Electrifying the Skies: Innovation and Growth in the More Electric Aircraft Market

The More Electric Aircraft (MEA) Market is at the forefront of aviation’s transition toward cleaner, smarter, and more efficient flight systems. As the industry moves beyond traditional hydraulic and pneumatic systems, aircraft are increasingly adopting electrically powered subsystems—paving the way for All Electric Aircraft and Fully Electric Aircraft.

Driven by environmental regulations, rising fuel costs, and technological advancements in aircraft power electronics, MEA architectures are transforming commercial, military, and urban air mobility platforms through enhanced reliability, lower emissions, and reduced maintenance.

Market Size & Forecast

The global More Electric Aircraft Market is projected to grow from USD 9.8 billion in 2025 to over USD 17.3 billion by 2032, at a CAGR of approximately 8.3%. Growth is fueled by increased investments in electric propulsion R&D, next-gen commercial aircraft development, and the rise of next-generation aircraft electrification programs across the globe.

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Key Concepts and Technology Segments

1. All Electric Aircraft vs. More Electric Aircraft

• All Electric Aircraft utilize electric propulsion and systems exclusively, with no combustion engines.

• More Electric Aircraft replace hydraulic, mechanical, and pneumatic systems (like actuators, landing gear, and air conditioning) with electric-powered alternatives to improve efficiency and reduce weight.

2. Fully Electric Aircraft

This emerging category includes battery- or hybrid-powered aircraft that rely entirely on electric propulsion. These platforms are particularly promising for short-haul regional transport and urban air mobility, offering zero-emission, low-noise flight.

3. More Electric Aircraft Systems

MEA systems include electric environmental control, electro-mechanical actuators, electric power generation and distribution, and smart thermal management. Integration of these systems leads to significant fuel savings and reduced maintenance cycles.

4. Aircraft Power Electronics

Advanced power converters, inverters, solid-state circuit breakers, and high-voltage distribution systems are central to managing the increasing electrical load on MEA platforms. Power electronics ensure efficient, safe, and reliable system operation at high altitudes and varying temperatures.

Market Drivers

• Sustainability and Emission Targets: Global aviation authorities and OEMs are pushing for zero-emission solutions in line with climate change mitigation strategies.

• Operational Efficiency: Electric systems reduce aircraft weight, improve fuel efficiency, and lower lifecycle costs.

• Urban Air Mobility (UAM): Electrification is key to enabling quiet, low-emission fully electric aircraft for air taxi and short-hop operations.

• Defense Applications: Military aircraft are adopting MEA architectures to reduce radar signatures, improve stealth, and simplify onboard systems.

Key Applications

• Commercial Aviation: MEA technologies are integrated into aircraft like the Boeing 787 and Airbus A350 for non-propulsion functions to improve efficiency.

• eVTOL and Regional Air Mobility: Emerging platforms like Joby Aviation and Lilium use fully electric or hybrid-electric systems for short-range passenger transport.

• Military Aircraft: MEA architectures enhance mission endurance, sensor power supply, and reduce hydraulic failure points.

• Cargo and Surveillance: Electrification improves UAV and small aircraft reliability for logistics and ISR missions.

Challenges

• Battery Energy Density: Current battery technologies are still limited for powering large commercial aircraft over long distances.

• Thermal Management: As electric load increases, managing heat across power electronics becomes critical.

• Certification Hurdles: Fully electric and hybrid systems must meet rigorous safety and airworthiness standards before large-scale deployment.

Key Industry Players

• Honeywell Aerospace (US): Offers electric environmental control and power management systems for MEA platforms.

• Safran (France): Specializes in electric propulsion, power electronics, and MEA integration for commercial and military aircraft.

• Rolls-Royce (UK): Investing in hybrid-electric propulsion and advanced electric drive systems.

• Thales Group (France): Develops power conversion and energy management systems for more electric and hybrid aircraft.

• GE Aerospace (US): Leading efforts in electrical power generation and distribution systems for MEA and all-electric aircraft.

Future Outlook

The More Electric Aircraft Market is a vital step toward full aviation electrification. As battery technology, power electronics, and system integration mature, MEA platforms will play a critical role in decarbonizing aviation. With increasing pressure to meet environmental targets and reduce operating costs, electrification—from more electric aircraft systems to next-generation aircraft electrification—is set to define the future of flight.

Related Report:

More Electric Aircraft Market by System (Propulsion, Airframe), Component (Power Source, Actuators, Electric Pump, Power Electronics, Generator, Valves), Platform (Narrow Body, Wide Body, Regional Jet, Fighter Jet), Application, End Use - Forecast to 2029