Aircraft Interface Device Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Application (Flight tracking, Quick Access Recording, Aircraft Condition Monitoring System (ACMS), DVR and Video Streaming, and Others), By Aircraft Type (Fixed Wing and Rotary Wing), By Connectivity (Wired and Wireless), and Regional Forecast, 2024-2032

The global aircraft interface device market size was valued at USD 34.14 million in 2023 and is projected to grow from USD 41.19 million in 2024 to USD 75.52 million by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 7.9% over the forecast period.

An Aircraft Interface Device (AID) is a hardware system that allows communication between an Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) and an aircraft data bus.  AID allows information about the aircraft's position and speed to be obtained from its avionics by registering to the ARINC 717 and ARINC 429 data buses. This device offers certain features, such as automatic update of flight planning and weather information updates on the flight.

Modern aircraft interface devices not only act as an instant data processing tool, but also enable efficient data communication with ground support operators, e.g. maintenance personnel and coordinators, to help make better decisions. The AID hardware platform broadly supports energy efficiency, improves flight performance & safety, and facilitates predictive aircraft maintenance. The main applications of the aircraft interface device include quick access recording, aircraft health monitoring, and flight tracking. Hence, broad applications and increasing aircraft fleet across the globe will drive the market during the forecast period. The market report states that the global market declined by nearly 33% in 2020 due to travel restrictions and reduced passenger air traffic. This scenario reduced the demand for aircraft maintenance and manufacturing. The pandemic caused a significant reduction in air travel, causing a ripple effect in the aviation industry, including crew management systems.

Aircraft Interface Device Market Trends

Rise in Adoption of Big Data Analytics and Real-time Data for Aviation Authorities to be Latest Industry Trend

There is a rise in the demand for real time data as airlines, airports, and aviation authorities are increasingly using big data analytics to process vast amounts of data collected from various sources. This data includes information about flights, weather conditions, air traffic, and so on. AIDs are hardware devices installed on aircraft that collect such data. They interface with onboard avionics systems, such as Flight Management System (FMS), engines, and different sensors. They continuously gather data on aircraft performance, engine health, navigation, and more to provide vital information for further analysis. Fully connected airlines on the ground and in the air can use these real time aviation analytics to improve the overall operational efficiency of their aircraft.

AID also streamlines the real-time aircraft data for crew and maintenance staff, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and reducing maintenance and unscheduled downtime. Data collected by AIDs can be used to predict maintenance needs, for route optimization, and staff management.

• In June 2023, Pratt & Whitney announced the launch of Percept, an advanced AI-based aircraft engine analysis tool. Percept is a computer vision-powered product that runs on Awiros Video Intelligence operating system. Its cloud-based interface allows users to take photos and videos of aircraft engines on their mobile devices and receive real-time feedback on availability of various parts. This enables a faster and more cost-effective turnover of rental engine assets.

Aircraft Interface Device Market Growth Factors

Introduction of Regulatory Mandates to use AID to Drive Market Growth

Regulatory mandates in the context of AID refer to the requirements set by aviation authorities and regulatory bodies for the use of these devices in aircraft for specific safety, communication or operational purposes. These mandates ensure the safe and efficient operation of aircraft to maintain consistency and compliance within the aviation industry. These regulations include Future Air Navigation System (FANS), Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System (EGPWS), and others.

FANS regulations or FANS 1/A and FANS 1/A+ require aircraft to be equipped with AIDs. These systems possess advanced communication and navigation capabilities including Controller Pilot Data Link Communication (CPDLC) and Automatic Dependent Surveillance Contract (ADS-C).

Similarly, many aviation authorities, such as FAA and EASA have mandated the use of AIDs for EGPWS. It is a critical safety feature that warns pilots about the terrain and obstacles to prevent accidents. These factors are anticipated to boost the aircraft interface device market growth during the forecast period.

Rise in In-Flight Connectivity in Aircrafts to Boost Market Growth

AID serves as a crucial interface between various avionics systems and external networks. The system also provides a stable and high-speed Wi-Fi connection to passengers’ personal devices. AID also supports the connection for in-flight entertainment including streaming services and live TV. The device enables passengers to make in-flight phone calls and send text messages while flying.

As passengers and airlines seek reliable internet access during flights, there is a growing need for AIDs to facilitate in-flight connectivity. For example, in October 2022, the Seamless Aviation Alliance released details of the task force that was implementing its vision to deliver flexible connectivity systems for airlines. It included in-flight connectivity, AID capabilities, Electronic Flight Bag (EFB), surveillance systems, aircraft condition, and more. Such developments are catalyzing the demand for AID systems.

RESTRAINING FACTORS

Data Safety Concerns in AID are Anticipated to Hamper Market Growth

AIDs handle a wide range of critical flight data including navigation information and aircraft performance metrics to communicate with the ATC. Ensuring the integrity of this data is important and any data breach could lead to incorrect decisions by flight crew or ground personnel. The devices are also vulnerable to cybersecurity threats, such as hacking, malware, and others. Unauthorized access to AID poses a major risk in aircraft operations, hence, adequate authentication and access control should be in place to restrict such threats.

Addressing these concerns require a multi-layered approach and can be costly to implement. It also involves compliance with regulations, employee training, and continuous monitoring to ensure safety of the system.  In February 2023, Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) issued an advisory warning to passengers that an hours-long outage of its website and mobile app was due to a cyberattack that also exposed customer data. The cyberattack caused a glitch in the airline's online system, making passengers’ confidential data visible to other passengers. This data included contact details, previous & upcoming flights, and the last four digits of the credit card number.

Aircraft Interface Device Market Segmentation Analysis

By Application Analysis 

Aircraft Condition Monitoring System to Gain Traction Owing to Rising Need for Predictive Maintenance

By application, the market is segmented into flight tracking, quick access recording, Aircraft Condition Monitoring System (ACMS), DVR & video streaming, and others.

The Aircraft Condition Monitoring System (ACMS) segment is expected to be the dominating and fastest-growing segment during the forecast period. ACMS is a predictive maintenance tool consisting of a high-capacity flight data collector and associated sensors that sample, monitor, and record information on aircraft parameters. Owing to rise in the number of predictive maintenance activities, the segment will grow during the study period.

The flight tracking segment is anticipated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. The growth of the segment is due to the rise in usage of real-time aircraft data by the Air Traffic Control (ATC) using AID.

By Aircraft Type Analysis

Fixed Wing Aircraft to be Widely Used Owing to Global Rise in Aircraft Fleet

Based on aircraft type, the market is segmented into fixed wing and rotary wing.

The fixed wing segment dominated the market in the base year and is expected to be the fastest growing segment due to increase in aircraft fleet by various airlines globally. The growing demand for air travel and increasing passenger air traffic is expected to boost the segment’s growth during the forecast period. For instance,

• IATA’s 20-year air passenger forecast shows that the number of air travelers could double to 8.2 billion by the end of 2037. This factor is expected to drive the growth of the market. Additionally, a total of 4.40 billion passengers were carried by air transport in 2023.

The rotary wing segment is predicted to witness significant growth during the forecast period. The segment’s growth is owing to the increase in Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS), tourism, and so on. Moreover, the growing emergence of UAVs, air taxis, and eVTOLS is anticipated to boost the segment’s growth. For instance,

• In June 2023, Eve Air Mobility signed an agreement with aircraft lessor Nordic Aviation Capital (NAC). According to the agreement, NAC would acquire 15 firm plus 15 optional eVTOLs. The partnership would enable Eve and NAC to enhance their portfolios, encourage environment friendly technological advancements, and diversify eVTOL leasing options. Moreover, this partnership would also offer greater convenience and access to the latest and most advanced air travel solutions.

By Connectivity Analysis

Wireless Connectivity to Witness Robust Demand Owing to Increased Need for Advance Connectivity

By connectivity, the market is segmented into wired and wireless. The wireless segment dominated the market in 2023 and is projected to be the fastest-growing segment during the forecast period. Rising requirements for advanced connectivity using higher radio frequency to transmit data is a major factor for the segment’s growth.

The wired segment is predicted to witness significant growth during the forecast period. In wired aircraft, connected devices are easy to install and lower in cost. Owing to these factors, the segment is anticipated to grow during the forecast period.

REGIONAL INSIGHTS

In terms of geography, the market is divided into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East & Africa, and Latin America.

North America held the largest global aircraft interface device market share in the base year. The North American market was valued at USD 13.17 million in 2023. The market’s growth is attributed to the rise in aircraft fleet and airlines in the region. The presence of major airlines, such as American Airlines, Delta Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and others will give a boost to the market growth in the region.

Asia Pacific is expected to record the highest CAGR in the global market over the forecast period. The rise in aircraft fleet owing to increase in air travelers and expansion of new airlines will contribute to the growth of the regional market. Moreover, the rise in demand for advanced avionic systems with aircraft connected devices is projected to boost the regional market growth.

Europe held a significant global market share in 2023. The market’s growth in the region is driven by countries, such as the U.K., Germany, France, and others. Growing air traffic, rising number of airports, and increasing spending on commercial aircraft are driving the market growth in Europe.

The Middle East & Africa is anticipated to witness moderate growth in the global market during the forecast period. The aviation industry in general is recovering quickly due to strong demand for personal travel in the region. A large number of high net worth individuals in the region has increased the demand for travel by business jets and helicopters.

The market in Latin America is expected to show moderate growth during the study period. Airport privatization in countries, such as Brazil, Jamaica, Honduras, Paraguay, and Peru is predicted to expand the airport infrastructure and increase capacity, thereby supporting the growth of the aviation market in the region.

List of Key Companies in Aircraft Interface Device Market

Leading Players to Focus on New Product Launches in Aircraft Interface Devices to Meet Airline Needs

The global market is consolidated with the presence of key players, such as Astronics Corporation, Collins Aerospace, SCI Technology Inc., Skytrac System LLC., Teledyne Controls LLC, Thales SA, The Boeing Company, Elbit System, and several others. These players are focused on increasing the number of product launches and upgrading the system and software to meet the growing demand from various airlines. For example, in October 2021, Honeywell announced an all-new aircraft cockpit system with an always-on cloud connectivity experience that improves flight efficiency, operations, safety, and comfort. Honeywell Anthem Cockpit claimed to offer unprecedented levels of connectivity, modeled after every day smart devices, and a highly scalable and customizable design.

LIST OF KEY COMPANIES PROFILED:

• Astronics Corporation (U.S.)


• Collins Aerospace (U.S.)


• SCI Technology Inc. (U.S.)


• Skytrac System LLC. (Canada)


• Teledyne Controls LLC (U.S.)


• Thales SA (France)


• The Boeing Company (U.S.)


• Elbit System (Israel)


• DAC International Inc. (U.S.)


• CMC Electronics Inc. (Canada)


• Honeywell International Inc. (U.S.)

KEY INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENTS:

• August 2023 – FLYHT Aerospace Solutions LLC announced that it had signed a five-year contract extension with one of its long-term aircraft lease customers to provide ongoing software services for its entire Boeing 777 and 767 fleets.


• May 2023 – Raytheon Technologies announced the installation of Collins Aerospace's InteliSight aircraft interface device on more than 200 JetBlue Airways Airbus A320 aircraft. The device aims to securely collect, record, store, encode, and transmit aircraft data to Collins' Global Connect cloud platform for real-time data access. This will allow JetBlue to adjust service schedules and improve aircraft durability.


• April 2023 – American Airlines is planning to install Collins Aerospace’s Aircraft Interface Devices on more than 500 aircraft to accelerate its data-driven operational decisions. It will install the device on Boeing 737NGs, Airbus A320s, and 777s across its seven locations.


• April 2023 – GE Aerospace signed an agreement with Lockheed Martin to support the F-35's electrical and electronic systems globally. The company will support the electrical power management system, flight backup display, remote input-output unit, aircraft memory system, fuselage remote interface unit, missile remote interface unit, and engine failure monitoring system.


• September 2022 – Inmarsat was working with Teledyne Controls to improve flight tracking capabilities of airlines operating in the European airspace by leveraging some of their satellite connectivity services.

REPORT COVERAGE

The market report provides a detailed market analysis. It studies all major aspects, such as R&D capabilities, supply chain management, competitive landscape, and opportunities for AIDs to grow in demand. Moreover, the report offers insights into the market trends analysis, market share, and highlights key industry developments. In addition to the abovementioned factors, it focuses on several factors that have contributed to the global market growth in recent years.

Report Scope & Segmentation