Aircraft Seating Market

Aircraft Seating Market Size:

The global aircraft seating market size reached US$ 6.0 Billion in 2023. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach US$ 9.2 Billion by 2032, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 4.94% during 2024-2032. The market is experiencing robust growth driven by increasing demand for new aircraft, rapid technological advancements in seat design, implementation of stringent safety regulations, heightened focus on passenger experience, and the rising popularity of retrofitting activities for enhanced comfort and efficiency.

Aircraft Seating Market Analysis:

• Market Growth and Size: The market is witnessing stable growth, driven by the increasing demand for air travel and fleet upgrades, rising focus of the aviation industry on enhancing passenger experience, and the ongoing need for fleet modernization across established and emerging sectors.
• Major Market Drivers: Key drivers influencing the market growth include the rising demand for new, more efficient aircraft, technological advancements in seat design, and stringent safety and comfort standards set by regulatory bodies.
• Key Market Trends: The key market trends involve the ongoing shift towards lightweight and ergonomic seating designs that aim to enhance passenger comfort while improving fuel efficiency. Additionally, the integration of advanced technologies, such as smart features for seat adjustment, personalized entertainment systems, and connectivity options, is bolstering the market growth.
• Geographical Trends: North America leads the market due to rapid technological innovation and a strong aviation industry. Other regions are also showing significant growth, fueled by the rising focus on high-quality products and safety standards.
• Competitive Landscape: The market is characterized by the active involvement of key players who are focusing on innovation and strategic partnerships. Furthermore, companies are continuously expanding their global reach and investing in research and development (R&D) to introduce advanced seating solutions.
• Challenges and Opportunities: The market faces various challenges, such as meeting diverse and evolving regulatory standards and responding to the varying needs of different airline categories, such as budget and luxury carriers. However, the rising demand for environmentally sustainable seating solutions and rapid technological advancements that offer new avenues for seat functionality and passenger comfort, are creating new opportunities for the market growth.

Aircraft Seating Market Trends:

Increasing demand for new aircraft

The rising demand for new aircraft, attributed to the growing air traffic across the globe, is one of the major drivers creating a positive outlook for the market. Moreover, the increasing economic growth, heightened connectivity, and the burgeoning demand for low-cost carriers are boosting the market growth. Additionally, the rising expansion of the aviation industry that requires constant updates in their fleets with newer, more efficient aircraft to cater to the rising number of passengers is favoring the market growth. In addition to this, the growing demand for more seats with better quality and comfortable seating options, as airlines aim to enhance passenger experience, is providing a thrust to the market growth. Furthermore, the introduction of newer, more fuel-efficient aircraft models by leading manufacturers to replace older aircraft is positively impacting the market growth.

Rapid technological advancements in seat design

The rapid technological innovation in aircraft seats, designed with a focus on optimizing space, comfort, and overall passenger experience, is creating a positive outlook for the market growth. Moreover, the rising innovations, including lightweight materials for fuel efficiency, ergonomic designs for better comfort, and advanced entertainment systems integrated into seats, are providing a considerable boost to the market growth. Besides this, the sudden shift towards reducing the weight of seats to lower fuel consumption is acting as a growth-inducing factor. Additionally, the incorporation of smart technologies like adjustable firmness, personal temperature control, and mood lighting in premium class seats, influencing airlines to invest in upgrading their seating options, is providing an impetus to the market growth.

Implementation of regulatory and safety requirements

The implementation of stringent safety regulations and standards that impose strict guidelines regarding the safety, quality, and durability of aircraft seats is one of the major factors fueling the market growth. Moreover, the introduction of regulations, which ensures that seats are capable of withstanding intense impact and stress, providing maximum safety for passengers, is supporting the market growth. In addition to this, the growing need for compliance with the standards, necessitating regular upgrades and innovations in seat design and materials, is driving the market. Apart from this, the regulatory requirements concerning evacuation procedures and space between seats that influence the design and layout of aircraft cabins are acting as a growth-inducing factor.

Growing focus on passenger experience

The increasing recognition among airlines about the importance of enhancing passenger experience as a competitive differentiator is acting as a growth-inducing factor. In line with this, the development of high-quality and comfortable seats, especially for long-haul flights, is favoring the market growth. Apart from this, the rising focus on improving comfort levels in business and first-class cabins, leading to significant investments in seat design and features, is positively impacting the market growth. Additionally, the introduction of larger seats with more legroom, better recline features, and personalized in-flight entertainment systems, offering a more luxurious and comfortable travel experience, is providing remunerative growth opportunities for the market.

Rising popularity of retrofitting activities

The growing need for retrofitting existing aircraft with new seating in the aviation industry is providing a thrust to the market growth. In line with this, the widespread adoption of retrofitting activities to extend the aircraft's operational life and improve passenger comfort without investing in new aircraft is acting as a growth-inducing factor. Along with this, the increasing emphasis on replacing old seats and reconfiguring cabin layouts to optimize space utilization and increase seating capacity is anticipated to drive the market growth. Besides this, the growing adoption of lighter and fuel-efficient seats in retrofitting activities as part of the broader sustainability initiatives to lower carbon emissions is enhancing the market growth.

Aircraft Seating Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the market, along with forecasts at the global, regional, and country levels for 2024-2032. Our report has categorized the market based on aircraft type, seating class type, seat type, fit type, component type, and end-use sector.

Breakup by Aircraft Type:

• Narrow Body Aircraft
• Widebody Aircraft
• Very Large Aircraft
• Regional Transport Aircraft
• Others
   

Widebody aircraft accounts for the majority of the market share

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the aircraft type. This includes narrow body aircraft, widebody aircraft, very large aircraft, regional transport aircraft, and others. According to the report, widebody aircraft represented the largest segment.

Widebody aircraft represent the largest segment in the market, as they offer dual-aisle cabins, making them ideal for long-haul international flights. Furthermore, the increasing adoption of widebody aircraft seating due to the rising need for enhanced comfort and luxury, particularly in business and first-class cabins, is creating a positive outlook for the market growth. Moreover, the growing investment by airlines operating widebody aircraft in premium seating features, such as lie-flat beds, increased legroom, and advanced in-flight entertainment systems to enhance passenger experience on long-duration flights, is positively impacting the market growth.

Narrow-body aircraft comprise single-aisle airplanes and are used for short to medium-haul flights. The high volume of aircraft in service and the frequent need for refurbishing and retrofitting their interiors to maintain competitiveness and passenger comfort are favoring the market growth. Moreover, the rising focus on optimizing cabin space and enhancing seat functionality to cater to budget airlines and full-service carriers is boosting the market growth.

Very large aircraft include some of the largest passenger airplanes, known for their sheer size and capacity. Seating configurations in very large aircraft are elaborate, featuring multi-class layouts with a significant number of seats. The rising focus on maximizing passenger density while ensuring comfort, particularly in premium classes where airlines seek to offer a luxurious experience with spacious suites, bars, and lounge areas, is stimulating the market growth.

Regional transport aircraft include smaller jets and turboprops that cater to short-distance travel, typically connecting regional airports. It focuses on maximizing passenger capacity while maintaining comfort within the limited space of the smaller aircraft. Airlines operating regional transport aircraft prioritize efficient space utilization, durable seating materials, and cost-effectiveness due to the high frequency of flights and shorter route nature.

Breakup by Seating Class Type:

• Economy Class
• Premium Economy Class
• Business Class
• First Class
   

Economy class holds the largest share in the industry

A detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the seating class type have also been provided in the report. This includes economy class, premium economy class, business class, and first class. According to the report, economy class accounted for the largest market share.

Economy class represents the largest segment in the market due to the high volume of seats on most commercial flights. It caters to budget-conscious travelers, focusing on functional and space-efficient designs. The growing shift towards enhancing the comfort and features of economy seats, including improved ergonomics, increased legroom, and the integration of personal entertainment systems, is favoring the market growth. Moreover, the increasing utilization of economy class for travel, making it crucial for airlines to optimize comfort and density, is offering lucrative growth opportunities for the market.

Premium economy class offers more space, comfort, and amenities than standard economy. It features wider seats, additional legroom, and improved recline, along with upgraded meal services and entertainment options. Airlines are increasingly adopting premium economy cabins to cater to the growing segment of passengers willing to pay a premium for extra comfort, especially on long-haul flights.

Business class is known for its high level of comfort and luxury. The seats in this class are converted into flat beds, offering passengers a comfortable sleeping experience on long flights. It includes advanced features, such as increased privacy, ample personal space, direct aisle access, and sophisticated in-flight entertainment systems.

First-class represents the most luxurious segment in the market, as it offers the highest level of luxury, privacy, and personalized service, with seats often converting into large, fully flat beds and sometimes private suites. It includes features like high-quality materials, fine dining, exclusive lounge access, and superior entertainment systems.

Breakup by Seat Type:

• 9g
• 16g
   

16g represents the leading market segment 

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the seat type. This includes 9g and 16g. According to the report, 16g represented the largest segment.

16g seats hold the largest share in the market, driven by their enhanced safety standards and durability. They are designed to withstand forces of up to sixteen times the force of gravity (16g), offering superior protection in the event of a crash or severe turbulence. In line with this, the widespread adoption of 16g seats due to the higher level of safety standards mandated by aviation regulatory bodies for new aircraft is fueling the market growth. Moreover, the 16g seats are equipped with additional features like increased legroom, adjustable headrests, and integrated personal entertainment systems, catering to the growing passenger demand for comfort and safety.

9g seats are designed to withstand forces of up to nine times the force of gravity (9g). They have been the standard in the aviation industry due to their balance of safety, comfort, and cost-effectiveness. 9g seats are commonly found in older aircraft models and in certain regional jets where the stringent requirements of 16g seats may not be necessary. 

Breakup by Fit Type:

• Retro Fit
• Line Fit
   

Retro fit exhibits a clear dominance in the market 

A detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the fit type have also been provided in the report. This includes retro fit and line fit. According to the report, retro fit accounted for the largest market share.

Retrofit is dominating the market, driven by the increasing need for airlines to upgrade and modernize their existing fleets. Retrofitting involves replacing old seats or refurbishing the interior of aircraft that are already in service. The rising cost-effectiveness of upgrading existing aircraft compared to acquiring new ones, especially for budget and regional airlines, is favoring the market growth. Moreover, the increasing demand for retrofit seats, owing to the need to comply with evolving safety standards and passenger expectations for comfort and technology, is stimulating the market growth. Along with this, airlines frequently use retrofit projects to enhance the passenger experience, incorporating the latest advancements in seat ergonomics, in-flight entertainment, and connectivity.

Line fit involves the installation of seats in new aircraft during the manufacturing process. It is driven by the continuous demand for new aircraft from airlines expanding or renewing their fleets. Line-fit seats are tailored to the specific requirements and branding of the airline, allowing for customization in terms of design, comfort, and features.

Breakup by Component Type:

• Seat Actuators
• Foams and Fittings
• Others
   

Seat actuators dominates the market

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the component type. This includes seat actuators, foams and fittings, and others. According to the report, seat actuators represented the largest segment.

Seat actuators hold the largest share in the market due to the increasing demand for advanced and automated seat functions, especially in premium classes. They are critical components that enable various adjustable features in aircraft seats, such as reclining, lumbar support adjustment, and conversion into flat beds. The rapid technological advancements that allow for smoother, quieter, and more reliable movement, enhancing the passenger experience, are providing a thrust to the market growth. Additionally, the ongoing shift towards lighter and more energy-efficient actuators that align with the aviation industry's goals of reducing aircraft weight and improving fuel efficiency is favoring the market growth.

Foams and fittings focus on the comfort and durability aspects of seating. Foam materials play a key role in determining the comfort level of a seat, with advancements in foam technology leading to better ergonomic support, increased durability, and improved fire resistance. Additionally, fittings, including armrests, tray tables, and headrests, are integral to the functionality and aesthetics of aircraft seats.

Breakup by End-Use Sector:

• OEM
• Aftermarket
• Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul (MRO)
   

OEM is the predominant market segment

A detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the end-use sector have also been provided in the report. This includes OEM, aftermarket, and maintenance, repair & overhaul (MRO). According to the report, OEM accounted for the largest market share.

Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) holds the largest market share as it involves the supply of new seats directly to aircraft manufacturers for installation in new aircraft. The dominance of the OEM is driven by the continuous demand for new aircraft from global airlines, either for fleet expansion or replacement of older aircraft with more fuel-efficient models. The seating designs and specifications are customized by OEM to meet the individual requirements of each airline, factoring in brand image, passenger comfort, and cabin aesthetics. Additionally, innovations in seat technology and materials aimed at improving comfort, reducing weight, and enhancing safety are primarily introduced through OEM.

Aftermarket involves the sale of seats and components to airlines or service providers after the initial purchase of the aircraft. It covers the needs of airlines looking to upgrade or replace seats in their existing fleet outside of standard maintenance schedules. The increasing need for cabin refurbishments, upgrades to meet changing passenger expectations, or replacements due to wear and tear is favoring the market growth.

Maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) focus on the regular upkeep, repair, and periodic overhaul of aircraft seats. The rising need to ensure passenger safety, comfort, and compliance with aviation regulations is enhancing the market growth. MRO activities include routine maintenance, cleaning, repairing damaged components, and replacing worn-out parts like cushions and coverings.

Breakup by Region:

• North America
  • United States
  • Canada
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Australia
  • Indonesia
  • Others
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • United Kingdom
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
  • Others
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Others
• Middle East and Africa
   

North America leads the market, accounting for the largest aircraft seating market share

The market research report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of all the major regional markets, which include North America (the United States and Canada); Europe (Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Russia, and others); Asia Pacific (China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, and others); Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, and others); and the Middle East and Africa. According to the report, North America accounted for the largest market share.

North America holds the largest share of the aircraft seating market, influenced by the presence of major aircraft manufacturers and airlines, as well as a large and mature aviation industry. Furthermore, the region is characterized by high demand for new aircraft and retrofitting of existing fleets, driven by the need to upgrade to more efficient and comfortable seating solutions. Moreover, it is a hub for technological innovation in aircraft seating, with numerous companies specializing in advanced seat design and manufacturing. Besides this, the implementation of stringent regulatory standards and a strong focus on enhancing passenger experience, driving continuous investments in cabin upgrades and seating improvements is fueling the market growth.

Europe is a significant player in the aircraft seating market, with a strong presence of leading seat manufacturers and design companies. The region benefits from advanced manufacturing capabilities and a focus on research and development (R&D), particularly in ergonomic design and lightweight materials. Furthermore, European airlines are known for their emphasis on passenger comfort and efficiency, fueling the demand for innovative seating solutions.

The Asia Pacific region is experiencing rapid growth in the aircraft seating market, propelled by the expanding aviation sector in various countries. Moreover, the increasing air travel demand, driven by rising disposable incomes and growing tourism and business travel, is favoring the market growth. Additionally, the rising investments in fleet expansion and modernization, leading to increased demand for new and retrofitted aircraft seating, are enhancing the market growth.

Latin America is witnessing growth in the market as airlines focus on upgrading their fleets to meet the rising demand for air travel across the region. Furthermore, the escalating need for more efficient and comfortable seating to improve the passenger experience on domestic and international flights is catalyzing the market growth. Moreover, the region's demand for new aircraft seating and retrofits, as airlines in Latin America balance the need for cost-effective solutions with the desire to offer competitive amenities, is fueling the market growth.

The Middle East and Africa's aircraft seating market is characterized by a growing focus on luxury and premium travel experiences. They are known for their high standards of passenger comfort, particularly in business and first-class cabins, driving the demand for advanced and luxurious seating options. Moreover, the increasing investments in fleet modernization and improved passenger services are stimulating the market growth. 

Leading Key Players in the Aircraft Seating Industry:

The key players in the market are actively engaged in various strategic initiatives to maintain and enhance their market positions. They are heavily investing in research and development (R&D) to innovate and improve the ergonomics, weight, and safety features of their seating products. Moreover, the leading companies are focusing on creating seats that are comfortable, durable, and lighter, contributing to fuel efficiency and reduced environmental impact. Additionally, they are forming collaborations and partnerships with airlines and aircraft manufacturers for tailored seat designs that align with specific airline branding and customer experience goals. Along with this, the market leaders are expanding their global presence through mergers, acquisitions, and the establishment of new manufacturing and service centers.

The market research report has provided a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape. Detailed profiles of all major companies have also been provided. Some of the key players in the market include:

• Acro Aircraft Seating (Zhejiang Tiancheng Controls Co. Ltd.)
• Adient Aerospace LLC (Adient plc)
• Autoflug GmbH
• Aviointeriors S.p.A.
• Geven SPA
• Hong Kong Aircraft Engineering Company Limited (Swire Group)
• Jamco Corporation
• Collins Aerospace (RTX Corporation)
• Recaro Holding GmbH
• Safran S.A.
• Thompson Aero Seating Limited
   

(Please note that this is only a partial list of the key players, and the complete list is provided in the report.)

Latest News: 

• In 2023, Adient Aerospace introduced a new business class seat that is designed specifically for narrow body aircrafts.
• In May 2023, Autoflug signed a comprehensive cooperation agreement with ALTHOM GmbH and ALTHOM Engineering E.P.E. for long-term collaboration in the field of safety seat design and development.
• In June 2023, Collins Aerospace unveiled Aurora, the company’s first fully lie-flat business class suite designed exclusively for narrow-body aircraft.

Aircraft Seating Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s industry report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the aircraft seating market from 2018-2032.
• The research report provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the global aircraft seating market.
• The study maps the leading, as well as the fastest-growing, regional markets. It further enables stakeholders to identify the key country-level markets within each region.
• Porter's five forces analysis assists stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the aircraft seating industry and its attractiveness.
• The competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides insight into the current positions of key players in the market.