• 673 aircraft were delivered in the first six months of 2026, representing the highest half-year delivery total since 2018
  • Over the first half of the year, aircraft orders increased by 15% compared to 2025, totalling 1,331
  • By the end of June 2026, the global order backlog reached a record 16,925 aircraft

 

London (20 July 2026) – 673 commercial aircraft were delivered in the first half of 2026, an increase of 13% compared to the same period in 2025. The latest data from ADS marks the strongest January-to-June delivery performance since 2018, with 77 more aircraft delivered compared to the same period in 2025.

Strong orderbook ahead of Farnborough International Airshow

The data, compiled by the trade association for the UK’s aerospace, defence, security and space industries, reports a 15% increase in aircraft orders during the first half of the year, reaching 1,331. The figures signal continued airline confidence as the industry prepares to gather at Farnborough International Airshow.

A total of 1,074 single-aisle aircraft were ordered in the first six months of 2026, a record for the period and a 59% increase on the same period last year. Widebody aircraft orders reached 257 over the same period.

The figures also show that the industry’s aircraft order backlog reached a new record high of 16,925 aircraft at the end of June 2026, up 4% year-on-year. At current production rates, this backlog is estimated to be worth up to £393 billion to the UK economy.

Aimie Stone, Chief Economist at ADS comments:

“As the industry prepares for what is set to be the largest Farnborough International Airshow on record, global aircraft orders and deliveries have continued to gather momentum throughout the first half of the year. With deliveries at their strongest level since 2018, the sector is entering the Airshow from a position of real strength and we look forward to seeing further commercial activity over the week ahead.

To maintain this momentum and meet growing global demand, industry needs greater certainty on a number of policy issues, including the Steel Trade Measures introduced on 1 July 2026. Providing clarity and stability for manufacturers and suppliers will be essential to helping UK aerospace businesses invest with confidence and ramp up production.”

ENDS.