Aircraft Electricals Drive Market Size, Share, Industry Analysis, By Aircraft Type (Commercial Aircraft, Military Aircraft, Helicopters, and UAVs), By Component (Electric Motor, Power Electronics & Controllers, and Others), By System Application (Flight Control Actuations, Landing Gear Systems, Utility & Environmental Systems, Engine Systems, and Others), By Power Rating (Micro Drives (Below 100W), Low Power (100W - 1kW), Medium Power (1-10kW), and Others, By End Users (OEMs, MROs, and Aircraft Operators), By Installation (Line fit and Retrofit), and Regional Forecast, 2025-2032

The global aircraft electricals drive market size was valued at USD 3.72 billion in 2024. It is projected to grow from USD 3.94 billion in 2025 to USD 5.39 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.6% during the forecast period. North America dominated the global market with a share of 31.99% in 2024.

Aircraft electrical drive is a range of electric-motor-driven system components used in new-age aircraft. To perform numerous functions and mechatronic functions. These functions were previously operated by mechanical, pneumatic, and modern hydraulic systems; however, with the emergence of more electric and electric aircraft, components such as actuators, motors, converters, and inverters are readily being used in the aircraft. Aircraft electrical drive is used in various applications such as in-flight control, landing gears, cargo doors, and thrust, environmental control systems. Electrical drive plays a major role in reducing leaks, enabling motion control with precision, and providing aid in regular aircraft operations. Aircraft electrical systems have to maintain appropriate airworthiness aviation standards for thermal management, and power density, making it a technologically intensive component in the aircraft.

The growth in the aircraft electrical market is due to the drive of the global aviation industry toward hybrid-electric and more-electric aircraft. Growing emphasis on fuel saving, system integration and automation, and emission control has led many OEMs to replace traditional electrical units to be replaced by technologically advanced and equipped electrical drives. Additionally, the growth of urban Air Mobility (UAM) and electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) is leading to a growth in compact, efficient, and electrically propelled aircraft, thereby leading to the growth of aircraft electrical drives. Key market players such as Safran, Moog, and Honeywell Aerospace are leading market growth due to advancements in aircraft electrical systems and electrical drives. This growth is further fueled by the growing demand for electric aircraft, leading to sustainable aviation technologies in the forthcoming years, thereby leading to substantial market growth.

Market Dynamics

Market Drivers

Transition to More Electric Aircraft (MEA) to Boost Market Growth

A major driver in the growth of the aircraft electrical drive market is a major transition toward more electric aircraft (MEA) and electric/hybrid propulsion aircraft. These aircraft aim to reduce emissions and improve fuel efficiency. Conventional aircraft heavily relied on pneumatic and hydraulic systems to power landing gears, actuators, and other mechanical subsystems. Traditional systems thereby added weight, risked leakage, and also required complex maintenance. In contrast, electrical drives comprise lightweight components such as actuators, motors, and controllers, which are also easier to maintain and monitor.

The growing demand for UAM and eVTOL aircraft is further accentuating demand for compact and high-power electrical drives. With a rise in electric propulsion, the platforms highly depend on electric propulsion and flight control systems, thereby making electric propulsion supporting components vital.

With a rise in emission regulations, the adoption of lightweight, technologically advanced, and emissions-reducing components is expected to drive a boom, due to stricter regulations around carbon emissions to fulfil net-zero goals. Therefore, the adoption of more electric systems is expected to increase in the forthcoming years and become a standard across various future aviation platforms.

Market Restraints

Power Density and Thermal Management to Limit Market Growth

Despite numerous reasons for high growth, the market is expected to witness challenges in growth due to high thermal loads and management of power density in high-performance, compact environments. Aircraft electrical drives in high-voltage and rugged areas of the aircraft, such as the landing gear, require higher torque, power electronics, and lightweight motors to deliver performance under extreme conditions. Thus, due to overheating of these systems could cause a hindrance in the operations.

Furthermore, high-voltage distribution systems, primarily found in more electric aircraft pose additional risk of electromagnetic interference (EMI) and partial discharge leading to damaged insulation. Unless advances are made in effective cooling technology, the operational issues will limit the scalability of electrical drives.

Market Opportunities

Retrofitting of Older Aircraft with Electric Drive System to Fuel  Market Growth Opportunities

A key opportunity in the market is with retrofitting legacy aircraft platforms equipped with advanced systems. While newer aircraft are being designed with more-electric architectures, the pre-existing fleet globally includes a higher portion of serviceable aircraft, relying heavily on pneumatics and conventional power sources. Retrofitting older aircraft with electric drive systems is indeed a significant growth opportunity for the aircraft electrical drive market, as it allows for the modernization of existing fleets and the potential reduction of emissions and operating costs. This trend is driven by increasing demand for sustainable aviation solutions and the advancements in electric propulsion technologies.

Retrofitting older aircraft with electric or hybrid-electric propulsion systems allows airlines to modernize their fleets and reduce their environmental footprint without the high cost of purchasing new aircraft. This trend creates substantial growth opportunities for companies involved in electric propulsion systems, including electric motor manufacturers, battery technology providers, and system integrators.

Aircraft Electrical Drive Market Trends

Adoption of High-Voltage DC (HVDC) Power Distribution Framework to Amplify Product Demand

A transition from traditional 115V AC & 28V DC power systems to HVDCs with a range of up to 1,000V DC is shaping the trend for high voltage power distribution systems in the market. With a rise in production and development of more electric aircraft, flight actuators, and increased focus on environment control, there’s a surge in demand for high power density. Thus, such density can be provided better with HVDC electrical systems.

An HVDC comprises electrical drives, actuators, and motors that generate and circulate power through high-voltage buses, thereby reducing the need for a heavy step-down transformer. High voltage DC helps with light wiring, improves thermal resistance, reduces electromagnetic interference (EMI), and therefore is ideal for high-intensity flight operations.

Currently, the F-35 Lightning II aircraft uses a 270V DC power bus that the upcoming more electric aircraft (MEA) are expected to use in the forthcoming years. This enables an integration of high-power electric actuators and motors in applications such as landing gear, aircraft environment control (HVAC), and others. Additionally, with a rise in wide-bandgap semiconductors such as GaN and SiC that support high-efficiency power conversion for high voltage switching frequencies, the market is expected to bolster growth in the forecast period.

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SEGMENTATION ANALYSIS

By Aircraft Type

Advancements In Electrical Systems Propelled by Technological Advancements to Fuel Growth in Commercial Aircraft Segment

By aircraft type, the market is divided into commercial aircraft, military aircraft, helicopters, and UAVs. Commercial aircraft are further divided into narrow body, wide body, regional jets, and business jets. Military aircraft are further divided into fighter jets, military transport aircraft, and military trainer aircraft. Helicopters are further bifurcated into military helicopters and commercial helicopters. UAVs are further segmented into commercial UAVs and military UAVs.

The commercial aircraft segment accounted for a dominating market share and is expected to grow at a significant CAGR in the forthcoming years. The need for greater fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and lower operating costs primarily drives the increasing adoption of electrical drives in commercial aircraft. This shift toward electrification is further fueled by advancements in electrical systems, including higher voltage systems and more efficient power generation and distribution. Electrical systems, particularly in hybrid-electric and all-electric aircraft, can significantly reduce fuel consumption compared to traditional systems. By reducing fuel burn, electrical systems contribute to lower greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with growing environmental regulations and sustainability initiatives. The development of hybrid-electric propulsion systems, which combine electric motors with traditional engines, allows for optimized power usage and further fuel savings.

The UAVs segment is expected to grow at the highest CAGR in the forecast period. Advances in battery technology, such as higher energy density and faster charging capabilities, have made electric propulsion more practical for UAVs. The miniaturization of electronic components and advancements in control systems have enabled the development of more sophisticated and efficient electric propulsion systems for UAVs. Integration with artificial intelligence and autonomous flight control systems enhances the capabilities of electric-powered UAVs, allowing for more complex missions and operations.

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By Component

Increasing Demand for More Fuel-Efficient, Eco-Friendly Aircraft Led to Dominance of Electric Motor Segment

By component, the market is divided into electric motor, power electronics & controllers, and mechanical transmission components.

The electric motor segment accounted for a dominating market share in 2024. A shift toward more electric aircraft (MEA) and the development of hybrid-electric and fully electric aircraft is a major driver for demand for electric motor components. Increasing demand for more fuel-efficient, eco-friendly aircraft, technological advancements in electric propulsion, and government regulations focused on reducing emissions are expected to bolster market growth further in the forthcoming years. Additionally, developments in electric motor design, energy storage (such as lithium-ion batteries), and power electronics are making electric propulsion systems more viable and efficient.

The mechanical transmission components segment is expected to grow at the highest CAGR in the forecast period. Mechanical transmission components include actuators and conductors, which are used in electrical systems for multiple functions in modern aircraft. Mechanical transmission components are essential for transferring power from the engine to these electrical systems, such as generators and auxiliary power units. Furthermore, an increase in investments in military and defense aviation also contributes to the growth of the market.

By System Application

High Demand for Advanced Electrical Systems to Drive Power Generation & Distribution Segmental Growth

By system application, the market is divided into flight control actuations, landing gear systems, utility & environmental systems, engine systems, cabin systems, and power generation & distribution.

The power generation & distribution segment dominated the market in 2024 and is expected to grow at a significant CAGR in the forthcoming years. The growth in air travel demands more sophisticated power distribution systems to handle the increasing number of flights. Aircraft modernization programs and the replacement of older fleets are also contributing to the demand for advanced electrical systems. The expansion of the commercial aviation industry, particularly in regions with growing air travel, is further driving the market.

The flight control actuations segment is expected to grow at the highest CAGR in the forecast period. The increasing demand for more efficient, reliable, and safer aircraft is the primary driver for the growth of flight control actuation applications in the aircraft electrical drives market, particularly with the adoption of fly-by-wire systems. This shift is fueled by the advantages fly-by-wire offers, including enhanced performance, improved safety features including envelope protection and reduced weight compared to traditional hydraulic systems, thereby leading to high market growth.

By Power Rating

Emergence of Fully Electric and Hybrid Electric Aircraft Led to Medium Power Segment’s Dominance

By power rating, the market is divided into micro drives (below 100W), low power (100W - 1kW), medium power (1-10kW), high power (10kW - 100kW), and very high power (above 100kW).

The medium power (1-10Kw) segment dominated the global market in 2024 and is expected to grow at a significant CAGR in the forecast period. Electric propulsion technologies are gaining traction for both fully electric and hybrid-electric aircraft. These technologies offer potential benefits such as reduced emissions, improved fuel burn, and lower noise levels. Development of fault-tolerant systems is crucial for ensuring reliability in electric aircraft, and these systems are often implemented at the component level, including electric drives within the 1-10kW range. Modern control techniques, such as direct torque control (DTC) and model predictive control (MPC), are being implemented to optimize the performance of electric drives.

The very high power (above 100Kw) segment is estimated to grow at the second-highest rate during the forecast period. Increasing demand for more electric aircraft (MEA) and the need for higher power density in aircraft systems are key drivers for the growth of very high power (above 100kW) electrical drives in the aircraft market. This trend is fueled by the desire to reduce fuel consumption, lower emissions, and improve overall aircraft performance. Modern aircraft incorporate numerous electrical systems, including cabin air conditioning, entertainment systems, and advanced avionics. These systems, along with the electrification of previously mechanical or hydraulic components, are increasing the overall power requirements of aircraft. High-power electrical drives are needed to meet these growing demands and ensure reliable operation.

By End-User

Increase in Aircraft Production and Procurement Led to Growth for OEM Segment

The market is segmented into OEMs, MROs, and aircraft operators.

The OEMs segment accounted for a dominating market share in 2024 and is expected to grow at the highest CAGR in the forthcoming years. The expanding commercial aviation industry, driven by a growing number of air passengers, necessitates the production of new aircraft, boosting demand for OEM components such as electrical drives. Stringent environmental regulations and rising fuel costs are pushing manufacturers to adopt more electric systems, leading to greater fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. Additionally, innovations in electric power plants and the development of more electric aircraft (MEA) are further driving the adoption of electric drives.

The MROs segment is expected to grow at a significant CAGR in the forthcoming years. The growth of the MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) end-user segment in the aircraft electrical drive market is primarily driven by the increasing number of aircraft in operation, the rising demand for air travel, and the trend toward more complex, electrically driven systems in modern aircraft. This growth is further fueled by the need to maintain airworthiness standards, comply with safety regulations, and extend the operational lifespan of aging aircraft fleets.

By Installation

Retrofit Segment Dominated Market Growth Due to Modernization, Cost-Effectiveness, and Sustainability Initiatives

By installation, the market is divided into line fit and retrofit.

The retrofit segment dominated the global aircraft electricals drive market growth in 2024. Primarily driven by the need for modernization, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability initiatives, the market is expected to grow at a substantial rate. Retrofitting allows airlines to upgrade existing aircraft with newer and more efficient electrical systems without the expense of purchasing entirely new planes. This includes incorporating advanced technologies for power generation, distribution, and management, as well as improved electrical components.

The line fit segment is estimated to grow at the highest rate during the forecast period. Line-fit installations allow for the integration of safety features such as lightning protection systems and the implementation of energy-efficient electrical systems, aligning with both safety regulations and environmental concerns. As aviation embraces electrification and digitalization, line-fit installations allow for the seamless integration of new technologies such as electric and hybrid propulsion systems, advanced power management, and IoT and AI-driven systems.

Aircraft Electricals Drive Market Regional Outlook

By region, the market is studied into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and the rest of the World.

North America

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North America accounts for the dominant region in the market, accounting for the largest aircraft electricals drive market share in 2024. North America, particularly the U.S., is growing rapidly due to the rise in aircraft modernization and an increase in demand for more electric and hybrid electric aircraft. Additionally, the prevalence of major market players such as Honeywell Aerospace and Moog, Inc. is leading to higher demand, fueling the growth of the region in the market.

Europe

Europe is the second-dominant region in terms of market share in 2024. The growth in this region is attributed to significant growth in the aircraft electrical drive market due to a combination of factors, including stringent environmental regulations, a strong aerospace industry focused on innovation, and increasing investments in sustainable aviation technology. The region's commitment to net-zero carbon emissions and the development of "more electric aircraft" are key drivers.

Asia Pacific

The Asia Pacific region is witnessing the highest CAGR in the market during the forecast period. Governments across the Asia Pacific region are investing heavily in airport infrastructure, including runways, terminals, and air traffic control systems, to support the growing air traffic. Governments are also implementing policies and regulations that encourage the development and adoption of electric aircraft technologies.

Rest of the World

The rest of the world is anticipated to witness moderate growth during the forecast period. The Middle East, Africa, and Latin America are experiencing growth in the aircraft electrical drive market due to a combination of factors, including increased investment in aerospace infrastructure, rising air travel demand, and a focus on advanced technologies for enhanced safety and efficiency.

Competitive Landscape

Key Market Players

Leading Players Are Focusing on Integrating Advanced Technologies for More Electric Aircraft (MEA)

The aircraft electrical drive market is experiencing intense competition among major players, including both established aerospace companies and emerging startups focused on electrification. Key trends include a shift toward more electric aircraft (MEA) and electric propulsion, driven by sustainability goals, rising fuel costs, and technological advancements in electrical systems.

The market is characterized by intense competition, with players constantly striving to gain market share through product innovation, strategic partnerships, and cost optimization. Government regulations and policies also play a significant role in shaping the competitive landscape.

LIST OF KEY AIRCRAFT ELECTRICALS DRIVE COMPANIES PROFILED

• Honeywell International Inc. (U.S.)
• Safran Group (France)
• Raytheon Technologies Corporation (U.S.)
• Thales Group (France)
• GE Aviation (U.S.)
• Moog Inc. (U.S.)
• Eaton Corporation (Ireland)
• Meggitt PLC (U.K.)
• Parker Hannifin Corporation (U.S.)
• Liebherr Aerospace (France)

KEY INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENTS

• January 2025- OMV partnered with Airbus to sign a memorandum of understanding to advance the decarbonization of the aviation industry via the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). The partnership aimed at supporting the reduction of CO2 emissions in the aviation sector, with sustainable aviation fuel playing a pivotal role in achieving the goal of net carbon neutrality by 2050.
• January 2025- Honeywell Aerospace and NXP Semiconductors N.V. unveiled a partnership at CES 2025 to accelerate aviation product development and chart the path for autonomous flight.
• November 2024- Safran Electrical & Power and Safran Ventilation Systems renewed the distribution partnership contract with China Aviation Supplies Co., Ltd, an aircraft parts distributor and maintenance services provider that will allow both Safran companies to continue expanding their spares and equipment footprint and availability across mainland China.
• June 2023: Volocopter, a major company operating in Urban Air Mobility (UAM), and Safran Electrical & Power, one of the world's leaders in aircraft electrical systems, unveiled an agreement signifying their intention to collaborate on developing a next-generation power train for electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.
• September 2021- Rolls-Royce, a global pioneer in aircraft electrical drives and components, unveiled an all-electric aircraft. The plane took to the skies propelled by its powerful 400kW (500+hp) electric powertrain with the most power-dense battery pack ever assembled for an aircraft.

REPORT COVERAGE

The report provides a detailed analysis of the market and focuses on important aspects, such as key players, products, applications, and platforms, depending on various countries. Moreover, it offers deep insights into the market trends, competitive landscape, market competition, pricing of aircraft electrical drives, market status, and highlights key industry developments. In addition, it encompasses several direct and indirect factors that have contributed to the global market growth in recent years.

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Report Scope & Segmentation