Aircraft Auxiliary Power Unit Market

Aircraft Auxiliary Power Unit Market

Aircraft Auxiliary Power Unit Market
Report code - SR3029 Published On : Feb,2025 No. of Pages: 120
Aircraft Auxiliary Power Unit Market Size, Share, Trend, Forecast, Competitive Analysis, a See more...

Aircraft Auxiliary Power Unit Market Insights

“The global aircraft auxiliary power unit market size was US$ 3.9 billion in 2024 and is likely to grow at a strong CAGR of 1.9% in the long run to reach US$ 4.9 billion in 2034.”

Aircraft Auxiliary Power Unit Market Size & Forecast

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Introduction

An Aircraft Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) is a critical component installed in an aircraft to provide power for functions other than propulsion. Typically located in the tail section of the aircraft, the APU is a small gas turbine engine that delivers electrical power, compressed air, and hydraulic pressure. APUs play an essential role in modern aviation by supporting ground operations, starting the main engines, and maintaining cabin comfort through air conditioning systems when the main engines are not running. APUs are indispensable for efficient aircraft operations, especially during the pre-flight and post-landing stages.

The primary function of an aircraft APU is to generate power for various onboard systems when the aircraft is on the ground. This includes starting the main engines by providing the necessary compressed air, operating environmental control systems, and powering avionics and electrical systems. In addition to supporting ground operations, APUs can also serve as a backup power source during in-flight emergencies, ensuring the continued operation of critical systems.

Aircraft Auxiliary Power Unit Market Drivers

The aircraft auxiliary power unit (APU) market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the expansion of commercial and military aircraft fleets, the proliferation of low-cost carriers in emerging economies, increased focus on aircraft maintenance and aftermarket services, rising military investments, and the emergence of hybrid and electric aircraft. The shift towards More Electric Aircraft (MEA) designs necessitates advanced auxiliary power units supporting extensive electrical architectures, thereby reducing fuel consumption and emissions. Additionally, the resurgence in global air travel has led to increased aircraft deliveries, further propelling auxiliary power unit demand.

While the market outlook remains positive, certain challenges must be addressed. These include the high costs associated with APU maintenance and the need for compliance with stringent environmental regulations, which require manufacturers to invest heavily in research & development. Despite these challenges, technological advancements present opportunities for innovation. The development of electric and hybrid-electric propulsion systems, for instance, offers the potential for more efficient and sustainable auxiliary power units. Moreover, the expansion of air transport networks, especially in emerging markets, is expected to create new avenues for market growth.

Segments' Analysis

Segmentations

List of Sub-Segments

Segments with High Growth Opportunity

Aircraft-Type Analysis

Commercial Aircraft, Military Aircraft, Regional Aircraft, Business Jet, and Helicopter

Commercial aircraft are expected to be the biggest demand generator in the coming years.

Power Unit Analysis

Below 90 & 90 kVA and Above 90 kVA

Below 90 & 90 kVA are anticipated to be the most attractive categories in the market during the forecast period.

End-User Analysis

OE and Aftermarket

Aftermarket is expected to continue to dominate the market during the forecast period.

Region Analysis

North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Rest of the World

North America is expected to maintain its reign over the forecast period, whereas Asia-Pacific is likely to grow at the fastest rate.

Aircraft Insights

Commercial aircraft are expected to remain the dominant aircraft type in the market during the forecast period.

Based on the type of aircraft, the aircraft auxiliary power unit market is divided into commercial aircraft, military aircraft, regional aircraft, business jet, and helicopter. Commercial aircraft are expected to remain the dominant segment in the aircraft APU market during the forecast period due to rising global air passenger traffic and the expansion of airline fleets, particularly in emerging economies. Airlines are increasingly investing in fleet modernization and operational efficiency, driving the demand for advanced APUs to reduce fuel consumption during ground operations. The growth of low-cost carriers (LCCs) further boosts the adoption of APUs for quick turnaround times.

Additionally, the need for aftermarket services, technological advancements in lightweight and fuel-efficient APUs, and the push for sustainable aviation practices reinforce the importance of APUs in commercial aircraft operations.

Power Unit Insights

Below 90& 90 kVA are expected to be the leading segment in the market during the forecast period.

By power unit type, the aircraft APU market is segmented as below 90 & 90 kVA and above 90 kVA. Most of the narrow-body and regional aircraft, which dominate the global commercial fleet, require APUs with power ratings below 90 kVA. These aircraft are extensively used for short to medium-haul flights, particularly by low-cost carriers. With the rise in short and medium-haul travel, the demand for single-aisle aircraft like the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 families, which typically use below 90 kVA APUs, is increasing rapidly. Besides, the increase in regional connectivity and the upsurge in private airplanes boost the requirement of substantially powered aircraft, hence the call for auxiliary power units in this power class.

End-User Insights

Aftermarket is expected to maintain its market dominance during the forecast period.

Based on end-user type, the market is segmented as OE and aftermarket. The aftermarket segment is expected to dominate the aircraft APU market during the forecast period due to the growing need for maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services driven by the expanding global aircraft fleet. As airlines and defense operators focus on extending the operational lifespan of their aircraft, the demand for APU replacements, retrofitting, and servicing is rising. Increased air traffic and higher aircraft utilization rates further contribute to the frequent servicing and replacement of APUs. The growth of MRO service centers worldwide, particularly in regions like Asia-Pacific and the Middle East, further supports the dominance of the aftermarket segment, catering to the evolving needs of the aviation industry.

Regional Insights

North America is expected to remain the largest market for aircraft auxiliary power units during the forecast period.

In terms of region, North America is expected to remain the largest market for aircraft auxiliary power units during the forecast period due to its advanced aerospace industry and the presence of key players such as Honeywell International Inc. and Pratt & Whitney. The region's focus on continuous innovation and technological advancements ensures that auxiliary power units developed and manufactured here are at the forefront of cutting-edge technology, enhancing their competitiveness in the global market. Recent developments, including the introduction of more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly auxiliary power units, reflect North America's commitment to addressing stringent environmental regulations and meeting the evolving demands of the aviation sector.

Presently, Asia-Pacific is slightly behind in the aircraft auxiliary power unit. However, in the long run, it is poised to experience the highest growth due to ascending air passenger traffic, increasing aircraft deliveries, and developing MRO activities, particularly in China and India. Additionally, government investments in aeronautics infrastructure and expanding low-cost carrier fleets are thrusting demand for efficient APUs.

Aircraft Auxiliary Power Unit Market by Region

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Key Players

The market is fairly consolidated; however, a few major players holding a significant market share.  Most of the major players compete in some of the governing factors, including price, service offerings, regional presence, etc. The following are the key players in the aircraft APU market.

Here is the list of the Top Players (Based on Dominance)

  • Honeywell International Inc.
  • Pratt & Whitney
  • Safran SA
  • TAT Technologies
  • Aerosila
  • PBS Group a.s.
  • Technodinamika (Rostec)
  • Motor Sich JSC
  • Klimov

Note: The above list does not necessarily include all the top players in the market.

Are you the leading player in this market? We would love to include your name. Please write to us at sales@stratviewresearch.com

Recent Developments of Aircraft Auxiliary Power Unit Market

Recent Market JV and Acquisition:

  • In September 2023, Honeywell signed a ten-year deal with Air China’s Aircraft Maintenance & Engineering Corporation (AMECO) for AMECO to gain all-inclusive authorization for auxiliary power unit maintenance for its Air China fleet. In this regard, Honeywell will give technical and material support to AMECO about the 331-500 auxiliary power unit as it serves international and domestic third-party customers.
  • In March 2020, Honeywell International Inc. stated it was to bag a USD 72.8 million contract for constructing the Navy aircraft auxiliary power unit. Among others, this contract involves repair and overhaul services of APRU utilized by the P-3 Orion, C-2 Greyhound, and most types of F/A-18 Hornet.

Report Features

This report provides market intelligence most comprehensively. The report structure has been kept so that it offers maximum business value. It provides critical insights into market dynamics and will enable strategic decision-making for existing market players as well as those willing to enter the market. The following are the key features of the report:

  • Market structure: Overview, industry life cycle analysis, supply chain analysis.
  • Market environment analysis: Growth drivers and constraints, Porter’s five forces analysis, SWOT analysis.
  • Market trend and forecast analysis.
  • Market segment trend and forecast.
  • Competitive landscape and dynamics: Market share, Service portfolio, New Product Launches, etc.
  • COVID-19 impact and its recovery curve.
  • Attractive market segments and associated growth opportunities.
  • Emerging trends.
  • Strategic growth opportunities for the existing and new players.
  • Key success factors.

Market Segmentation

The global aircraft auxiliary power unit market is segmented into the following categories:

By Aircraft Type

  • Commercial Aircraft
  • Military Aircraft
  • Regional Aircraft
  • Business Jet
  • Helicopter

By Power Unit

  • Below 90 & 90 kVA
    • (Aircraft Type Analysis: Commercial Aircraft, Military Aircraft, Regional Aircraft, Business Jet and Helicopter)
    • (Regional Analysis: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Rest of the World)
  • Above 90 kVA
    • (Aircraft Type Analysis: Commercial Aircraft, Military Aircraft, Regional Aircraft, Business Jet and Helicopter)
    • (Regional Analysis: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Rest of the World)

By End-User

  • OE
    • (Aircraft Type Analysis: Commercial Aircraft, Military Aircraft, Regional Aircraft, Business Jet and Helicopter)
    • (Regional Analysis: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Rest of the World)
  • Aftermarket
    • (Aircraft Type Analysis: Commercial Aircraft, Military Aircraft, Regional Aircraft, Business Jet and Helicopter)
    • (Regional Analysis: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Rest of the World)

By Region

  • North America (Country Analysis: The USA, Canada, and Mexico)
  • Europe (Country Analysis: Germany, France, The UK, Russia, and Rest of Europe)
  • Asia-Pacific (Country Analysis: Japan, China, India, and Rest of Asia-Pacific)
  • Rest of the World (Country Analysis: Brazil, Saudi Arabia, and Others)

Research Methodology

This strategic assessment report from Stratview Research provides a comprehensive analysis that reflects today’s aircraft auxiliary power unit market realities and future market possibilities for the forecast period. The report segments and analyzes the market in the most detailed manner in order to provide a panoramic view of the market. The vital data/information provided in the report can play a crucial role for market participants and investors in identifying the low-hanging fruits available in the market and formulating growth strategies to expedite their growth process.

This report offers high-quality insights and is the outcome of a detailed research methodology comprising extensive secondary research, rigorous primary interviews with industry stakeholders, and validation and triangulation with Stratview Research’s internal database and statistical tools. More than 1,000 authenticated secondary sources, such as company annual reports, fact books, press releases, journals, investor presentations, white papers, patents, and articles, have been leveraged to gather the data. We conducted more than 15 detailed primary interviews with market players across the value chain in all four regions and industry experts to obtain both qualitative and quantitative insights.

Customization Options

With this detailed report, Stratview Research offers one of the following free customization options to our respectable clients:

Company Profiling

  • Detailed profiling of additional market players (up to three players)
  • SWOT analysis of key players (up to three players)

Competitive Benchmarking

  • Benchmarking of key players on the following parameters: Service portfolio, geographical reach, regional presence, and strategic alliances

Custom Research: Stratview Research offers custom research services across sectors. In case of any custom research requirement related to market assessment, competitive benchmarking, sourcing and procurement, target screening, and others, please send your inquiry to sales@stratviewresearch.com

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

An Aircraft Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) is a small, self-contained engine installed in an aircraft, primarily designed to generate power for non-propulsion purposes. It provides electrical power, pneumatic pressure, and air conditioning when the main engines are not operational, typically during ground operations, startup, or emergencies. APUs play a critical role in enhancing operational efficiency by reducing the need for external power sources and minimizing fuel consumption by eliminating the need to run the main engines for onboard systems. They are essential for maintaining passenger comfort, starting the main engines, and powering avionics systems.

The forecasted value of the aircraft auxiliary power unit market is expected to reach US$ 4.9 Billion in 2034.

The aircraft auxiliary power unit market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 1.9% by 2034, driven by the demand for energy-efficient and cost-effective solutions besides stringent emission regulation standards and evolution in green and hybrid auxiliary power unit systems.

The aircraft APU market is driven by multiple factors. The rising global air passenger traffic and the expansion of commercial and regional aircraft fleets are key contributors, as APUs are essential for efficient ground operations and passenger comfort. Additionally, the increasing demand for aftermarket services, driven by maintenance, repair, and replacement needs, supports market growth. The defense sector’s rising investments in modernizing military fleets and the development of next-generation aircraft further boost the market. Emerging trends, such as hybrid and electric APUs, aligned with sustainability goals, are expected to shape the future market landscape.

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