March 6 (Reuters) - GKN Aerospace owner Melrose

maintained its 2025 outlook on Thursday after reporting higher

annual profit, boosted by demand for aircraft parts due

to robust growth in commercial flying and a recovery in

production rates at top jet makers.

Despite production delays and supply chain issues at top

plane makers Boeing ( BA ) and Airbus, Melrose has

benefited from demand for after-market services as airlines

extend the use of older aircraft to accommodate a growing demand

for flying.

Melrose considers that business to be its most profitable

one.

The British aerospace parts supplier is also targeting

annual revenue growth of high single digits over a five-year

period, with free cash flow generation of 600 million pounds

($773.5 million) in 2029.

"We are well positioned for further progress in 2025,

including the expected delivery of substantial free cash flow,

despite ongoing industry challenges," CEO Peter Dilnot said in a

statement.

Melrose, however, said that its forecasts do not include any

impact from potential tariffs or trade restrictions.

For 2024, its adjusted operating profit from continuing

operations jumped 42% to 540 million pounds, while revenue rose

11% to 3.47 billion pounds.

($1 = 0.7757 pounds)