Textron Aviation’s production of Cessna and Beechcraft aircraft remains constrained by shortages of engines, extrusions, wing spars and auxiliary power units, despite strong demand. Parts availability has recovered to roughly 2021 levels but remains below pre-pandemic conditions. The company is qualifying additional suppliers and bringing more production in-house; a second wing-spar supplier has been approved, with initial parts expected next quarter and fuller benefits anticipated during 2027.
Chief executive Lisa Atherton outlined the remaining constraints during Textron’s third-quarter earnings call. She identified the four components as the principal supply issues limiting how quickly the manufacturer can convert orders into deliveries. Textron Aviation has also been increasing its own production of parts, although the company has not detailed the expected impact of that work.
In the quarter, the business delivered 51 jets, compared with 42 a year earlier, while commercial turboprop deliveries fell to 32 from 39. Aviation revenue rose 14% year on year to $1.68 billion, supported by higher aircraft and aftermarket sales. The segment’s backlog stood at $8.0 billion at the end of September.