Latest figures from ADS Group reveal that while UK commercial aircraft orders for Q1 2024 are up from 2023 figures, production challenges are continuing to cause a lag in deliveries.

The ADS Group, the trade association for the aerospace, defence, security and space industries, has published its Q1 2024 results based on orders and reported deliveries of commercial aircraft by Airbus and Boeing.

The results reveal that over 300 aircraft orders were placed in Q1 2024, a 9% improvement on Q1 2023 results. The number of aircraft on backlog order is 17% ahead of 2023, at 15,812.

There are also 30,000 aircraft engines on firm order. While this shows increased confidence from manufacturers, ADS figures reveal how current production capacity challenges are affecting deliveries. In comparison to Q1 2023, the Q1 2024 figures show that 227 aircraft have been delivered: 12% less.

“At this stage of the year, it’s notable but not hugely concerning to see these year-on-year dips in the aircraft market...