Aircraft Micro Turbine Market Share and Growth Insights, 2021–2028

According to Fortune Business Insights™, the global aircraft micro turbine market size was valued at USD 25.9 million in 2020 and is projected to reach USD 58.7 million by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 10.6% during the forecast period. The market was estimated at USD 29.1 million in 2021. North America dominated the global market with a 39.38% share in 2020.

This growth is driven by the rising demand for micro turbines in Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and small aircraft applications. The increasing focus on lightweight propulsion systems, hybrid electrification, and zero-carbon emission targets are additional contributing factors fueling market expansion.

Development Overview

Micro-turbine engines (MTEs) represent two decades of engineering evolution. Originally developed by RC model aviation enthusiasts, these miniature gas turbines mirror conventional turbines in design—featuring a compressor, combustion chamber, and power turbine—but are scaled down for smaller aircraft and drones. Unlike conventional turbines, micro-turbines typically use a single set of compressor and turbine blades. Today, these engines are integral to modern UAV propulsion systems, offering compactness, lightweight features, efficiency, and lower emissions.

Competitive Landscape

Key companies are focusing on R&D, innovation, and product launches to strengthen market presence. Strategic acquisitions and collaborations are common tactics to gain competitive advantage.

Key Players:

• AeroDesignWorks GmbH (Germany)

• General Electric Company (U.S.)

• Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (U.S.)

• PBS Group a.s. (India)

• Sentient Blue Technologies (Italy)

• Turbotech SAS (France)

• Williams International (U.S.)

• Others

Source:

https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/aircraft-microturbine-market-105863

Key Market Trends and Drivers

1. Demand for Lightweight UAV Engines The micro turbine market is benefiting from increased demand for lightweight engines in UAVs and drones for military reconnaissance and surveillance missions. Their compact design and fuel efficiency make them ideal for tactical use.

2. Hybrid Electrification and Emission Reduction Goals Hybrid systems that combine battery and micro turbine propulsion are gaining traction, especially for urban air mobility (UAM) and light aircraft. These solutions help in reducing carbon emissions while optimizing aircraft performance, particularly during take-off, hovering, and landing.

3. Advancements in Missile and Drone Technologies Ongoing developments in missile and unmanned combat drone propulsion systems further boost the adoption of high-thrust, miniaturized gas turbine engines.

Restraints

Despite promising growth, the high manufacturing and maintenance costs of micro turbine components such as rotors, FADEC systems, and precision miniaturized parts limit widespread adoption. These turbines are also more expensive than reciprocating engines, though R&D is ongoing to improve their cost-efficiency.

Segmentation Analysis

By Engine Type:The aircraft microturbine market is segmented by engine type into turbojet, turboshaft, and turboprop. Turbojets dominated the market in 2020 due to their high-speed performance and extensive application in military UAVs and drones. Their ability to operate efficiently at high altitudes and speeds makes them the preferred choice for defense missions. Turboshaft engines are increasingly being adopted in rotorcraft and VTOL platforms, benefiting from their high power-to-weight ratio. Turboprops, while slower than turbojets, are ideal for short-range missions and are widely used in reconnaissance and training aircraft.

By Fuel Type:Based on fuel type, the market includes JET A-1, diesel, kerosene, natural gas, and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). JET A-1 was the dominant fuel in 2020, favored for its high flash point, low freezing point, and overall cost-effectiveness. Diesel is used in specific UAV platforms that require easier fuel logistics and longer endurance. Kerosene serves as a conventional alternative in some regions. Natural gas is emerging as an eco-friendly option but is still in the early stages of adoption. SAF is expected to gain momentum in the coming years due to increasing regulatory pressure for carbon reduction and the aviation industry's push toward sustainability.

By Application:In terms of application, the market is categorized into UAVs, VTOL, air taxis, and RC planes. UAVs held the largest share in 2020, driven by their growing use in military surveillance, intelligence gathering, and commercial delivery services. The demand for UAVs continues to rise as they offer cost-effective and efficient solutions across defense and civilian sectors. VTOL aircraft are gaining interest for their vertical take-off and landing capabilities, making them suitable for urban air mobility and tactical deployments. Air taxis represent an emerging segment, powered by compact microturbines designed for rapid intra-city transport. RC planes, although niche, continue to use microturbines for training, recreational, and testing purposes.

By End-User:The market by end-user is segmented into military and commercial sectors. The military sector was dominant in 2020, accounting for the largest market share due to the increased use of UAVs in border patrol, reconnaissance, and combat operations. Governments worldwide are investing in modernizing their defense fleets, which includes integrating advanced propulsion technologies like microturbines. Meanwhile, the commercial sector is witnessing growing interest in microturbine-powered UAVs for applications such as infrastructure inspection, agriculture monitoring, and package delivery, especially in remote or hard-to-reach locations.

Regional Insights

North America The region held the largest market share in 2020 (USD 10.2 million) due to the presence of major players such as GE Aviation and Jetcats America. Increasing military UAV deployments and government-funded defense projects drive growth.

Europe Europe is expected to witness strong growth supported by leading OEMs and a rising demand for urban air mobility solutions and UAVs in military and commercial sectors.

Asia Pacific Significant growth is projected in Asia Pacific owing to rising defense budgets, increasing drone manufacturers, and technological advancements in countries like China and India. PBS India is a key regional player.

Rest of the World Latin America and the Middle East show moderate growth, driven by drone adoption in oil & gas sectors and the growing interest in recreational aerial sports.

Recent Developments:

• June 2021 – Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. announced that its Kratos Turbine Technologies (KTT) division secured a USD 8.6 million task order under the Advanced Turbine Technologies for Affordable Mission (ATTAM) ID/IQ contract. Under this agreement, KTT will design, develop, assemble, and test a cost-effective turboshaft engine specifically for Group 3 UAVs, supporting the U.S. defense sector’s need for affordable and advanced propulsion systems.

• February 2021 – Prvni brnenska strojirna Velka Bites (PBS), a Czech-based aerospace manufacturer certified by EASA, revealed plans to launch a new range of high-performance jet engines. In 2020, the company celebrated the delivery of its 1,000th PBS TJ100 turbojet engine. Building on this milestone, PBS is now adapting its engine offerings to meet growing market demand for disposable propulsion systems in specialized UAV applications.