Global 5G In Aviation Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis Report By Connectivity Type (Air-to-Ground Communication and Ground-to-Ground Communication), By Communication Infrastructure (Small Cells, Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS), and Radio Access Ne

The Global 5G In Aviation Market size is expected to reach $21.51 billion by 2032, rising at a market growth of 30.8% CAGR during the forecast period.

Ultra-Reliable Low-Latency Communication (URLLC) is designed for mission-critical applications that require extremely low latency and near-instantaneous communication. In aviation, URLLC supports applications such as real-time flight control, automated aircraft landing systems, air traffic control coordination, and safety-critical operations. Its ability to provide consistent, delay-free connectivity is vital for improving operational safety and enabling advanced automation in both aircraft systems and airport infrastructure. Thus, the ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC) segment garnered 26% revenue share in the market in 2024.

COVID 19 Impact Analysis

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the 5G in aviation market experienced considerable delays in infrastructure deployment. Travel restrictions, lockdowns, and workforce shortages significantly hindered the construction and installation of 5G infrastructure at airports and air traffic control centers. Many planned rollouts were postponed as governments and airport authorities redirected resources to manage the public health crisis rather than digital upgrades. The aviation industry's supply chain was heavily impacted during the pandemic. Thus, the COVID-19 pandemic had negative impact on the market.

Market Growth Factors

The aviation industry thrives on precision, safety, and the ability to make split-second decisions. Traditional communication networks, especially legacy satellite and 4G systems, struggle with the latency and bandwidth limitations required for today’s highly connected aircraft. The introduction of 5G, with its ultra-low latency (as low as 1 millisecond) and exceptionally high-speed data transmission, directly addresses this critical operational need. Additionally, air traffic management systems, especially with the rise of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and drones, demand quicker response cycles, which 5G can deliver far more effectively than existing networks.

Additionally, aircraft today are no longer standalone mechanical vehicles; they have transformed into flying digital platforms loaded with sensors, connected systems, and software-defined interfaces. This shift to "connected aircraft" is foundational to the aviation industry's digital transformation. With hundreds or even thousands of sensors embedded throughout an aircraft, continuous data collection, processing, and communication are crucial. However, managing this data explosion requires a communication network capable of high throughput, ultra-reliability, and minimal latency—qualities intrinsic to 5G.

Market Restraining Factors

However, one of the most significant restraints impacting the adoption of Integrated Vehicle Health Management (IVHM) systems is the high initial cost of deployment, coupled with the complexity of integration into existing vehicle platforms. Whether in commercial aviation, automotive, or defense sectors, the upfront investment required for IVHM implementation can be substantial. This includes costs associated with advanced sensors, embedded systems, data processing infrastructure, cloud and edge computing capabilities, and the development or acquisition of custom algorithms and software platforms. In conclusion, the high initial cost and multifaceted complexity of IVHM implementation remain key barriers to its widespread adoption, particularly in cost-sensitive or infrastructure-constrained sectors.

Value Chain Analysis

The value chain of the 5G in Aviation Market begins with Inbound Logistics, where airlines and airports procure 5G hardware like antennas, routers, and chips from telecom and equipment vendors. In the Operations phase, these components are integrated into systems to enable smart maintenance, autonomous ground operations, and real-time monitoring. Outbound Logistics involves delivering 5G-enabled services such as enhanced in-flight entertainment, seamless passenger connectivity, and cargo tracking. Marketing & Sales focuses on promoting the benefits of 5G—like high-speed, low-latency communication—to aviation stakeholders. Finally, the Service stage ensures ongoing support, system optimization, and network reliability post-deployment.

Connectivity Type Outlook

Based on connectivity type, the 5G in aviation market is characterized into air-to-ground communication and ground-to-ground communication. The ground-to-ground communication segment procured 48% revenue share in the 5G in aviation market in 2024. Ground-to-ground communication involves the use of 5G networks to facilitate data exchange between various ground-based entities within the aviation ecosystem. This includes communication between airports, air traffic control towers, maintenance facilities, and airline operations centers. The application of 5G in this segment enhances real-time coordination, improves airport logistics, enables remote diagnostics and predictive maintenance of aircraft, and supports automation and AI-driven operations.

Communication Infrastructure Outlook

On the basis of communication infrastructure, the 5G in aviation market is classified into small cells, distributed antenna systems (DAS), and radio access network (RAN). The radio access network (RAN) segment held 11% revenue share in the 5G in aviation market in 2024. Radio Access Network (RAN) refers to the part of the telecommunications system that connects individual devices to the core network via radio connections. In the aviation industry, RAN infrastructure is essential for enabling the 5G network to handle vast amounts of data generated by aircraft systems, passenger devices, and airport operations.

Technology Outlook

By technology, the 5G in aviation market is divided into enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB), ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC), and massive machine-type communication (mMTC). Massive machine-type communication (mMTC) segment held 15% revenue share in the market in 2024. Massive Machine-Type Communication (mMTC) facilitates the connection of many devices, sensors, and machines with minimal human intervention. In the aviation context, mMTC is instrumental in supporting the Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem across airports and aircraft.

End Use Outlook

Based on end use, the 5G in aviation market is segmented into aircraft and airport. The aircraft segment procured 52% revenue share in the 5G in aviation market in 2024. The aircraft segment leverages 5G technology to enhance both onboard services and operational efficiency. High-speed connectivity enables improved in-flight entertainment, real-time communication, and live data streaming for passengers and crew.

Regional Outlook

Region-wise, the 5G in aviation market is analyzed across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and LAMEA. The North America segment recorded 35% revenue share in the 5G in aviation market in 2024. North America represents a leading region in the adoption of 5G technology within the aviation sector, driven by significant investments in advanced infrastructure and a strong focus on innovation. The presence of major airlines, aircraft manufacturers, and technology companies has facilitated the rapid deployment of 5G for both airborne and ground-based applications.

Recent Strategies Deployed in the Market

• Jun-2025: Nokia Corporation teamed up with Leonardo, an aerospace company to integrate Leonardo’s MC_linX mission-critical services into Nokia’s Core Enterprise Solutions. This collaboration delivers reliable private wireless networks (LTE/5G) for public safety, energy, and rail sectors worldwide, enhancing real-time voice, video, and data communication.
• Feb-2025: Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. announced a partnership with KSIADC to transform King Salman International Airport into a smart aviation hub. Leveraging 5G-A, AI, and IoT, the partnership aims to enhance operations, passenger experience, and sustainability, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. Huawei will provide innovative ICT solutions to support this transformation.
• Oct-2024: NTT Data Corporation teamed up with Nokia, a Finnish multinational telecommunication, information technology, and consumer electronics corporation to deploy Private 5G networks at Cologne Bonn Airport and Fraport AG, enhancing real-time decision-making, efficiency, and smart airport operations. Their collaboration also established a 5G network in Brownsville, Texas, enabling advanced wireless capabilities through AI, IoT, edge computing, and data-driven innovations for mission-critical applications.
• Jul-2023: Thales Group S.A. acquired Cobham Aerospace Communications, an aerospace and defense company in a move that enhances its avionics portfolio with advanced cockpit communication systems—including L-band satcom, digital audio/radios, and smart antennas. The deal strengthens Thales’s position in secure, real-time cockpit connectivity, driving fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and retrofit opportunities.
• May-2023: Honeywell International Inc. unveiled VersaWave, a compact 5G-enabled satcom system tailored for Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) and UAVs. Weighing just 2.2lb, it seamlessly switches between satellite and cellular (5G/4G) networks—including GNSS—for BVLOS command, control, data transfer, and live video streaming.

List of Key Companies Profiled

• Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. (Huawei Investment & Holding Co., Ltd.)
• Nokia Corporation
• Cisco Systems, Inc.
• Honeywell International Inc.
• Thales Group S.A.
• Ericsson AB
• Panasonic Holdings Corporation
• NTT Data Corporation
• OneWeb Holdings Ltd
• Collins Aerospace (RTX Corporation)

Global 5G In Aviation Market Report Segmentation

By Connectivity Type

• Air-to-Ground Communication
• Ground-to-Ground Communication

By Communication Infrastructure

• Small Cells
• Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS)
• Radio Access Network (RAN)

By Technology

• Enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB)
• Ultra-Reliable Low-Latency Communication (URLLC)
• Massive Machine-Type Communication (mMTC)

By End Use

• Aircraft
• Airport

By Geography

• North America

US

Canada

Mexico

Rest of North America

• Europe

Germany

UK

France

Russia

Spain

Italy

Rest of Europe

• Asia Pacific

China

Japan

India

South Korea

Singapore

Malaysia

Rest of Asia Pacific

• LAMEA

Brazil

Argentina

UAE

Saudi Arabia

South Africa

Nigeria

Rest of LAMEA