Air Crane Helicopter Market Size

Air Crane Helicopter Market Size

The global air crane helicopter market was valued at USD 5.3 billion in 2024 and is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 9.2% from 2025 to 2034.

To get key market trends

  Download Free Sample

The construction industry increasingly relies on heavy-lift helicopters, such as the Air Crane, for large-scale infrastructure projects. These aircraft are crucial for transporting oversized materials, equipment, and structures to challenging locations, particularly in areas without adequate access roads or where traditional cranes are impractical. For instance, Erickson Incorporated and Helicopter Express, Inc. have formed an alliance to expand S-64 air crane helicopter operations in North America and globally.
 

As part of the partnership, Helicopter Express is acquiring additional S-64 helicopters to enhance its fleet, with one delivered this month and more expected by year-end. The collaboration aims to support growing demand for heavy-lift operations, as well as sustainment, modernization, and production of the S-64, while offering construction and firefighting services to new customers both in North America and internationally. The growing emphasis on high-rise buildings, bridges, and energy projects has further increased the demand for heavy-lift helicopters.

Air crane helicopters play an increasingly important role in firefighting and emergency response operations. Their substantial lifting capacity and quick deployment make them invaluable assets. These helicopters can transport large volumes of water, fire retardant, or equipment, enabling more effective wildfire suppression compared to conventional ground-based methods. Furthermore, Air Cranes are frequently utilized in search-and-rescue missions during natural disasters, swiftly transporting victims, supplies, or personnel to safety. As climate change contributes to the increased frequency and intensity of wildfires and natural disasters, the demand for these helicopters in firefighting and emergency services continues to grow.