Commercial aircraft orders spiked during November 2025, reaching 239 monthly orders and marking the highest order number for the month of November since 2021. This figure represents a 203% year-on-year increase in aircraft orders for Airbus, Boeing and Comac commercial aircraft, driven largely by the success of the 2025 Dubai Airshow.
The data, compiled by ADS, the trade association for the UK’s aerospace, defence, security and space industries, finds that more than 70% of November’s total aircraft orders were for widebody aircraft. The 173 widebody aircraft on order is nearly four-times higher than November 2024’s widebody orders, signalling robust market momentum as demand for long-haul travel continues to grow, according to ADS.
Orders for aircraft engines are also almost 4.5-times higher than in 2024, with 748 engine orders placed in November 2025 – a 444% increase over November 2024’s figures.
ADS also finds that commercial aircraft manufacturers delivered 118 aircraft in November 2025, which is an increase of 20% compared to November 2024. With the year-to-date delivery figure now standing at 1,210 aircraft, the industry remains on track to achieve ADS’ ‘high growth’ scenario of 1,340 deliveries by the end of 2025.
The global aircraft order backlog now stands at 16,216 orders, the second-largest backlog figure since records began. At current production rates, ADS estimates that this could generate over £270 billion for the UK’s aerospace supply chain.
“November’s rise in commercial aircraft orders reflects a strong recovery trend and growing confidence in the aviation market. A 203% year-on-year increase, supported by the success of the Dubai Airshow, highlights how global events continue to influence demand. The significant share of widebody aircraft, at over 70% of total orders, points to sustained interest in long-haul travel and network expansion,” stated an ADS spokesperson.
“For the UK aerospace supply chain, this growth represents a substantial opportunity. With a global backlog of more than 16,000 aircraft, estimated to generate over £270 billion for the UK alone, the focus now shifts to meeting production targets efficiently while maintaining quality and innovation. Engine orders, up 444% compared to last year, reinforce the importance of propulsion in delivering efficiency and supporting sustainability goals.
“Looking ahead, the challenge will be scaling output to meet demand while accelerating progress on next-generation technologies and net-zero commitments. The data signals positive momentum; turning that into long-term competitiveness will require collaboration, investment, and continued focus on advanced manufacturing capabilities.”
