Aircraft Refurbishing Market Growth, Share, Analysis and Forecast, 2025–2032
- Rishika Chavan
- 9 hours ago
- 3 min read
According to Fortune Business Insights™, the global aircraft refurbishing market was valued at USD 5.86 billion in 2024 and is projected to expand from USD 5.88 billion in 2025 to USD 7.81 billion by 2032, reflecting a CAGR of 4.13% during the forecast period. North America dominated the market with a 31.74% share in 2024, supported by strong airline operations, high passenger volumes, and growing adoption of advanced refurbishment solutions.
What is Aircraft Refurbishing?
Aircraft refurbishing involves the overhaul, renovation, and modernization of both interiors and exteriors to improve aircraft performance, extend service life, ensure regulatory compliance, and enhance passenger comfort. It covers a wide spectrum of processes, including:
Cabin upgrades (seating, LED lighting, in-flight entertainment systems)
Engine and component modernization
Avionics enhancement (navigation, predictive maintenance systems, digital controls)
Structural modifications and repainting
VIP jet refurbishments with luxury interiors
This process not only improves aesthetics and passenger experience but also helps airlines boost fuel efficiency, meet sustainability targets, and increase resale value.
Market Dynamics
Drivers:
The market is strongly driven by the rising demand for customized interiors and premium passenger experiences. Airlines are increasingly opting for refurbishment instead of new aircraft purchases to reduce costs while meeting operational requirements. At the same time, the focus on fuel efficiency and compliance with safety standards is accelerating adoption. Additionally, the integration of smart cabin technologies, IoT-enabled maintenance systems, and the use of eco-friendly materials are shaping refurbishment strategies across the sector.
Restraints:
Supply chain disruptions remain a major restraint, impacting the availability of spare parts and delaying projects. Rising material and labor costs, combined with an ongoing shortage of skilled MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) technicians, are further adding to the challenges faced by airlines and service providers.
Opportunities:
Growing passenger traffic worldwide, particularly in Asia Pacific and emerging economies, is fueling the demand for regular upgrades and refurbishments. Increasing emphasis on sustainability and green aviation initiatives is creating opportunities for eco-friendly solutions. Furthermore, the rising demand for luxury refurbishments in business and VIP jets is opening new revenue streams for refurbishment providers.
Challenges:
High capital costs continue to be a barrier for airlines considering refurbishment projects. In addition, labor shortages are contributing to longer turnaround times and increased downtime for aircraft, which can affect airline profitability and scheduling efficiency.
Information Source:
Market Trends
Digitalization and connectivity are reshaping aircraft refurbishment, with digital twin simulations, IoT-driven predictive maintenance, and RFID-based management solutions gaining momentum.
Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are being deployed for technician training and maintenance simulations.
Sustainability initiatives are driving retrofits with lighter materials, efficient engines, and eco-friendly interiors.
Regional Insights
North America (USD 1.87 billion, 2024): Leads the market with established MRO facilities, strong airline presence, and focus on sustainable retrofits. U.S. carriers are heavily investing in fuel-efficient upgrades and premium cabin refurbishments.
Europe: Strong regulatory compliance and emphasis on sustainability drive demand. Airlines in Germany, France, and the U.K. are upgrading fleets with premium cabins and energy-efficient systems.
Asia Pacific: Expected to register the fastest growth due to booming air traffic in China and India. Airlines are refurbishing aging fleets to reduce costs and meet rising demand. Middle-class growth and government investments in aviation infrastructure also support expansion.
Rest of the World:
Latin America: Emerging aviation hubs in Brazil and Mexico offer refurbishment opportunities.
Middle East: High demand for luxury cabin refurbishments, with the region serving as a global aviation hub.
Africa: Airlines focus on cost-effective refurbishment of older fleets to meet growing passenger demand.
Key Players in the Market
Prominent companies operating in the global aircraft refurbishing market include:
AAR Corporation (U.S.)
Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance (France)
Airbus SAS (Netherlands)
Boeing Company (U.S.)
Bombardier Inc. (Canada)
Delta TechOps (U.S.)
Embraer S.A. (Brazil)
GE Aviation (U.S.)
General Dynamics Corp. (U.S.)
Honeywell Aerospace (U.S.)
Hong Kong Aircraft Engineering Company (HAECO) Ltd (Hong Kong)
Lufthansa Technik AG (Germany)
MTU Aero Engines AG (Germany)
Rolls-Royce plc (U.K.)
Safran SA (France)
SIA Engineering Company Ltd. (Singapore)
Spirit AeroSystems Inc. (U.S.)
Textron, Inc. (U.S.)
Turkish Technic (Turkey)
United Technologies Corporation (U.S.)
These companies focus on strategic partnerships, fleet modernization projects, sustainability-driven refurbishments, and digital MRO solutions to strengthen their global footprint.
Report Coverage
This report provides an in-depth analysis of the global aircraft refurbishing market (2025–2032), offering insights into key players, market drivers, restraints, opportunities, and challenges. It covers regional performance, emerging trends, industry developments, and future projections, helping stakeholders understand the competitive landscape and growth opportunities in the sector.
Recent Industry Development
October 2024 – Qantas Airways announced a retrofit program for 10 Airbus A330-200 aircraft, with upgrades including modern cabin interiors and enhanced comfort features. These aircraft will operate on major international routes to Hong Kong, Singapore, and Tokyo. The initiative reflects Qantas’ commitment to extending fleet life, improving passenger satisfaction, and integrating advanced technologies through refurbishment.
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