Asia Pacific Helicopter Services Market Size, Regional Forecast and Trends 2023–2030
According to Fortune Business Insights , the Asia Pacific region is the fastest-growing market in the global helicopter services industry. The Asia Pacific helicopter services market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.9% during the forecast period, supported by rising demand for aerial surveying and mapping services across infrastructure development projects in emerging economies. Additionally, increasing applications of helicopters in sectors such as Search and Rescue (SAR), emergency medical services, and defense are expected to propel market expansion. The global helicopter services market is anticipated to grow from USD 14.15 billion in 2022 to USD 23.80 billion by 2030.
Key Companies Profiled
- Bristow Group Inc.
- Petroleum Helicopters International Inc.
- CHC Helicopter Group
- Babcock International Group Plc
- CITIC Offshore Helicopter Co. Ltd.
- Aero Asahi Corporation (AAC)
- Nakanikon Air Co. Ltd.
- Mcdermott Aviation
- Pawan Hans
- Shaanxi Helicopter Co Ltd (SHC)
These companies are actively focusing on regional expansion, R&D, and partnerships to increase market share.
Source:
https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/asia-pacific-helicopter-services-market-107565
Key Growth Drivers
1. Military and Defense Applications Driving Regional Expansion
The rising demand for helicopter services in the military and defense sector is a major factor accelerating market growth across Asia Pacific. Defense operations such as transport, logistics, surveillance, and disaster response rely heavily on rotary-wing aircraft.
Case in Point : The Indian Air Force (IAF) extensively uses helicopters for transport in mountainous terrains. In 2021, the IAF airlifted 2,406 tons of relief materials to support flood-affected regions in Maharashtra. Helicopters are also crucial for search and rescue operations in disasters like those in Uttarakhand .
Restraints
2. Shortage of Skilled Pilots and Technicians Hampers Growth
Despite rising demand, the market faces constraints due to a shortage of skilled pilots and certified maintenance professionals . The high cost of pilot training, limited funding, and insufficient access to facilities contribute to the talent gap. This results in operational delays, increased costs, and longer helicopter downtimes.
Industry Insight : The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has identified this talent shortage as a global concern, particularly acute in the Asia Pacific region.
Market Trends
3. Infrastructure Projects Fueling Aerial Surveying and Mapping Demand
The boom in infrastructure development across Asia Pacific—ranging from bridges and highways to airports and smart cities—is fueling the demand for aerial surveying and mapping services using helicopters.
Helicopters equipped with specialized sensors and imaging systems provide accurate, real-time data for site planning and engineering.
Industry Forecast : According to the Asian Development Bank , infrastructure investment needs in Asia Pacific are projected to exceed USD 22 trillion by 2030 , presenting vast opportunities for helicopter operators.
Segmentation
The Asia Pacific helicopter services market is segmented based on type, application, end-user, and country . By type, the market includes light, medium, and heavy helicopters. In terms of application, the market spans offshore operations, air ambulance services, business and corporate travel, disaster and humanitarian aid, transport, and aerial surveying and imaging, among others.
By end-user, the market is divided into civil, commercial, and military sectors. Regionally, the market is segmented across major Asia Pacific countries such as China, Japan, India, South Korea, and Australia , with a further breakdown of types within each country. The Rest of Asia Pacific is also included under regional analysis.
Regional Outlook
Countries such as China, India, and Japan are expected to lead market growth due to strong government spending, rising natural disaster response needs, and growing energy and construction sectors. Additionally, helicopter use in medical evacuation, offshore oil & gas, and corporate travel is increasing across Australia and Southeast Asia .
Competitive Landscape
The Asia Pacific helicopter services market is highly competitive, with major players offering a range of services including oil & gas transport, medical evacuation, surveying, and search and rescue . Companies are expanding fleets and service portfolios to meet growing regional demand.
Recent Industry Developments
July 2022 – CITIC Offshore Helicopter Co. Ltd. signed a contract with Leonardo S.p.A for four AW139 medium twin-engine helicopters. These aircraft will be used for offshore oil and gas operations in China.
May 2022 – CHC Helicopter secured a 12-year contract with the Department of Fire and Emergency Services, Western Australia , to provide 24/7 emergency rescue helicopter services .
