UK’s Aerospace Industry a Global Success Story
Annual figures released today by aerospace trade body ADS Group show that in 2016, the global aerospace industry delivered a record-breaking number of aircraft for the sixth consecutive year. 1,443 commercial aircraft rolled off the production line, representing up to £27bn to the UK’s aerospace industry, an increase of £4bn on 2015.
ADS forecasts that 2017 will see a 6-7% rise in delivery rates, equating to more than 1,500 new aircraft. With 13,567 aircraft on order – the highest ever level of demand - manufacturers are facing pressure to increase production rates. Since 2006 aircraft production has increased by 75% delivering significant new investment, jobs and prosperity to the UK.
Business Secretary Greg Clark said:
“Our modern industrial strategy will build on our existing strengths as an agile, modern economy and the UK aerospace sector is one of our great success stories, generating around £30 billion a year and supporting nearly 230,000 jobs. We are number one in Europe and the increase in global aircraft production is good news for the whole of our aero supply chain. With government and industry investing nearly £4 billion by 2026, we have shown our continued commitment to this vital industry.”
Paul Everitt, CEO of ADS Group says:
“The UK’s aerospace industry is a global success story; year-on-year companies throughout the country are winning against tough international competitors to deliver regional growth and national prosperity. Long-term demand for new aircraft is good news; however there is no room for complacency and businesses throughout the supply chain need to focus on driving up productivity.
“The UK Government has demonstrated its commitment to UK aerospace through its continued support for an aerospace industrial strategy and the work of the Aerospace Growth Partnership (AGP); a focused approach to delivering long term technology funding; strengthening supply chains, and driving exports. The value of this is heightened as we prepare for Brexit, remaining globally competitive and a base of exciting innovation will be our best response to the challenges and uncertainties of leaving the European Union.”
Annual Aircraft Data 2016 Press Release