Autonomous Aircraft Market Size - By Aircraft Type, Technology, Component, End Use Analysis, Share, Growth Forecast, 2025 - 2034

Autonomous Aircraft Market Size

The global autonomous aircraft market was valued at USD 7.4 billion in 2024 and is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 22.1% to reach USD 54.7 billion by 2034 with the volume of 32.7 thousand units. The growth of the market is driven by key factors such as rising demand for air mobility solutions, rise of food delivery and QSR channels, Growth in private and commercial investments, as well as rise advancements in sensor technologies.
 

The opportunities in the autonomous aircraft market are growing positively due to the increasing demand for convenience vertical mobility in urban settings, last-mile delivery services, and the need for speed and flexibility in transportation. According to the World Bank, there are more than half of the world's population, or 4.4 billion people, reside in urban areas. This trend is predicted to continue, with nearly seven out of ten people living in cities by 2050, when the urban population is predicted to more than double. Autonomous aircrafts provide unique and easily adaptable solutions to conventional transport systems, particularly for logistics, emergency response, and passenger movement. Growing investment in autonomous flight systems, sensor systems, and operational platforms for autonomous vehicles is being driven by rising demand of autonomous aircraft. Also, businesses and governments are shifting towards autonomous aircrafts which enables technological advancement as well as its commercial adoption across various sectors.
 

In addition, the autonomous aircraft market’s growth is significantly driven through private and commercial investments as these provide the necessary funding for research and development, prototype trials, and mass production. Startups and joint ventures that concentrate on autonomous flight technologies, sensing systems, and AI based navigation are funded by venture capital firms, aerospace companies, and technology conglomerates. For instance, in October 2024, Honeywell has announced a strategic investment and partnership with Near Earth Autonomy (Near Earth) in order to support several autonomous rotorcraft program objectives, such as the USMC Aerial Logistics Connector (ALC).
 

Through an Other Transaction Agreement (OTA) under the Naval Aviation Systems Consortium (NASC), Honeywell is collaborating with Near Earth, which has been chosen by the USMC to showcasing rotorcraft-based efficient logistics. Near Earth and Honeywell will demonstrate uncrewed rotorcraft capabilities for disputed areas using Leonardo's AW139 helicopter as part of the ALC program. This investment is fostering innovations, new products launch and increasing cross-aviation collaborations. Also, the increasing interest of logistics providers, defense services, and mobility-as-a-service providers further propels the market expansion during the estimated period. 
 

The autonomous aircraft sector has been impacted by Trump's trade policies, particularly the tariffs on imported parts, aluminum, steel, and electronic assemblies. The tariffs have increased production costs for businesses that rely on foreign-sourced avionics, sensor systems, and lightweight structural materials.  Project overhead costs have restricted budgetary spending, leading to limited R&D spendings, and delayed investment outlays, which is adversely affects the startups firms. Moreover, supply chain modifications, longer supply times for crucial components, and changing supply spatial distributions.
 

Autonomous Aircraft Market Trends

• The advancement of UAM is propelling the growth of the market. The growing requirements have risen for unmanned and eVTOL vertical takeoff and landing crafts designed for low elevation flying in towns. UAM is one of the most emerging initiatives that cities are augmenting to adopt as a substitute for traditional surface transport. Also, there is a growing investment in systems like AI navigation for autonomous flight and collision avoidance sensors, which is supporting this trend. UAM projects also exert pressure on regulatory bodies to accelerate associated legislation on the autonomy of the crafts, which in turn creates additional impetus for the expansion of the overall market.
   
• Additionally, the autonomous aircraft market is rapidly expanding due to rising emphasis on infrastructure development which enables the construction of operational ecosystems like vertiports, advanced air traffic management systems, and high-speed communication networks. Both governments and private stakeholders are investing in digital infrastructure, smart mobility, and flight corridors to enhance the safety and efficiency of autonomous flights. The autonomous flight infrastructure advancements are changing the available technologies and logistics challenges, helping large-scale adoption in urban and rural regions. With the enhancement of infrastructure, there is an increase in commercial viability and regulatory approval, which is essential for growth in the market.
   

Autonomous Aircraft Market Analysis

Based on the aircraft type, the market is segmented into fixed-wing aircraft, rotary-wing aircraft, eVTOL Aircraft.
 

• Rotary-wing aircraft segment accounted for USD 3.5 billion in 2024. The rotary-wing aircraft type segment’s demand in the market is driven by its capabilities which assist in confined or remote operations without the need for a runway. Also, the market growth is also supported by increased use in defense and emergency response missions including surveillance, reconnaissance, and medical evacuations. Moreover, improvements in autonomous flight control systems and increased focus on UAM for payload and passenger transport continues to drive growth in the segment.
   
• The eVTOL Aircraft accounted as the fastest growing segment that is likely to reach USD 11.7 billion in 2034. eVTOLs are being increasingly adopted because of the high demand for effective urban air mobility tools. This is due to their vertically take-off and land that is highly useful in overpopulated cities. Also, advancements in electric propulsion and battery technologies are improving the performance and range of eVTOL aircraft that are crucial for commercial operations. Furthermore, growing focus on the environment is promoting the development of electric airplanes as eVTOLs do not emit any harmful gasses during flight, which is also exhibiting a positive influence on the segment expansion over the forecast period.

Based on technology, the autonomous aircraft market is divided into fully autonomous aircraft, remotely piloted aircraft, optionally piloted aircraft and semi-autonomous aircraft.
 

• Remotely piloted aircraft is expected to account for 41.5% of the global market in 2024. The use of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and sensors within unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) has improved UAV’s productivity and dependability in undertaking highly intricate tasks. Such developments ensure adequate real-time data management and decision making that is critical for autonomous operations navigations. In addition, increased adoption of UAVs within the surveillance, agriculture, emergency response, and logistics sectors are further enabling the growth of the market. UAVs is as core components in these industries as it provides ability to complete tasks that are exceptionally dangerous, difficult, or time consuming.
   
• Fully autonomous aircraft segment accounted for CAGR of 23.6% in 2025-2034. The growing focus towards minimizing human error and improving operational productivity is accelerating the use of fully autonomous systems in aircraft. Autonomous systems mitigate the dangers of human error, particularly in difficult terrain or areas. Moreover, regulatory policies and government programs are advancing the use of autonomous aircraft in the aerospace of a nation. Furthermore, governments are developing policies and laws that seek to promote the safe usage of autonomous systems, which in turn fosters investment and advancements in the region.
   

Based on component, the autonomous aircraft market is bifurcated into flight management computers, air data inertial reference units, sensors, actuation systems, software, radars & transponders, propulsion systems, and others.
 

• Flight management computers segment dominated the market, accounting for USD 1.6 billion in 2024. The market driven by the growing demand for autonomous passenger and cargo aircraft which require advanced flight management computers (FMCs) capable of fully automated operations. Automation reduces human error, increases optimization, and results in safety and efficiency. Moreover, advancements in AI and machine learning enable faster responses to dynamic environmental changes. Furthermore, automated aircraft control systems and advanced smart airports designed for unmanned aircraft are supported by regulations enabling seamless autonomous flight operations, which is augmenting the segment growth during the estimated period.
   
• Software segment is expected to register significant growth during the forecast period, growing at a CAGR of 23.8% for 2025 to 2034. The increasing dependence on novel autonomous systems for real-time decision making, mission scheduling, and navigation are bolstering the demand for software components. Furthermore, shift towards modular avionics and adaptable systems is propelling the demand for advanced systems which require flexible and easily modifiable upgrading software. Additionally, the integrated flight control, communication and diagnostics systems need more software to ensure a fully integrated aircraft operation, which is attributed to the segment growth at a substantial rate.
   

Based on the end use, the autonomous aircraft market is segmented into commercial, military & defense, civil & government, and others.
 

• Military & defense segment accounted for USD 3.3 billion in 2024. The need for autonomous aircraft in military and defense sector is driven due to increasing focus on unmanned combat capabilities, electronic warfare, and intelligence-led operations in contested areas. These aircraft also mitigate threats to pilots, improve mission persistence, and support strategic objectives such as surveillance and precision strikes. There is an increased emphasis on autonomous systems for fleet modernization and in response to shifting threat paradigms, which is bolstering the demand for autonomous aircraft in the military and defense sector.
   
• Commercial accounted for the fastest growing segment that is likely to reach USD 18.8 billion in 2034. The rise in advancements in AI, Machine learning, and sensor technologies increases the precision and reliability of operations which propels the demand of autonomous aircraft in the commercial sector. Also, favorable regulations, along with the growing need for reduced expenses combined with improved operational efficiency, also drives the adoption of autonomous aircraft. Furthermore, electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, as well as urban air mobility initiatives accelerating the e-commerce market, is offering more efficient transportation and delivery services, further driving growth. Thus, these factors combined are leading to the robust use of autonomous aircraft in commercial applications.

In 2024, the U.S. autonomous aircraft market accounted for USD 2.3 billion. The rise in developments in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and sensor technologies are increasing the autonomy, safety, and operational efficiency of aircraft systems, which is supporting the market expansion. Additionally, the rise in traffic congestion within metropolitan areas also leads to soaring demand for effective transport solutions leading to the development of UAM (Urban Air Mobility). There is growing investment for AI-enabled drones designed for surveillance, reconnaissance, and tactical operations due to their significance in defense and security. Thus, these factors are resulting in the growth of the market in the US.
 

The Germany autonomous aircraft market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 18.7% during the forecast period. The autonomous aircraft industry in Germany results mainly from the country’s advanced aerospace engineering infrastructure, active government support in aviation industry innovation, and the growing demand of sophisticated UAVs in commercial and defence sectors. The rise in expenditure on unmanned aerial systems (UAS) for surveillance and reconnaissance purposes is also contributing to the autonomous aircraft. Furthermore, Germany's focused digital transformation and intelligent mobility development policy correlates with the application of autonomous systems in aviation, which further resulting into the growth of the market at a substantial rate.
 

China autonomous aircraft market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 24% during the forecast period owing to the strategic government support provides a significant scenario for the market expansion. Also, the development of AI, 5G, machine learning, and other relevant technologies practically drives technological innovation in autonomous aircraft. Furthermore, China proactively promotes market acceptance with the Civil Aviation Authority of China (CAAC) necessarily streamlining certification processes for autonomous aircrafts. The development of general aviation airports, along with intelligent scheduling systems, broadens infrastructure opportunities and enhances the strategic position of the country in the logistics, urban air mobility, emergency services, and other services sectors, furthering the development of autonomous aircraft systems. Thus, these factors are leveraging various growth prospects for the market expansion in China at a substantial rate.
 

In 2024, Japan is expected to account for a share of 15% of the autonomous aircraft market in Asia Pacific. Japan’s autonomous aircraft industry is driven by its strong robotics technologies, demand for unmanned logistics solutions from the aging demographic, and focus on surveillance of infrastructure and disaster management. Also, Japan’s focus on smart city initiatives, along with its investments in autonomous systems like flying taxis and autonomous cargo aircrafts, is further supporting their market advancement.
 

India autonomous aircraft market accounted for USD 3.2 billion in 2034. The favorable government policies, technology innovation, and rising military and civilian uses are driving the growth of the autonomous aircraft industry in India. The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning, and advanced sensor technologies into autonomous aerial vehicles is increasing in India. Such advancements help improve the level of autonomy and safety, along with the efficiency of operations which allows for the aircraft to be used in various applications. Moreover, new public-private partnerships are incorporating AI and sophisticated avionics into the autonomous aircraft systems which enable India to achieve its goals of modernizing defence and strengthening its position in the global aerospace industry.
 

Autonomous Aircraft Market Share

The market for autonomous aircraft is highly competitive because of its fragmented nature. It consists of more than a few players which operate on different levels of the value chain. Companies like Northrop Grumman Corporation, Lockheed Martin Corporation, Boeing Company, Airbus S.A.S, and AeroVironment Inc. have a considerable presence in the market and are holding highest numbers of market shares of nearly 47.2%. These companies are making substantial investments in autonomous flight systems, artificial intelligence, and next-generation avionics technologies to improve system reliability and efficiency. Also, rise in focus on strategic partnerships, joint ventures, and acquisitions to foster innovation, broaden geographical footprint, and comply with changing regulations, which enhances levels of autonomy, pilot sufficiency, and overall alignment with future air mobility systems.
 

The autonomous aircraft market for autonomous aircraft is continuously developing with new product innovations, along with establishing collaborations and partnerships. For instance, in January 2025, Honeywell and NXP Semiconductors has announced their collaboration to promote AI-powered aircraft technology and autonomous flight. The new collaboration, which builds on their partnership in energy-efficient building systems launched last year, aims to improve aviation through next-generation computer and avionics solutions. The collaboration will combine NXP's high-performance computing architecture with Honeywell's aerospace experience and cloud-connected Honeywell Anthem cockpit system. The companies seek to accelerate the shift to cutting-edge chipsets and avionics technologies while improving flight planning and operating efficiency using AI.
 

Autonomous Aircraft Market Companies

Leading companies in the market comprise:

• Northrop Grumman Corporation
• Lockheed Martin Corporation
• Boeing Company
• Airbus S.A.S
• AeroVironment Inc.

Northrop Grumman Corporation is one of the largest emerging and existing contractors in the USA that deals with the issues of unmanned systems and autonomous aircrafts including vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircrafts, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and integrating system features which require high levels of autonomy.
 

Lockheed Martin is most involved companies in military applications. They actively research and demonstrate the operation of AI-controlled aircrafts working in conjunction with manned crafts, such as in their Collaborative Combat Aircraft System (CCA) program and AI drone experiments. Their effort is primarily placed in combat effectiveness and efficiency.
 

Autonomous Aircraft Industry News

• In May 2025, Whisper Aero has revealed plans to work with the U.S. Air Force to prototype a family of hybrid-electric autonomous freight planes during the next three years. During the Special Operations Week conference in Tampa, Florida, the Collaborative Logistics Aircraft (CLA) family was unveiled. It includes the Group 3 uncrewed, clean-sheet aircraft CLA Light, which can carry 500 pounds of cargo, and the Group 5 optionally piloted aircraft CLA Heavy, which is a modified nine-passenger aircraft that can carry 3,000 pounds of cargo. The Air Force will provide funding for prototype design and manufacturing under the Operational Energy Capability Improvement Fund and Strategic Funding Increase programs.
   
• In October 2024, Merlin aims to integrate its autonomous flying technology with Honeywell's Anthem avionics suite. According to the agreement, a range of military and commercial aircraft alongside Anthem flight deck will have access to the artificial intelligence-powered Merlin Pilot technology. This collaboration offers a safe and scalable way to reduce pilot workload and maximize fleet operations for the military and commercial aviation sectors by facilitating single-pilot operations and automating critical tasks.
   
• In June 2024, Joby Aviation, Inc.- a business that creates electric air taxis for commercial passenger transportation, announced that it has acquired the autonomy section of Xwing Inc., a pioneer in the field of aviation autonomous technology development. The acquisition places Joby at the forefront of aircraft autonomy. Both Joby's short-term piloted operations and its future completely autonomous operations are anticipated to benefit from Xwing's all-encompassing strategy and proficiency in perception technology, system integration, and certification.
   

This autonomous aircraft market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecasts in terms of revenue (USD Million) and (Units) from 2021 to 2034, for the following segments:

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Market, By Aircraft Type

• Fixed-wing aircraft
• Rotary-wing aircraft
• eVTOL aircraft

Market, By Technology

• Fully autonomous aircraft 
• Remotely piloted aircraft 
• Optionally piloted aircraft 
• Semi-autonomous aircraft

Market, By Component

• Flight management computers
• Air data inertial reference units
• Sensors
• Actuation systems
• Software
• Radars & transponders
• Propulsion systems
• Others

Market, By End Use

• Commercial
  • Cargo delivery
  • Passenger transport (Urban Air Mobility) 
• Military & Defense
  • ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance)
  • Combat missions
  • Others
• Civil & Government
  • Border surveillance
  • Environmental monitoring
  • Emergency response
  • Aerial surveying & mapping
  • Others
• Others

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • UK
  • Germany
  • France
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • ANZ 
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico 
• MEA
  • UAE
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Africa