Market Trends of Commercial Helicopters Industry
Search and Rescue Segment Will Showcase Remarkable Growth During the Forecast Period
Search and rescue (SAR) teams employ helicopters to support operation logistics by transporting rescuers. The speed afforded by helicopter transport can reduce time and rescuer fatigue, both vital considerations in many rescue operations. Features of helicopters, like their ability to reach inaccessible regions, smaller size, and applications in emergency operations, make helicopters the most desirable form of rescue in many countries. For instance, in December 2023, massive rainfall flooded villages and towns in the southern areas of Tamil Nadu, India. Locals and disaster response teams mobilized resources to rescue stranded residents. In rescue, the Indian navy’s helicopters conducted the relief operations and dropped 3.2 tons of relief material in Tamil Nadu's flood-affected areas.
The incorporation of innovative technology in regular search and rescue helicopters is increasing. Military SAR operations are usually conducted in combat zones, and focusing on market giants in their expansion will further stimulate market growth. In November 2023, to strengthen bilateral relations and boost the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) capabilities, the Indian government offered at least seven helicopters for use in the Philippines' rescue and humanitarian efforts during disasters. The helicopters provided to the PCG are built for India’s Navy and Coast Guard and can be used for security operations and carrying more people and loads.
In August 2023, Bristow Ireland Limited, a subsidiary of Bristow Group Inc., signed a contract with the Irish Department of Transport to provide rotary and fixed-wing aviation services for the Irish Coast Guard. Bristow will shift to the new contract in the fourth quarter of 2024. The company will operate six specialized SAR-configured AW189 helicopters from four dedicated Sligo, Shannon, Waterford, and Dublin Weston bases. Thus, the growing procurement of helicopters for search and rescue operations drives the segment growth during the forecast period.
The Middle East and Africa is Projected to Show Highest Growth During the Forecast Period
The increase in the demand for helicopters for commercial applications like agriculture, aerial photography, tourism, offshore applications, and air ambulance in the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and others drives the market's growth.
Saudi Arabia has a large geographical area with many remote and difficult-to-access locations. Helicopters are one of the most essential modes of transportation for these areas, especially during emergencies or when time is of the essence. Helicopters with medical equipment, such as stretchers and oxygen supplies, help provide emergency medical assistance to those in need. They transport patients from remote areas to hospitals and medical facilities in urban areas. For instance, in February 2024, Leonardo was awarded a contract by the THC (The Helicopter Company), which is owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF) in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, to deliver 20 AW139 intermediate twin-engine helicopters to strengthen the country’s emergency medical service (EMS), and search and rescue (SAR).
The United Arab Emirates is home to several government agencies and para-public bodies that rely on helicopters. Emergency medical services are another critical use of helicopters in the United Arab Emirates. For instance, in January 2022, Falcon Aviation Services and Response Plus Holdings signed a partnership agreement to provide air ambulance services in the United Arab Emirates using their two specially fitted helicopters for air ambulance needs. Thus, the growing use of helicopters for various commercial applications such as search and rescue, transportation, offshore, and medical services is expected to boost market growth across the region.
