Paris, May 6, 2025 – The French aerospace industry achieved total sales of €77.7 billion in 2024, a 10% increase from 2023, surpassing pre-Covid levels according to data released by the French Aerospace Industries Association (GIFAS).
Civil aeronautics drove 74% of sales at €57.4 billion, supported by higher deliveries. The defense sector grew 13% to €20.3 billion, with export deliveries up 19% and domestic market sales rising 11%. Total orders reached €74.8 billion, a 5% gain, fueled by a 77% surge in defense exports despite a 33% drop in orders from the French Ministry for the Armed Forces and steady civil demand.
Exports accounted for 82% of sales, totaling €51.2 billion. The sector hired 29,000 people, including 6,000 sandwich students, and directly employs 222,000 workers. GIFAS noted that results remain sensitive to nearly 18% cumulative inflation over five years.
GIFAS called for maintaining CORAC funding at €300 million annually through 2027 and supporting sustainable aviation fuels to aid decarbonization and reduce energy dependency.