Global Aerospace Robotics Market Forecast 2024-2032

Global Aerospace Robotics Market Forecast 2024-2032

The global aerospace robotics market size was $3308.92 million in 2023 and is expected to reach $8310.64 million by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 10.93% during the forecast period 2024-2032. The base year considered for the study is 2023, and the estimated period is between 2024 and 2032. The market study has also analyzed the impact of COVID-19 on the global aerospace robotics market qualitatively and quantitatively.

Aerospace robotics involves using industrial robots in the aerospace industry to handle tasks such as manufacturing, assembly, inspection, and maintenance. These robots enhance the precision and efficiency of jobs like welding, painting, and drilling, resulting in improved productivity and safety. Equipped with advanced sensors and software, aerospace robots can tackle complex tasks with remarkable accuracy and reliability.

MARKET INSIGHTS

Key growth enablers of the global aerospace robotics market:

• Rising aircraft demand in the commercial, military, and civil sectors

o The increasing passenger traffic necessitates additional aircraft in commercial aviation, prompting airlines to expand and modernize their fleets. The growing need for military aircraft due to rising defense spending and technological improvements necessitates the use of precision manufacturing techniques. In addition to this, the demand for reliable and efficient aircraft in civil aviation, including government operations and emergency services, is boosting the popularity of robotics use in the aerospace industry.

o According to IATA, there was an upswing in total aviation traffic by 36.9% in 2023 compared to 2022, reaching 94.1% of pre-pandemic 2019 levels. In December 2023, it surged to 97.5% of December 2019 levels, marking a 25.3% increase over the previous year. Domestic traffic experienced an upswing of 30.4%, surpassing 2019 levels by 3.9%, while international traffic saw an upswing of 41.6%, reaching 88.6% of 2019 levels.

o The aerospace industry has expanded production rates due to the growing demand for aircraft. Aircraft manufacturers are increasingly focusing on automation and robots, which offer crucial precision and efficiency. Cutting-edge robotic systems ensure high-quality output, minimize errors, and save a significant amount of money by reducing waste and labor costs. The unique requirements of the military, commercial, and civil aviation industries continue to drive ongoing advancements in robotics, resulting in innovative solutions for various applications. This need fuels innovation and enhances manufacturing efficiency, which is the driving force behind the aircraft robotics sector.

• Automation and robotics to boost aerospace manufacturing efficiency

• Enhanced robotic capabilities due to technological advancements

Key growth restraining factors of the global aerospace robotics market:

• High initial costs of robotics in aircraft manufacturing hinder market demand

• Safety and regulatory concerns regarding robotics integration to challenge market growth

o Thorough risk assessments, intensive worker training, and sophisticated safety mechanisms included in the robots are required to ensure safe interaction between human workers and robots in close proximity. Additionally, the potential for hacks or malfunctioning robots necessitates fail-safe systems and strong cybersecurity measures.

o Regulatory compliance adds complexity to robotics integration in the aerospace industry. Companies need to stay informed to avoid legal issues and production delays, as regulatory bodies like the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) frequently update their regulations. Diverse national standards make adhering to these regulations challenging, and non-compliance can result in significant fines and damage to reputation.

• Lack of trained workforce for advanced robotics impedes market demand

Global Aerospace Robotics Market | Top Market Trends

• The integration of cobots is expanding in the aerospace industry due to their utilization in the assembly and manufacturing of aircraft. This enables safe and effective human-robot cooperation, enhancing productivity and accuracy in challenging tasks.

• Factories are increasingly adopting mobile robotic platforms. These robots provide greater flexibility compared to traditional fixed stations, enabling production lines to adjust to changing demands and product variations. This results in a more agile and responsive manufacturing environment.

• The integration of 3D printing and robots is gaining traction. This allows for on-demand manufacturing of customized components directly on production lines, as well as rapid prototyping. Hence, this trend reflects a shift towards manufacturing processes that are increasingly adaptable and responsive.

• There is a growing emphasis on utilizing IoT-enabled robotic systems for predictive maintenance and condition monitoring. This optimizes manufacturing processes by anticipating and addressing potential issues proactively rather than waiting for them to occur.

SEGMENTATION ANALYSIS

Market Segmentation – Robot Type, Application, Level of Automation, and End-User –

Market by Robot Type:

• Articulated Robots

o In 2023, the majority of the market share was captured by articulated robots in the market by robot type.

o An articulated robot, equipped with rotary joints, is a highly adaptable type of robot commonly used in the aerospace sector. These robots can range from simple models with two joints to complex systems featuring ten or more joints. Powered by electric motors, they excel in tasks requiring agility and precision, such as cutting, welding, painting, and material handling.

o Moreover, these devices, often resembling robotic arms, can be articulated or non-articulated. The 6- to 7-axis versions are particularly favored for their versatility, ease of maintenance, and ability to align with multiple planes. This encompasses a wide range of upstream and downstream operations, including automation in plastic injection molding processes.

o In essence, KUKA Robotics, Staubli Robotics, Epson Robots, FANUC Corporation, and ABB Ltd are some of the top manufacturers of articulated robots.

• Cartesian Robots

• SCARA Robots

• Cylindrical Robots

• Delta Robots

• Collaborative Robots

Market by Application:

• Drilling & Fastening

• Non-Destructive Testing & Inspection

• Welding & Soldering

• Sealing & Dispensing

• Material Handling

• Assembling & Disassembling

• Other Applications

Market by Level of Automation:

• Fully Automated

• Semi-Automated

• Manual Systems with Robotic Assistance

Market by End-User:

• Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM)

• Maintenance, Repair, and Overhauls (MRO)

o The maintenance, repair, and overhauls segment is anticipated to be the fastest-growing end-user category over the forecast period.

o Maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) encompass a comprehensive set of services aimed at ensuring that aircraft remain operational, safe, and compliant with regulations. This includes routine maintenance, major repairs, complete overhauls, and modifications to aircraft and their components.

o Similar to OEMs, MRO facilities are also reaping the benefits of robotic integration. Robots automate time-consuming and potentially hazardous tasks such as inspections, cleaning, and part replacement. This allows human technicians to focus on more complex maintenance activities, leading to improved overall efficiency and safety. Additionally, robots equipped with sensors can conduct non-destructive testing (NDT) with greater accuracy and consistency compared to manual methods.

REGIONAL ANALYSIS

Geographical Study based on Four Major Regions:

• North America: The United States and Canada

o In 2023, North America was the largest region in the global aerospace robotics market.

o North America's dominance in the global aerospace robotics market stems from a confluence of factors. The region boasts a well-established and prominent aerospace industry with major players like Boeing and Lockheed Martin. This existing infrastructure creates a natural demand for automation solutions like robotics to improve efficiency and production capabilities.

o Moreover, innovation receives significant support from government initiatives in North America. For example, programs like the Canadian government's Strategic Aerospace and Defense Initiative (SADI), launched in 2007, provide repayable funding for R&D initiatives in aerospace, space, defense, and security sectors. The US government's National Robotics Initiative (NRI) aims to bolster fundamental robotics research and development. Building upon previous NRI efforts, the NRI-3.0 program is dedicated to integrated robot systems research.

o Additionally, North America boasts a well-developed robotics industry featuring leading companies such as Aerobotix, Electroimpact Inc, JR Automation, and Kassow Robots. This established expertise results in a readily available pool of technology and talent for the development and implementation of aerospace robotics systems.

• Europe: The United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, Poland, and Rest of Europe

• Asia-Pacific: China, Japan, India, South Korea, Singapore, Australia & New Zealand, and Rest of Asia-Pacific

• Rest of World: Latin America, the Middle East & Africa

COMPETITIVE INSIGHTS

Major players in the global aerospace robotics market:

• Aerobotix

• Comau SpA (A Stellantis NV Company)

• Kawasaki Heavy Industries Ltd

• KUKA AG

• FANUC Corporation

• Universal Robots A/S (A Teradyne Inc Company)

Key strategies adopted by some of these companies:

• FANUC and Loop Technology reached an agreement in April 2024, marking a significant milestone in the aerospace sector. This deal involves the supply of the largest robots ever purchased for aerospace applications in the UK. The agreement, signed in April 2024, highlights the increasing significance of advanced robotics in boosting manufacturing efficiency and precision within the aerospace industry.

• Aerobotix and Manufacturing Automation Systems showcased their adaptive pathing robot technology at Automate 2024. This intelligent adaptive sanding technology, presented in May 2024, represents a significant advancement in robotic sanding, offering improved part quality control and time savings in path programming.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

• Who are the major aircraft manufacturers that use robotics?

A: Major aircraft manufacturers utilizing robotics include Boeing, Airbus, Lockheed Martin, and Northrop Grumman. These companies integrate advanced robotics into their production processes to improve efficiency and uphold rigorous quality standards.

• How is robotics used in aircraft manufacturing?

A: Robotics plays a crucial role in aircraft manufacturing by automating repetitive and precise tasks like welding, painting, drilling, and component assembly. These automated systems contribute to higher production rates, enhanced quality control, reduced labor costs, and improved safety and precision standards.

• Who are the leading aerospace robotics companies in the global aerospace robotics market?

A: Leading aerospace robotics companies in the global aerospace robotics market include ABB Group, KUKA AG, FANUC Corporation, Yaskawa Electric Corporation, and Kawasaki Heavy Industries. These companies provide advanced robotic solutions for various aerospace applications, enhancing productivity and precision in manufacturing and maintenance processes.