GAMA REPORTS A RECORD BREAKING YEAR IN 2005

The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) reported a record year for general aviation manufacturers. The announcement was made at GAMA’s Annual Industry Review & 2006 Market Outlook Briefing by the Chairman, President, & CEO of Cessna Aircraft Company and current GAMA Chairman Jack Pelton, along with GAMA President & CEO Peter Bunce.

The general aviation industry reached an all-time high for billings which totaled $15.1 billion, a 27.2 percent increase over 2004. Year-end, worldwide shipments of general aviation airplanes totaled 3,580 units for 2005, up 20.8 percent over the previous year’s total of 2,963 units.

“The outstanding 2005 shipment and billing figures demonstrate that general aviation is one of the brightest and most promising sectors of manufacturing,” said Pete Bunce.

All sectors of general aviation manufacturing experienced healthy growth in 2005. Piston airplane shipments experienced a 20.2 percent increase over the previous year. Total units increased from 2,051 in 2004 to 2,465 airplanes in 2005. Shipments of turboprops increased by 13.7 percent, up from 321 units in 2004 to 365 units in 2005. Additionally, business jet shipments increased by 159 units to a total of 750 airplanes. This is a 26.9 percent increase in shipments over 2004

“Our growth shows that general aviation continues to have a dramatic impact on the way the world does business,” said Bunce.” As the worldwide economy expands and becomes evermore interdependent, general aviation will play an ever increasing role in making business soar.”

GAMA is an international trade association headquartered in Washington, DC representing over 50 of the world's leading manufacturers of general aviation aircraft, engines, avionics and related equipment. GAMA's members also operate fleets of aircraft, fixed based operations, and pilot training and maintenance training facilities. For additional information, visit GAMA’s website at www.GAMA.aero.