https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/aircraft-communication-system-market-102541
https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/aircraft-communication-system-market-102541
Aircraft Communication System Market
Size, Trends, Insights and Forecast, 2024–
2032
According to Fortune Business Insights™, the global aircraft communication system
market was valued at USD 17.12 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 33.52 billion
by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 8.8% during the forecast period. Market growth is driven by
the rising demand for secure, efficient, and real-time communication between aircraft and
ground control, along with rapid advancements in satellite-based communication, software-
defined radios (SDR), and high-speed data link technologies.
Market Overview
The aircraft communication system (ACARS) integrates audio systems, communication
radios, tuning units, cockpit voice recorders (CVRs), antennas, and static dischargers to
ensure seamless air-to-ground and in-flight cabin communication. Growing air traffic, strict
safety requirements, and the increasing use of satellite-based navigation and wireless
communication systems are boosting adoption across both commercial and defense
aviation.
Additionally, the commercialization of drones (UAVs) presents lucrative opportunities. For
instance, in April 2019, Honeywell International Inc. extended a contract with OJets to
provide in-flight connectivity services for business aircraft, highlighting rising demand in the
UAV segment.
https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/aircraft-communication-system-market-102541
Market Growth Drivers
1. Increasing Aviation Traffic and Safety Needs
With global aviation traffic rising, airlines and defense operators are prioritizing modern
communication solutions to enhance air traffic management, situational awareness, and
collision avoidance. Advanced systems play a key role in long-range voice and data
transmission, ensuring safer and more efficient flight operations.
2. Technological Advancements
Companies are heavily investing in SATCOM, VHF/HF radios, SDRs, and broadband data
connectivity. For example, Airborne Wireless Network (AWN) is developing an airborne
wireless broadband system aimed at providing cost-effective, high-speed connectivity to
aircraft in-flight.
Information Source:
https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/aircraft-communication-system-market-102541
Key Market Segments
By Component – Antennas Lead the Market
Antennas dominate the market owing to their critical role in wireless aviation
communication.
Innovative products like the AV-17 RAMI (air-to-ground communication) and AV-529
RAMI (broadband in-flight connectivity) are driving adoption.
Transponders are also witnessing demand, particularly with ADS-B-enabled
solutions such as uAvionix’s tailBeaconX, which supports modern surveillance
requirements.
By System – Radio Communication Dominates
Radio communication is the largest and fastest-growing segment, supported by
widespread deployment of VHF and HF transceivers in commercial and defense
aircraft.
Other systems include passenger address, interphone communication, and cockpit
voice recorders (CVRs).
CVRs are gaining traction due to updated ICAO and FAA regulations, including
the 2023 FAA proposal mandating 25-hour cockpit recording capacity.
By Connectivity – SATCOM Shows Fastest Growth
SATCOM leads the market, driven by increasing demand for in-flight satellite voice
and data services.
SDR technology is enabling flexible frequency management and efficiency
improvements.
VHF/UHF/L Band connectivity continues to expand for line-of-sight operations and
broadcasting.
By Fit Type – Line Fit Leads Due to UAV Deliveries
Line fit dominates due to increasing deliveries of UAVs and new-generation
aircraft equipped with advanced radios and antennas.
Retrofit demand is also rising, as airlines upgrade fleets with 5G-compatible
communication systems.
By Platform – Fixed-Wing Aircraft Hold Largest Share
Fixed-wing aircraft, led by Boeing and Airbus deliveries, account for the largest
market share.
Rotary-wing platforms are seeing growth in defense and commercial applications,
particularly for surveillance and reconnaissance missions.
UAV adoption continues to expand across defense, logistics, and security
applications.
Regional Insights
North America – Valued at USD 5.26 billion in 2024, the region remains dominant,
supported by advanced aerospace R&D, UAV adoption, and the presence of leading
defense contractors.
Asia Pacific – Poised for strong growth, led by China’s rising demand for over 7,000
passenger aircraft by 2037 and the growing adoption of UAVs and 3D-printed
antennas.
Europe – Expected to grow rapidly, driven by military UAV investments and the
adoption of GPS-based antennas for SAR (Search and Rescue) operations.
Middle East & Africa / Latin America – Growth supported by helicopter use in oil &
gas exploration and expanding regional commercial aviation markets.
Competitive Landscape
The market is fragmented and competitive, with leading companies focusing on strategic
contracts, acquisitions, and product innovation.
Key Players Include:
Cobham Plc (U.K.)
General Dynamics Corporation (U.S.)
Thales Group (France)
Harris Corporation (U.S.)
United Technologies Company (U.S.)
Honeywell International Inc. (U.S.)
Iridium Communications Inc. (U.S.)
l3harris technologies (U.S.)
Lockheed Martin Corporation (U.S.)
Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation (U.S.)
Raytheon Company (U.S.)
Rohde & Schwarz GmbH & Co KG (Germany)
Viasat, Inc. (U.S.)
Key Industry Developments
April 2024 – BAE Systems received a USD 459 million U.S. DoD contract for hardware
components, repair services, and technical support for the AN/ARC-231/A Multi-
mode Aviation Radio Suite.
April 2024 – The SAOC announced plans to deploy a modified commercial derivative
aircraft with a modular open system architecture, integrating secure communication,
planning features, and advanced ground support infrastructure.