Airport Security Equipment Market - Global Forecast 2025-2032

The airport security equipment market is rapidly advancing, driven by evolving threats, operational demands, and technological innovations. Senior decision-makers face a dynamic landscape where agility, compliance, and resilience are business-critical.

Market Snapshot: Global Growth and Competitive Dynamics

The global airport security equipment market grew from USD 14.18 billion in 2024 to USD 15.35 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 26.79 billion by 2032, with a CAGR of 8.27%. This rise is underpinned by growing air travel volumes, increased regulatory scrutiny, and the demand for both security and operational efficiency. Large airports are modernizing screening processes, while emerging regions are advancing through digitization and automation, reshaping global supplier competition and investment priorities.

Scope & Segmentation: Navigating Innovation, Policy, and Regional Opportunity

• Equipment Types: Includes access control systems, baggage handling solutions, biometric platforms, explosive trace detectors, metal detectors, and a range of X-ray inspection systems such as computed tomography and multi-energy scanners.
• Technologies: Covers three-dimensional imaging, millimeter wave scanning, AI-based threat detection using deep learning and machine learning, as well as analog and digital imaging solutions.
• Applications: Encompasses baggage and cargo screening, hold and in-line baggage scanning, passenger screening (body and carry-on), and vehicle inspection systems.
• End Users: Spans airline operators, airport authorities, government agencies (including border patrol, customs, and homeland security), and third-party security providers.
• Distribution Channels: Extends to aftermarket maintenance and upgrades, direct sales, independent and OEM distributors, and online platforms such as e-commerce marketplaces and manufacturer websites.
• Geographic Coverage: Analyzes regions including North and Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia-Pacific, detailing performance in the United States, Canada, Brazil, Germany, China, India, and other key markets.
• Company Analysis: Examines leading players like Smiths Detection Ltd, L3Harris Technologies, OSI Systems, Nuctech, Leidos, Thales, Rohde & Schwarz, Honeywell, CEIA, and Garrett Metal Detectors.

Key Takeaways for Stakeholders

• Integration of AI and machine learning is driving significant gains in threat detection accuracy, enabling operators to respond to potential risks swiftly and reduce false positives.
• Adoption of modular and interoperable architectures prepares airports for future technology upgrades, minimizing disruption during transitions and supporting long-term operational goals.
• Regulatory harmonization and privacy mandates, particularly in Europe, are fostering the expansion of biometric solutions and data-secure architectures.
• Regional service models and localized assembly are becoming essential to mitigate cost volatility and supply chain uncertainties in the current geopolitical context.
• Market evolution is characterized by collaborative innovation, with industry leaders and newcomers focusing on portable, scalable solutions for both mature airports and high-growth markets.

Tariff Impact: Industry Response to U.S. Trade Policy

Recent U.S. tariffs on critical materials, such as steel, aluminum, and electronic components, have introduced cost and supply disruptions for airport security equipment manufacturers. Companies are diversifying sourcing, renegotiating terms, and exploring new materials to sustain profitability and delivery reliability. These trends are fostering a more resilient, vertically integrated supply chain strategy, influencing investment decisions across the value chain.

Methodology & Data Sources

This report synthesizes findings from primary interviews with industry executives, procurement leaders, and regulatory bodies, combined with secondary reviews of technical literature, trade statistics, patent filings, and company disclosures. Data triangulation ensures balanced and up-to-date insights. Scenario analysis and quantitative modeling support the evaluation of policy, technological adoption, and market shifts.

Why This Report Matters: Strategic Insights for Decision-Makers

• Enables C-suite executives to navigate rapid regulatory, technological, and geopolitical changes by quantifying trends and their implications on procurement, spending, and risk management.
• Supports investment planning by detailing both the growth potential of next-generation screening technologies and key operational considerations, including supply chain stability and regulatory compliance.
• Provides actionable intelligence that enhances the alignment of procurement, IT, and security functions for sustainable airport infrastructure development.

Conclusion

The airport security equipment market is poised for robust growth, underpinned by continuous innovation and a proactive shift toward integrated, adaptable security platforms. Decision-makers adopting strategic, technology-driven approaches will be best positioned to capture emerging opportunities and enhance air travel resilience.

Additional Product Information:

• Purchase of this report includes 1 year online access with quarterly updates.
• This report can be updated on request. Please contact our Customer Experience team using the Ask a Question widget on our website.