Commercial aircraft deliveries in the first half of 2025 rose by nearly a fifth (19%) compared to the same period in 2024. The figure of 596 aircraft marks the strongest January-to-June delivery performance since 2019, with an increase of nearly 100 deliveries compared to the same period last year.
The data from ADS’ latest economic briefing shows a 141% increase in aircraft orders during the first half of the year, reaching 1,162. This was driven in part by the strong demand following the Paris Air Show in June, which saw 319 aircraft orders made over the month, for Airbus, Boeing and Comac commercial aircraft.
The figures also show that the industry’s backlog of aircraft orders has reached a new record high, standing at 16,249 Airbus and Boeing aircraft at the end of June: 4% higher than the first half of 2024. This backlog is estimated to be worth up to £255 billion to the UK economy and 15 years’ worth of work at current production rates, underscoring the long-term value of the UK’s aerospace sector.
The first half of 2025 paints a positive picture for global aircraft orders and deliveries, demonstrating the sector’s resilience amid ongoing economic and market volatility – including continued uncertainty from the rollout of US tariffs.
However, part of this early momentum may be attributed to inventory-driven deliveries, and there is a possible risk that these may not carry through to the rest of the year. To sustain growth and meet the record backlog demand, the industry urgently needs clarity on tariffs and the implementation of the Industrial Strategy to best support UK supply chains and confidently ramp-up production.
About the author
Aimie Stone is chief economist at ADS, the UK trade association for the aerospace, defence, security and space sectors, with more than 1,500 member businesses.
