The global commercial helicopter market size was estimated at USD 6.78 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 9.94 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 4.3% from 2025 to 2033. The market growth is primarily driven by the increasing demand for emergency medical services (EMS), the growing expansion in offshore oil and gas exploration, and rising urbanization.
Helicopters are increasingly utilized for Search and Rescue (SAR) operations, Emergency Medical Services (EMS), law enforcement, public safety, and firefighting. Their ability to access remote or challenging terrains swiftly and efficiently makes them indispensable in these sectors, which is expected to drive the commercial helicopter industry expansion in the coming years. The rising adoption of hybrid-electric and electric propulsion technologies, which aim to improve fuel efficiency, reduce noise, and lower environmental impact is another factor significantly driving the market growth. Manufacturers are increasingly investing in developing quieter, greener helicopters using advanced battery systems and hybrid powertrains, enabling new applications such as urban air mobility and short-range transport. For instance, in July 2024, RTX Corporation partnered with Airbus to develop a hybrid-electric propulsion system for the H145-based PioneerLab demonstrator, aiming for 30% fuel efficiency improvement and CO2 reduction, with test flights set for 2027.
In addition, technological innovations are transforming the commercial helicopter industry landscape. Manufacturers are focusing on developing helicopters that offer reduced noise levels and enhanced speed capabilities. These advancements improve the overall performance of helicopters while addressing environmental concerns and regulatory requirements. The emphasis on fuel efficiency and reduced lifecycle costs is prompting operators to adopt next-generation rotorcraft, further driving the market growth.
Furthermore, the growing trend of helicopter leasing is providing operators with flexible options to expand their fleets without the substantial capital investment required for outright purchases. Leasing companies acquire advanced helicopters to meet the increasing demand, particularly in sectors such as oil and gas, where operational requirements are evolving. This shift towards leasing facilitates market expansion and enables operators to access modern aircraft that align with their specific operational needs.
Moreover, companies in the commercial helicopter industry are increasingly focusing on technological innovation, strategic partnerships, and market expansion. By securing new contracts, launching innovative products, and expanding into emerging markets, firms aim to meet growing demand in sectors such as emergency medical services and urban air mobility. For instance, in March 2025, Global Medical Response (GMR) signed an agreement with Airbus to acquire up to 15 H140 helicopters for emergency medical services, including an initial order of 10 aircraft with options for five more. Such strategies are expected to drive the commercial helicopter industry growth.
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Helicopters are increasingly utilized for Search and Rescue (SAR) operations, Emergency Medical Services (EMS), law enforcement, public safety, and firefighting. Their ability to access remote or challenging terrains swiftly and efficiently makes them indispensable in these sectors, which is expected to drive the commercial helicopter industry expansion in the coming years. The rising adoption of hybrid-electric and electric propulsion technologies, which aim to improve fuel efficiency, reduce noise, and lower environmental impact is another factor significantly driving the market growth. Manufacturers are increasingly investing in developing quieter, greener helicopters using advanced battery systems and hybrid powertrains, enabling new applications such as urban air mobility and short-range transport. For instance, in July 2024, RTX Corporation partnered with Airbus to develop a hybrid-electric propulsion system for the H145-based PioneerLab demonstrator, aiming for 30% fuel efficiency improvement and CO2 reduction, with test flights set for 2027.
In addition, technological innovations are transforming the commercial helicopter industry landscape. Manufacturers are focusing on developing helicopters that offer reduced noise levels and enhanced speed capabilities. These advancements improve the overall performance of helicopters while addressing environmental concerns and regulatory requirements. The emphasis on fuel efficiency and reduced lifecycle costs is prompting operators to adopt next-generation rotorcraft, further driving the market growth.
Furthermore, the growing trend of helicopter leasing is providing operators with flexible options to expand their fleets without the substantial capital investment required for outright purchases. Leasing companies acquire advanced helicopters to meet the increasing demand, particularly in sectors such as oil and gas, where operational requirements are evolving. This shift towards leasing facilitates market expansion and enables operators to access modern aircraft that align with their specific operational needs.
Moreover, companies in the commercial helicopter industry are increasingly focusing on technological innovation, strategic partnerships, and market expansion. By securing new contracts, launching innovative products, and expanding into emerging markets, firms aim to meet growing demand in sectors such as emergency medical services and urban air mobility. For instance, in March 2025, Global Medical Response (GMR) signed an agreement with Airbus to acquire up to 15 H140 helicopters for emergency medical services, including an initial order of 10 aircraft with options for five more. Such strategies are expected to drive the commercial helicopter industry growth.
Global Commercial Helicopter Market Report Segmentation
This report forecasts revenue growth at global, regional, and country levels and provides an analysis of the latest technological trends in each of the sub-segments from 2021 to 2033. For this study, the analyst has segmented the commercial helicopter market report based on type, application, and region.Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2021 - 2033)
- Light
- Medium
- Heavy
- Very Large
Application Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2021 - 2033)
- Oil & Gas
- Transport
- Medical Services
- Law Enforcement & Public Safety
- Others
Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2021 - 2033)
- North America
- U.S.
- Canada
- Europe
- UK
- Germany
- France
- Asia Pacific
- China
- Japan
- India
- South Korea
- Australia
- Latin America
- Brazil
- Mexico
- Middle East & Africa
- Saudi Arabia
- South Africa
- UAE
Why should you buy this report?
- Comprehensive Market Analysis: Gain detailed insights into the global market across major regions and segments.
- Competitive Landscape: Explore the market presence of key players worldwide.
- Future Trends: Discover the pivotal trends and drivers shaping the future of the global market.
- Actionable Recommendations: Utilize insights to uncover new revenue streams and guide strategic business decisions.
This report addresses:
- Market intelligence to enable effective decision-making
- Market estimates and forecasts from 2018 to 2030
- Growth opportunities and trend analyses
- Segment and regional revenue forecasts for market assessment
- Competition strategy and market share analysis
- Product innovation listing for you to stay ahead of the curve
- COVID-19's impact and how to sustain in these fast-evolving markets
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Table of Contents
Chapter 1. Methodology and Scope
Chapter 2. Executive Summary
Chapter 3. Commercial Helicopter Market Variables, Trends, & Scope
Chapter 4. Commercial Helicopter Market: Type Estimates & Trend Analysis
Chapter 5. Commercial Helicopter Market: Application Estimates & Trend Analysis
Chapter 6. Regional Estimates & Trend Analysis
Chapter 7. Competitive Landscape
List of Tables
List of Figures
Companies Mentioned
- Airbus
- Bell Textron Inc.
- Leonardo S.p.A.
- Lockheed Martin Corporation
- Robinson Worldwide, Inc.
- Russian Helicopters (Rostec)
- Enstrom Helicopter Corporation
- MD Helicopters, Inc.
- Kaman Corporation
- Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
