Aircraft Engine Market Outlook, 2029

The aircraft engine industry has played a pivotal role in shaping the aviation landscape, propelling humanity into the skies and connecting distant corners of the globe. From the Wright brothers' first powered flight in 1903 to the sophisticated jet engines of today, the evolution of aircraft engines has been marked by groundbreaking innovations, technological advancements, and a relentless pursuit of efficiency, performance, and environmental sustainability. The early days of aviation saw the development of piston engines, which powered the first generation of aircraft. These engines were relatively simple, relying on reciprocating motion to generate power.

The radial engine, characterized by cylinders arranged in a circular pattern around the crankshaft, became a popular choice for aircraft like the iconic World War II-era fighters. The mid-20th century witnessed a paradigm shift with the introduction of jet engines. Sir Frank Whittle and Hans von Ohain independently developed the concept of jet propulsion, leading to the first operational jet engines during World War II. The efficiency and speed of jet engines revolutionized air travel, allowing for faster and more reliable transportation across long distances. As aviation technology progressed, different types of jet engines emerged. Turbojets were the first generation, followed by turbofans.

Turbofans, with their high bypass ratio, became the dominant choice for commercial aviation. These engines strike a balance between speed and fuel efficiency, making them ideal for long-haul flights. The power modern airliners, such as the Boeing 737, Airbus A320, and the larger wide-body aircraft like the Boeing 777 and Airbus A350. Materials science has played a crucial role in the evolution of aircraft engines. High-strength alloys, advanced composites, and lightweight materials have contributed to the development of more efficient and reliable engines.

Cutting-edge manufacturing techniques, such as 3D printing, have allowed for intricate designs that optimize performance and reduce weight. The aircraft engine industry faces the challenge of meeting growing global demand for air travel while minimizing its environmental impact. Manufacturers are investing heavily in research and development to create more fuel-efficient engines with reduced emissions. This includes the development of next-generation engines, such as open-rotor designs and hybrid-electric propulsion systems, which aim to push the boundaries of efficiency and sustainability.

The aircraft engine industry is highly competitive, with major players like General Electric, Rolls-Royce, and Pratt & Whitney leading the way. These companies continually strive to outdo each other in terms of performance, reliability, and environmental sustainability. Additionally, international collaborations often occur, bringing together the expertise of different nations to create cutting-edge technology and drive the industry forward.

According to the research report, 'Global Aircraft Engine Market Outlook, 2029', the market is anticipated to cross USD 135 Billion by 2029, increasing from USD 91.46 Billion in 2023. The market is expected to grow with 6.88% CAGR by 2024-29. As economies grow and global connectivity becomes increasingly important, the demand for air travel continues to rise. More people are flying for both business and leisure purposes, leading to increased demand for new aircraft and, consequently, aircraft engines. Emerging markets, in particular, are witnessing a surge in air travel as more people enter the middle class.

Many airlines are investing in the modernization of their fleets to improve operational efficiency, reduce fuel consumption, and enhance overall performance. Upgrading to newer, more fuel-efficient aircraft with advanced engines allows airlines to cut operating costs and meet stringent environmental regulations. The aerospace industry is continually pushing the boundaries of technology to develop more advanced and efficient aircraft engines. Innovations in materials, design, and manufacturing processes contribute to engines that are lighter, more powerful, and environmentally friendly. The integration of advanced materials, such as composites and alloys, enhances the efficiency and durability of engines.

Stringent environmental regulations are driving the development of greener and more fuel-efficient aircraft engines. Governments and international organizations are imposing emission reduction targets on the aviation industry, pushing manufacturers to invest in technologies that minimize the environmental impact of air travel. This focus on sustainability is encouraging the adoption of electric and hybrid propulsion systems. Fuel efficiency is a critical factor in the aviation industry, both from an economic and environmental perspective. Aircraft engines with improved fuel efficiency help reduce operating costs for airlines and contribute to sustainability goals.

Manufacturers are investing in research and development to create engines that offer better fuel burn rates and overall performance. The development of emerging technologies, such as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and electric aircraft, is creating new opportunities in the aircraft engine market. Electric propulsion systems are gaining attention for their potential to reduce emissions and operational costs. As these technologies mature, they are expected to play a more significant role in shaping the future of the aviation industry.

The defense sector also contributes to the growth of the aircraft engine market, with increased defense budgets in various countries driving investments in military aviation. Advanced engines with features like thrust vectoring and enhanced durability are in demand for military applications. The aircraft engine industry often involves international collaborations and partnerships between manufacturers, suppliers, and research institutions. Shared expertise and resources contribute to the development of cutting-edge technologies and help meet the diverse needs of the global aviation market.

Market Drivers

• Rising Global Air Travel Demand: As economies grow, more people are entering the middle class, leading to an upsurge in air travel for both business and leisure. Airlines are expanding their fleets to accommodate this growing demand, resulting in a higher need for advanced and efficient aircraft engines. The rise in air travel demand stimulates aircraft manufacturers to produce more airplanes, subsequently driving demand for aircraft engines. This increased demand encourages innovation in engine technologies to meet the requirements of modern and fuel-efficient aircraft.
• Technological Advancements and Innovations: Ongoing technological advancements play a crucial role in propelling the aircraft engine market forward. Innovations in materials, design, and manufacturing processes contribute to the development of more powerful, fuel-efficient, and environmentally friendly engines. Manufacturers continually invest in research and development to gain a competitive edge by introducing cutting-edge technologies in their engines. The integration of advanced materials, such as lightweight composites and high-strength alloys, enhances the efficiency and performance of aircraft engines. Technological advancements also address environmental concerns, with a focus on reducing emissions and noise pollution. This constant pursuit of innovation attracts customers looking for state-of-the-art, reliable, and sustainable propulsion systems.

Market Challenges

• Stringent Environmental Regulations: Stringent environmental regulations pose a significant challenge for the aircraft engine market. Governments and international bodies are imposing strict emission standards and noise restrictions to address environmental concerns associated with aviation. Meeting these regulations requires significant investments in research and development to develop engines that are not only more fuel-efficient but also produce lower emissions and noise levels. Manufacturers face the challenge of balancing the need for increased efficiency with environmental sustainability. This challenge has led to the exploration of alternative fuels, hybrid-electric propulsion, and other eco-friendly technologies to comply with environmental standards and remain competitive in the market.
• Global Economic Uncertainties: The aircraft engine market is sensitive to global economic fluctuations. Economic uncertainties, geopolitical tensions, and factors like the COVID-19 pandemic can impact air travel demand and airline profitability. Such uncertainties can lead to delays or cancellations in aircraft orders, affecting the demand for new engines and placing financial pressures on manufacturers. Economic challenges can disrupt the long-term planning of both airlines and aircraft engine manufacturers. The unpredictability of the market can influence investment decisions, research budgets, and production schedules. Companies must navigate these uncertainties by adapting their strategies to the changing economic landscape.

Market Trends

• Transition to Electric and Hybrid Propulsion: As the aviation industry strives to reduce its environmental footprint, there is a growing interest in electric aircraft and hybrid solutions that combine traditional engines with electric motors. This trend is driven by advancements in battery technology and the pursuit of zero-emission flight. The development of electric and hybrid propulsion systems is reshaping the landscape of aircraft engines. While electric propulsion is currently more common in smaller aircraft, ongoing research aims to bring these technologies to larger commercial planes. This trend aligns with the industry's commitment to sustainable aviation and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
• Adoption of Digital Technologies: The aircraft engine industry is witnessing a trend towards the adoption of digital technologies for improved efficiency and maintenance. The integration of data analytics, artificial intelligence, and predictive maintenance systems allows for real-time monitoring of engine performance. This shift towards 'smart' engines enhances reliability, reduces downtime, and optimizes operational costs. The incorporation of digital technologies in aircraft engines is transforming traditional maintenance practices. Predictive analytics can anticipate potential issues, enabling proactive maintenance and minimizing unplanned downtime. This trend aligns with the broader industry movement towards digitization and Industry 4.0 principles.

COVID-19 Impact

The most immediate and severe impact of the pandemic on the aircraft engine industry was the sharp decline in air travel demand. Lockdowns, travel restrictions, and concerns about the spread of the virus led to a global decrease in passenger flights. Airlines scaled back operations, parked or retired aircraft, and deferred maintenance, affecting the utilization and demand for new engines. Many airlines faced unprecedented financial challenges due to the decline in passenger traffic. This led to reduced budgets for capital expenditures, including the purchase of new aircraft and engines. Airlines that were struggling financially canceled or postponed orders for new planes, impacting aircraft engine manufacturers.

The pandemic disrupted global supply chains, affecting the production and delivery of aircraft engines. Manufacturing facilities faced closures or reduced capacity due to lockdowns and health concerns. Delays in the supply chain impacted the ability of aircraft engine manufacturers to meet production schedules, resulting in postponed deliveries to both original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and airlines. Airlines, in an effort to conserve cash, deferred non-essential maintenance activities, including engine overhauls. This decision aimed to extend the operational life of existing engines without incurring additional costs.

While this helped airlines manage short-term financial challenges, it raised concerns about the long-term health and reliability of aircraft engines. The decline in air travel reduced the need for maintenance services on aircraft engines. MRO providers experienced a decrease in demand for engine repairs and overhauls as airlines reduced their fleets or parked aircraft. This downturn in MRO activity had financial implications for companies specializing in engine maintenance. Aircraft engine manufacturers that were in the midst of developing and certifying new engine programs faced challenges. The slowdown in aviation activities affected the testing, certification, and entry into service of new engines. Delays in these processes impacted the planned revenue streams for manufacturers.

The Turbofan Engine segment accounted for the largest share in 2023 and is expected to witness lucrative growth during the forecast period due to the growing demand for commercial jets.

Turbofan engines are known for their superior fuel efficiency compared to other types of aircraft engines, such as turbojets. The design of a turbofan engine includes a large bypass ratio, which means a significant portion of the incoming air bypasses the combustion process, contributing to improved fuel efficiency. This characteristic is crucial for airlines seeking to reduce operational costs, as fuel is a substantial expense in the aviation industry. Turbofan engines provide high thrust and power output, making them suitable for a wide range of aircraft sizes and mission profiles. They are capable of efficiently powering both smaller regional jets and larger wide-body airliners.

The ability to generate substantial thrust allows for better takeoff performance, higher cruising speeds, and improved overall aircraft performance. Turbofan engines are designed to operate at lower noise levels compared to some other engine types, such as pure turbojets. This characteristic aligns with increasing regulatory and community expectations for quieter aircraft operations. Reduced noise pollution is especially critical for airports located in populated areas, and turbofan engines help address these concerns. The high fuel efficiency and thrust capabilities of turbofan engines contribute to the long-range capabilities of modern commercial aircraft.

This is essential for airlines operating on international routes or across large distances. Turbofans enable airlines to offer non-stop flights over extended distances, providing passengers with greater convenience and reducing travel times. Turbofan engines offer versatility, making them suitable for various aircraft types and sizes. From small regional jets to large, long-haul airliners, turbofan engines are adaptable to different operational requirements. This flexibility allows aircraft manufacturers to utilize a standardized engine type across their product lines, streamlining production and maintenance.

The conventional engine segment is anticipated to hold the largest market share owing to the increasing adoption of the conventional engine in current commercial and military aircraft.

The conventional segment is expected to capture a significant market share over the forecast period. A conventional aircraft is also referred as aero engine. It is the major power component for the propulsion system of the aircraft. Majority of the aircraft engines are either piston aircraft engine or a gas turbine aircraft engine. Some of major types of aircraft engines are turboprop aircraft engine, turbofan aircraft engine, turboshaft aircraft engine and piston aircraft engine. The primary participants in the market for conventional aircraft engines are currently the key players in the market for aircraft engines.

However, many new players are bringing in novel developments to provide aircraft engines that give operators more efficiency and are more dependable than the current aircraft engines in response to the growing demand for more functionality from atypical aircraft engines. In the vast majority of airplanes, the engines are either gas turbines or pistons. Turbofan, turboprop, turboshaft, and others are some of the common kinds of aircraft engines. These conventional aircraft engines are used in a broad range of aircraft, including military aircraft, helicopters, wide-body and narrow-body commercial aircraft, and UAVs. As a result, the demand for conventional aircraft engines will increase along with the demand for commercial and defense aircraft in the aviation sector.

The commercial segment is anticipated to be the largest and fastest-growing segment during the aircraft engine market forecast period attributed to increasing demand for the replacement of conventional engines with technologically advanced engines.

Commercial aviation caters to the growing global demand for air travel. As economies expand and more people join the middle class, the demand for passenger air transportation increases. Commercial airlines operate fleets of aircraft that require efficient and reliable engines to meet this rising demand for both domestic and international travel. Commercial airlines continuously invest in expanding and modernizing their fleets to enhance operational efficiency, reduce fuel consumption, and improve overall performance. Fleet expansion and modernization involve procuring new aircraft, and consequently, new aircraft engines.

Airlines often seek the latest engine technologies to remain competitive and meet evolving environmental and regulatory standards. Commercial airlines are highly sensitive to operational costs, and fuel expenses represent a significant portion of their budgets. Aircraft engines, especially those with advanced fuel-efficient technologies like high-bypass turbofan engines, help airlines optimize fuel consumption and reduce operating costs. Fuel efficiency is a critical factor for commercial end users seeking to enhance profitability. Commercial airlines operating long-haul and wide-body aircraft require powerful and efficient engines.

These aircraft are typically used for intercontinental flights, and their engines need to provide sufficient thrust and fuel efficiency for extended journeys. Turbofan engines, with their long-range capabilities and fuel efficiency, are particularly well-suited for these applications. Passenger satisfaction is a crucial consideration for commercial airlines. Modern aircraft engines contribute to a smoother and quieter flying experience, enhancing passenger comfort. Low-noise turbofan engines, in particular, align with the industry's efforts to improve the in-flight experience for passengers. Commercial airlines, as major stakeholders in the aviation industry, have significant market share and influence. Their purchasing decisions can shape the market, impacting which types of engines become standard across different aircraft models.

The preferences of commercial end users can drive trends in engine technology and contribute to the dominance of certain engine types. The demand for narrow-body aircraft is expected to recover faster than for wide-body aircraft as domestic demand is expected to return to pre-pandemic levels earlier than the international passenger demand. Also, the return of the Boeing 737 MAX into service in 2021 has been boosting the demand for narrow-body aircraft. On the other hand, Helicopters are highly versatile and adaptable to a wide range of missions, making them suitable for various military applications.

They can perform roles such as troop transport, medical evacuation, search and rescue, reconnaissance, anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, and close air support. This versatility allows military forces to use helicopters across different operational scenarios, providing flexibility in mission planning. One of the distinctive features of helicopters is their ability to perform vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL). This capability enables helicopters to operate in confined spaces, land in unprepared areas, and hover at low altitudes, making them suitable for missions in challenging and dynamic environments, such as urban warfare or mountainous terrain. Helicopters possess exceptional maneuverability and agility.

Their ability to hover, perform rapid changes in direction, and land in tight spaces provides a tactical advantage in various military scenarios. This agility is particularly valuable in combat situations where quick and precise movements are critical. Many military helicopters are equipped with specialized sensors, sonar systems, and weapons for anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and anti-surface warfare (ASuW). These helicopters can detect and engage submarines or surface vessels, providing naval forces with an important asset for maritime security.

The fixed-wing segment accounted for the largest market share in 2023 and is projected to grow at a significant CAGR during the forecast period.

Fixed-wing aircraft are generally more efficient and faster than their rotary-wing counterparts, such as helicopters. Their design allows for higher cruising speeds and longer ranges, making them well-suited for applications that require rapid transportation over large distances. This efficiency is particularly valuable in commercial aviation, where airlines prioritize time-sensitive travel. Fixed-wing aircraft are designed for sustained and long-distance flight. This capability is crucial for various applications, including commercial air travel, cargo transport, military reconnaissance, and surveillance.

The long-range capabilities of fixed-wing aircraft contribute to their widespread use in both civilian and military sectors. Fixed-wing aircraft generally have higher payload capacities compared to helicopters. This makes them suitable for transporting large numbers of passengers, substantial cargo, or specialized equipment. The ability to carry significant loads is essential for applications such as commercial airliners, cargo transport, and military logistics. Fixed-wing aircraft offer stability during flight and can operate at higher altitudes than helicopters.

This stability is advantageous for various purposes, including aerial surveying, reconnaissance, and surveillance. Fixed-wing aircraft are often preferred for missions that require consistent altitude and endurance. The fixed-wing segment includes a diverse range of aircraft types, each designed for specific applications. This diversity allows fixed-wing aircraft to serve various markets, including commercial aviation, military operations, cargo transport, surveillance, air ambulances, and firefighting. The adaptability of fixed-wing aircraft contributes to their large market share.

Based on the component, the combustion chamber is a crucial component of an aircraft engine as it is part of a larger and interconnected system.

The combustion chamber is where the fuel-air mixture is ignited, resulting in the high-temperature, high-pressure gases that drive the turbine. This process is fundamental to power generation in the engine. The combustion chamber's efficiency directly influences the overall performance and power output of the engine. The efficiency of the combustion process has a direct impact on the fuel efficiency of the engine. Modern aircraft engines strive for optimal fuel combustion to maximize the energy extracted from the fuel and reduce fuel consumption. Advancements in combustion chamber design contribute to increased fuel efficiency, a critical factor in the aviation industry.

The combustion process also determines the level of emissions produced by the engine. Aircraft engines need to comply with strict environmental regulations regarding emissions of pollutants, including nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter. The design of the combustion chamber plays a crucial role in minimizing these emissions, aligning with global efforts for cleaner and more sustainable aviation. The combustion chamber contributes significantly to the overall thermal efficiency of the engine. Modern aircraft engines aim to achieve high thermal efficiency, converting a greater portion of the fuel's energy into useful work.

This is critical for both economic and environmental reasons, as higher thermal efficiency translates to reduced fuel consumption and lower greenhouse gas emissions. The design of the combustion chamber is adaptable to different types of aircraft engines, such as turbojets, turbofans, and turboprops. Each engine type has specific requirements for combustion efficiency, temperature management, and emissions control.

The versatility of combustion chamber design allows it to meet the varied needs of different engine configurations. Ongoing research and development in the field of aviation propulsion often focus on combustion technology. Innovations in combustion chamber design, fuel injection systems, and combustion control systems are areas of active exploration. These innovations contribute to advancements in engine performance, efficiency, and environmental sustainability.

North America is expected to have the largest share in the global market for aircraft engine attributed to the presence of vast aviation sector and key global players, such as GE Aviation and Honeywell International Inc., in the United States.

The increasing technological advancements and the growing investments by the aircraft engine manufacturers to produce light weight compact engines with enhanced fuel efficiency are expected to propel the industry further. In North America, the rise in manufacturing industries and growing aerospace and defense aviation industry is encouraging manufacturers of aircraft engine to introduce technologically advanced and efficient products across various aircraft type. The increasing demand for aircraft engine and the presence of some of the leading players operating in the market, such as General Electric Company, Honeywell International Inc., Collins Aerospace, and Textron Inc. are expected to drive the aircraft engine market in North America.

These players are focusing on R&D to increase their product lines and using technologically advanced systems, subsystems, and other components for manufacturing Aircraft engine. Additionally, the US government is investing in the performance and efficiency of helicopters and their engines, which is anticipated to support market expansion. Additionally, it is anticipated that the market in North America would be driven by increased defense investments in the purchase of fighter jets, military helicopters, single-engine aircraft, and emergency medical services helicopters.

The aircraft engine market is highly consolidated, with a few players dominating the market in the commercial and military aircraft segments. Some of the prominent aircraft engine market players are General Electric Company (through GE Aviation), Raytheon Technologies Corporation (through Pratt & Whitney), Rolls-Royce Holding PLC, Safran SA, and MTU Aero Engines AG. The aforementioned players, along with their joint ventures such as CFM International (GE Aviation and Safran), International Aero Engines (Pratt & Whitney, Japanese Aero Engine Corporation, and MTU Aero Engines), and Engine Alliance (General Electric and Pratt & Whitney), provide engines for major commercial and military aircraft programs.

Despite the decrease in commercial aircraft engine deliveries in 2020 and 2021 consecutively, the remaining performance obligation (RPO) of aircraft engine manufacturers is witnessing an increase due to the increasing aircraft backlog of aircraft OEMs. Also, engine manufacturers are partnering with aircraft manufacturers to develop sustainable aircraft engine solutions that have low weight and reduced engine emissions. In addition to this, due to increasing demand for local manufacturing, regional players are partnering with international players.

For instance, as of March 2022, India's Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) was in talks with Safran for joint development of a 125KN engine for the indigenous fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) (currently under development with the first flight planned for 2024). Such developments are anticipated to help the companies increase their geographical presence over the coming years.

• In February 2022, Safran Helicopter Engines signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with ST Engineering to conduct a study on the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) in helicopter engines. The study aims to assist helicopter operators in switching from conventional fossil fuels to SAF.
• In February 2022, Embraer, Widerøe, and Rolls-Royce entered into a research partnership agreement to conduct a 12-month study and research innovative sustainable technologies for regional planes, focusing on developing a conceptual zero-emissions aircraft.
• In January 2022, Qatar Airways placed an order for GE9X engines as part of its global launch order of up to 50 Boeing 777-8 Freighters. GE Aviation received a commitment from the airline for 30 GE9X engines and four GE90-115B engines for Boeing 777-8 aircraft (34 aircraft firm order with an additional 16 purchase right options).
• In November 2022, with the first flight of a modern aero engine powered by hydrogen, Rolls-Royce and easyJet officially announced they had achieved a new aviation milestone. The ground test was performed using green hydrogen produced by wind and tidal power on a prototype demonstrator. It is a crucial proof point in both Rolls-Royce and easyJet's decarbonization strategies and represents a significant move towards demonstrating that hydrogen could be a zero-carbon aviation fuel in the future.

Considered in this report

• Historic year: 2018
• Base year: 2023
• Estimated year: 2024
• Forecast year: 2029

Aspects covered in this report

• Aircraft Engine market Outlook with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Engine Type

• Turbofan Engine
• Turbojet Engine
• Turboprop Engine
• Turbo-shaft Engine
• Piston Engine

By Technology

• Conventional Engine
• Electric/Hybrid Engine

By End User

• Commercial Aviation
• Military Aviation
• General Aviation

By Commercial Aviation Type

• Narrow Body
• Wide Body
• Business Jet
• Helicopter

By Military Aviation Type

• Fighter Aircraft
• Transport Aircraft
• Military Helicopter

By Platform

• Fixed Wing Aircraft
• Rotary Wing Aircraft
• Unmanned Arial Vehicles (UAV)

By Component

• Fan Blades
• Compressor
• Gas Turbine
• Gear Box
• Combustion Chamber
• Fuel System
• Others

The approach of the report:

This report consists of a combined approach of primary and secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and list the companies that are present in it. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual reports of companies, and government-generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources, primary research was conducted by conducting telephone interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this; we have started making primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting them in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us, we can start verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience

This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations, and organizations related to the Aircraft Engine industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing and presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.


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