Posted November 3, 2010 3:59 PM
By Peter Webber
Analysis of new deliveries and aftermarket sales in General Aviation
The new millennium has had more than its fair share of shocks to the markets. Looking at new fixed wing aircraft deliveries it is easy to plot these events and their effects. We can clearly see the way the market dampened down after the 9-11 attacks in New York, it took some 4-5 years before shipments returned consistently to a level comparable to those before the attacks. The collapse of the financial markets in late 2007 through 2008 has resulted in the biggest cut back in deliveries since the years after 9-11. 
As with any statistics, spikes can be found. Each year there is a spike as the end of year inventory is delivered before year end. Large fleet deliveries such as the Beech 350’s for the US Military starting in 2009 are another example.
Looking at aftermarket sales though, these have remained strong throughout. There is a contraction to be seen through 2008 and into 2009, but it looks to returning to more usual activity levels. We can see from the transaction data in ASO GA fleets that many of these aftermarket sales are the result of existing operators trading in older aircraft to buy new. This places older aircraft on the market for new owners to enter the turboprop market. In years to come these owners will look to buy new or newer.
A vibrant market in pre-owned aircraft is important to the whole market. Aircraft have to trade - and at good prices. Certain types have remained strong through the market changes and some early signs are there that new aircraft deliveries are picking up from only a year ago, helped and lead by a strong market in used sales.
Data from the ASO Fleets GA module.
Data available for GA transactions include deliveries made, sales, leases, lease returns and more.
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