Mordor Intelligence has published a latest report on the Aircraft Autopilot System Market offering a comprehensive analysis of trends, growth drivers, and future projections. The market is driven by automation, fleet modernization, and expanding Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) applications.
— Introduction
The aircraft autopilot system market is an important part of the aviation industry, supporting both commercial and defense operations by reducing pilot workload and enhancing flight safety. These systems manage key flight functions such as altitude, heading, speed, and navigation, allowing pilots to focus more on monitoring and decision-making rather than manual control.
Get More insights: https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/autopilot-system-market?utm_source=marketersmedia
Key Market Trends
Rising Demand for Automation in Commercial Aviation
Airlines are equipping narrow-body and wide-body fleets with advanced autopilot systems to improve operational efficiency, reduce pilot workload, and enhance passenger safety during long-haul and regional flights.
Growth of UAV Autopilot Systems
Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are a fast-growing segment, relying heavily on autopilot systems for autonomous navigation, surveillance, and defense operations. This segment is projected to outpace others in growth through 2030.
Shift Toward Software-Centric Solutions
Autopilot software is emerging as the fastest-growing component, as software-defined platforms allow easier updates, customization, and integration of AI-enabled flight management features.
Strong OEM Demand with Rising Aftermarket Opportunities
Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) dominate system installations, but the retrofit market is expanding rapidly, supported by regulatory approvals and demand from airlines looking to modernize older aircraft.
Focus on Safety and Efficiency Enhancements
Industry players are developing autopilot systems with advanced contingency management, fuel optimization, and over-the-air update capabilities to meet regulatory standards and improve lifecycle value.
Market Segmentation
By System
- Attitude and Heading Reference Systems (AHRS) – AHRS units provide pilots and flight computers with precise orientation data, enabling stable and safe flight. They form the backbone of navigation accuracy in both commercial and defense aircraft.
- Flight Director Systems – These guide pilots by displaying visual cues for flight path corrections, reducing workload during complex flight conditions such as take-off, landing, and turbulence.
- Flight Control Computers – The central processors of autopilot systems, they integrate data from multiple sensors to control flight surfaces. This segment holds a significant market share due to its role as the core of automation.
- Autothrottle and Thrust Management – Automating engine thrust settings allows aircraft to maintain optimal speeds and fuel efficiency, supporting safer long-haul flights and reduced pilot fatigue.
- Air-data and Inertial Reference Units – By combining air pressure, altitude, and position data, these units provide critical inputs to ensure accuracy in both short-haul flights and intercontinental operations.
- Servo Actuators – As the mechanical executors of autopilot commands, actuators translate digital instructions into physical movements of control surfaces like rudders, elevators, and ailerons.
- Autopilot Software Suites – The fastest-growing system segment, software suites allow aircraft operators to update capabilities through digital upgrades. These are becoming central to UAVs, eVTOLs, and next-generation aircraft where adaptability and continuous improvement are essential.
By Aircraft Type
- Narrowbody Jets – Represent the largest share of the market, driven by high-volume production of single-aisle aircraft used by airlines worldwide for regional and medium-haul routes.
- Widebody Jets – These long-haul aircraft demand highly advanced autopilot systems to manage extended flights, optimize fuel usage, and enhance safety in intercontinental operations.
- Regional and Commuter Aircraft – Growing airline networks in developing regions are increasing reliance on autopilot integration to support cost efficiency and pilot workload reduction.
- Business Jets – A steady segment where autopilot systems support luxury and executive aviation, providing precise navigation and smooth flight experiences for smaller aircraft.
- Helicopters – Autopilot use in helicopters is expanding, especially in defense, emergency medical services, and offshore operations where complex flight conditions demand high stability.
- Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) – Among the fastest-growing aircraft categories, UAVs depend on autopilot systems as a core navigation component for surveillance, reconnaissance, and logistics missions.
- Urban Air Mobility/eVTOL – An emerging area in civil aviation, requiring highly reliable and fully autonomous autopilot solutions to ensure safety in densely populated urban environments.
By End-User
- OEM Fitment – New production aircraft are the largest contributors to market revenue, with major manufacturers fitting advanced autopilot systems during assembly. This segment reflects ongoing aircraft backlogs and rising deliveries.
- Retrofit/Aftermarket – The retrofit market is gaining momentum as operators upgrade older aircraft with digital autopilot solutions. Regulatory frameworks such as FAA’s NORSEE approvals are enabling more streamlined adoption, especially among smaller operators and regional airlines.
By Geography
- North America – North America represents the largest share of the market, supported by strong commercial and defense aircraft production in the United States and Canada. High defense spending, modernization of avionics, and continuous upgrades of airline fleets sustain demand. The presence of major aerospace companies and established regulatory pathways also enhances market stability in the region.
- Europe – Europe holds a significant market share, driven by advanced aerospace infrastructure and the presence of Airbus and other major OEMs. Regulations promoting safety and efficiency, along with initiatives for single-pilot operations, are boosting demand for highly reliable autopilot systems. Growth is also supported by investments in both commercial fleets and urban air mobility programs.
- Asia-Pacific – Asia-Pacific is the fastest-growing regional segment, projected to record the highest CAGR through 2030. Expanding airline fleets in China, India, and Southeast Asia, along with rising defense budgets, are key contributors. Growing adoption of UAVs and planned rollouts of eVTOL air mobility projects further strengthen the outlook for autopilot systems in this region.
- Latin America – Latin America shows steady demand, led by Brazil and Mexico, where regional carriers and defense modernization programs are incorporating autopilot technologies. Fleet expansion in commuter and regional aircraft segments is adding momentum to growth in this market.
- Middle East & Africa – The Middle East and Africa segment is growing with rising investments in modern fleets by Gulf carriers and defense procurement programs across the region. The expansion of airport infrastructure and increasing adoption of UAVs for surveillance and logistics are further supporting demand for advanced autopilot solutions.
Key Players
- Honeywell International Inc.
- Collins Aerospace (RTX Corporation)
- Garmin Ltd.
- Thales Group
- Safran SA
Conclusion
The aircraft autopilot system market is entering a phase of consistent growth, supported by rising automation in aviation and the increasing use of unmanned platforms. With the market expected to grow from USD 5.82 billion in 2025 to USD 7.81 billion by 2030, demand will remain strong across both commercial and defense aviation.
Get More insights: https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/autopilot-system-market?utm_source=marketersmedia
Industry Related Reports
Flight Navigation System Market: The Flight Navigation System Market is segmented by Communication Technology (Radio, Satellite, and Hybrid), Platform (Civil and Commercial Aviation, among others), Flight Instrument (Autopilot, Altimeter, Gyroscope, and others), System Type (Radars, Instrument Landing Systems, and others), Component (Hardware and Software), and Geography (North America, Europe, and other regions). The report presents market forecasts for all these segments in terms of value (USD).
Get More insights: https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/flight-navigation-system-market?utm_source=marketersmedia
Aircraft Cockpit Display System Market: The Aircraft Cockpit Display Systems Market is segmented by Type (Primary Flight Display (PFD), Multifunction Display (MFD), and Engine Indicating and Crew Alerting System (EICAS)), Display Size (Less than 5 Inches, 5 to 10 Inches, and Greater than 10 Inches), Application (Military and Commercial), and Geography (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa).
Get More Insights: https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/aircraft-cockpit-display-systems?utm_source=marketersmedia
About the company: Mordor Intelligence is a trusted partner for businesses seeking comprehensive and actionable market intelligence. Our global reach, expert team, and tailored solutions empower organizations and individuals to make informed decisions, navigate complex markets, and achieve their strategic goals.
With a team of over 550 domain experts and on-ground specialists spanning 150+ countries, Mordor Intelligence possesses a unique understanding of the global business landscape. This expertise translates into comprehensive syndicated and custom research reports covering a wide spectrum of industries, including aerospace & defense, agriculture, animal nutrition and wellness, automation, automotive, chemicals & materials, consumer goods & services, electronics, energy & power, financial services, food & beverages, healthcare, hospitality & tourism, information & communications technology, investment opportunities, and logistics.
For any inquiries or to access the full report, please contact:
[email protected]
https://www.mordorintelligence.com/
Contact Info:
Name: Jignesh Thakkar
Email: Send Email
Organization: Mordor intelligence
Address: Hyderabad
Phone: +1 617-765-2493
Website: https://www.mordorintelligence.com/
Release ID: 89167270
If you encounter any issues, discrepancies, or concerns regarding the content provided in this press release, or if there is a need for a press release takedown, we urge you to notify us without delay at [email protected] (it is important to note that this email is the authorized channel for such matters, sending multiple emails to multiple addresses does not necessarily help expedite your request). Our expert team will be available to promptly respond within 8 hours – ensuring swift resolution of identified issues or offering guidance on removal procedures. Delivering accurate and reliable information is fundamental to our mission.