Record aircraft backlog tops 16,000 as May orders soar
July 2, 2025
Aircraft manufacturers have seen their order books swell to an all-time high, with a record 16,073 aircraft now on backlog – the first time the figure has exceeded 16,000.
The milestone comes amid a sharp year-on-year increase in orders, according to new data from ADS, the UK’s aerospace trade association.
Backlog grows
In May 2025, 303 new commercial aircraft orders were placed, nearly 10 times higher than the 31 recorded in May last year, and the highest total for the month in the past 10 years.
Deliveries also picked up pace, with 98 aircraft handed over in May, representing a more than 25% increase compared to the same month in 2024.
The backlog, valued at an estimated £251 billion to the UK economy, is expected to sustain over 15 years’ worth of work for the domestic aerospace supply chain.
As demand accelerates and airlines refresh or grow their fleets, manufacturers and suppliers are now focused on scaling up production.
Production ramp-up
Aimie Stone, chief economist at ADS, said: “May’s aircraft data reveals growing momentum in global demand. 16,000 aircraft on backlog order marks a significant moment for the sector but now is the time for industry to work hard to support production ramp-up and fully seize this opportunity that this symbolic milestone represents.
“Although the relaxation of tariffs for aerospace parts and the recent Industrial Strategy provide clarity to the sector, ongoing trade uncertainties – stemming from unresolved agreements between the US and other countries – continue to challenge the global aerospace industry.
“Despite remaining resilient, further details and support from policymakers will be crucial in giving the industry the tools needed to meet rising production demands.”
