2 minute read - 2nd May 2025
Aircraft orders and deliveries increase in Q1 of 2025
The latest data from the aerospace sector shows that 521 aircraft orders were placed in the first quarter of 2025, representing a 73% increase compared to Q1 2024, as demand rises for both single-aisle and wide-body aircraft. The figures, provided by ADS, the trade association for aerospace, defence, security and space sectors, also revealed that aircraft deliveries were up 20% in the first quarter of 2025, compared to the same period in 2024.
The data, which runs until 31 March, two days before the US Administration’s announcement of tariff increases on US imports, shows further that the industry’s backlog of aircraft orders has reached a new record high. At the end of March, it stood at 15,954 aircraft, 1% higher than Q1 2024. This backlog is estimated to be worth up to £254bn to the UK economy at current production rates, underscoring the long-term value of the aerospace sector and its extensive UK supply chain.
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Both aircraft orders and deliveries were up in Q1 this year, with the global aircraft order backlog also reaching a new record high of 15,954, showing the long-term value of the aerospace sector to the UK / Picture: Getty/iStock/Polybutmono
ADS says the recent tariffs introduced by the US Administration on 2 April are still being evaluated by industry leaders, with disruption to trade and supply chains likely to affect aircraft deliveries in the coming months.
Broader international reactions to the evolving US trade policy may add further uncertainty, particularly for long-haul programs and cross-border component flows. That is why ADS is calling on the UK government to seek exemptions for civil aircraft, engine parts and components as part of our trade negotiations to ensure the free movement of aerospace goods in line with the longstanding WTO Agreement on Trade in Civil Aircraft.
ADS added that despite these challenges, increased momentum at the start of 2025 shows that with the right conditions, industry can deliver strong performance metrics and support UK competitiveness in the global aerospace market.
