Record commercial aircraft sales for 2013
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2013 was a record year for the aerospace sector with orders for commercial aircraft increasing by more than a quarter (28%) compared to the previous year, according to trade body ADS Group.
The figures, part of a new monthly commercial aircraft and engine orders tracker, reveal that new orders have increased the backlog to more than 11,000 aircraft and 20,000 engines.
ADS said: "This continuity of demand will support many thousands of high value, skilled jobs in the UK well into the future."
Paul Everitt, chief executive of ADS, added: "Global demand for new aircraft and engines is generating new demand and opportunity for the UK aerospace industry. The seven per cent increase in new aircraft deliveries and the 17 per cent increase in the aircraft order book makes 2013 one of the most successful years on record.
"To maintain the UK's share of this fast growing market we must increase investment in technology, innovation and skills. The Aerospace Growth Partnership and the government's long-term commitment to the sector's growth is making a difference and we must continue to maximise the value of this unique collaboration between industry and government."
Business Secretary Vince Cable said: "These figures highlight the opportunities for growth in the aerospace industry and the potential rewards that British businesses could reap. That is why Government and industry are forming a long-term partnership to keep Britain at the forefront of the global aerospace market. Together we have committed £2 billion over the next seven years to create an Aerospace Technology Institute to help us win work on developing and building the planes and helicopters of the future, here in the UK."
