Global Ultralight and Light Aircraft Market Report and Forecast 2024-2032

Global Ultralight and Light Aircraft Market Outlook

The global ultralight and light aircraft market size reached USD 8.33 billion in 2023. The market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.5% between 2024 and 2032, reaching almost USD 12.37 billion by 2032.

Key Takeaways:

• In 2022, the UK civil aerospace sector's revenue reached approximately $34.5 billion, thus significantly boosting the global ultralight and light aircraft market.

• According to the International Trade Administration, India has the potential to emerge as the world's premier aviation market by 2047.

• The International Air Transport Association aims for net-zero aviation emissions, focusing on sustainable fuels, innovative propulsion, and improved air traffic.

The Experimental Aircraft Association defines an ultralight as an aircraft meeting the following specifications: it accommodates one person, with a maximum empty weight of 254 lbs for powered aircraft and 155 lbs for unpowered ones. It can carry up to 5 gallons of fuel, attains a maximum speed of 55 knots at full power, and has a maximum stall speed of 24 knots when power is off.

A light aircraft, defined as a fixed-wing plane with a maximum take-off weight of 5,670 kg, is notably smaller than most multi-engine planes. Usually single engine, they typically seat up to four people. These planes are favoured by novice pilots for their simple controls and standard design. They're commonly used for training, sightseeing, and experience flights.

As per the International Trade Administration, the UK aerospace sector ranks second globally and operates as an export-oriented industry. In 2022, the UK civil aerospace sector generated around $34.5 billion in revenue, contributing significantly to the global demand for ultralight and light aircraft.

Key Trends and Developments

The global ultralight and light aircraft market growth is driven by the introduction of new-generation planes, increased commercial applications, expanding use in agriculture, and growing interest as a leisure pursuit.

November 2023

SaxonAir launched the world's inaugural certified electric aircraft, the Pipistrel Velis Electro, which represented a significant leap in aviation technology. This small two-seat electric plane offered a sustainable alternative for pilots, potentially opening doors for wider adoption.

July 2023

Emirates launched a regional private jet service utilizing a fleet of Embraer Phenom 100 twin-engine planes, typically employed by the Dubai-based airline for its internal pilot training academy.

June 2023

Honda Aircraft progressed with the development of the HondaJet 2600 concept light jet, revealed at NBAA-BACE 2021. Certification is targeted for 2028.

March 2023

India's plans for small aircraft manufacturing began to materialize in 2024 with the development of SARAS MK II prototypes.

New generation aircraft

The global ultralight and light aircraft market developments are attributed to the growing focus on reducing emissions. The International Air Transport Association aims for the aviation industry to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by prioritizing significant emission reductions at the source.

Commercial application

As per the global ultralight and light aircraft market analysis, the industry is propelled by various applications like aerial surveying for pipeline monitoring, light cargo transport to supply cargo hubs, and passenger services. Light and ultralight aircraft serve roles in marketing, such as banner towing and skywriting, along with flight training, recreational pursuits, charter flights, tourism, and medical missions.

Growing utilisation in agriculture

In agriculture, light and ultralight aircraft are commonly utilised for tasks such as aerial application of pesticides (crop dusting) or fertilizers (aerial topdressing) and hydroseeding, contributing to the growing demand.

Leisure pursuit

Ultralight and light aircraft present an exhilarating hobby for aviation enthusiasts, offering the freedom of open-air flight and unique landscape views. Crafting and customizing these planes combine creativity and technicality, uniting a passionate community of flying enthusiasts.

Global Ultralight and Light Aircraft Market Trends

As per the global ultralight and light aircraft market report, ultralight and light aircraft also find applications in sports and recreational activities, including five main categories: racing, aerobatics, homebuilt aircraft, antique planes, and rotorcraft. Due to fewer regulations and operational complexities, those flying for leisure will discover ultralight operations less constraining.

Moreover, their cost-effectiveness is evident, as light jets consume less fuel compared to larger aircraft, resulting in more economical operation.

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Market Segmentation

Global Ultralight and Light Aircraft Market Report and Forecast 2024-2032 offers a detailed analysis of the market based on the following segments:

Market Breakup by Aircraft Type

• Light Aircraft

• Ultralight Aircraft

Market Breakup by End Use

• Civil and Commercial

• Military

Market Breakup by Flight Operation

• Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL)

• Conventional Take-Off and Landing (CTOL)

Market Breakup by Propulsion

• Electric/Hybrid

• Conventional Fuel

Market Breakup by Region

• North America

• Europe

• Asia Pacific

• Latin America

• Middle East and Africa

The global ultralight and light aircraft market is seeing a boost from the use of light aircraft, which play essential roles in sports, commercial ventures, medical missions, and agricultural activities, depending on the specific type of aircraft

A light aircraft is utilised commercially for passenger and cargo transportation, sightseeing, photography, and various other tasks, along with personal use.

An ultralight aircraft, on the other hand, is a lightweight plane designated for sport and recreational flying only. An ultralight does not necessitate FAA registration or a pilot's license.

Based on end use, global ultralight and light aircraft market share is driven by diverse applications in civil and commercial sectors, serving purposes such as passenger and cargo transportation, sightseeing, photography, and various other roles, as well as personal recreational use

A light combat aircraft (LCA) is a military aircraft that is lightweight and versatile, often developed from advanced trainer aircraft designs. It is specifically designed for light combat engagements, with missions ranging from light strike or attack operations to reconnaissance, interdiction, or training roles.

The global ultralight and light aircraft market is witnessing a rise in electric/hybrid propulsion systems due to the growing demand for sustainable options

Hybridization improves energy management, resulting in up to a 5% reduction in fuel consumption compared to conventional flights. Electric propulsion systems offer benefits such as energy savings and improved cost-effectiveness.

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Competitive Landscape

Key players are propelling the global ultralight and light aircraft market by specializing in aircraft tailored for specific markets.

American Legend Aircraft Company, situated in the United States, produces domestically manufactured sport aircraft. It has earned a reputation as a contemporary icon, with pilots often regarding the Legend Cub as the most enjoyable recreational aircraft currently available. The present-day Legend Cub is a newly designed, factory-built plane, created in homage to the iconic Piper J-3, PA-11, and PA-18 Super Cubs.

Pilatus Aircraft Ltd., established in 1939, and headquartered in Switzerland, specializes in crafting aircraft primarily tailored for specific markets, notably focusing on short take-off and landing (STOL) planes along with military training aircraft.

AutoGyro GmbH founded in 1999 and headquartered in Germany, is a company specializing in the creation and production of autogyros, offering fully assembled aircraft ready for flight. The company has achieved commercial success with its designs, incorporating features such as a mast-mounted vibration-dampening system.

Textron Inc. was established in 2014 and is situated in the United States, it is renowned for its design, construction, and support of versatile military aircraft, widely favoured for both training purposes and attack missions.

Other key players in the global ultralight and light aircraft market are Aeropro SK s.r.o., ATEC v.r.o, Evektor, spol. s r. o., and Air Tractor, Inc. among others.

Global Ultralight and Light Aircraft Market by Region

The aviation and aerospace sector in North America is experiencing steady growth, leading to a heightened need for ultralight and light aircraft. This demand surge is propelled by factors such as the rapid expansion of aircraft manufacturing, technological advancements, and the flourishing travel and tourism industry.

Based on geography. global ultralight and light aircraft market share is estimated to be led by the Asia-Pacific region. India, with its rapidly expanding civil aviation sector, is forecasted to surpass 500 million domestic and international air travellers by 2030. According to the International Trade Administration, India has the potential to emerge as the world's premier aviation market by 2047.

U.S.-INDIA CIVIL AVIATION TRADE DATA

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Ultralight and Light Aircraft Market Size

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