According to Fortune Business Insights, the global ground support equipment market size was valued at USD 9.67 billion in 2025 and is projected to grow from USD 10.31 billion in 2026 to USD 19.77 billion by 2034, during the forecast period of 2026–2034, exhibiting a CAGR of 8.48%. North America dominated the market in 2025 with a 30.02% share, supported by its extensive airport infrastructure, high investments in aviation technology, and increasing adoption of electric GSE.
Ground Support Equipment is used on the apron and terminal service areas to provide essential services to aircraft and airport operations. The equipment supports aircraft mobility, cargo and passenger loading, ground power, de-icing, water servicing, lavatory servicing, and other airport functions. The market includes equipment powered by conventional and alternative energy sources and is available through new sales, used sales, and rental or leasing models.
The COVID-19 pandemic negatively affected the market as travel restrictions and reduced passenger traffic lowered airport operations and delayed equipment investments. However, the recovery of global air travel encouraged airports and airlines to invest in more flexible, efficient, multifunctional, and technologically advanced GSE solutions.
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Sustainability has become a major trend in the aviation industry. Airports and ground handlers are increasingly focusing on reducing emissions and improving energy efficiency through electric, hybrid, fuel-cell, and other advanced GSE technologies. The growing focus on environmentally friendly airport operations is supporting the transition from conventional equipment toward cleaner alternatives.
The use of telemetry and fleet-management technologies is also gaining momentum. Smart systems can track equipment location, usage, operating data, fill levels, and alarm messages, helping airport operators improve asset utilization and operational efficiency.
Electric GSE is expected to experience the highest growth rate during the forecast period. Airlines, airports, and governments are increasingly supporting low-emission technologies as part of green initiatives. Fuel-cell vehicles and other advanced GSE solutions are also receiving attention as manufacturers work toward reducing airport-related carbon emissions.
Airports are continuously working to reduce aircraft turnaround time and minimize congestion. The adoption of advanced GSE helps improve service coordination, equipment utilization, and operational productivity. New technologies and improved airport layouts are also helping reduce equipment congestion and support faster ground operations.
The recovery and expansion of air travel, air traffic, and cargo transportation are key factors supporting market growth. Rising passenger volumes require greater use of boarding equipment, baggage handling systems, tractors, loaders, and other airport service equipment. Growth in air freight is also expected to support demand for high-capacity hi-lift loaders and cargo-related GSE.
Rental and leasing are becoming increasingly attractive to airlines, freight forwarders, fixed-base operators, and ground handlers. Leasing allows operators to access modern equipment without making large upfront investments and provides greater flexibility when technology or operational requirements change. This trend is expected to support the growth of the rental/lease segment.
The lack of adequate infrastructure for charging and maintaining electric GSE may limit market expansion. Although electric equipment offers lower emissions and reduced fuel consumption, its initial procurement cost is relatively high. Limited equipment life spans and the need for continuous replacement can also create financial challenges for airport operators.