Modern Warfare, Quick Transportation, and Air Mobility: Factors Offering Revenue Opportunities for Top 10 Helicopter Manufacturers in the World

As several industries across the globe are embracing the power of artificial intelligence and unmanned systems to enhance their operations, the helicopter sector is no exception. The rising integration of artificial intelligence and an increased emphasis on the development of hybrid and electric propulsion systems by manufacturers is enabling the production of efficient and reliable helicopters.

The market has also witnessed the deployment of big data and analytics solutions by operators. These technologies are being adopted for optimizing maintenance schedules, improving safety, and reducing costs. Furthermore, there has been a rise in government projects and contracts focused on strategic partnerships and the modernization and development of rotorcrafts. The mounting product demand for military and defense applications, the surging significance of air mobility, and the escalating complexity of modern warfare are additional factors slated to push industry expansion.

In light of these factors, the global market for helicopter is poised to expand from USD 58.87 billion in 2023 to USD 76.16 billion by 2030, exhibiting a CAGR of 3.7% over 2023 to 2030, cites Fortune Business Insights. The market size stood at USD 56.87 billion in 2022. Considering the lucrative growth prospects over the coming years, several industry players are investing in research and development activities and bringing advanced products to the market. Partnerships and capacity expansion are some of the other steps adopted by top 10 helicopter manufacturers in the world to increase their market share.

List of Top 10 Helicopter Manufacturers In The World:

1. Airbus S.A.S 

Netherlands-based Airbus S.A.S is focused on designing, producing, and delivering commercial aircraft and has separate divisions for helicopters and defense and space. The company is focused on the development of advanced systems and technologies such as fly-by-wire controls, digital avionics, and integrated mission systems that improve performance, safety, and mission effectiveness. In December 2022, Airbus rolled out DisruptiveLab for enhancing helicopter performance. The flying laboratory has been designed for testing technologies to reduce CO₂ emissions and improve aircraft performance.

2. Textron Inc.

Textron Inc., operates in the defense, aviation, and industrial sectors. The company intends to increase its market share and customer base by providing innovative solutions and leveraging expertise in customer service, engineering, and technology. Textron is centered on the provision of high-performance, reliable rotorcraft for military and commercial customers across the globe. In February 2023, the company’s Bell 505 helicopter bagged a significant milestone through the completion of its SAF-powered (Sustainable Aviation Fuel-powered) inaugural flight. To facilitate this achievement, Textron’s subsidiary Bell Textron, Inc., entered a collaboration with Neste, Safran Helicopter Engines, Virent Inc., and GKN Aerospace.

3. Leonardo S.p.A.

Based in Italy, Leonardo S.p.A. is specialized in defense, helicopters, and security systems making it some of the top 10 helicopter manufacturers in the world. The range of rotorcraft produced by the company’s helicopter division includes AW101, AW109, and AW139. The company is centered on providing versatile and advanced solutions that cater to various operational requirements such as emergency medical services, search and rescue, and military missions. In January 2023, Leonardo S.p.A., entered a partnership with Safran S.A. for investigating the competitiveness and capabilities of the next-generation AW09 single-engine rotorcraft.

4. Lockheed Martin Corporation

U.S.-based Lockheed Martin Corporation operates across numerous sectors, including helicopters, and offers services and products for a range of clients, comprising commercial customers, the U.S. government, and international governments. In December 2022, the U.S. Navy granted approval for the full-rate production of Sikorsky CH-53K helicopter. The heavy-lift structure has been designed for the transportation of supplies, equipment, and personnel over the sea and land over long distances.

5. The Boeing Company

The Boeing Company is specialized in the design, production, and sale of rotorcraft, airplanes, rockets, telecommunications equipment, missiles, and satellites. Boeing Vertical Lift, the company’s helicopter division, manufactures the AH-64 Apache, CH-47 Chinook, and other rotorcraft. The company is centered on providing mission-effective and innovative solutions that meet the requirements of its commercial and military customers. In March 2023, Boeing shared plans to begin the production of the first 13 MH-139A Grey Wolf helicopters following the USD 285 million contract by the U.S. Air Force. The contract was awarded for support services, production, and sustainment of aircraft.

6. Rostec

Rostec operates in the technology, defense, and aviation sectors. Russian Helicopters, the company’s helicopter division, produces an array of rotorcraft, including the Ka-52, Mi-17, and Mi-8. The company is centered on providing cost-effective and reliable solutions to increase its market share and cater to clientele requirements. In February 2023, Rostec’s subsidiary Russian Helicopters launched its Mi-171A3 offshore helicopter at the IDEX-2023 exhibition in Abu Dhabi, UAE. The solution was developed to assist petroleum corporations.

7. The Robinson Helicopter Company

The Robinson Helicopter Company is known for the production of the Robinson R44 and R66. The company offers cost-effective and reliable solutions for the utility, training, and light helicopter markets. Furthermore, the company is centered on innovation and customer service to maintain its position in the market. In March 2022, Robinson Helicopter Company launched the R44 Cadet GX, R44 Cadet’s updated version. The solution features advanced avionics and a modern glass cockpit that ease its flight and operation.

8. Kawasaki Heavy Industries Ltd

One of the top 10 helicopter manufacturers in the world; Kawasaki Heavy Industries Ltd. is focused on offering reliable and high-quality rotorcraft to cater to the needs of customers in Japan and across the globe. Its helicopter division manufactures the OH-1 and BK117. The company intends to increase its global market presence through the development of new products and leveraging expertise in the aerospace sector. In September 2022, Kawasaki announced its launch of CRM training services by deploying a VR (virtual reality) simulator for safer helicopter operations. The training assists in providing pilot training and ground crew and flight crew functioning in several capacities.

9. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) produces an array of rotorcraft, including Light Combat Helicopter, Rudra, and the Dhruva. The company is centered on offering customized and advanced solutions for its civil and military customers in India and abroad. HAL is focused on increasing its market share by enhancing its manufacturing capabilities and the development of new products. In February 2023, the company established a new production unit in Karnataka, India. The manufacturer is keen to produce over 1,000 helicopters with various load capacities. The company intends to generate a total revenue of more than USD 4 billion over the next two decades.

10. Kaman Corporation

U.S.-based Kaman Corporation operates in the defense, aerospace, and industrial sectors. The company’s helicopter division produces the K-MAX used for logging, firefighting, and other missions. The company is keen to develop new applications for K-MAX and leverage its expertise in manufacturing and engineering. In October 2022, Kaman Air Vehicles secured an order for K-MAX medium to heavy helicopter from North American Helicopter.

Product Demand to Ramp up as Air Ambulance Services Gain Traction over the Coming Years

The rising demand for air ambulance services is poised to drive industry expansion over the forthcoming years. The services are increasingly being adopted considering the advancements in medical technology and the provision of efficient and quick transportation for critically ill patients. The upsurge in chronic diseases, increasing elderly population, and the growing need for prompt medical attention in the event of emergencies are also elevating the demand for air ambulance services.