Aircraft add £23bn to economy

Aircraft producers have brought a boost of up to £23 billion to the UK economy so far this year, according to data from ADS Group.

The trade organisation reported 2018 has been the best year for deliveries to date as producers delivered a total of 1,221 aircraft by the end of October.

This represents an increase of 28 compared with 2017, with production of single-aisle air- craft boosting the overall a total.

However, ADS stressed the need for a smooth transition when the UK departs the EU, as the current aircraft backlog of 14,124 stands to bring a potential £217bn to the UK economy in the coming years.

2018 is also the best year to date for engine deliveries, with 2,466 delivered so far, but increased production levels have still struggled to meet demand, contributing to the second-highest backlog on record at 26,212.

Paul Everitt chief executive of ADS, which represents more than 1,000 businesses in the aerospace, defence, security and space sector, said: “The UK aerospace industry continues to benefit from record levels of new aircraft and engine production.

“It is important for aerospace businesses in UK and mainland Europe that the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement and a transition period are confirmed, so companies can prepare for the new trading relationship.”