5G in Aviation Market 2030: From Ground to Sky—Connectivity Redefined

The global 5G in aviation market was valued at USD 2.68 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 13.64 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 31.4% from 2025 to 2030. This rapid growth is driven by the increasing demand for quick connectivity restoration in disaster zones, the expansion of non-terrestrial network (NTN) ecosystems, and advancements in lightweight, high-throughput phased array antennas.

Airborne 5G systems are gaining widespread use, particularly in government and defense sectors, for emergency communications. Investments in High-Altitude Pseudo-Satellites (HAPS) and aircraft-based 5G relays are further accelerating digital inclusion in remote and underserved regions. Technological advancements in compact antenna systems have also made the integration of 5G capabilities into commercial and military aircraft more feasible. These airborne 5G systems offer the ability to quickly deploy connectivity, making them a valuable asset for disaster management and resilience planning.

Airborne 5G platforms, such as drones, aircraft, and HAPS, have become critical tools for restoring communications when terrestrial networks are disrupted due to natural disasters. For example, during the 2023 earthquake in Turkey and Syria, temporary satellite and UAV-based communication systems were deployed to restore connectivity. Similarly, during California wildfires, aircraft equipped with communication payloads enabled real-time coordination among firefighting teams. These mobile 5G systems are now considered indispensable by defense agencies, first responders, and humanitarian organizations for activities such as real-time video transmission, GPS coordination, and data sharing when terrestrial networks are down.

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Key Market Trends & Insights

• North America led the market with a revenue share of over 32.7% in 2024. This growth is fueled by increasing regulatory approvals for 5G Supplemental Type Certificates (STCs) for business jets, expanding 5G ground station networks at major airports, and growing demand for in-flight connectivity that supports real-time data transfer and improves the passenger experience.
• By communication infrastructure, the small cells segment accounted for the largest share of 62.3% in 2024. The demand for enhanced in-flight connectivity and the need for dense network coverage in airport terminals and aircraft are driving the growth of small cells. Airlines and airport operators are also investing in upgrading legacy infrastructure to support next-generation wireless technologies.
• By technology, the enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB) segment dominated, driven by increasing demand for high-speed internet during flights, bandwidth-intensive applications like video streaming, and the adoption of connected aircraft systems.
• By connectivity type, the air-to-ground communication segment led with the largest share in 2024. This segment is driven by the increasing demand for in-flight connectivity and real-time data exchange between aircraft and ground stations. Key services include live video streaming, weather updates, and flight management system data transfer, all of which enhance both passenger experience and operational efficiency.
• By end use, the aircraft segment accounted for the largest share in 2024. The growth of global air travel and the increasing need for seamless in-flight connectivity are key factors propelling this segment, as airlines seek advanced communication systems to enhance passenger experience and operational efficiency.

Market Size & Forecast

• 2024 Market Size: USD 2.68 Billion
• 2030 Projected Market Size: USD 13.64 Billion
• CAGR (2025-2030): 31.4%
• North America: Largest market in 2024
• Asia Pacific: Fastest growing market

Key Companies & Market Share Insights

The market is highly competitive, with several leading players shaping its growth. Key companies include:

• Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. – Headquartered in Shenzhen, China, Huawei is a global leader in telecommunications and information technology. Huawei actively participates in the 5G aviation sector by providing advanced Radio Access Network (RAN), Small Cells, and end-to-end 5G infrastructure solutions. The company supports ground-to-ground and air-to-ground communication systems, collaborating with airlines and airport authorities, particularly in Asia and emerging markets, to deploy ultra-reliable 5G systems for smart airport operations and in-flight connectivity.
• Honeywell International Inc. – Based in North Carolina, USA, Honeywell is a diversified technology company that is expanding its footprint in the 5G aviation market. Honeywell develops avionics systems, ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC) platforms, and IoT-integrated sensors that enable connected aircraft and smart airports. The company’s 5G-enabled technologies help improve predictive maintenance, real-time monitoring, and operational efficiency in aviation, supporting both commercial and defense aviation clients.

Key Players

• Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd.
• Honeywell International Inc.
• Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson
• Nokia Corporation
• Cisco Systems, Inc.
• Gogo Inc. (formerly Gogo Business Aviation LLC)
• Panasonic Avionics Corporation
• Thales Group (Thales S.A.)
• OneWeb Group Limited
• Collins Aerospace (a unit of Raytheon Technologies Corporation)

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Conclusion

The 5G in aviation market is set to experience significant growth, driven by advancements in technology, increasing demand for rapid connectivity restoration in disaster zones, and the expansion of 5G ecosystems. Airborne 5G systems are emerging as critical assets for emergency communications, particularly in regions where terrestrial infrastructure is damaged. North America currently dominates the market, but the Asia Pacific region is expected to witness the fastest growth. The growing need for seamless in-flight connectivity and operational efficiency will continue to fuel demand, particularly in the aircraft and small cell segments. Key players like Huawei and Honeywell are well-positioned to lead the market, with their innovations in 5G technology enhancing both commercial and defense aviation capabilities.