Air Crane Helicopter Market
Air Crane Helicopter Market Forecasts to 2032 - Global Analysis By External Load Capacity (External Load Capacity, 10,000 to 20,000 Pounds and Above 20,000 Pounds), Endurance (Up to 15,000 Feet and Above 15,000 Feet), Rotor System, Application, End User and By Geography
According to Stratistics MRC, the Global Air Crane Helicopter Market is accounted for $5.7 billion in 2025 and is expected to reach $10.7 billion by 2032 growing at a CAGR of 9.2% during the forecast period. Air crane helicopter, an aerial crane or sky crane, is a specialized rotorcraft engineered to lift and transport heavy or oversized loads using external rigging systems like cables and slings. These helicopters are designed with minimal fuselage to maximize lifting capacity and maneuverability. Commonly used in construction, logging, and disaster relief, they access remote or elevated sites where ground cranes are impractical. Their precision and efficiency make them vital for high-stakes, heavy-lift operations in challenging environments
Market Dynamics:
Driver:
Increasing demand for heavy-lift operations
The rising demand for aerial heavy-lift solutions across sectors like infrastructure, power transmission, oil & gas, and disaster response drive this market. These helicopters provide unmatched capabilities in transporting oversized and bulky loads to remote or hard-to-access areas. With increased infrastructure development in rugged terrains and rising reliance on vertical logistics, demand is expected to remain strong. Moreover, their use in specialized tasks like erecting wind turbines or supporting firefighting missions continues to expand.
Restraint:
Stringent aviation regulations and certification
Operators must meet rigorous safety and maintenance standards, which can delay deployment and increase upfront costs. Furthermore, compliance varies regionally, complicating international operations and fleet expansion. Obtaining approvals for new airframes or technology upgrades involves lengthy validation cycles. This can discourage smaller operators and manufacturers, impacting the overall scalability and commercial viability of fleets.
Opportunity:
Fleet modernization and replacement demand
Operators are increasingly seeking modern helicopters with improved payload capacity, lower maintenance needs, and superior fuel efficiency. Technological advancements such as composite materials, digital avionics, and hybrid propulsion systems are creating strong incentives for upgrade investments. Additionally, government-backed infrastructure and defense programs are supporting procurement of advanced rotorcraft for multipurpose missions.
Threat:
Competition from alternative lifting solutions
While air cranes offer tactical advantages, alternative lifting methods like tower cranes, drones, or high-capacity ground transport are gaining traction. These substitutes are often perceived as more cost-effective for routine or static lifting tasks, especially in urban environments or flat terrain. Technological improvements in UAVs and autonomous land vehicles are presenting new challenges to helicopter operators. As project budgets tighten, decision-makers are increasingly weighing cost-risk-benefit analyses, which could marginally reduce demand in certain applications.
Covid-19 Impact:
The COVID-19 pandemic had a mixed effect on the air crane helicopter industry. On one hand, global travel restrictions and supply chain disruptions caused temporary halts in helicopter manufacturing and operations. On the other hand, emergency logistics and urgent infrastructure restoration needs highlighted the strategic importance of aerial lift solutions. Air cranes played a critical role in delivering medical and relief supplies to inaccessible areas and supported rapid infrastructure rebuilds during emergencies.
The tandem rotor segment is expected to be the largest during the forecast period
The tandem rotor segment is expected to account for the largest market share during the forecast period due to its superior lift efficiency and large payload capacity. These helicopters can carry heavier loads across longer distances while maintaining stability, making them ideal for infrastructure construction, defense logistics, and industrial transport. Their symmetrical rotor configuration allows them to operate efficiently even in turbulent or high-altitude conditions.
The disaster relief & emergency response segment is expected to have the highest CAGR during the forecast period
Over the forecast period, the disaster relief & emergency response segment is predicted to witness the highest growth rate as these missions require helicopters that can deliver critical resources to disaster-hit regions quickly and reliably. Whether it's natural calamities, wildfires, or post-conflict recovery, air cranes offer unmatched agility and reach. Government agencies and humanitarian organizations are increasingly investing in aerial logistics fleets to strengthen disaster preparedness.
Region with largest share:
During the forecast period, the Asia Pacific region is expected to hold the largest market share fueled by expansive infrastructure development and rising disaster recovery needs. Countries such as China and India are investing heavily in transportation, power transmission, and urbanization projects, which require aerial lifting capabilities. The region’s susceptibility to natural disasters also creates continuous demand for emergency response support.
Region with highest CAGR:
Over the forecast period, the North America region is anticipated to exhibit the highest CAGR owing to modernization of utility infrastructure, wildfire management, and defense applications. The U.S. government’s increasing focus on infrastructure resilience and renewable energy installations is creating robust demand for heavy-lift helicopters. In addition, investments in advanced rotorcraft technologies and the presence of key OEMs are accelerating innovation in this space.
Key players in the market
Some of the key players in Air Crane Helicopter Market include Erickson Incorporated, Columbia Helicopters, Inc., Aircrane, Inc., Airbus Helicopters S.A.S., Lockheed Martin Corporation, The Boeing Company, Textron Aviation Inc., Leonardo S.p.A., Kaman Corporation, Coulson Aviation, HeliSwiss International AG, Skycrane Services Ltd., Precision Helicopters, Heli-One, Bristow Group Inc., PHI Aviation and CHC Helicopter.
Key Developments:
In July 2025, Columbia and Piasecki began upgrading Model 107?II aircraft to the more powerful and efficient 107?III variant, aiming to deliver the first by year-end and pursue further STCs through 2025.
In March 2025, Airbus unveiled the H140 twin-engine helicopter at VERTICON Dallas, optimized for HEMS (air ambulance) roles with improved cabin space, noise reduction, and advanced avionics. Service entry is planned for 2028.
In February 2025, Erickson detected unauthorized access to its internal network, potentially compromising customer and employee personal records (such as Social Security and driver’s license numbers). They engaged third-party cybersecurity experts, notified authorities, and are mailing notifications to affected individuals.
External Load Capacities Covered:
• Up to 10,000 Pounds
• 10,000 to 20,000 Pounds
• Above 20,000 Pounds
Endurances Covered:
• Up to 15,000 Feet
• Above 15,000 Feet
Rotor Systems Covered:
• Single Rotor
• Tandem Rotor
• Coaxial Rotor
Applications Covered:
• Tower Installation & Bridge Construction
• Transmission Tower Setup & Powerline Maintenance
• Logging & Forestry Operations
• Disaster Relief & Emergency Response
• Equipment Transport & Troop Deployment Support
• Offshore Rig Support
• Other Applications
End Users Covered:
• Construction Companies
• Utility & Energy
• Firefighting Agencies
• Government & Disaster Management Authorities
• Forestry Departments
• Private Aviation Contractors
• Other End Users
Regions Covered:
• North America
o US
o Canada
o Mexico
• Europe
o Germany
o UK
o Italy
o France
o Spain
o Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
o Japan
o China
o India
o Australia
o New Zealand
o South Korea
o Rest of Asia Pacific
• South America
o Argentina
o Brazil
o Chile
o Rest of South America
• Middle East & Africa
o Saudi Arabia
o UAE
o Qatar
o South Africa
o Rest of Middle East & Africa
What our report offers:
- Market share assessments for the regional and country-level segments
- Strategic recommendations for the new entrants
- Covers Market data for the years 2024, 2025, 2026, 2028, and 2032
- Market Trends (Drivers, Constraints, Opportunities, Threats, Challenges, Investment Opportunities, and recommendations)
- Strategic recommendations in key business segments based on the market estimations
- Competitive landscaping mapping the key common trends
- Company profiling with detailed strategies, financials, and recent developments
- Supply chain trends mapping the latest technological advancements
Free Customization Offerings:
All the customers of this report will be entitled to receive one of the following free customization options:
• Company Profiling
o Comprehensive profiling of additional market players (up to 3)
o SWOT Analysis of key players (up to 3)
• Regional Segmentation
o Market estimations, Forecasts and CAGR of any prominent country as per the client's interest (Note: Depends on feasibility check)
• Competitive Benchmarking
o Benchmarking of key players based on product portfolio, geographical presence, and strategic alliances
Table of Contents
1 Executive Summary
2 Preface
2.1 Abstract
2.2 Stake Holders
2.3 Research Scope
2.4 Research Methodology
2.4.1 Data Mining
2.4.2 Data Analysis
2.4.3 Data Validation
2.4.4 Research Approach
2.5 Research Sources
2.5.1 Primary Research Sources
2.5.2 Secondary Research Sources
2.5.3 Assumptions
3 Market Trend Analysis
3.1 Introduction
3.2 Drivers
3.3 Restraints
3.4 Opportunities
3.5 Threats
3.6 Application Analysis
3.7 End User Analysis
3.8 Emerging Markets
3.9 Impact of Covid-19
4 Porters Five Force Analysis
4.1 Bargaining power of suppliers
4.2 Bargaining power of buyers
4.3 Threat of substitutes
4.4 Threat of new entrants
4.5 Competitive rivalry
5 Global Air Crane Helicopter Market, By External Load Capacity
5.1 Introduction
5.2 Up to 10,000 Pounds
5.3 10,000 to 20,000 Pounds
5.4 Above 20,000 Pounds
6 Global Air Crane Helicopter Market, By Endurance
6.1 Introduction
6.2 Up to 15,000 Feet
6.3 Above 15,000 Feet
7 Global Air Crane Helicopter Market, By Rotor System
7.1 Introduction
7.2 Single Rotor
7.3 Tandem Rotor
7.4 Coaxial Rotor
8 Global Air Crane Helicopter Market, By Application
8.1 Introduction
8.2 Tower Installation & Bridge Construction
8.3 Transmission Tower Setup & Powerline Maintenance
8.4 Logging & Forestry Operations
8.5 Disaster Relief & Emergency Response
8.6 Equipment Transport & Troop Deployment Support
8.7 Offshore Rig Support
8.8 Other Applications
9 Global Air Crane Helicopter Market, By End User
9.1 Introduction
9.2 Construction Companies
9.3 Utility & Energy
9.4 Firefighting Agencies
9.5 Government & Disaster Management Authorities
9.6 Forestry Departments
9.7 Private Aviation Contractors
9.8 Other End Users
10 Global Air Crane Helicopter Market, By Geography
10.1 Introduction
10.2 North America
10.2.1 US
10.2.2 Canada
10.2.3 Mexico
10.3 Europe
10.3.1 Germany
10.3.2 UK
10.3.3 Italy
10.3.4 France
10.3.5 Spain
10.3.6 Rest of Europe
10.4 Asia Pacific
10.4.1 Japan
10.4.2 China
10.4.3 India
10.4.4 Australia
10.4.5 New Zealand
10.4.6 South Korea
10.4.7 Rest of Asia Pacific
10.5 South America
10.5.1 Argentina
10.5.2 Brazil
10.5.3 Chile
10.5.4 Rest of South America
10.6 Middle East & Africa
10.6.1 Saudi Arabia
10.6.2 UAE
10.6.3 Qatar
10.6.4 South Africa
10.6.5 Rest of Middle East & Africa
11 Key Developments
11.1 Agreements, Partnerships, Collaborations and Joint Ventures
11.2 Acquisitions & Mergers
11.3 New Product Launch
11.4 Expansions
11.5 Other Key Strategies
12 Company Profiling
12.1 Erickson Incorporated
12.2 Columbia Helicopters, Inc.
12.3 Aircrane, Inc.
12.4 Airbus Helicopters S.A.S.
12.5 Lockheed Martin Corporation
12.6 The Boeing Company
12.7 Textron Aviation Inc.
12.8 Leonardo S.p.A.
12.9 Kaman Corporation
12.10 Coulson Aviation
12.11 HeliSwiss International AG
12.12 Skycrane Services Ltd.
12.13 Precision Helicopters
12.14 Heli-One
12.15 Bristow Group Inc.
12.16 PHI Aviation
12.17 CHC Helicopter
List of Tables
1 Global Air Crane Helicopter Market Outlook, By Region (2024-2032) ($MN)
2 Global Air Crane Helicopter Market Outlook, By External Load Capacity (2024-2032) ($MN)
3 Global Air Crane Helicopter Market Outlook, By Up to 10,000 Pounds (2024-2032) ($MN)
4 Global Air Crane Helicopter Market Outlook, By 10,000 to 20,000 Pounds (2024-2032) ($MN)
5 Global Air Crane Helicopter Market Outlook, By Above 20,000 Pounds (2024-2032) ($MN)
6 Global Air Crane Helicopter Market Outlook, By Endurance (2024-2032) ($MN)
7 Global Air Crane Helicopter Market Outlook, By Up to 15,000 Feet (2024-2032) ($MN)
8 Global Air Crane Helicopter Market Outlook, By Above 15,000 Feet (2024-2032) ($MN)
9 Global Air Crane Helicopter Market Outlook, By Rotor System (2024-2032) ($MN)
10 Global Air Crane Helicopter Market Outlook, By Single Rotor (2024-2032) ($MN)
11 Global Air Crane Helicopter Market Outlook, By Tandem Rotor (2024-2032) ($MN)
12 Global Air Crane Helicopter Market Outlook, By Coaxial Rotor (2024-2032) ($MN)
13 Global Air Crane Helicopter Market Outlook, By Application (2024-2032) ($MN)
14 Global Air Crane Helicopter Market Outlook, By Tower Installation & Bridge Construction (2024-2032) ($MN)
15 Global Air Crane Helicopter Market Outlook, By Transmission Tower Setup & Powerline Maintenance (2024-2032) ($MN)
16 Global Air Crane Helicopter Market Outlook, By Logging & Forestry Operations (2024-2032) ($MN)
17 Global Air Crane Helicopter Market Outlook, By Disaster Relief & Emergency Response (2024-2032) ($MN)
18 Global Air Crane Helicopter Market Outlook, By Equipment Transport & Troop Deployment Support (2024-2032) ($MN)
19 Global Air Crane Helicopter Market Outlook, By Offshore Rig Support (2024-2032) ($MN)
20 Global Air Crane Helicopter Market Outlook, By Other Applications (2024-2032) ($MN)
21 Global Air Crane Helicopter Market Outlook, By End User (2024-2032) ($MN)
22 Global Air Crane Helicopter Market Outlook, By Construction Companies (2024-2032) ($MN)
23 Global Air Crane Helicopter Market Outlook, By Utility & Energy (2024-2032) ($MN)
24 Global Air Crane Helicopter Market Outlook, By Firefighting Agencies (2024-2032) ($MN)
25 Global Air Crane Helicopter Market Outlook, By Government & Disaster Management Authorities (2024-2032) ($MN)
26 Global Air Crane Helicopter Market Outlook, By Forestry Departments (2024-2032) ($MN)
27 Global Air Crane Helicopter Market Outlook, By Private Aviation Contractors (2024-2032) ($MN)
28 Global Air Crane Helicopter Market Outlook, By Other End Users (2024-2032) ($MN)
Note: Tables for North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East & Africa Regions are also represented in the same manner as above.
List of Figures
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
We at ‘Stratistics’ opt for an extensive research approach which involves data mining, data validation, and data analysis. The various research sources include in-house repository, secondary research, competitor’s sources, social media research, client internal data, and primary research.
Our team of analysts prefers the most reliable and authenticated data sources in order to perform the comprehensive literature search. With access to most of the authenticated data bases our team highly considers the best mix of information through various sources to obtain extensive and accurate analysis.
Each report takes an average time of a month and a team of 4 industry analysts. The time may vary depending on the scope and data availability of the desired market report. The various parameters used in the market assessment are standardized in order to enhance the data accuracy.
Data Mining
The data is collected from several authenticated, reliable, paid and unpaid sources and is filtered depending on the scope & objective of the research. Our reports repository acts as an added advantage in this procedure. Data gathering from the raw material suppliers, distributors and the manufacturers is performed on a regular basis, this helps in the comprehensive understanding of the products value chain. Apart from the above mentioned sources the data is also collected from the industry consultants to ensure the objective of the study is in the right direction.
Market trends such as technological advancements, regulatory affairs, market dynamics (Drivers, Restraints, Opportunities and Challenges) are obtained from scientific journals, market related national & international associations and organizations.
Data Analysis
From the data that is collected depending on the scope & objective of the research the data is subjected for the analysis. The critical steps that we follow for the data analysis include:
- Product Lifecycle Analysis
- Competitor analysis
- Risk analysis
- Porters Analysis
- PESTEL Analysis
- SWOT Analysis
The data engineering is performed by the core industry experts considering both the Marketing Mix Modeling and the Demand Forecasting. The marketing mix modeling makes use of multiple-regression techniques to predict the optimal mix of marketing variables. Regression factor is based on a number of variables and how they relate to an outcome such as sales or profits.
Data Validation
The data validation is performed by the exhaustive primary research from the expert interviews. This includes telephonic interviews, focus groups, face to face interviews, and questionnaires to validate our research from all aspects. The industry experts we approach come from the leading firms, involved in the supply chain ranging from the suppliers, distributors to the manufacturers and consumers so as to ensure an unbiased analysis.
We are in touch with more than 15,000 industry experts with the right mix of consultants, CEO's, presidents, vice presidents, managers, experts from both supply side and demand side, executives and so on.
The data validation involves the primary research from the industry experts belonging to:
- Leading Companies
- Suppliers & Distributors
- Manufacturers
- Consumers
- Industry/Strategic Consultants
Apart from the data validation the primary research also helps in performing the fill gap research, i.e. providing solutions for the unmet needs of the research which helps in enhancing the reports quality.
For more details about research methodology, kindly write to us at info@strategymrc.com
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