Aircraft Sensors Market

Aircraft sensors are critical components that play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and proper functioning of an aircraft. These sensors are designed to measure various parameters and provide real-time data to the flight control systems, allowing the pilots to make informed decisions and operate the aircraft with precision.

One of the most important sensors in an aircraft is the airspeed sensor, which measures the speed of the aircraft relative to the surrounding air. This data is crucial for maintaining a safe and efficient flight, as it helps the pilot to adjust the throttle and control surfaces to maintain a desired airspeed. Other important sensors include altimeters, which measure the altitude of the aircraft above sea level, and attitude sensors, which measure the aircraft's pitch and roll angles.

Modern aircraft are equipped with advanced sensors that use advanced technologies like micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) and fiber-optic sensing to provide even greater accuracy and reliability. For example, some aircraft now use laser-based sensors to measure the distance between the aircraft and the ground, allowing for more precise landings and take-offs.

Despite their critical importance, aircraft sensors can be vulnerable to various issues that can affect their accuracy and reliability. These issues can range from simple malfunctions to more serious problems like sensor failures or interference from electromagnetic fields.

To ensure the proper functioning of aircraft sensors, they must be regularly calibrated and tested to ensure they are providing accurate readings. Additionally, aircraft maintenance crews must regularly inspect sensors for signs of damage or wear and replace them as necessary.

Dynamics of Aircraft Sensors Market

Driving Factors in Aircraft Sensors Market

Increased Utilization of Sensors for Data Sensing and Measurement

Efficient and safe aircraft control relies on comprehensive feedback regarding various flight equipment and systems as well as the prevailing flying conditions. To continuously monitor these conditions, a diverse range of sensors are employed, which transmit data to flight computers for processing before it is presented to the pilot.

Several factors contribute to the growth of the aircraft sensors industry. Firstly, there is an increasing demand for expanding aircraft fleets worldwide, driving the need for sensors for data sensing and measurement. Additionally, the rising demand for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) further supplements the growth of this market. However, concerns regarding privacy and security, along with regulations imposed by safety agencies in the aviation industry, are expected to hamper market growth. On the other hand, technological advancements in the aviation sector and the adoption of wireless sensors present opportunities for key players operating in the aircraft sensors market.

Flow sensors are responsible for detecting the quantity of lubricating oil, liquid coolant, and fluid within the fuel transfer and bleed air systems. Liquid level sensors, on the other hand, monitor the levels of oil, fuel, coolant, and fluid in hydraulic reservoirs, collection sumps, and waste water reservoirs. Pressure sensors are used to monitor hydraulic systems involved in braking, control surface movement, and raising and lowering landing gear. Position sensors such as rotary variable differential transformers (RVDT) and linear variable differential transformers (LVDT) detect the displacement of various aircraft components, including the deployment status of thrust reversers. Sensors are also employed for force and vibration measurements. Temperature sensors are crucial for monitoring the temperature of environmental cooling systems as well as the conditions of hydraulic oils, fuels, and refrigerants. Temperature sensors can include bimetallic temperature gauges, electrical resistance thermometers, ratiometer indicators, and thermocouple temperature indicators.

According to a report by Boeing, the global aircraft sensor market was valued at USD 3.4 billion in 2019 and is projected to reach USD 4.9 billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 4.7% from 2020 to 2028. Airbus predicts that the number of commercial aircraft in operation globally will increase from around 25,000 in 2018 to 48,000 by 2038. This significant growth in aircraft numbers is expected to drive the demand for aircraft sensors.

The critical nature of modern military airborne missions has led to the development of highly advanced navigational and surveillance systems capable of detecting long-range targets even in low-light conditions. Missile indication and deterrence systems play a crucial role in combat-driven operations, with sensor systems capable of operating in radar-denied zones. The number of sensors installed on an aircraft increases as the level of operational awareness required grows, further driving the market for aircraft sensors.

Restraints in Aircraft Sensors Market

One of the challenges associated with using sensors in aircraft is the need for frequent calibration and maintenance to ensure their accurate performance. For example, airspeed sensors require regular calibration to ensure proper auto-throttle modes and efficient automatic landing. Sensors are also subject to pre-flight checks and calibration at least every 500 flight hours, and sensors located in harsh environments, such as on aerostructures and engines, require even more frequent calibration and testing to ensure they provide reliable data for flight safety.

The development, manufacturing, and maintenance of aircraft sensors can be expensive, making it challenging for smaller companies to enter the market and limit the adoption of advanced sensor technologies. Additionally, strict safety and performance standards must be met for sensor certification, which can be a time-consuming and costly process that delays the introduction of new sensor technologies. The harsh environments of flight, including extreme temperatures and high vibrations, pose significant technical challenges to developing sensors that can operate reliably.

Furthermore, aircraft sensors generate vast amounts of data that must be processed and analyzed in real-time, creating a challenge for airlines and maintenance providers to prioritize critical data and respond quickly. As aircraft become more connected, there is also an increased risk of cyber-attacks on aircraft systems, including the compromise of sensors, which can have a significant impact on flight safety.

Opportunities in Aircraft Sensors Market

The aviation industry is embracing the rapid development and adoption of the Internet of Things (IoT) and sensor networks. The wireless sensor network infrastructure is widely used in numerous sectors and is a crucial component of the IoT sensor layer. The aviation sector has implemented this technology to enhance the safety of aircraft, improve passenger comfort, and increase operational efficiency.

Aircraft cabins are fitted with temperature detection-based sensors and automated temperature control systems to maintain comfortable temperature levels based on location and weather prediction. Different parts of the aircraft are equipped with sensors to measure velocity, angle, altitude, and attitude, and communicate with one another. This data is made available to pilots or ground authorities to improve flight safety, operational efficiency, and passenger comfort.

IoT systems continuously monitor the on-ground and in-flight conditions of arriving planes, allowing engineers to determine which maintenance tasks need to be completed first. This reduces runway time and ensures proper maintenance. Additionally, sensors monitor various flight conditions, such as lubricating oil, liquid coolant, and the amount of liquid moving through fuel transfer and bleed systems. Pressure sensors monitor hydraulic system pressure for braking, control surfaces, and landing gear, while position sensors detect aircraft part displacement, such as the state of deployment of thrust reversers. Temperature sensors monitor the temperature of environmental cooling systems and the conditions of hydraulic oils, fuels, and refrigerants.

The increased usage of sensors for data sensing and measurement is expected to drive the growth of the aircraft sensors market. In combat-driven operations, missile indication and deterrence systems play a crucial role, with sensor systems capable of acting in radar-denied zones. The aviation industry is expected to further embrace the IoT and sensor network technology to enhance safety and operational efficiency, making it an opportunity for the growth of the aircraft sensors market.

Challenge in Aircraft Sensors Market

Cybersecurity Risks in the Aviation Sector

As the aviation sector embraces digitalization and system integration, it faces new challenges in the realm of cybersecurity. The industry is transitioning from closed systems that communicate internally to an open ecosystem that is extensively networked, increasing its exposure to the outside world. Aircraft Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and integrators are leveraging the capabilities of the Internet of Things (IoT) to proactively identify maintenance issues, initiate replacement orders for faulty parts, and alert ground maintenance crews while the aircraft is still in flight. This proactive approach ensures that necessary repairs can be promptly executed upon landing without disrupting operations. Each aircraft is equipped with numerous sensors that transmit real-time data to the ground crew.

For example, the F-35 fighter jet employs an autonomic logistics information system (ALIS) that utilizes embedded sensors to monitor performance, compare parameters against standardized benchmarks, employ advanced analytics to predict maintenance requirements, and communicate with maintenance staff to ensure the availability of necessary parts when needed. ALIS serves as the information infrastructure of the F-35, transmitting aircraft data to relevant users through a globally distributed network of technicians. However, this interconnectedness also exposes the system to cybersecurity threats originating from various locations worldwide.

The aviation sector's increased reliance on interconnected systems and data exchange introduces vulnerabilities that malicious actors can exploit. Cybersecurity attacks targeting these systems pose significant risks, potentially disrupting critical operations and compromising sensitive information. Protecting against such threats requires robust cybersecurity measures and constant vigilance to safeguard the aviation ecosystem from potential breaches and attacks.

To address these cybersecurity risks, aviation stakeholders must prioritize the implementation of comprehensive security protocols, including advanced encryption, authentication mechanisms, intrusion detection systems, and regular security audits. Collaboration between industry participants, regulatory bodies, and cybersecurity experts is crucial to developing and implementing effective cybersecurity frameworks tailored to the unique challenges of the aviation sector. Continuous monitoring, threat intelligence sharing, and proactive security measures are essential to mitigate cyber risks and maintain the safety and integrity of aviation systems in the digital era.

Ecosystem of Aircraft Sensors Market

The aircraft sensors market is made up of various stakeholders such as manufacturers, private and small enterprises, distributors, suppliers, retailers, and end customers. Influencers in the market include investors, funders, academic researchers, integrators, service providers, and licensing authorities.

During the forecast period, the OEM segment is expected to account for the largest growth in the aircraft sensors market. This is due to the increasing demand for various aircraft types in different regions, driven by the growing air traffic.

In terms of sensor type, the proximity sensor is expected to have the highest market share during the forecast period. Proximity sensors are widely used as position sensors to detect the presence of an object without physical contact. They are a common and affordable solution for object detection without any contact. Proximity sensors emit electromagnetic radiation and detect changes in the field of return signals, converting object movement and presence into electrical signals.

The aircraft sensors market encompasses various applications, with the fuel, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems expected to dominate the market during the forecast period. These systems play a crucial role in aircraft operations, serving as the vital components that control essential functions such as flight control, engine operation, and landing gear deployment. As a result, high-quality sensor solutions are required to ensure the optimal performance of these systems, driving the demand for aircraft sensors.

The market is further segmented based on aircraft type, including fixed-wing, rotary-wing, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and advanced air mobility. Among these, the fixed-wing aircraft segment is anticipated to hold a significant market share during the forecast period due to increasing demand and widespread usage in air travel. Fixed-wing aircraft, powered by propellers or jet engines, have stationary wings and are primarily employed for long-distance travel. Their ability to cover greater distances before refueling is a key factor driving the growth of this segment. Additionally, the military sector relies on a diverse fleet comprising fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, and UAVs, each serving various missions such as assault, transport, reconnaissance, and supply. UAVs, in particular, enable the army to perform strikes and reconnaissance operations without endangering personnel.

Overall, the demand for aircraft sensors remains robust across different applications and aircraft types, driven by the critical role these sensors play in ensuring the safety, efficiency, and performance of various aircraft systems.

The aircraft connectivity market can be segmented into two categories: wired and wireless connectivity. Among these, wireless connectivity is anticipated to exhibit the highest growth rate during the forecast period. This is because wireless connectivity has several applications for both safety-critical and non-safety-critical distributed systems.

Using wireless connectivity for aircraft systems can offer several benefits such as weight reduction, ease of maintenance, and increased monitoring capability. Wireless Sensor Network (WSN)-based engine and aircraft structural health monitoring can facilitate the development of safety-critical systems such as WSN-based distributed engine control and fly-by wireless aircraft flight control systems.

Regional Insights

During the forecast period, the North American region is expected to dominate the aircraft sensors market due to the presence of key manufacturers such as Honeywell, General Electric, and TE Connectivity, who have their headquarters based in the United States. Moreover, the region is known for designing and manufacturing a significant number of different aircraft platforms, which contributes to the largest growth in the region. On the other hand, the Asia-Pacific region is projected to experience the highest growth rate over the forecast period. This is primarily due to the expansion of domestic aircraft production in countries such as China, India, and Japan. The increasing air traffic in these countries is also contributing to the growth of the aircraft fleet in the region, which will consequently result in a rise in aftermarket services. These factors are expected to propel the market growth in the Asia-Pacific region.

Dominating Companies in Aircraft Sensors Market

• HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC.
• SAFRAN GROUP
• TE CONNECTIVITY LTD.
• MEGGITT PLC
• AMETEK INC.
• LOCKHEED MARTIN CORPORATION
• WOODWARD INC.
• GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
• THALES GROUP
• L3HARRIS TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
• THE BOSCH GROUP
• TRIMBLE INC.
• CURTISS-WRIGHT CORPORATION
• EATON CORPORATION
• CRANE AEROSPACE & ELECTRONICS
• LORD SENSING STELLAR TECHNOLOGY
• AMPHENOL CORPORATION
• KONGSBERG GRUPPEN ASA
• TDK CORPORATION
• ULTRA ELECTRONICS
• VECTORNAV TECHNOLOGIES LLC
• SYSTRON DONNER INERTIAL
• AEROSONIC
• SENSOR SYSTEMS LLC
• CIRCOR AEROSPACE
• Aerocontrolex Group
• BAE Systems
• Dynon Avionics
• Esterline Technologies Corporation
• Free Flight Systems
• Garmin International
• General Atomics Corporation
• Kollsman
• Memscap
• Pacific Avionics & Instruments
• Revue Thommen
• Rockwell Collins
• Safran Electronic & Defense
• Schneider Electric
• Zodiac Aerospace
• The Raytheon Company
• UTC Aerospace Systems

Recent Developments in Aircraft Sensors Market

• In May 2021, Honeywell announced that it had completed the acquisition of Ballard Unmanned Systems, a developer of hydrogen fuel cell power systems for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The acquisition is expected to enhance Honeywell's expertise in power management and broaden its portfolio of sensing and navigation technologies for UAVs.
• In January 2020, TE Connectivity, a leading sensor and connector manufacturer, announced the acquisition of First Sensor AG, a German-based sensor solutions provider. The acquisition was aimed at expanding TE Connectivity's portfolio of sensors for the aerospace, defense, and industrial sectors.
• In August 2019, United Technologies Corporation (UTC) and Raytheon Company announced a merger to form Raytheon Technologies Corporation, which became one of the largest aerospace and defense companies in the world. UTC is a leading provider of aircraft sensors, among other products, and the merger is expected to enhance the company's position in the aerospace and defense markets.
• In November 2018, Collins Aerospace, a subsidiary of United Technologies Corporation, announced a partnership with Boom Supersonic, a manufacturer of supersonic aircraft. The partnership was aimed at developing aircraft sensors and other technologies for Boom Supersonic's upcoming commercial supersonic jet, which is expected to revolutionize air travel.
• In August 2018, Amphenol Corporation, a leading provider of interconnect solutions, announced the acquisition of Advanced Sensors Business of GE, a provider of sensor solutions for aerospace and defense applications. The acquisition was aimed at enhancing Amphenol's position in the aerospace and defense markets and expanding its portfolio of sensor solutions.
• In November 2021, Honeywell Aerospace announced that it had completed its acquisition of TruTrak Flight Systems, a manufacturer of autopilot systems for general aviation aircraft. The acquisition will enable Honeywell to expand its offerings in the general aviation market and strengthen its position in the aircraft sensor market.
• In February 2021, aerospace company Moog Inc. announced that it had acquired the assets of California-based sensor manufacturer Fernau Avionics Ltd. The acquisition will expand Moog's product line in the field of aircraft sensors and provide opportunities for growth in the European aerospace market.
• In March 2020, aircraft sensor manufacturer TE Connectivity announced that it had formed a partnership with sensor technology company Andretti Technologies. The partnership will enable TE Connectivity to develop new sensor solutions for the motorsports industry, with the aim of eventually applying these solutions to the aerospace industry.
• In December 2019, aerospace company Woodward Inc. announced that it had completed its acquisition of sensor manufacturer L'Orange GmbH. The acquisition will enable Woodward to expand its offerings in the aircraft fuel systems market and strengthen its position in the field of aircraft sensors.

In conclusion, aircraft sensors are crucial components that play a vital role in ensuring the safety and proper functioning of modern aircraft. With the continued development of advanced sensor technologies, we can expect even greater accuracy and reliability in the years to come.