Training and Workforce
Workforce and Supply Chain Remain Stubborn Challenges
State of the Industry briefing portrayed a thriving market
Dassault Martignas facility

General aviation is posting record billings and riding a multiyear surge in demand, but the sector’s ability to sustain that momentum depends on solving two persistent problems: a shrinking skilled workforce and a supply chain that remains more fragile than anyone would like. That was the central message from GAMA president and CEO James Viola and a panel of senior industry executives at the association’s 2026 State of the Industry press conference on February 18 in Washington, D.C.

“The industry feels very healthy,” said Ron Draper, president and CEO of Textron Aviation as well as GAMA chairman, who noted that strong sales and healthy backlogs are the norm across OEMs. “There’s a lot of customers turning to our types of products for different needs in their businesses.”

Loading…