2 min read - 26 Feb, 2026
Record start to 2026 as aircraft orders hit six-year high
Commercial aircraft orders increased by three-quarters (71%) in January 2026 compared with the same month in 2025, according to the trade association ADS. With 156 aircraft orders placed across the month, this represents the strongest January order book in over six years, driven largely by a 78% year-on-year uplift in single‑aisle aircraft orders as short‑haul travel continues to underpin global demand.
The latest commercial aircraft data from ADS also found that 66 aircraft were delivered in January 2026, just five aircraft fewer compared to January 2025. Deliveries across the month remain higher compared to every January between 2019 and 2025 as the industry continues to navigate a testing international trade environment.
Commercial aircraft orders grew 71% in January 2026, marking the strongest January order book in over six years / Picture: Getty/iStock / Ceri Breeze
Following a record year in 2025, the global aircraft backlog has now reached a new all‑time high of 16,456 aircraft. At current production rates, this represents at least 13 years of work for the UK’s aerospace supply chain and is estimated to hold a potential value of up to £267bn for the UK economy.
Aimie Stone, chief economist at ADS, said: “January 2026 figures offer an encouraging start to 2026, with both orders and deliveries signalling a steady return of confidence across the aerospace market as supply chain pressures and regulatory challenges continue to ease.
“However, with tariff uncertainty continuing to shape the outlook for 2026, supply chains need to be strengthened to ensure they can meet future rate ramp-up and delivery demand schedules. This pressure comes while regulators and policymakers need to take action to help manage and mitigate some of the challenges that face the industry.”
