Highest April on record for new aircraft orders

Strong demand for wide body aircraft has resulted in the highest ever April for commercial aircraft orders with 194 orders for new aircraft, according to aerospace trade organisation ADS Group.

A total of 106 aircraft came off the production line, worth up to £1.9bn to UK industry.

Industry has also seen an increase in demand for new engines with growth of 81% on the same period in 2015; 22,170 engines represents the largest order book ever recorded.

Paul Everitt, chief executive of ADS Group, said: “The rise in orders for new engines reflects airlines and lessors beginning to pick engine options on previously ordered aircraft. Cutting-edge technology means these engines will be the quietest and most efficient in the sky, reducing the impact of aviation on the environment.

“As industry works towards meeting production targets, record order numbers for April reflect continued growth in demand for air travel particularly on long-haul routes.”