The 14.5 percent year-over-year increase in first-quarter airplane shipments and accompanying 10.5 percent rise in their combined values recently reported by GAMA “makes it appear the general aviation industry is on fire,” said industry analyst Brian Foley. “However, a more detailed view reveals pockets of strength and weakness.”

Turboprop deliveries rose a modest 7 percent, from 115 to 123 units, thanks to “a pop in Textron Aviation’s King Air and Caravan sales,” said Foley. “Turboprops will soon become an interesting and high-growth segment to watch over the next couple of years as Textron introduces the Denali and SkyCourier.” While the latter will displace some Caravan sales, he said the effects of the two new aircraft will still be additive.

Meanwhile, business jet deliveries increased by just nine units, from 132 to 141. “Business jets are still relatively flat for the moment but should gain momentum as new products continue to hit the market such as the Gulfstream G500/600, Bombardier Global 7500, Dassault Falcon 6X and Cessna Citation Longitude,” he said. “Incremental improvement should continue over time and until it is again tested during the next U.S. economic downturn.”