Aircraft Arresting System Market Size

Aircraft Arresting System Market Size

The global aircraft arresting system market was valued at USD 1.4 billion in 2024 and is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 7.5% from 2025 to 2034.

The increasing complexity of military operations necessitates improved operational efficiency in aircraft. Aircraft arresting systems are crucial for ensuring safe landings in emergency situations or on short runways, particularly on aircraft carriers and forward operating bases. The demand for faster response times and reduced aircraft downtime is driving the adoption of advanced arresting systems.
 

For instance, QinetiQ's electric motor-based advanced arresting gear (AAG) system enhances aircraft deceleration during carrier recovery operations. It accommodates a wide range of aircraft, improving reliability, safety, and reducing manning and maintenance needs. AAG uses energy-absorbing water turbines and an induction motor for precise control. Key benefits include compatibility with Nimitz- and Ford-class carriers, higher availability, and reduced ownership costs. These systems offer rapid deployment, reduced aircraft wear, and enhanced operational flexibility, which are essential in high-stakes military environments. As aircraft technology and military strategies evolve, arresting systems remain integral to maintaining operational readiness and improving mission success rates.
 

The growth in air traffic, both commercial and military, has intensified the focus on safety. Aircraft arresting systems are vital in mitigating risks associated with emergency landings, runway overruns, and equipment failures. They provide a critical safety measure, ensuring aircraft can stop safely within limited runway distances. This emphasis on safety and risk reduction is driven by the need to prevent accidents, protect lives, and safeguard expensive military assets. Global aviation authorities are implementing stricter safety standards, necessitating advanced arresting systems capable of handling greater challenges. For instance, Curtiss-Wright Corporation has secured a $19 million contract from global air navigation services (GANS) to supply aircraft arresting systems to the UAE ministry of defense. The systems will support both tailhook and non-tailhook aircraft, boosting military aviation safety and operational effectiveness. Consequently, the demand for innovative and reliable arresting systems is increasing, with manufacturers striving to meet these enhanced safety requirements.