Washington, DC, April 28, 2005 – Today the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) released first quarter numbers for general aviation shipments were up 15.7 percent to 627 units while industry billings for new airplanes rose to $2.7 billion.

"Strong industry billings speak for the overall health of the general aviation industry and importance of private aviation as part of the world’s transportation system," said Pete Bunce President and CEO of GAMA. "With each new airplane certified and delivered to a customer, we introduce new safety-improving technology into the air space system."

First quarter shipments of piston-powered airplanes manufactured worldwide increased to 432 units in first quarter 2005, up from last year’s 394. Turboprop shipments increased from 34 airplanes in the first quarter of 2004 to 57 this year. Business jets were also up with first quarter shipments increasing 21.1 percent, from 114 units last year to 138 units this year.