OSHKOSH, WI, July 28, 2006 – Today at AirVenture, the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) announced record-breaking shipment and billing figures. In the first half of 2006, shipments of general aviation airplanes totaled 1,843 units, a 19.1% increase over the same period last year, with industry billings rising 34.9% to $8.8 billion.

“This is the highest recorded billings for the first half of a year in general aviation’s history,” said Pete Bunce, GAMA’s President and CEO. “With our manufacturers’ current backlog, we are confident that this trend will continue throughout the remainder of 2006."

The overall upward trend in industry shipments was evident in all aircraft segments. Shipments of piston-powered airplanes in the first 6 months of 2006 were up 17.4% from the same period last year to 1,270 units. Turboprop shipments rose 12.1%, from 141 units in 2005 to 158 units in 2006. The healthiest increase occurred in the business jet market with a 27.7% increase in shipments from 325 units to 415 units.

"We are are very encouraged by this continued positive trend, but we are closely monitoring the potential impact that rising fuel prices and interest rates may have on our dynamic worldwide industry," said Bunce. "Without question, these strong numbers demonstrate the powerful contribution general aviation makes to all economies and how important it is to preserve and promote the freedom of flight."