The global aircraft ground support equipment market size is anticipated to reach a value of USD 9,351.7 million in 2024. It is slated to register a CAGR of 7% through the assessment period 2024 to 2034. It is estimated to clock a revenue of USD 18,316.2 million by 2034. This growth will likely lead to an expansion of 1.9x in sales by 2034.
The increasing need for a smooth and safe functioning of aircraft after landing and prior to takeoff is projected to create a rising demand for ground support equipment (GSE). It is set to be required for a wide range of ground tasks, including aircraft repair, service, and loading.
| Attributes | Description |
|---|---|
| Estimated Aircraft Ground Support Equipment Market Value (2024E) | USD 9,351.7 million |
| Projected Aircraft Ground Support Equipment Market Size (2034F) | USD 18,316.2 million |
| Value-based CAGR (2024 to 2034) | 7% |
The aircraft ground support equipment market registered an impressive year-on-year growth of 6.8% in 2023. Development of aviation infrastructure across the globe, increasing air traffic and cargo transportation, and technological innovations in ground support equipment are a few of the factors driving demand.
With the rising number of passengers worldwide, the demand for aircraft ground support equipment will likely increase in the next ten years. According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), overall passenger numbers are set to reach 3.7 billion in 2022 as compared to 2.1 billion registered in 2020.
Airports are continuously making significant improvements to increase their operating efficiency and decrease turnaround time. As ground support equipment plays a key role in enhancing the speed of operations, it is being extensively employed across airports worldwide.
Increasing spending on the defense sector by governments is further fueling sales of ground support equipment. The introduction of electric and hybrid equipment is positively impacting the growth rate.
Aviation’s commitment to creating a sustainable environment is improving the adoption of this type of equipment. Key manufacturers are using innovative strategies to stay relevant in the industry. The booming tourism industry along with the easy availability of rental services will likely strengthen airport ground support equipment demand during the forecast period.
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The annual growth rates of the global aircraft ground support equipment market from 2024 to 2034 are illustrated in the table below. Starting with the base year 2023 and going up to the present year 2024, the report examines how the growth trajectory changes from the first half of the year, i.e. January through June (H1) to the second half consisting of July through December (H2).
This gives stakeholders a comprehensive picture of the market’s performance over time and insights into potential future developments.
The figures provided below show the growth of the industry for each half-year between 2023 and 2024. It was projected to increase at a CAGR of 6.4% in the first half (H1) of 2023. However, in the second half (H2), there is a noticeable surge in the growth rate, which moves up to 7.2%.
| Particular | Value CAGR |
|---|---|
| H1 | 6.4% (2023 to 2033) |
| H2 | 7.2% (2023 to 2033) |
| H1 | 6.7% (2024 to 2034) |
| H2 | 7.3% (2024 to 2034) |
Moving into the subsequent period, from H1 2024 to H2 2024, the CAGR is projected to slightly drop to 6.7% in the first half and rise considerably to 7.3% in the second half. In the first half (H1), the market saw an increase of 30 BPS while in the second half (H2), there was a slight surge of 10 BPS.
Emergence of Telematics and Electric GSE Creates New Growth Avenues
The aircraft ground support equipment market is being driven mainly by the rapid development of airport infrastructure and the rising number of passengers worldwide. The industry is witnessing innovations in technology, such as the emergence of electric and hybrid GSE, telematics, autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles, and data-driven maintenance and monitoring systems.
These innovations are set to help improve the efficiency, sustainability, and performance of GSE, augmenting growth.
The primary requirement for airport ground transportation is to provide travelers with a convenient and effective way to reach their destinations. Taxis, limousines, ride-sharing services, shuttle buses, and public transportation are all examples of several forms of transportation. Demand for these services is determined by factors, such as individuals arriving and departing, the airport's proximity to the city center, and the availability of good transportation infrastructure.
Deployment of Firefighters and Rescue Staff to Surge across Airports
Airports are required to maintain a high level of emergency response preparedness. This includes having qualified rescue and firefighting staff on hand to respond to catastrophes, such as plane crashes, fires, hazardous material spills, and medical emergencies.
Demand for rescue staff and firefighters is set to be influenced by operational factors, such as the types of aircraft operating at the airport, the presence of hazardous materials, and the complexity of the airport layout. Airports with a significant presence of large commercial aircraft, cargo operations, or high-risk activities are anticipated to require a broad firefighting workforce.
Airport modernization is an ongoing activity pushed by increased traveler volume as well as the requirement for high safety and operational standards. With an increasing number of individuals traveling each year, airport authorities must keep up by investing in infrastructure that meets their demands. This includes both improving the passenger experience and ensuring operational efficiency.
Extended Service Life and Longevity to Negatively Impact Replacement Cycles
Ground support equipment (GSE) is an essential part of the aviation business as it is used to maintain airplanes and assure their safety during take-off and landing. However, as technology has innovated and maintenance practices have improved, the need for GSE replacement has reduced radically. Several firms choose to keep their existing equipment for longer periods, and extended replacement cycles have become a prominent trend.
Long-term investment decisions have played an important role in extending the life of GSE. Rather than quickly replacing outdated or malfunctioning equipment, key firms are investing in maintenance programs that extend the life of their existing assets. Regular inspection and testing, preventive maintenance, and upgrades to improve efficiency and dependability are all part of these programs.
Principal Consultant
The aircraft ground support equipment market experienced steady growth during the historical period. It was boosted by increasing demand for air travel and augmentation of the aviation industry. The market witnessed a CAGR of 4.4% over the historical period of 2019 to 2023.
Rising passenger and cargo volumes were significant factors contributing to high demand in the industry. As airports handled high volumes of aircraft, the demand for GSE to support ground operations, baggage handling, and aircraft maintenance increased.
In the forecast period of 2024 to 2034, the industry is set to rise at a significant CAGR of 7%. The introduction of innovative and specialized GSE vehicles and equipment is a key factor augmenting demand. However, the operation of these specialized vehicles and equipment requires skilled personnel, and this can hamper growth in emerging economies.
The field of aircraft ground support equipment is also projected to witness changes as airports and airlines invest in new, highly efficient, and technologically innovative equipment. Regions experiencing a high demand for air travel and focusing on developments in the aviation industry are set to witness rapid growth.
Tier 1 companies include key leaders with annual revenues exceeding USD 100 million. These companies are currently capturing a significant share of 30% to 35% globally. These frontrunners are characterized by high production capacity and a wide product portfolio.
They are distinguished by extensive expertise in manufacturing and a broad geographical reach, underpinned by a robust consumer base. These firms provide a wide range of products and utilize the latest technology to meet regulatory standards.
Prominent companies within Tier 1 include China International Marine Containers (Group) Co., Ltd, Textron GSE, JBT AeroTech, Trepel Airport Equipment, Weihai Guangtai Airport Equipment Co., Ltd., Vestergaard, Goldhofer, and Bliss-Fox among others.
Tier 2 includes most of the mid-sized companies with low revenues, operating at the regional level and serving large-scale vendors. These companies are notably oriented toward fulfilling regional demands.
They are medium-sized players and have limited geographical reach. Tier 2, within this context, is recognized as an unorganized segment, denoting a sector characterized by a lack of extensive structure and technological innovations when compared to organized competitors.
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The section covers the analysis of the aircraft ground support equipment industry in different countries. Demand analysis of key countries in several regions of the globe, including North America, Asia Pacific, Europe, and others is provided. The United States is anticipated to remain at the forefront in North America, with a value share of 62.9% in 2034. In South Asia, India is projected to witness a CAGR of 8.5% through 2034.
| Countries | CAGR 2024 to 2034 |
|---|---|
| India | 8.5% |
| China | 7.5% |
| Qatar | 7.4% |
| United States | 7.3% |
| Germany | 7% |
The aviation industry in the United States is well-established with the government spending massive amounts on the maintenance and expansion of airport infrastructure as well as the military aviation industry. There are more than 19,000 airports in the country. Hence, the need for ground support equipment is estimated to skyrocket across these airports to modernize their existing infrastructure.
Increasing demand for electric and hybrid ground support equipment along with rising passenger traffic is driving the United States. According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, the United States airlines carried 607% more scheduled service passengers in May 2021 than in May 2020.
There is huge pressure on airport authorities and ground support equipment manufacturers to reduce emissions. As a result, sales of electric equipment are set to surge in the United States.
Civil aviation is one of the most rapidly growing industries in China. Owing to increasing sales of aircraft and the rising number of passengers, the country is anticipated to be an opportunistic field for ground support equipment manufacturers.
China’s dominance in East Asia is mainly attributed to increasing warehouse operations across airports and the presence of a well-established aviation industry. According to the Civil Aviation Administration of China, the total passenger volume showcased a 74.9% year-on-year increase in 2021.
The ground support equipment market in India will likely exhibit a steady growth rate during the forecast period. This can be attributed to the emergence of several low-cost airlines like Air India Express and Akasa Air.
On January 19, 2021, the Airport Authority of India (AAI) signed a concession agreement with the Adani Group for three airports- Jaipur, Guwahati, and Thiruvananthapuram. Several international ground support equipment companies have shown a keen interest in the country’s aviation industry since it holds great promise for potential investors. Similar government collaborations and growth initiatives are anticipated to create new opportunities in India.
The section examines the growth trajectories of the leading segments. In terms of equipment type, the airport service segment will likely dominate and exhibit a CAGR of around 7.3% in 2024.
Based on power, the electric segment is projected to account for a share of 37.9% in 2024. The analysis would enable potential clients to make effective business decisions for investment purposes.
| Segment | Airport Service (Equipment Type) |
|---|---|
| Value CAGR (2024 to 2034) | 7.3% |
Based on equipment type, the aircraft service segment is projected to dominate, showcasing around 7.3% CAGR through 2034. As airports broaden and modernize to accommodate increasing passenger and cargo volumes, there is a rising demand for unique ground support services to manage the growing complexity of airport operations.
Enhanced facilities and infrastructure necessitate efficient and reliable GSE maintenance and support to ensure seamless airport functionality.
Innovations in GSE technology, such as automated systems and eco-friendly equipment, require specialized services to maintain optimal performance. The focus on improving operational efficiency and reducing turnaround times further drives the need for expert airport services.
As airports continue to evolve and face high operational demands, the importance of dedicated ground support services will likely remain central, ensuring smooth and effective management of airport operations.
| Segment | Electric (Power) |
|---|---|
| Value Share (2024) | 37.9% |
Demand for electric ground support equipment is increasing across the globe. This is because of their several beneficial features, such as low idle time, reduced starts or stops, high-end torque, and long necessary ranges.
In June 2024, for instance, DHL Express, headquartered in Bonn, declared that it is planning to electrify one in three of its ground handling loaders and tractors at Brussels Airport. The company has deployed around 13 pushbacks, belly loaders, and electric container lifts as well as 11 electric tractors into operation at the airport.
Similarly, in July 2024, Aviator Airport Alliance, based in Sweden, started providing training sessions to GSE suppliers to enable the workshop personnel to operate electric equipment in all types of conditions. By 2026, the company plans to become carbon-neutral in terms of operations.
Since 2019, it has successfully cut down on around 50% of carbon dioxide emissions. Similar ambitious targets set up by key companies are estimated to push demand for electric GSE through 2034.
The global market is highly consolidated with the presence of a few companies holding significant shares. It is projected to witness the entry of several medium and small-scale companies. These are further anticipated to utilize the flexibility of leasing their equipment to airports for ground support, which is a key trend in emerging economies.
The industry also houses several original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) that are focusing on signing contracts and agreements with prominent airlines worldwide. They strive to offer superior-quality service to these airlines to make their operations smoother than ever.
Industry Updates
In terms of equipment type, the industry is segregated into passenger services, cargo loading, and airport service. Passenger service is segregated into boarding steps and stairs, airport buses and transport, and bed/chair lifts. Cargo loading is divided into container loaders, belt loaders, cargo transporters, and cargo dollies. Lastly, airport service is segmented into refuelers, tractors, towbarless pushback, ground power units, air start units, lavatory service vehicles, de/anti-icing vehicles, and rescue and firefighting.
Non-electric, electric, and hybrid are the key power segments.
Commercial and defense are the two main applications.
Owned GSE, leased GSE, and rental GSE are the key ownerships.
Regions considered in the study are North America, Latin America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, East Asia, South Asia, and the Middle East and Africa.
It was valued at USD 8,809.8 million in 2023.
It is set to reach USD 9,351.7 million in 2024.
It is anticipated to rise at 7% CAGR through 2034.
It is anticipated to reach USD 18,316.2 million by 2034.
China International Marine Containers (Group) Co., Ltd, Textron GSE, and JBT AeroTech are the key manufacturers.
It plays a key role in catering services, waste tank drainage, aircraft refueling, and cabin services.
Tugs and tractors are the most important equipment.
It provides service to the aircraft between flights.
1. Executive Summary 2. Industry Introduction, including Taxonomy and Market Definition 3. Market Trends and Success Factors, including Macro-Economic Factors, Market Dynamics, and Recent Industry Developments 4. Global Market Demand Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, including Historical Analysis and Future Projections 5. Pricing Analysis 6. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034 6.1. Equipment Type 6.2. Power 6.3. Application 6.4. Ownership 7. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Equipment Type 7.1. Passenger Services 7.1.1. Boarding Steps & Stairs 7.1.2. Airport Buses & Transport 7.1.3. Bed/Chair Lifts 7.2. Cargo Loading 7.2.1. Container Loader 7.2.2. Belt Loaders 7.2.3. Cargo Transporter 7.2.4. Cargo Dollies 7.3. Airport Service 7.3.1. Refuelers 7.3.2. Tractors 7.3.3. Towbarless Pushback 7.3.4. Ground Power Value (USD Million) & Volume (Unit) 7.3.5. Air Start Value (USD Million) & Volume (Unit) 7.3.6. Lavatory Service Vehicle 7.3.7. De/anti-icing Vehicle 7.3.8. Rescue & Firefighting 7.3.9. Others 8. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Power 8.1. Non-Electric 8.2. Electric 8.3. Hybrid 9. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Application 9.1. Commercial 9.2. Defense 10. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Ownership 10.1. Owned GSE 10.2. Leased GSE 10.3. Rental GSE 11. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Region 11.1. North America 11.2. Latin America 11.3. Western Europe 11.4. South Asia 11.5. East Asia 11.6. Eastern Europe 11.7. Middle East & Africa 12. North America Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries 13. Latin America Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries 14. Western Europe Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries 15. South Asia Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries 16. East Asia Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries 17. Eastern Europe Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries 18. Middle East & Africa Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Segments and Countries 19. Sales Forecast 2024 to 2034 by Equipment Type, Power, Application, and Ownership for 30 Countries 20. Competition Outlook, including Market Structure Analysis, Company Share Analysis by Key Players, and Competition Dashboard 21. Company Profile 21.1. JBT AeroTech 21.2. Textron GSE 21.3. Charlatte Manutention 21.4. Tronair (Eagle brand only) 21.5. Kalmar Motor AB 21.6. Mulag 21.7. Weihai Guangtai Airport Equipment Co. Ltd 21.8. Mallaghan 21.9. China International Marine Containers (Group) Co., Ltd. 21.10. Cavotec SA 21.11. TLD 21.12. Goldhofer 21.13. Tiger 21.14. Trepel Airport Equipment 21.15. Vestergaard Company 21.16. Global Ground Support 21.17. Wollard International 21.18. Bliss-Fox 21.19. Guinault (air starts only) 21.20. Toyota
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Aircraft Ground Support Equipment Market
