Aircraft Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) Market Growth, Forecast, Analysis and Insights, 2025–2032
- Rishika Chavan
- 1d
- 4 min read
According to Fortune Business Insights™, the global aircraft auxiliary power unit (APU) market size was valued at USD 5.71 billion in 2024. The market is projected to grow from USD 6.11 billion in 2025 to USD 12.48 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 10.75% during the forecast period.
Market Overview
An Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) is a small gas turbine engine installed primarily in the tail section of an aircraft. It provides independent power for onboard systems such as air conditioning, electrical supply, and engine starters when the main engines are not operational. It is critical in ensuring aircraft ground autonomy and acts as an emergency backup system.
The growing demand for fuel efficiency, regulatory compliance, and maintenance optimization has pushed manufacturers to develop advanced APUs using electric power systems, lightweight composites, and IoT-based predictive maintenance solutions. The increasing adoption of hybrid and electric aircraft platforms further accelerates this market’s evolution.
Key Players in the Aircraft APU Market
Honeywell International Inc. (U.S.)
Pratt & Whitney (U.S.)
Safran Group (France)
PBS Velka Bites (Czech Republic)
Lufthansa Technik (Germany)
Collins Aerospace (U.S.)
Technodinamika (Russia)
Aerosila (Russia)
IHI Corporation (Japan)
Turbomach (Switzerland)
Liebherr Aerospace (Germany)
FJ Turbines (U.K.)
Aegis Power Systems Inc. (U.S.)
Eaton Corporation PLC (Ireland)
JSC NPP Aerosila (Russia)
Motor Sich JSC (Ukraine)
Source:
Market Segmentation
By End-User
Based on end-user, the aircraft APU market is segmented into OEM and aftermarket. The aftermarket segment dominated the market in 2024 and is projected to grow at a significant CAGR during the forecast period. This growth is primarily driven by the aging of global aircraft fleets and the increasing need for maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services. Airlines and operators are investing in cost-effective retrofitting solutions to extend the operational life of existing aircraft. Additionally, the expansion of MRO hubs in regions like Asia Pacific and the Middle East, along with regulatory pressure to reduce emissions and noise, is accelerating the adoption of next-generation APU upgrades and replacements in the aftermarket.
By Aircraft Type
By aircraft type, the market is categorized into fixed wing, rotary wing, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The fixed wing segment is further divided into narrow body, wide body, regional jets, and business jets. In 2024, the fixed wing segment held the largest market share. This dominance is attributed to the rising growth of commercial aviation, especially the demand for narrow-body aircraft such as the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737, which rely heavily on APUs for ground operations and auxiliary functions. The segment is also supported by ongoing fleet modernization programs and military transport upgrades. Furthermore, increasing demand for fuel-efficient and low-emission APU systems in both civil and defense applications continues to propel the growth of the fixed wing segment.
By Power Source
Based on power source, the aircraft APU market is segmented into conventional fuel combustion, hydraulic accumulator, electric powered, and others. In 2024, the conventional fuel combustion segment held the largest market share. This dominance is attributed to the well-established reliability, high energy output, and proven compatibility of gas turbine-based APUs with existing aircraft fleets across commercial and military platforms. These units are essential for providing pneumatic and electrical power during ground operations and in-flight emergencies. Continued advancements in combustion efficiency, noise reduction, and emission control technologies are helping to modernize conventional APUs, ensuring their relevance amid evolving regulatory and sustainability demands.
By Platform
Based on platform, the aircraft APU market is segmented into commercial and military. The commercial segment dominated the market in 2024 and is expected to maintain its leading position through 2032. This growth is primarily driven by rising global air passenger traffic, particularly in emerging economies across Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East. Increased aircraft deliveries and expanding airline fleets have significantly contributed to the growing demand for efficient and reliable APUs. Moreover, growing regulatory pressure to reduce emissions and enhance fuel efficiency has encouraged airlines to adopt electric and hybrid APUs, aligning with broader green aviation initiatives. These innovations not only help reduce environmental impact but also lower operating costs and improve aircraft performance, further supporting the segment’s sustained growth.
Market Dynamics
Market Drivers
Rising Global Air Travel: Increased passenger traffic is prompting airlines to expand fleets and invest in efficient ground power systems.
Fleet Expansion & Modernization: Demand for new aircraft with modern APU systems is rising globally.
Advancements in Predictive Maintenance: IoT and AI-based monitoring tools reduce downtime and improve operational performance.
Market Restraints
High Development and Integration Costs: R&D investment in advanced APUs is expensive, which may deter smaller manufacturers.
Regulatory Compliance Costs: Strict environmental regulations related to noise and emissions increase development burdens.
Market Opportunities
Electric & Hybrid APUs: These are increasingly adopted in more-electric aircraft (MEA) designs, reducing fuel consumption and emissions.
Sustainable Aviation Push: Green policies and global net-zero targets support the adoption of alternative APU power systems.
Market Challenges
Intensifying Regulatory Pressure: Organizations such as ICAO and FAA are pushing for lower emissions, noise, and fuel use, which raises manufacturing complexity and costs.
Key Market Trends
Adoption of 3D printing for APU components to reduce weight and increase precision.
Growing popularity of modular APU designs for faster maintenance and customization.
Focus on hybrid-electric integration to support sustainable aviation initiatives.
Enhanced integration with flight control and energy management systems for optimal performance.
Regional Insights
North America
Valued at USD 1.83 billion in 2024, North America leads the market due to the presence of key players, strong aerospace infrastructure, and significant military contracts. Post-pandemic recovery and advancements in electric APUs (e.g., Honeywell’s 131-9A) further fuel growth.
Europe
Growth in Europe is driven by stringent sustainability regulations, military aircraft upgrades, and OEM investments in hybrid-electric APU solutions. Partnerships like Lufthansa–Air France for MRO collaboration further enhance regional demand.
Asia Pacific
Asia Pacific is projected to witness the fastest growth through 2032. Factors include surging passenger demand, fleet expansion, and government-led manufacturing in India and China. Key aircraft programs such as COMAC C919 and regional MRO expansion bolster the market.
Rest of the World
Growth in Latin America is driven by low-cost carrier expansions and regional jet retrofits. In the Middle East & Africa, military UAV adoption and airport modernization projects drive the demand for advanced APUs.
Report Coverage
This report offers a comprehensive analysis of the global aircraft APU market, including market size, share, growth outlook, segmentation by platform and power source, regional trends, and competitive landscape. It includes insights into technological trends, innovation strategies, and strategic developments by leading players.
Key Industry Developments
March 2025 – Finnair extended its APU maintenance contract with EPCOR B.V. for five more years to support its A330 fleet. EPCOR, part of AFI KLM E&M, will maintain GTCP331-350 model APUs.
December 2024 – Philippine Airlines partnered with Air France KLM Engineering & Maintenance for maintaining APU 131-9A units on its A320 fleet.
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