The global commercial aircraft windows and windshields market is expected to witness significant growth over the forecast period. Windows and windshields in commercial aircraft are primarily installed for viewing and safety of travelers from external environment purposes. The size of windows varies according to the type of aircraft which requires specific designs for each aircraft. Technological advancement is observed in the market as safety and reliability are chief concerns in manufacturing these products. Manufacturers of commercial aircraft have observed an increase in the number of orders for commercial aircraft offering growth opportunities to the market.
Globally, there is an increase in the demand for air travel, forcing the companies to increase their fleet size. Commercial aircraft manufacturers are forced to improve the design and make it more efficient and economical, leading to the development of lighter windows and windshields. Increases in global air traffic, the comfort of passengers, luxury, enhancing the passenger experience, and safety concerns are the main drivers.
Due to safety concerns the size of the window cannot be reduced beyond a certain size. Fitting new windows in old aircraft are a challenge. New and lighter designs to reduce the overall weight of aircraft and fuel consumption are expected to open new growth opportunities for industry players. Increasing competition in passenger airlines is expected to drive demand for low-cost aircraft carriers. A low-cost product is expected to lower the overall cost of the airplane. Windows and windshield design play an important role in the safety and light design of the aircraft.
The commercial aircraft windows and windshields market is segmented on the basics of aircraft types wide-body aircraft market, regional transport aircraft market, very large aircraft market, and narrow-body aircraft market. Very large aircraft are used for long-distance travel therefore they need smarter windows for safety and better customer experience. On the basis of product, it is segmented as cabin windows and windshields. Further, they are segmented on the basics of fitting- line fitting and refurbishing.
Geographically market is segmented into five regions which consist of North America, Europe, Latin America, Asia Pacific, and Middle East Africa. North America is the largest market for commercial aircraft windows and windshields industry due to the high demand for air travel followed by Europe. However due to technological advancement and high penetration rate North America is showcasing moderate growth. The European countries are facing a slowdown, disposal income is less hence the market growth is expected to have slow growth. In recent years, the economy of European countries is on the lower side hindering the growth of the commercial aircraft windows and windshields market. The Asia Pacific is the fastest-growing market where countries like India, China, and Japan have experienced an increase in air travel demand.
Key players in the commercial aircraft windows and windshields industry are Gentex Corporation, Lee Aerospace, GKN Aerospace, PPG Industries, AIP Aerospace, Kopp Glass Inc., Triumph Group, AJW Aviation, TBM Glass, Nordam Group, and Saint-Gobain Sully.
In December 2007, Gentex Corporation has developed electronically dimmable passenger cabin window shades for Boeing787 Dreamliner to improve customer experience. This technology uses an electrochromic mechanism that controls the amount of light that passes through the cabin using electricity. This allows passengers to control the amount of light transmitted through the window.
In June 2015, GNK aerospace in association with Fokker Technologies introduced a new type of flight glass called Skyview Window. This glass was launched for business class jets which are large in size, sleek, has better clarity, and enhances the viewing experience.
Triumph Group, Inc. entered into an agreement with Vought Aircraft Industries to provide a wide range of aerospace products, including, machine metal parts and fittings, ducting, hydraulic tubing, window assemblies’ insulation, and other section components in support of Vought's workshare on the Boeing 787 aircraft.
Saint-Gobain Sully, manufacturer of door windows and cabins has entered into an agreement with Airbus for the development of superior cockpit, cabin, and door windows. The prime objective of Saint- Gobain sully is to deliver superior quality services along with reducing the cost of ownership.