Aircraft Arresting System Market - Global Industry Size, Share, Trends Opportunity, and Forecast, 2020-2030F

The Aircraft Arresting System Market was valued at USD 1.48 Billion in 2024, and is expected to reach USD 2.28 Billion by 2030, rising at a CAGR of 7.52%. The global Aircraft Arresting System (AAS) market is experiencing significant growth as the demand for advanced safety mechanisms in aviation rises. With increasing air traffic and the need for efficient takeoff and landing procedures, the market for these systems has expanded. Arresting systems are essential for preventing aircraft overruns and reducing accident risks, especially in cases of emergency landings. The growth of military and defense operations, alongside new aircraft manufacturing, further boosts the market's demand. Technological advancements in arresting gear, such as energy-absorbing materials and automated systems, are also contributing to the sector's rapid development.

Several key drivers are influencing this market, including growing investment in aircraft safety, particularly in the military sector. Military aircraft require more robust and reliable arresting systems to handle high-speed landings on aircraft carriers or short runways. The expansion of military airbases and modernization of defense fleets increase the need for advanced arresting gear. The civil aviation sector, with its constant focus on enhancing safety standards, is also promoting the adoption of these systems. Technological developments, including the integration of automated and AI-driven arresting systems, have enhanced performance and reliability, offering significant growth opportunities in the coming years.

The market faces challenges such as the high installation and maintenance costs of arresting systems, particularly for smaller airports or countries with limited defense budgets. The complexity of system integration with existing aviation infrastructure can also pose significant barriers. However, ongoing innovations in system designs, along with government investments in safety protocols, offer potential solutions to these challenges. As the demand for advanced arresting gear continues to rise, both in the civil and military sectors, the market is expected to see substantial growth in the forecast period from 2026 to 2030.

Market Drivers

Increasing Air Traffic and Aircraft Deployments

The surge in global air traffic, driven by growing economies and rising travel demand, significantly contributes to the need for efficient Aircraft Arresting Systems. Airlines and airports are expanding their fleets, and with this increase in aircraft movements, the risk of overrun accidents has prompted a heightened focus on arresting systems. The need for reliable systems to prevent accidents during takeoff and landing has become critical, pushing the adoption of advanced arresting technologies. In military aviation, the rise in fighter jets and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) also accelerates demand for such systems, ensuring safety even in high-speed operations. Airports and airbases are investing more in infrastructure that can support the safe operation of an expanding aircraft fleet.

Military and Defense Sector Expansion

The growing investments in the defense sector are a primary driver of the Aircraft Arresting System market. Modern military aircraft, particularly those deployed on aircraft carriers or smaller airstrips, require robust and reliable arresting systems to ensure the safety of personnel and equipment. As nations around the world upgrade and expand their military fleets, the demand for arresting systems designed to handle high-speed, high-impact landings has increased. Military operations require systems that can operate in diverse and challenging conditions, further contributing to the development and adoption of advanced arresting technologies. These systems play a critical role in preventing catastrophic accidents during emergency landings or aborted takeoffs, making them indispensable in defense aviation.

Technological Advancements in Aircraft Arresting Systems

Technological advancements in materials and design are propelling the growth of the Aircraft Arresting System market. The development of energy-absorbing materials, automated deployment systems, and artificial intelligence-driven monitoring systems has enhanced the reliability and performance of arresting gear. These innovations not only improve the safety of aircraft during emergency landings but also reduce the wear and tear associated with frequent use. As airports and military bases continue to modernize, the need for high-tech arresting systems that can provide better safety with minimal maintenance is becoming more apparent.

These systems are designed to adapt to the unique demands of various aircraft types, which is expected to drive market growth in the future. For example in June 2024,India and France concluded discussions on the procurement of 26 Rafale Marine fighter jets for the Indian Navy. The project, valued at over ₹50,000 crore, aims to bolster India’s advanced aircraft inventory to 62, including the 36 jets already operational with the Air Force. The jets are planned for deployment on aircraft carriers INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya, with their home base set at INS Degha in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. France had responded to India’s tender for these jets in December last year, accelerating the deal's finalization.

Key Market Challenges

High Installation and Maintenance Cost

One of the major challenges facing the Aircraft Arresting System market is the significant cost of installation and ongoing maintenance. These systems, especially those designed for military applications or large airports, require substantial financial investments. The initial cost of infrastructure, including hardware, installation, and integration with existing systems, can be prohibitive, especially for smaller airports or countries with limited budgets. Additionally, the maintenance of arresting systems requires specialized equipment and skilled personnel, which further adds to the operational expenses. These high costs may limit the adoption of advanced arresting systems, particularly in developing regions or less-equipped facilities.

Complexity of System Integration

Integrating advanced Aircraft Arresting Systems with existing airport or military infrastructure presents a considerable challenge. Many airports and airbases have older infrastructure that may not be easily compatible with the latest arresting technologies. The installation process requires careful coordination to ensure that the system is seamlessly integrated into current operations, minimizing disruptions. In some cases, retrofitting outdated systems with newer, more efficient technologies can be a complicated and expensive process. Ensuring compatibility with various types of aircraft, including new models with different requirements, adds another layer of complexity to integration efforts.

Limited Awareness and Training

The effective deployment of Aircraft Arresting Systems is hindered by a lack of awareness and specialized training. Many aviation professionals and military personnel may not be fully familiar with the technicalities and importance of these systems. Training programs for both civilian and military operators are essential to ensure that arresting systems are used correctly and efficiently during emergency situations. The absence of comprehensive training programs and a lack of understanding of the operational benefits of arresting gear may prevent widespread adoption. Additionally, a shortage of skilled technicians to maintain and repair these systems can further contribute to operational inefficiencies.

Key Market Trends

Adoption of Automated Arresting Systems

One key trend in the Aircraft Arresting System market is the shift towards automation. Automated arresting systems, which utilize advanced sensors and AI-driven technologies, are gaining traction due to their ability to enhance response times and reduce human error. These systems can detect approaching aircraft in real-time and deploy arresting gear without manual intervention, improving safety and efficiency. The increased adoption of automated systems also reduces the need for extensive human monitoring, leading to cost savings and more reliable operations. As aviation authorities and military organizations continue to focus on reducing accidents, the trend toward automation is expected to drive significant market growth.

For instance in September 2024, Curtiss-Wright Corporation was awarded a $26-million contract to modernize the Belgian Air Force's aircraft arresting systems. The agreement included new cable systems, spare parts, repairs, and overhaul services to support future F-35 Lightning II operations. The contract covered main and parallel runways at Florennes, Kleine-Brogel, and Bevauchain bases, ensuring uniform configurations. Curtiss-Wright also supplied its ESCO SmartArrest system, a digital upgrade of the BAK-12 energy absorber, to enhance operational efficiency. Production and sustainment tasks were carried out in Aston, Pennsylvania, and Merpins, France. Belgium anticipated full operational capability of its 34 F-35 Lightning II jets by the 2030s.

Focus on Energy-Absorbing Materials

There is a growing trend toward the use of energy-absorbing materials in Aircraft Arresting Systems to improve their performance and longevity. Modern arresting gear increasingly incorporates advanced materials such as synthetic fabrics, carbon composites, and specially designed polymers that efficiently absorb the kinetic energy of an aircraft during emergency landings. These materials help to minimize the force exerted on the aircraft and enhance the system's durability. The use of energy-absorbing technology not only increases the safety of the arresting system but also reduces maintenance requirements, leading to cost-effective solutions in the long run. This trend is shaping the future development of arresting systems across various aviation sectors.

Integration of IoT and Predictive Maintenance

The integration of the Internet of Things (IoT) and predictive maintenance technologies is another significant trend in the Aircraft Arresting System market. IoT sensors can continuously monitor the condition of arresting systems, providing real-time data on wear and tear, performance issues, and potential failures. This data enables predictive maintenance, where issues can be identified and addressed before they lead to system failure. By optimizing maintenance schedules and reducing downtime, IoT integration helps lower operational costs and extend the lifespan of arresting gear. This trend is becoming increasingly important as airports and military bases seek to enhance operational efficiency and reduce unexpected repairs.

Segmental Insights

End Use Type Insights

The global Aircraft Arresting System market is segmented into three primary end-use types: commercial aircraft, aircraft carriers, and military airbases. Each segment caters to unique needs and operational environments, driving demand for specialized arresting systems. In commercial aviation, arresting systems are primarily designed to ensure safety during emergency landings or aborted takeoffs.

These systems are increasingly integrated into airport infrastructure to handle potential aircraft overruns, reducing the risks associated with runway incidents. Commercial airports utilize arresting systems not only to meet safety standards but also to enhance operational efficiency, particularly in situations involving heavy air traffic or poor weather conditions. The demand in this segment is further driven by the continuous focus on improving safety measures across the aviation industry, particularly in high-traffic airports.

Aircraft carriers, used by naval forces, represent a unique segment with highly specific requirements for arresting systems. These systems are designed to handle the extreme conditions of naval operations, where aircraft must land on short, confined spaces at high speeds. Arresting gear on aircraft carriers is engineered to withstand high-impact forces while ensuring smooth and safe deceleration of aircraft. The systems used on aircraft carriers are crucial for military operations, where precision and reliability are paramount. The arresting systems deployed here must endure harsh environmental conditions, including saltwater exposure and high wind speeds, making them more specialized compared to other applications.

Military airbases also contribute to the Aircraft Arresting System market, where systems are tailored to meet the needs of both fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft. The systems at military airbases are designed to support emergency landings, aborted takeoffs, and operations in challenging environments. Arresting gear at these bases often needs to accommodate a wide range of aircraft types, from fighter jets to transport planes.

The focus in military airbases is on ensuring high-speed, high-impact arresting systems that are reliable and can be used in various conditions, such as during combat missions or in austere environments. These systems often need to be portable and adaptable, as military operations frequently occur in diverse and challenging conditions that require rapid deployment and ease of use. Each of these segments - commercial aircraft, aircraft carriers, and military airbases - drives demand for advanced arresting systems that meet the specific requirements of different aviation applications.

Region Insights

In 2024, North America dominated the global Aircraft Arresting System market, driven by a combination of factors including the presence of advanced aviation infrastructure and substantial investments in military defense. The region's robust aviation industry, consisting of both civil and military sectors, contributed significantly to the demand for sophisticated arresting systems. North America’s airports and military airbases required advanced safety measures to accommodate a wide range of aircraft operations, from commercial flights to military missions. This demand was supported by continuous regulatory updates focused on improving safety standards and enhancing operational efficiency, which further drove the need for effective arresting systems.

Military bases in North America were equipped with some of the most advanced arresting systems, designed to handle high-speed landings of fighter jets, cargo aircraft, and unmanned aerial vehicles. The region's military capabilities and global defense operations contributed to the continuous need for reliable and durable arresting gear. The U.S. military, for instance, had extensive requirements for arresting systems on aircraft carriers and airbases, focusing on safety and rapid deployment in diverse conditions. These systems were critical for ensuring safe operations during high-risk activities, such as emergency landings and aborted takeoffs, which were frequent in combat or high-intensity scenarios.

North America’s commercial aviation sector also drove the demand for aircraft arresting systems, especially in large airports that handled high volumes of air traffic. The increasing focus on safety and risk management in both civilian and commercial airfields led to the widespread adoption of arresting systems to prevent aircraft overruns and other potential accidents. With more advanced systems being integrated into airports’ infrastructure, the region positioned itself at the forefront of arresting system innovations. Furthermore, North America invested in new technologies, such as energy-absorbing materials and automated arresting systems, further fueling market growth.

North America's market dominance in 2024 could also be attributed to the established regulatory frameworks and safety standards set by aviation authorities, which mandated the installation and maintenance of arresting systems at both military and civilian airbases. The region's investments in infrastructure development, alongside a high rate of aircraft manufacturing and defense expenditure, solidified its leading position in the global market for aircraft arresting systems.

Key Market Players

• General Atomics
• Runway Safe Group AB
• Scandinavian Manufacturing SCAMA AB
• The Boeing Company
• Safran SA
• The QinetiQ Group
• Curtiss-Wright Corporation
• Sojitz Aerospace Corporation
• Honeywell International Inc.
• MacTaggart, Scott and Company Limited

Report Scope:

In this report, the Global Aircraft Arresting System Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

Global Aircraft Arresting System Market, By Type:

• Mobile Aircraft Arresting System (MAAS)
• Net Barrier, Cable
• Aircraft Carrier Arresting System
• Engineered Material Arresting System (EMAS)

Global Aircraft Arresting System Market, By Platform Type:

• Ship-based
• Ground-based

Global Aircraft Arresting System Market, By System Type:

• Portable System
• Fixed System

Global Aircraft Arresting System Market, By End Use Type:

• Commercial Aircraft
• Aircraft Carrier
• Military Airbase

Global Aircraft Arresting System Market, By Region:

• North America
• United State
• Canada
• Mexico
• Asia-Pacific
• China
• Japan
• India
• Vietnam
• South Korea
• Australia
• Thailand
• Europe & CIS
• France
• Germany
• Spain
• Italy
• United Kingdom
• South America
• Brazil
• Argentina
• Middle East & Africa
• South Africa
• Saudi Arabia
• UAE
• Turkey

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the Global Aircraft Arresting System Market.

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