Stanley, ID, courtesy of the RAF
“For the first time in more than a decade, the general aviation manufacturing industry has eclipsed 4,000 aircraft delivered. In addition to this strong showing, there are robust and growing order backlogs for all segments of aircraft.” That is from Pete Bunce, the president and CEO of the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA). He goes on to forecast, “What our industry can accomplish in 2024 and beyond will be extraordinary.”
GAMA’s report shows the following: Airplane shipments in 2023, when compared to 2022, saw piston airplane deliveries increase 11.8% from the same reporting companies, with 1,682 units; turboprop airplane deliveries increase 9.6%, with 638 units; and business jet deliveries increase 2.5%, with 730 units. The value of airplane deliveries for 2023 was $23.4 billion, an increase of approximately 2.2%.
Our friends in Switzerland who make Pilatus aircraft contribute to the good news by reporting:
The 2023 financial year was marked by major successes for Pilatus. Thanks to high, unbroken demand, 148 aircraft were delivered despite the ongoing challenges of the operating environment. With total sales of 1.478 billion Swiss francs, operating income of 240 million Swiss francs and new orders worth 1.513 billion Swiss francs, Pilatus closed the past year with record results. Compared to 2022, which was already a very successful year, Pilatus achieved a ten percent increase in sales and added six percent to its operating income. The total number of aircraft deliveries is impressive, too: all in all, 47 PC-24s and 101 PC-12s were handed over to customers last year.
The PC-12’s propeller manufacturer is also making headlines this month. Remember the news in January about Hartzell’s new owner, Arcline Investment Management, raising parts prices across the board? Well, it looks like it’s trying to provide its customers with relief by increasing warranty coverage.
The Hartzell Service Center’s warranty on work performed at the FAA-certified repair station in Piqua, Ohio, is now two years or 2,000 flight hours, whichever occurs first, extended from one year or 1,000 flight hours, whichever occurred first. This significant extension reflects Hartzell’s commitment to quality, performance and support, allowing customers to fly with added confidence.
“These improvements at the Hartzell Service Center give our customers extended warranty protection and additional inventory, leading to less flight downtime,” said Scott Foster, director of the Hartzell Service Center. “We continually look for ways to add convenience and value for aircraft owners and operators.”
In addition to Hartzell’s warranty increase, it continues to support backcountry flying. “We are pleased to be able, once again, to extend this special offer to Recreational Aviation Foundation (RAF) supporters for the fourth consecutive year,” said Hartzell president JJ Frigge. “In addition to providing these $1,000 discounts on backcountry props, we will contribute $250 directly to the RAF for each propeller sold as a result of this special offer. This is an example of our continuing support for the adventure of flight and the RAF’s mission to preserve aviation access to the backcountry,” he added.
These are just a few of the feel-good stories from across the general aviation spectrum. Spring training has started. And the trees in Texas have started blooming and sprouting new leaves. It’s time to slide those hangar doors open and fire up the magnetos.
