• The aircraft backlog has reached a record 16,073, exceeding 16,000 for the first time ever
  • May 2025 aircraft orders totalled 303, marking the largest order intake for the month within the past decade
  • 98 aircraft were delivered in May 2025, increasing by a more than quarter compared to May 2024

 

London (2 July 2025) – Commercial aircraft orders increased by almost 900 percent in May 2025 compared to May 2024, pushing the total aircraft backlog to a record 16,073 – the first time it has ever exceeded 16,000, according to ADS.

The data, compiled by the trade association for the UK’s aerospace, defence, security and space industries, estimates this backlog to be worth over £252 billion in value to the UK economy while generating over 15 years’ worth of work for the UK’s extensive aerospace supply chain.

ADS’ data also reports that 303 aircraft orders were placed in May 2025 – up from 31 orders in May 2024 – the largest order intake for this calendar month within the past decade.

Aircraft deliveries have continued this upward trend seeing a 26 percent year-to-date increase as production rates improve and the supply chain prepares for further ramp up.

Aimie Stone, Chief Economist at ADS comments:

May’s aircraft data reveals growing momentum in global demand. 16,000 aircraft on backlog order marks a significant moment for the sector but now is the time for industry to work hard to support production ramp-up and fully-seize this opportunity that this symbolic milestone represents.

Although the relaxation of tariffs for aerospace parts and the recent Industrial Strategy provide clarity to the sector, ongoing trade uncertainties – stemming from unresolved agreements between the US and other countries – continue to challenge the global aerospace industry. Despite remaining resilient, further details and support from policymakers will be crucial in giving the industry the tools needed to meet rising production demands.

Notes to editors:

  • The economic briefing can be read in full here.
  • Data for the month of May takes into accounts orders and deliveries of aircraft made between 1 and 31 May 2025. Order announcements made outside of this period have not been accounted for in this cycle.
  • Order and delivery figures cover reported deliveries of commercial aircraft by Airbus, Boeing and Comac.
  • The backlog figures only include aircraft from Airbus and Boeing.