Ground Support Equipment Market Summary

The global ground support equipment market size was estimated at USD 6,203.7 million in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 9,336.5 million by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 6.9% from 2025 to 2030. This anticipated growth reflects the continued rise in global air passenger traffic, the steady expansion and modernization of airport infrastructure, and the increasing need for faster and more efficient aircraft turnaround processes. As airline operations scale and flight frequencies increase, airports are prioritizing investments in advanced ground handling solutions to streamline workflows and improve overall service quality.

The growing adoption of electric and hybrid ground support equipment (GSE) to minimize emissions and reduce long-term operational costs is significantly influencing market momentum. Technological advancements in automation, digital integration, and enhanced safety systems are further accelerating demand for next-generation equipment. The expansion of the ground support equipment industry is strongly supported by the alignment of digitalization, automation, and sustainability, enabling airports to optimize efficiency across all operational layers.

The shift toward electric and hybrid-powered GSE units is gaining traction as industry stakeholders work toward global carbon-neutral targets, reducing dependence on conventional fuels while lowering maintenance overheads. Additionally, the integration of telematics, IoT sensors, and edge computing technologies is transforming fleet management by enabling real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and data-driven decision-making. These innovations help minimize equipment downtime, enhance turnaround performance, and improve airport operational continuity.

Key Market Trends & Insights

• The ground support equipment industry in the U.S. led North America, with the largest revenue share in 2024. This leadership position is the result of the country’s extensive airport network, high volume of air traffic, and consistent investment in modernizing ground handling operations. Major airports across the U.S. continue to upgrade their fleets with advanced, efficient, and environmentally friendly equipment to support growing passenger and cargo operations.
• By equipment type, the non-electric segment led the market and held the largest revenue share of around 63.0% in 2024. This dominance is primarily due to the widespread use of conventional fuel-powered equipment, which remains essential for heavy-duty ground operations that require higher power output. While electric GSE adoption is rising, non-electric units continue to be preferred for demanding tasks such as towing, cargo movement, and large aircraft servicing.
• By application, the aircraft handling segment led the market and held the largest revenue share of over 40.0% in 2024. This segment includes equipment such as tugs, tractors, de-icing systems, and ground power units, which are critical for safe and efficient aircraft operations. The high share reflects the expanding global fleet size, increased aircraft turnaround requirements, and the continuous focus on improving ground efficiency to reduce delays and enhance operational reliability.
• By ownership, the airport owned segment led the market and held the largest revenue share of over 37.0% in 2024. Airports prefer owning GSE to maintain better oversight of operational performance, ensure equipment availability during peak hours, and reduce long-term outsourcing costs. Ownership also allows airports to standardize equipment fleets, improve maintenance schedules, and enhance safety compliance across ground operations.
• By end use, the commercial segment led the market, with the largest revenue share of over 80.0% in 2024. The commercial aviation sector, which includes passenger airlines and cargo carriers, drives the majority of GSE demand due to increasing flight operations, higher baggage handling needs, and expanding cargo movement. The continuous growth of global air travel and e-commerce logistics further strengthens the requirement for reliable and efficient ground support systems within the commercial segment.

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Market Size & Forecast

• 2024 Market Size: USD 6,203.7 Million
• 2030 Projected Market Size: USD 9,336.5 Million
• CAGR (2025-2030): 6.9%
• North America: Largest Market in 2024

Key Companies & Market Share Insights

Some of the key players operating in the market are Oshkosh Aerotech LLC and Textron Inc.

• Oshkosh Aerotech LLC provides advanced ground support and airport mobility solutions designed to enhance airside operations and aircraft servicing efficiency. The company offers a comprehensive range of products, including aircraft loaders, tow tractors, deicers, and passenger boarding bridges, all of which are integrated with digital control systems for enhanced safety and productivity. Oshkosh Aerotech's presence and continuous innovation in electric GSE platforms position it as a leading player in modern airport infrastructure development.
• Textron Inc. specializes in manufacturing tow tractors, belt loaders, and ground power units that serve both commercial and military aviation sectors. Textron’s focus on electrification, telematics integration, and fleet management solutions enhances operational visibility and sustainability. With a robust global service network and strong OEM relationships, Textron continues to lead the GSE market through innovation, reliability, and its commitment to advancing next-generation electric and hybrid ground support equipment (GSE) solutions.

Mallaghan and TCR Group are some of the emerging participants in the ground support equipment market.

• Mallaghan is an emerging innovator in the ground support equipment industry, specializing in the design and manufacture of high-quality passenger stairs, catering trucks, medical lifts, and aircraft maintenance platforms. The company emphasizes customization, safety, and eco-efficiency, offering electric-powered variants to meet the evolving sustainability requirements of airports. Mallaghan is gaining recognition for its advanced engineering capabilities and flexible design approach, enabling airports and airlines to optimize ground handling operations.
• TCR Group is rapidly expanding as a key player in GSE rental, leasing, and fleet management services, offering comprehensive end-to-end solutions that maximize equipment uptime and operational efficiency. The company provides electric and hybrid ground support vehicles, telematics-based monitoring, and maintenance support to leading airlines and ground handlers. TCR’s service-driven model and strategic expansion make it one of the fastest-growing companies in the global ground support equipment market.

Key Players

• Oshkosh Aerotech LLC
• Textron Inc.
• TCR Group
• Tronair
• Weihai Guangtai Airport Equipment Co., Ltd.
• China International Marine Containers (Group) Co., Ltd.
• TLD Group
• Cavotec Group
• Toyota Material Handling, Inc.
• TREPEL Airport Equipment GmbH
• Global Ground Support LLC
• Mallaghan
• Jalux Inc.
• Rheinmetall AG

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Conclusion

In summary, the global ground support equipment market is entering a period of strong, sustained growth driven by rising air travel demand, expanding airport capacities, and a clear industry shift toward sustainable and digitally enabled operations. The rapid adoption of electric and hybrid GSE, combined with advanced telematics and automation technologies, is reshaping how airports manage ground operations and improve efficiency. Regional leaders such as North America continue to set the pace with significant investments in modern infrastructure and equipment upgrades. As airports prioritize reliability, safety, and environmental performance, the market is poised to achieve consistent expansion through 2030.