ADS reports seven year high for aircraft deliveries
According to ADS, commercial aircraft manufacturers delivered 132 aircraft in October 2025 - increasing by two thirds (67%) compared to October 2024 - marking the highest number of aircraft deliveries for the month of October since 2018.
Image courtesy ADS
Despite a positive delivery landscape, data from the trade association for the UK’s aerospace, defence, security and space industries also found that 127 aircraft orders were placed during October 2025, down 12% on the same month last year and the lowest October monthly figure since 2021.
ADS highlights that the global backlog of aircraft orders now stands at 16,133. At current production rates, the backlog is valued at up to £260 billion to the UK economy and will sustain over 16 years’ worth of work for the UK aerospace sector.
Year-end deliveries on track for record delivery ramp-up
Following the month of October, deliveries made across 2025 have now totalled 1,092 aircraft, a 25% increase compared to the same point last year.
With year-to-date deliveries continuing to show a strong performance, the industry remains on track to achieve ADS’ ‘high growth’ scenario of 1,340 aircraft deliveries by the end of the year.
Aimie Stone, Chief Economist at ADS commented: “October’s delivery figures signal that the industry is moving towards a more stable and sustained delivery drumbeat. The priority now is to maintain this momentum through to the final stretch of 2025.”
"It is vital that government policy supports this progress rather than burdens the industry with an uncertain business environment. This is a pivotal moment to strengthen the UK’s aerospace supply chain and to act decisively to ensure our sector remains competitive.”
The full economics brief can be read here.