to the UK

London (31 October 2025) – Aircraft orders in Q3 2025 fell to their lowest level since 2021, with 269 new orders placed – a 46% drop compared to the same period last year, according to ADS. Year-to-date orders remain robust, up 46% at 1,431 aircraft.

According to the trade association, the global backlog of aircraft orders now stands at 16,146, a third consecutive September record. This includes an all-time high of 2,833 widebody aircraft, reflecting a resurgence in demand. At current production rates, the backlog is valued at up to £258 billion to UK industry.

Widebody aircraft have played a significant role in 2025 performance, with over 40% (43%) of year-to-date orders for widebody aircraft – nearly matching single-aisle orders.

Deliveries maintain momentum

Deliveries continue to show strength, with 364 aircraft delivered in Q3 – the highest third-quarter total since 2018. Year-to-date deliveries reached 960, marking a 21% increase compared to 2024.

Deliveries in Q3 included 305 single-aisle and 59 widebody aircraft, up 22% and 28% respectively. ADS data highlights that September alone saw 130 aircraft delivered – a 55% increase on the same month last year – including 19 widebody aircraft.

ADS Commentary: the outlook remains positive

ADS’ delivery forecast scenarios introduced in July 2025 remain on track. With 960 aircraft delivered by the end of Q3, the industry is well-positioned to meet the high-growth target of 1,340 aircraft deliveries by year-end. Q4 traditionally sees the highest delivery volumes, and current production trends support a strong finish to the year.

ENDS.

Notes to editors:

• The full economics brief can be read here.
• ADS’ ‘high growth scenario’ reports 1,340 aircraft delivered by year-end – a 20% year-on-year increase compared to 2024.
• ADS’ ‘medium growth scenario’ reports 1,240 aircraft delivered by year-end – a 10% year-on-year increase compared to 2024.
• ADS’ ‘modest growth scenario’ reports 1,172 aircraft delivered by year-end – a 4% year-on-year increase compared to 2024.
• Order and delivery figures cover reported deliveries of commercial aircraft by Airbus, Boeing and Comac.
• The backlog only includes aircraft from Airbus and Boeing.
• ADS is the UK trade association for the aerospace, defence, security and space sectors, with more than 1,700 member businesses.
• More than 90 per cent of ADS members are SMEs.
• Farnborough International, the world-leading events business responsible for the Farnborough International Airshow, is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the ADS Group.