Commercial Helicopter Market

Commercial Helicopter Market Size (2022 - 2027):

The Global Commercial Helicopter Market size is expected to reach a valuation of USD 7.02 billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 5.12% during the forecast period 2022-2027.

A commercial helicopter is a type of aircraft used for various purposes, including transportation, construction, emergency services, and aerial photography. Commercial helicopters are typically more extensive and potent than recreational helicopters, designed to carry passengers and cargo long distances. Commercial helicopters are used for many applications, including transporting passengers and cargo between cities and remote locations, performing search and rescue missions, and providing emergency medical services. They are also used in various industries, including oil and gas, mining, forestry, and construction, to transport workers and equipment to remote locations. There are many commercial helicopters, ranging from small, single-engine aircraft to large, multi-engine helicopters that can carry up to 25 passengers. A commercial helicopter's specific design and capabilities will depend on its intended use and the operator's requirements.

Market Drivers:

The usage of commercial helicopters in Search and Rescue (SAR) and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) is growing significantly, which is primarily driving the market growth. Commercial helicopters are often used in these applications because they can reach remote locations quickly and operate in various weather conditions. Additionally, many commercial helicopters are equipped with advanced communications and navigation systems and specialized medical equipment, making them well-suited for use in SAR and EMS operations.

In addition, increasing demand for air transportation is a significant factor contributing to the growth of the commercial helicopter market. As the global population continues to grow and urbanization increases, there is an increasing demand for air transportation to connect people and goods over long distances. This is particularly true in regions with few roads or other transportation options. The demand for commercial helicopters is growing in the oil and gas industry, which is anticipated to result in market growth. The oil and gas industry is a significant commercial helicopter user, transporting workers and equipment to remote locations. Commercial helicopters in this industry are expected to increase as the energy demand grows. In addition, theatrical helicopters' usage to transport tourists has increased in recent years, which is expected to propel market growth.

Furthermore, technological advancements are anticipated to fuel market growth in the coming years. The development of new technologies, such as more powerful and efficient engines, is making commercial helicopters more reliable and cost-effective, helping drive demand for these aircraft. In addition, increasing government initiatives favoring the adoption of commercial helicopters are expected to boost market growth. Governments worldwide are investing in commercial helicopter fleets to improve the efficiency and safety of their transportation systems, particularly in emergency services and military applications. This is helping to drive demand for these aircraft.

Market Restraints:

High upfront costs associated with commercial helicopters are vital factors that hamper market growth. Commercial helicopters are typically more expensive to purchase and operate than other aircraft types, which can be a barrier for some operators. In addition, technological challenges are anticipated to showcase negatively on market growth. Furthermore, regulatory barriers and competition from other transportation modes are predicted to hinder market growth.

Market Opportunities:

Many emerging markets, such as those in Asia and Latin America, are undergoing rapid urbanization and are looking for ways to improve the efficiency and sustainability of their transportation systems. This creates an opportunity for commercial helicopters to be adopted in these markets. There is an opportunity for helicopter manufacturers and operators to partner and collaborate on developing and deploying commercial helicopter solutions. Investment in research and development can help to drive innovation in the commercial helicopter market and enable the development of new technologies and solutions. Governments worldwide are increasingly offering incentives, such as grants and tax breaks, to encourage the adoption of commercial helicopters. This creates an opportunity for helicopter manufacturers and operators to take advantage of these incentives to accelerate the deployment of these aircraft. As consumers become more aware of the benefits of commercial helicopters, such as improved safety and convenience, there is likely to be increasing demand for these aircraft. This creates an opportunity for helicopter manufacturers and operators to meet this demand by offering various commercial helicopter solutions.

Market Key Developments:

• Airbus Helicopters is targeting the utility market with the power upgrade of its H125 helicopter. The certification from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) is likely to be a key factor in the success of this upgrade, as it demonstrates that the upgraded aircraft meets the required safety standards.

COMMERCIAL HELICOPTER MARKET REPORT COVERAGE:

Market Segmentation:

Commercial Helicopter Market – By Type:

• Light
• Medium
• Heavy
• Very large

Based on type, the medium-based segment captured more than 50% of the share of the global commercial helicopter market in 2021. The market for medium-sized commercial helicopters is expected to grow in the coming years, driven by increasing demand for air transportation and the growing use of these aircraft in various industries, such as oil and gas, mining, and forestry. Additionally, the development of new technologies, such as electric and hybrid-electric propulsion systems, is expected to drive demand for these aircraft by making them more efficient and cost-effective.

The heavy segment is predicted to grow at a healthy CAGR during the forecast period.

Commercial Helicopter Market – By Application:

• Oil & Gas
• Medical Services
• Transport
• Law Enforcement & Public Safety
• Others

Based on application, the law enforcement and public safety segment had the largest share of the global commercial helicopter market in 2021. On the other hand, the medical services segment is anticipated to hold a healthy CAGR in the coming years.

Commercial Helicopter Market – By Region:

• North America
• Europe
• Asia-Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East and Africa

Geographically, the European market dominated and captured 34.8% of the global market in 2021. The European commercial helicopter market is expected to be a significant market for these aircraft, driven by the region's well-developed transportation infrastructure and strong demand for air transportation. In addition, the growing demand for air transportation to connect people and goods over long distances, particularly in underserved or remote areas, further promotes the commercial helicopter market in the European region. This is particularly true in the oil and gas industry, where commercial helicopters are commonly used to transport workers and equipment to remote locations. The European market is also expected to benefit from strong government support for the deployment of commercial helicopters, as many regional governments have established programs and initiatives to encourage the adoption of these aircraft. Additionally, the region's strong industrial base is expected to drive demand for commercial helicopters in various sectors, including mining, forestry, and construction.

However, the APAC region is predicted to be the fastest-growing regional market worldwide during the forecast period.

COVID-19 Impact on the Commercial Helicopter Market:

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the commercial helicopter market. The economic downturn caused by the pandemic has led to a decrease in demand for air transportation, which has affected the sales of commercial helicopters. Additionally, the social distancing measures put in place to slow the spread of the virus have led to a decrease in the use of commercial helicopters for tourism and other non-essential purposes. However, the pandemic has also increased demand for commercial helicopters in specific applications, such as emergency medical services and search and rescue operations. Additionally, the need for rapid transportation to remote locations has led to an increase in the use of commercial helicopters in the oil and gas industry and other sectors. Overall, the impact of COVID-19 on the commercial helicopter market has been mixed, with some adverse effects offset by increased demand in specific applications.

Market Key Players:

1. Leonardo S.P.A.
2. Lockheed Martin Corporation
3. MD Helicopters, Inc.
4. Enstrom Helicopter Corp.
5. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited
6. Robinson Helicopter Company
7. Airbus S.A.S.
8. Bell Helicopter Textron Inc.