Ground Support Equipment Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Type (Non-Electric, Electric), By Application, By Ownership (Airport Owned, Leased), By End Use (Commercial, Defense), By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2024 - 2030

Ground Support Equipment Market Trends

The global ground support equipment market size was estimated at USD 5.78 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.0% from 2024 to 2030. The rise in air travel worldwide has led to increased demand for ground handling services, including baggage handling, catering, and aircraft cleaning. New airport construction and expansion projects are creating demand for new ground support equipment (GSE) equipment. As airports expand, modernize, and increase their capacity, there is a corresponding need for additional and upgraded GSE to support the increased operations, creating significant growth opportunities for the market.

The market growth is being further proliferated by technological developments, including the integration of automation and robotics into GSE to improve efficiency. Moreover, the introduction of electric and hybrid GSE vehicles driven by environmental concerns and operational cost savings is also favoring the market expansion. For instance, in May 2024, Swissport introduced a new set of electric vehicles at Geneva and Basel airports. These new vehicles, electric vans, and a mix of electric ground power units are aimed at helping Swissport in its target to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Furthermore, advancements in technology and the focus on improving efficiency and safety have driven the development of innovative ground support solutions. Investments in security systems and screening equipment require specialized GSE for handling and transporting baggage and cargo. Besides, the growing emphasis on sustainability and environmental responsibility has also influenced the market, with a focus on developing eco-friendly GSE equipment. These factors collectively contribute to the robust growth of the market.

The market is witnessing high demand in the defense sector. The efficient movement and maintenance of military aircraft requires a wide range of GSE, including cargo handling equipment, refueling systems, and maintenance platforms. Moreover, GSE plays a crucial role in security operations, such as baggage screening, cargo inspection, and counterterrorism measures. In addition, these solutions are essential for deploying military aircraft to remote locations and for providing support during operations, which is positively influencing the market outlook.      

Type Insights

The non-electric segment accounted for the largest revenue share of around 54.0% in 2023 as this GSE type continues to play a crucial role, particularly in regions or airports where infrastructure for electric GSE is not yet fully developed. Non-electric GSE, which comprises diesel and gasoline-powered equipment, is still preferred for its reliability and ability to operate in extreme conditions, where electric alternatives may face limitations. Moreover, the cost-effectiveness of non-electric GSE, in terms of initial investment and operational costs, makes it an attractive option for many airports and airlines, especially in developing markets.       

The electric segment is expected to record the fastest CAGR of over 8.0% from 2024 to 2030 with increasing emphasis on sustainability and environmental responsibility within the aviation industry. Airports and airlines are under growing pressure to reduce their carbon footprints, and electric GSE offers a cleaner alternative to traditional fuel-powered equipment, significantly lowering emissions and noise pollution. Moreover, advancements in battery technology have made electric GSE more efficient and viable for continuous use in busy airport environments, which is expected to create lucrative growth opportunities for the segment in the coming years.   

Application Insights

The aircraft handling segment accounted for the largest revenue share in 2023 as global air traffic continues to increase, there is a rising demand for efficient and reliable ground support operations to ensure smooth aircraft movements on the ground. Aircraft handling includes critical activities such as towing, marshaling, and pushback, which are essential for the timely and safe movement of aircraft between terminals and runways. Moreover, the expansion of airport infrastructure and introduction of new aircraft types require specialized handling equipment, contributing to the rising demand for GSE in aircraft handling applications, contributing to segmental growth. 

The cargo handling segment is expected to record the fastest CAGR from 2024 to 2030 on account of rising demand for faster and more efficient logistics, urging airlines and airports to enhance their cargo handling capabilities, requiring advanced GSE such as cargo loaders, belt loaders, and cargo tractors. Moreover, the growing global trade and e-commerce sectors, which have led to an increased volume of air cargo, are also creating ample growth opportunities for the segment. The ongoing modernization of airports, particularly in emerging markets, and the increasing emphasis on automation in cargo handling processes are also contributing factors for segment growth.     

Ownership Insights

The airport owned segment accounted for the largest revenue share in 2023. Airports are increasingly investing in their GSE to maintain tighter control over operations and ensure consistent service quality. By owning the equipment, airports can directly manage the maintenance, deployment, and upgrades, leading to improved efficiency and reduced downtime. The trend is particularly prominent in larger airports that handle high volumes of traffic and require a more streamlined and reliable ground operation. Moreover, as airports expand and modernize to accommodate growing passenger and cargo traffic, the need for a well-maintained and readily available fleet of GSE becomes critical, further driving the segmental growth.      

The leased segment is expected to record the fastest CAGR from 2024 to 2030 within the market. The growth is attributed to the increasing inclination for leasing GSE due to its flexibility and cost-effectiveness, particularly for smaller airports and airlines that may not have the capital to invest in expensive equipment outright. Leasing allows these entities to access the latest technology without the burden of ownership, including maintenance and depreciation costs. In addition, leasing can include comprehensive maintenance and support services, ensuring that the equipment remains operationally efficient with minimal downtime. Such advantages associated with this ownership arrangement are expected to accelerate the segment growth in the coming years.    

End Use Insights

The commercial segment accounted for the highest revenue share in 2023. The segment is poised for significant growth in the coming years with the expansion of commercial aviation, driven by increasing global air travel, growth of low-cost carriers, and ongoing airport infrastructure developments. Airports are investing in modern and efficient GSE to enhance their operational efficiency, manage increased passenger traffic, and comply with stringent environmental regulations. The rise in the number of commercial flights and the expansion of airline fleets also contribute to the growing demand for GSE, creating growth opportunities for the segment.

The defense segment is expected to record a notable CAGR from 2024 to 2030. The growth is credited to the continuous modernization of military airbases and the procurement of advanced military aircraft. Governments are investing in state-of-the-art GSE to support complex military operations, ensuring that their air forces are well-equipped for both peacetime and combat scenarios. Furthermore, the increasing focus on enhancing national security and defense capabilities has led to higher defense spending, which includes upgrading and expanding GSE for military use.

Regional Insights

The ground support equipment market in North America accounted for the largest revenue share of around 33.0% in 2023, owing to higher demand for GSE driven by the presence of a robust aviation industry in the region, coupled with increasing air traffic. Moreover, the focus on airport modernization and infrastructure development has created opportunities for the deployment of new and advanced GSE solutions. In addition, the growing emphasis on safety, efficiency, and sustainability has driven the adoption of innovative GSE technologies. These factors, combined with the region's economic stability, are contributing to the regional market growth.

U.S. Ground Support Equipment Market Trends

The U.S. ground support equipment market is estimated to witness a significant growth rate from 2024 to 2030 as the increasing volume of air traffic, driven by both domestic and international travel, is impelling the demand for GSE. Moreover, advancements in technology, such as the use of electric and hybrid vehicles, are further contributing to the market growth.

Asia Pacific Ground Support Equipment Market Trends

The ground support equipment market in Asia Pacific is expected to record the fastest growth rate of nearly 9.0% from 2024 to 2030 owing to rising demand for GSE driven by the region's rapid economic development and expansion of aviation infrastructure. Increasing air traffic, fueled by rising disposable incomes and growing tourism, has necessitated the need for efficient ground handling operations. In addition, the focus on infrastructure development and modernization in many Asian countries has created opportunities for GSE providers. Furthermore, the growing number of low-cost carriers and regional airlines is further stimulating the demand for GSE solutions, further proliferating market growth.  

Europe Ground Support Equipment Market Trends  

The ground support equipment market in Europe accounted for a notable revenue share of in 2023 as airports are increasingly investing in upgrading their infrastructure to accommodate the growing volume of air traffic, driven by the rise in both passenger numbers and cargo transport. Furthermore, stringent environmental regulations pushing airports and airlines to adopt more eco-friendly ground support equipment, such as electric and hybrid GSE, which is further driving the market growth.      

Key Ground Support Equipment Company Insights

Some key players operating in the market include TLD Group, Toyota Material Handling, Inc., Oshkosh Aerotech LLC, Weihai Guangtai Airport Equipment Co., Ltd., Textron Inc., and TREPEL Airport Equipment GmbH, among others.

• TLD Group provides a complete range of ground support equipment which are operational at several airports. It offers its customers, including airlines, airports, cargo airlines, ground handlers, and military organizations with well-designed equipment and after-sales support. The company focuses on providing environmentally friendly and sustainable GSE solutions.

• Oshkosh Aerotech LLC provides aviation ground support products, gate equipment, and airport services. The company’s products and services are used by airports, airlines, and cargo companies to move people, cargo, and aircraft. Its products include ground support for aircraft towing, deicing, and cargo loading; gate equipment for aircraft power, passenger boarding, and cooling; and airport services for the maintenance of airport facilities, equipment, and systems.

• Weihai Guangtai Airport Equipment Co., Ltd is engaged in research and development, and manufacturing of ground equipment, fire alarm equipment, fire vehicles and equipment, military equipment, unmanned aircrafts, and specialty vehicles. Its products include pallet loaders, alternating current (AC) power buses, towing tractors, jet start units, aircraft deicers, refuellers, handicapped vehicles, passenger boarding stairs, baggage conveyor belts, and catering trucks among others.   

• TREPEL Airport Equipment GmbH delivers ground support equipment that caters to modern airports. The company offers cargo loaders, conventional aircraft tractors capable of handling all commercial as well as military aircraft, and a towbar less aircraft tractor, delivering improved aircraft towing through more safety and comfort.   

Recent Developments

• In August 2024, TLD Group announced the opening of its first manufacturing facility in India in collaboration with Millennium Aero Dynamics Private Limited and the Maini Group. This facility has been built to manufacture ground support equipment is are Leaner & Greener for Indian as well as export markets, representing the company’s strong environmental commitment.   

• In July 2024, Mallaghan signed an agreement to deliver 85 catering trucks to CATRION, an aircraft catering company over the next four years and to be used by the latter at airports across Saudi Arabia. This move comes as a part of its comprehensive in-flight catering strategy aimed at providing enhanced customer experience while ensuring sustainability and operational efficiency.

• In May 2024, Oshkosh Aerotech LLC acquired AUSACORP S.L., a privately held company manufacturing wheeled dumpers, telehandlers, and rough terrain forklifts for the construction, material handling, agriculture, landscape, and specialty equipment industries. Under this deal, the latter is expected to become a part of the Oshkosh Access segment.    

Ground Support Equipment Market Report Scope

Global Ground Support Equipment Market Report Segmentation

This report forecasts and estimates revenue growth at the global, regional, and country levels along with analyzes the latest market trends and opportunities in each one of the sub-segments from 2018 to 2030. For this study, Grand View Research has further segmented the global ground support equipment market report based on type, application, ownership, end use, and region:

• Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Non-Electric

  • Electric

  • Hybrid

• Application Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Aircraft Handling

  • Passenger Handling

  • Cargo Handling

• Ownership Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Airport Owned

  • Airline Owned

  • Service Provider

  • Leased

• End Use Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Commercial

  • Defense

• Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030) 

  • North America

    • U.S.

    • Canada

    • Mexico

  • Europe

    • Germany

    • UK

    • France

  • Asia Pacific

    • Japan

    • China

    • India

    • South Korea

    • Australia

  • Latin America

    • Brazil

  • Middle East and Africa (MEA)

    • UAE

    • Saudi Arabia

    • South Africa