WASHINGTON, DC, November 7, 2011 – Today, the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) reported that worldwide deliveries of general aviation airplanes in the first nine months of 2011 dropped 9.8 percent as compared to the same period last year, to a total of 1,227 units.  Industry billings fell 10.2 percent, from $13.5 billion to $12.1 billion.
 
“These shipments and billings numbers show some improvement over the sharper decline experienced in first half of 2011,” said Pete Bunce, GAMA’s president and CEO.  “However, considering the fragility of the economies in the traditional markets of North America and Europe, this is not the time for new, undue government burdens to be imposed on general aviation. Misguided tax policies that single out our industry, unquestionably endanger jobs.  Policymakers should be focused on initiatives that encourage investment in our industry and grow jobs."

Piston-powered airplane shipments totaled 577 units compared to 633 units delivered in the first nine months of the year, an 8.8 percent decrease. Turboprop shipments declined 5.9 percent to 223 units in 2011, compared to 237 units during this same period in 2010. Business jet shipments totaled 427 units, a 13.0 percent decrease as compared to 491 units delivered in the first nine months of last year.