A total of 521 aircraft orders were placed in the first quarter – representing a 73% increase compared to Q1 2024 – as demand rises for both single-aisle and wide-body aircraft. Deliveries of Airbus, Boeing and Comac aircraft were also up 20% in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024.
The figures also show that the industry’s backlog of aircraft orders has reached a new record high, standing at 15,954 aircraft at the end of March. This figure is 1% higher than Q1 2024. This backlog is estimated to be worth up to £254 billion to the UK economy at current production rates, underscoring the long-term value of the aerospace sector and its extensive UK supply chain.
The figures run until 31 March – two days before the US Administration’s announcement of tariff increases on US imports. The tariffs introduced 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 programmes 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 trade negotiations, to ensure the free movement of aerospace goods in line with the longstanding WTO Agreement on Trade in Civil Aircraft.
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.
ADS is the UK trade association for the aerospace, defence, security and space sectors, representing almost 1500 businesses.
