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The helicopter market size is forecast to increase by USD 18.95 billion at a CAGR of 6% between 2023 and 2028. The market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the increasing demand for technologically advanced helicopters in both the defense sector and commercial applications. In the defense sector, the focus is on developing lightweight and agile attack helicopters with advanced features such as Synthetic Aperture Radar and improved motor batteries for extended operational hours. Meanwhile, in the civil sector, there is a growing demand for lightweight helicopters with efficient engines for use in life-saving transportation services, tourism, and offshore operations. Weather conditions continue to pose challenges, with the need for blades that can withstand thin airflow and external aggression. Additionally, the rising demand for rapid medical assistance and injured people evacuation services is driving innovation in helicopter design and technology.
However, high operational and maintenance costs remain a significant challenge for market growth. Despite these challenges, leading helicopter companies are investing in research and development to address these issues and expand their product offerings.
The global hi-tech helicopters industry is witnessing significant growth due to the increasing demand for helicopters in various sectors such as emergency medical services and law enforcement. Helicopters play a crucial role in providing rapid medical assistance to injured people, making them an essential part of air ambulance services. In the defense sector, military helicopters are used for various missions, including reconnaissance, transport, and combat. Unmanned attack helicopters are also gaining popularity due to their ability to perform dangerous missions with minimal risk to human life. The industry is also witnessing capacity expansion programs and technological advancements, with the integration of hybrid-electric propulsion systems and advanced avionics in helicopters.
Also, VTOL aircraft, with their horizontal rotors providing lift and propulsion, are becoming increasingly popular due to their versatility. The demand for lightweight helicopters is also on the rise due to their fuel efficiency and ease of use in commercial applications, such as business travel and tourism. Traditional surveillance systems are being replaced with hi-tech solutions, offering better accuracy and coverage. The defense budget continues to be a significant driver for the market, with helicopter companies investing in lightweight engines and developing new technologies to meet the evolving needs of their customers. Aerial surveys and industrial applications are also contributing to the growth of the market.
The market research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in "USD billion" for the period 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018-2022 for the following segments.
The civil and commercial segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. The market encompasses both military and commercial segments. Military helicopters are utilized for various missions, including reconnaissance, search and rescue, and troop transportation. These helicopters come in various classes, such as light military helicopters, medium military helicopters, and heavy military helicopters, each designed to cater to specific mission requirements. On the other hand, the commercial segment is experiencing substantial growth due to the increasing demand for helicopters in various applications. In the commercial sector, helicopters are used for diverse purposes, such as air ambulance services, business travel, aerial surveys, aerial photography, and cargo transportation. The demand for helicopters in oil and gas industries is particularly noteworthy, as these companies expand their production activities in deep waters.
Further, helicopters serve as an essential means of transportation for logistics and personnel, making them indispensable in this sector. Moreover, the versatility of helicopters, particularly their vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) capability and horizontal rotors, makes them ideal for accessing remote locations and areas with limited infrastructure. The adoption of helicopters in the commercial sector has been on the rise, driven by their ability to provide efficient and flexible solutions for various applications.
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The Civil and commercial segment accounted for USD 28.89 billion in 2018 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.
North America is estimated to contribute 34% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period. Technavio's analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.
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In the Military segment, the demand for light, medium, and heavy military helicopters is high for various military missions, including transport, VTOL aircraft, and lift. In the Commercial segment, helicopters are extensively used for air ambulance services, business travel, aerial surveys, aerial photography, and cargo transportation. The versatility of helicopters makes them an essential asset in accessing remote locations. The North America region is a significant contributor to the market, with the US and Canada being the major players. The growth in this region is attributed to the large and skilled workforce, extensive distribution system, diverse offerings, and government support.
Moreover, major helicopter manufacturers in the region include Lockheed Martin, Bell Helicopter, Boeing, Robinson Helicopter, and MD Helicopters, who cater to both military and civil applications. Advancements in helicopter technology have led to increased fuel efficiency, making them more economical for various applications. The US leads the market due to its large military presence and the increasing adoption of helicopters for civil applications. The US military is a significant customer for helicopters, and the civil sector is witnessing growth in areas like air medical services and business travel. In conclusion, the market is witnessing significant growth due to the increasing demand for helicopters in various applications, advancements in technology, and government support.
The North America region is expected to lead the market, with the US being the major contributor. Major helicopter manufacturers in the region are catering to both military and civil applications, making it a significant player in The market.
Our researchers analyzed the data with 2023 as the base year, along with the key drivers, trends, and challenges. A holistic analysis of drivers will help companies refine their marketing strategies to gain a competitive advantage.
The rising demand for technologically advanced combat helicopters is the key driver of the market. The market is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing demand for advanced helicopters in various sectors such as Emergency Medical Services (EMS), Law Enforcement, Military, and Unmanned attack helicopters. Engineers are focusing on developing next-generation helicopters that offer enhanced capabilities, including faster speeds, quieter operations, and increased agility. The integration of advanced avionics, hi-tech systems, and hi-tech Helicopters Industry's capacity expansion programs is driving the evolution of helicopter technology. In the realm of EMS and Law Enforcement, helicopters equipped with advanced navigation and guidance systems are revolutionizing operations. Augmented reality (AR) software is being incorporated into user-friendly equipment, enabling easier information gathering and combat operations. Traditional surveillance systems are being replaced with modern, more effective solutions. The military sector is also investing heavily in advanced helicopters, with a focus on fuel-efficient engines and airworthiness directives for improved safety. The development of electric helicopters, e-VTOL aircraft, and urban air mobility is set to further expand the market.
Also, as the helicopter industry continues to evolve, quality checks and adherence to regulations, such as Twin engines and Single engines, remain crucial for ensuring safety and reliability. Helicopter engines are also undergoing advancements, with a shift towards fuel-efficient engines and hybrid-electric propulsion systems. The integration of these technologies is expected to reduce operational costs and minimize environmental impact. The future of the helicopter industry looks promising, with continued innovation and investment in technology.
The rise in demand for electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft is the upcoming trend in the market. The market is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing demand for eVTOL aircraft, particularly in sectors such as Emergency Medical Services and Law Enforcement. EVTOL aircraft, which utilize electric propulsion systems for vertical takeoff and landing, offer numerous advantages, including quiet and emission-free operations, making them ideal for urban environments. These hi-tech helicopters are designed to overcome traffic congestion and offer convenient air taxi services for transportation, emergency services, and aerial logistics. Moreover, the military sector continues to invest in advanced avionics and hybrid-electric propulsion systems for military helicopters and unmanned attack helicopters. Capacity expansion programs and the integration of traditional surveillance systems with hi-tech technologies are also driving market growth.
Moreover, Urban Air Mobility is a burgeoning sector, with the development of vertiports and the production of electric helicters and e-VTOL aircraft gaining momentum. Helicopter engines are being developed to be more fuel-efficient, with an increasing focus on quality checks and adherence to Airworthiness Directives and Twin engines for enhanced safety. Overall, the market is poised for significant advancements, driven by technological innovations and the evolving needs of various industries.
The high operational and maintenance costs of helicopters is a key challenge affecting the market growth. The market encompasses various sectors, including Emergency Medical Services (EMS), Law Enforcement, Military helicopters, Unmanned attack helicopters, and Urban Air Mobility. The Hi-tech Helicopters Industry is witnessing capacity expansion programs and advancements in technology, such as hybrid-electric propulsion systems, advanced avionics, and e-VTOL aircraft.
However, one of the significant challenges hindering market growth is the high operational and maintenance costs. These costs include the expenses for regular inspections, oil changes, and major repairs, such as engine replacements, which can amount to several thousand to tens of thousands of dollars. Furthermore, the cost of storing and maintaining a helicopter, including hangar space and storage fees, can be substantial, particularly for those without personal hangars.
The market forecasting report includes the adoption lifecycle of the market, covering from the innovator's stage to the laggard's stage. It focuses on adoption rates in different regions based on penetration. Furthermore, the report also includes key purchase criteria and drivers of price sensitivity to help companies evaluate and develop their market growth analysis strategies.
Customer Landscape
Companies are implementing various strategies, such as strategic alliances, partnerships, mergers and acquisitions, geographical expansion, and product/service launches, to enhance their presence in the market.
Airbus SE - The company offers helicopters such as H125, military training H135, and Ach145.
The market research and growth report includes detailed analyses of the competitive landscape of the market and information about key companies, including:
Qualitative and quantitative analysis of companies has been conducted to help clients understand the wider business environment as well as the strengths and weaknesses of key market players. Data is qualitatively analyzed to categorize companies as pure play, category-focused, industry-focused, and diversified; it is quantitatively analyzed to categorize companies as dominant, leading, strong, tentative, and weak.
The global hi-tech helicopters industry is witnessing significant growth due to the increasing demand for helicopters in various sectors such as emergency medical services, law enforcement, and military applications. The industry is experiencing capacity expansion programs driven by the need for advanced avionics, hi-tech helicopters, and unmanned systems. The market is segmented into the military and commercial segments. In the military segment, there is a growing demand for light military helicopters, medium military helicopters, and heavy military helicopters for military missions, defense budgets, and homeland security. The commercial segment includes transport helicopters, vtol aircraft, and helicopters used for business travel, aerial surveys, aerial photography, cargo transportation, and air ambulance services.
The industry is focusing on fuel-efficient engines, safety, and performance to meet the demands of various sectors. Helicopter manufacturers are also investing in advanced sensors, artificial intelligence, and big data to improve maintenance schedules and enhance the capabilities of helicopters. The use of electric helicters, e-vtol aircraft, and hybrid-electric propulsion systems is gaining popularity due to their eco-friendliness and efficiency. The aviation industry is also witnessing the development of vertiports for urban air mobility, which is expected to revolutionize transportation in urban areas. The industry is also focusing on quality checks, airworthiness directives, and safety standards to ensure the reliability and durability of helicopters.
Helicopter engines, main rotor systems, tail rotor systems, landing gear systems, and aerostructures are some of the key components and systems that are in high demand in the industry. The industry is also witnessing the development of advanced sensors, auto-pilot systems, weather radar, terrain awareness, and search and rescue capabilities to enhance the versatility and capabilities of helicopters. The industry is expected to continue growing due to the increasing demand for helicopters in various sectors and the ongoing development of advanced technologies.
Market Scope |
|
Report Coverage |
Details |
Page number |
165 |
Base year |
2023 |
Historic period |
2018-2022 |
Forecast period |
2024-2028 |
Growth momentum & CAGR |
Accelerate at a CAGR of 6% |
Market growth 2024-2028 |
USD 18.95 billion |
Market structure |
Fragmented |
YoY growth 2023-2024(%) |
5.45 |
Regional analysis |
North America, Europe, APAC, Middle East and Africa, and South America |
Performing market contribution |
North America at 34% |
Key countries |
US, China, Japan, UK, and Germany |
Competitive landscape |
Leading Companies, Market Positioning of Companies, Competitive Strategies, and Industry Risks |
Key companies profiled |
Airbus SE, Bristow Group Inc., CHC Group LLC, Enstrom Helicopter Crop., Guangzhou EHang Intelligent Technology Co. Ltd., Helicopteres Guimbal S.A.S, Hill Helicopters Ltd., Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd., Kaman Corp., Kawasaki Heavy Industries Ltd., Leonardo Spa, Lockheed Martin Corp., MD Helicopter LLC, Northrop Grumman Corp., Robinson Helicopter Co. Inc., Rostec, Textron Inc., The Boeing Co., Volocopter GmbH, and Joby Aviation Inc. |
Market dynamics |
Parent market analysis, market growth inducers and obstacles, market forecast, fast-growing and slow-growing segment analysis, COVID-19 impact and recovery analysis and future consumer dynamics, market condition analysis for the forecast period |
Customization purview |
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1 Executive Summary
2 Market Landscape
3 Market Sizing
4 Historic Market Size
5 Five Forces Analysis
6 Market Segmentation by Application
7 Market Segmentation by Type
8 Customer Landscape
9 Geographic Landscape
10 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends
11 Vendor Landscape
12 Vendor Analysis
13 Appendix
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