| REPORT ATTRIBUTE |
DETAILS |
| Historical Period |
2020-2023 |
| Base Year |
2024 |
| Forecast Period |
2025-2032 |
| Airport Passenger Boarding Bridges Market Size 2024 |
USD 12,127.01 million |
| Airport Passenger Boarding Bridges Market, CAGR |
5.3% |
| Airport Passenger Boarding Bridges Market Size 2032 |
USD 18,330.8 million |
Market Overview
The Airport Passenger Boarding Bridges Market is projected to grow from USD 12,127.01 million in 2024 to USD 18,330.8 million by 2032, registering a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.3% during the forecast period.
The Airport Passenger Boarding Bridges Market is experiencing steady growth driven by rising global air travel, expanding airport infrastructure, and increasing demand for enhanced passenger convenience and safety. Airports are investing in modern, automated boarding systems to streamline passenger flow and improve turnaround times, particularly in high-traffic international hubs. Growing emphasis on accessibility for elderly and mobility-impaired travelers is accelerating the adoption of enclosed and climate-controlled boarding solutions. The push toward smart airport technologies is fostering the integration of IoT, sensors, and real-time monitoring systems within boarding bridges to optimize operations and enable predictive maintenance. Sustainability trends are influencing the use of energy-efficient systems and recyclable materials, while modular bridge designs are gaining traction for their adaptability and reduced installation time. Airlines and airport operators are also seeking flexible and customized bridge solutions to accommodate various aircraft types, enhancing operational versatility. Together, these drivers and trends are reshaping the market landscape with a focus on efficiency, safety, and innovation.
The Airport Passenger Boarding Bridges Market demonstrates strong geographical presence across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and the Rest of the World, which includes Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa. Asia Pacific leads the market due to rapid airport development in China, India, and Southeast Asia. North America and Europe follow, driven by modernization efforts and demand for energy-efficient systems. The Rest of the World is emerging with increasing investments in regional airport infrastructure. Key players operating in the global market include CIMC-TianDa, John Bean Technologies Corp. (JBT), ADELTE Group S.L., ShinMaywa Industries, Ltd., TK Elevator, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, FMT Aircraft AB, HÜBNER GmbH & Co. KG, UBS Airport Systems, AccessAir Systems, Oshkosh AeroTech, AERO Bridgeworks LLC, Jiangsu Tianyi Aviation Industry Co., Ltd., and Airport Equipment (a division of J&D McLennan), all competing through innovation, service reliability, and tailored airport solutions.
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Market Insights
- The Airport Passenger Boarding Bridges Market is expected to grow from USD 12,127.01 million in 2024 to USD 18,330.8 million by 2032, at a CAGR of 5.3%, driven by increasing air travel and airport expansion.
- Demand is rising for automated and climate-controlled boarding systems that enhance passenger safety, comfort, and accessibility, especially for elderly and mobility-impaired travelers.
- Smart technologies such as IoT integration, real-time diagnostics, and predictive maintenance are transforming bridge operations, improving turnaround time and reducing manual errors.
- Sustainability initiatives are boosting the adoption of energy-efficient, modular, and recyclable bridge designs that support low-emission airport infrastructure.
- High capital investment requirements and long product lifecycles pose adoption challenges, especially in smaller or budget-constrained regional airports.
- Asia Pacific leads the market with 34% share, followed by North America (31%), Europe (27%), and the Rest of the World (8%), each region showing distinct investment trends and infrastructure goals.
- Key players including CIMC-TianDa, JBT, ADELTE, TK Elevator, and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries compete through innovation, custom solutions, and global project delivery capabilities.
Market Drivers
Rising Global Air Traffic and Terminal Expansion
The Airport Passenger Boarding Bridges Market is expanding due to the steady rise in global air traffic and the need for efficient terminal operations. Major international airports are increasing their gate capacity and upgrading infrastructure to accommodate larger passenger volumes. It supports seamless boarding and disembarking, reducing turnaround time and improving overall airport efficiency. Airport authorities prioritize these systems to meet demand spikes during peak travel seasons and futureproof terminal capabilities.
- For instance, ADELTE Group recently implemented its ARCOS remote control operating system at Seville Airport, allowing operators to manage boarding bridges from a central location, thereby improving safety and operational flexibility.
Focus on Passenger Comfort and Accessibility
Growing attention to passenger experience is propelling demand for advanced boarding bridges that offer comfort, safety, and ease of access. The Airport Passenger Boarding Bridges Market benefits from design innovations catering to elderly travelers, individuals with limited mobility, and families. Climate-controlled, enclosed walkways provide protection from weather conditions while ensuring security and privacy. Airlines and airport operators are aligning infrastructure upgrades with evolving passenger expectations for smoother and safer gate-to-cabin transitions.
- For instance, Prosertek’s boarding bridges feature non-slip floors and handrails throughout, specifically engineered to ensure safe and comfortable passage for people with reduced mobility.
Emphasis on Smart Technologies and Automation
Technological advancement is a significant growth driver in the Airport Passenger Boarding Bridges Market. It includes automation features, IoT integration, and real-time diagnostics, enhancing operational performance and predictive maintenance. Smart bridges equipped with sensor-based systems allow airports to monitor bridge positioning, reduce human error, and improve turnaround management. The trend toward digitalization in airport operations supports the integration of boarding bridges with centralized control and management platforms for better coordination.
Sustainability Goals and Modular Infrastructure
Environmental regulations and sustainability objectives are influencing procurement in the Airport Passenger Boarding Bridges Market. It encourages the use of energy-efficient systems and lightweight, recyclable materials that reduce emissions and operational costs. Airports are selecting modular bridge designs to enable quick installation, scalability, and lower lifecycle costs. These configurations also offer operational flexibility, allowing customization for various aircraft types and terminal layouts while supporting green airport initiatives globally.
Market Trends
Integration of Smart and Connected Technologies
The Airport Passenger Boarding Bridges Market is witnessing a notable shift toward smart technologies that improve efficiency and safety. Airports are adopting bridges with IoT-enabled sensors, real-time monitoring, and automated positioning systems. These features reduce manual intervention, improve docking accuracy, and support predictive maintenance. It enables smoother coordination between gate operations and aircraft arrival. Integration with airport management systems helps streamline workflows and enhances the responsiveness of ground handling teams during tight flight schedules.
- For instance, at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, boarding bridges equipped with IoT-enabled sensors and real-time monitoring systems automatically adjust their position as aircraft arrive, reducing manual intervention and enhancing docking accuracy.
Rising Adoption of Energy-Efficient Systems
Sustainability initiatives are prompting airports to invest in energy-efficient boarding bridge systems. The Airport Passenger Boarding Bridges Market reflects this trend with growing use of electric-powered drive systems, low-consumption lighting, and regenerative braking mechanisms. These solutions lower operational costs while aligning with carbon reduction mandates. It also encourages the use of recyclable materials and eco-friendly manufacturing processes. Environmental compliance is becoming a major selection criterion in public and private airport tenders globally.
- For instance, igus® has modernized eight passenger boarding bridges at Cologne/Bonn Airport with e-chain® systems that reduce required cable lengths by over 50%, minimizing maintenance needs and downtime while ensuring reliable energy supply for bridge control and aircraft systems.
Increasing Preference for Modular and Customizable Designs
Flexibility in infrastructure planning is driving demand for modular and customizable bridge configurations. The Airport Passenger Boarding Bridges Market is responding with adaptable designs that fit diverse terminal layouts and aircraft types. Airports prefer systems that allow quick installation, expansion, or reconfiguration without major structural changes. It supports efficient use of gate space and ensures readiness for next-generation aircraft. Bridge manufacturers are offering tailored solutions that meet technical specifications and future operational scalability.
Enhanced Passenger Experience and Aesthetic Integration
Passenger-centric airport design is shaping bridge aesthetics and functionality. The Airport Passenger Boarding Bridges Market now includes products that blend seamlessly with terminal architecture while offering user-friendly features. Features such as wide walkways, quiet operation, and transparent panels contribute to a better boarding experience. It also supports branding opportunities and improves the visual continuity between terminal interiors and boarding areas. Airport operators are focusing on bridges that enhance service perception without compromising durability.
Market Challenges Analysis
High Capital Investment and Long Replacement Cycles
The Airport Passenger Boarding Bridges Market faces challenges related to high upfront costs and extended return on investment periods. Installation requires significant capital, especially when integrated with advanced systems like automated controls and climate regulation. Smaller regional airports often delay procurement due to budget limitations. It also encounters long product life cycles, which slow down market replacement demand. These financial and lifecycle constraints can hinder adoption, particularly in developing markets with limited infrastructure funding.
- For instance, in March 2022, ADELTE was awarded a contract by Spanish airports operator AENA to implement ARCOS, a remote control operating system for passenger boarding bridges at Seville Airport. This project required substantial investment in new technology integration and demonstrates the ongoing need for costly upgrades to existing infrastructure.
Complex Installation and Integration Constraints
Installation of passenger boarding bridges involves technical complexity and coordination across multiple systems. The Airport Passenger Boarding Bridges Market must address challenges tied to aligning bridges with diverse aircraft models, terminal designs, and safety regulations. Custom fitting requires precise engineering and often results in extended installation timelines. It also demands synchronization with airport operations, electrical systems, and IT infrastructure. These integration hurdles can delay deployment and increase overall project costs for operators.
Market Opportunities
Expansion of Airport Infrastructure in Emerging Economies
Ongoing airport development projects across Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and Africa are creating strong opportunities for the Airport Passenger Boarding Bridges Market. Governments are investing in new terminals and upgrading regional airports to meet rising air traffic and connectivity demands. These projects often require modern, scalable boarding bridge systems to improve operational capacity. It benefits from this momentum, with vendors positioned to offer cost-effective, modular solutions that align with infrastructure expansion goals in these regions.
Technological Advancements and Retrofit Demand
The growing need to modernize aging airport infrastructure presents new avenues for the Airport Passenger Boarding Bridges Market. Operators seek smart bridge systems with integrated automation, safety monitoring, and energy-efficient components. It opens opportunities for retrofitting older bridges with advanced features, extending their life span while enhancing functionality. Demand for digital control systems and seamless aircraft compatibility encourages innovation and value-added services. Manufacturers focusing on retrofit-friendly technologies can tap into a sizable aftermarket segment.
Market Segmentation Analysis:
By Type
The Airport Passenger Boarding Bridges Market includes moving and fixed passenger boarding bridges. Moving bridges hold a dominant share due to their flexibility and widespread use at large international airports. They offer better alignment with varying aircraft door positions and support efficient turnaround operations. Fixed bridges are typically found in low-traffic or budget terminals where operational simplicity is prioritized. It continues to see higher demand for mobile variants due to their adaptability across gate configurations.
- For instance, at London Heathrow Airport, thyssenkrupp has installed over 100 moving passenger boarding bridges, which play a crucial role in handling the high volume and variety of aircraft types, ensuring smooth and rapid boarding and disembarking for millions of passengers annually.
By Model Type
Model types in the Airport Passenger Boarding Bridges Market include dual boarding systems, commuter bridges, apron drive bridges, nose loader bridges, T-bridges, and over-the-wing bridges. Apron drive bridges lead the segment due to their maneuverability and compatibility with a broad range of aircraft. Dual boarding systems are gaining popularity at high-capacity terminals to improve passenger flow and reduce boarding time. It sees growing interest in T-bridges and over-the-wing bridges for narrow-body aircraft operations and space-constrained layouts.
- For instance, major airports like Changi in Singapore and Dubai International have deployed apron drive bridges to efficiently manage boarding for both narrow- and wide-body aircraft, ensuring smooth passenger flow and reduced turnaround times.
By Tunnel Type
The Airport Passenger Boarding Bridges Market segments tunnel type into air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned tunnels. Air-conditioned tunnels dominate in regions with extreme weather conditions, offering comfort and thermal protection to passengers. They are widely adopted in premium terminals and international airports where passenger experience is a priority. Non-air-conditioned tunnels remain common in temperate regions or budget terminals to reduce energy costs. It continues to shift toward climate-controlled solutions aligned with passenger expectations and operational standards.
Segments:
Based on Type:
- Moving passenger boarding bridge
- Fixed passenger boarding bridge
Based on Model Type
- Dual boarding system
- Commuter bridge
- Apron drive bridge
- Nose loader bridge
- T-bridge
- Over-the-wing bridge
Based on Tunnel Type
- Air-conditioned tunnel
- Non Air-conditioned tunnel
Based on Docking Type
- Manual docking system
- Intelligent docking system
Based on Foundation
-
- Hydraulic
- Electro-mechanical
Based on Technology
- Hydraulic bridges
- Electrical bridges
- Fixed tunnel bridges
Based on Material
- Steel bridges
- Glass and composite bridges
Based on Structure
- Glass walled bridges
- Enclosed bridges
- Telescopic bridges
Based on the Geography:
- North America
- Europe
- Germany
- France
- U.K.
- Italy
- Spain
- Rest of Europe
- Asia Pacific
- China
- Japan
- India
- South Korea
- South-east Asia
- Rest of Asia Pacific
- Latin America
- Brazil
- Argentina
- Rest of Latin America
- Middle East & Africa
- GCC Countries
- South Africa
- Rest of the Middle East and Africa
Regional Analysis
North America
North America holds 31% share of the Airport Passenger Boarding Bridges Market, driven by strong investments in airport modernization and expansion. Major U.S. and Canadian airports are upgrading terminals to meet growing passenger volumes and fleet diversity. The region sees high demand for advanced, automated boarding bridges equipped with smart technologies and enhanced safety features. It benefits from well-established aviation infrastructure and regulatory frameworks supporting innovation. Retrofit and replacement projects across legacy airports continue to support market activity. Strong presence of key manufacturers and MRO providers strengthens supply chain efficiency.
Europe
Europe accounts for 27% share of the Airport Passenger Boarding Bridges Market, supported by increasing emphasis on sustainability and passenger comfort. Leading international airports in Germany, France, and the UK are implementing energy-efficient and aesthetically integrated bridge systems. EU regulations on emission reduction and accessibility push demand for modern, modular bridge technologies. It gains momentum through public-private investments in airport infrastructure and EU-backed smart mobility projects. High air traffic density and short-haul operations also encourage adoption of efficient boarding solutions across regional hubs.
Asia Pacific
Asia Pacific commands the largest share at 34%, fueled by rapid airport construction and fleet expansion in China, India, and Southeast Asia. Government-led initiatives to build new airports and expand existing terminals create sustained demand for boarding bridge installations. The Airport Passenger Boarding Bridges Market sees strong growth in this region due to rising passenger traffic and urbanization. It benefits from increasing airline competition and airport privatization trends, prompting infrastructure upgrades. Regional carriers and low-cost operators are also investing in ground handling efficiency, boosting bridge procurement.
Rest of the World
Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa collectively hold 8% share of the Airport Passenger Boarding Bridges Market. The Middle East shows strong potential with major hub expansions in UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar. Africa and Latin America remain emerging markets with growing interest in modular, cost-effective bridge systems for regional airports. It sees gradual adoption supported by tourism growth and aviation policy reforms.
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Key Player Analysis
- John Bean Technologies Corp. (JBT)
- CIMC-TianDa
- AERO Bridgeworks LLC
- Oshkosh AeroTech, LLC
- ShinMaywa Industries, Ltd.
- HÜBNER GmbH & Co. KG
- Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.
- UBS Airport Systems (UBS)
- FMT Aircraft AB
- ADELTE Group S.L.
- AccessAir Systems, Inc.
- Jiangsu Tianyi Aviation Industry Co., Ltd.
- TK Elevator (thyssenkrupp Elevator)
- Airport Equipment (a division of J&D McLennan)
Competitive Analysis
The Airport Passenger Boarding Bridges Market features strong competition among global and regional players focused on technology, customization, and after-sales service. Companies such as CIMC-TianDa, John Bean Technologies Corp. (JBT), and ADELTE Group S.L. lead the market through advanced engineering, wide product portfolios, and global project execution. It sees players investing in automation, modular design, and sustainability to meet evolving airport demands. OEMs compete by offering turnkey solutions that integrate with smart airport systems and meet international safety standards. New entrants target smaller airports with cost-efficient models, while established firms expand through partnerships and service agreements. The market favors companies that deliver reliable performance, lifecycle support, and adaptability to diverse aircraft and terminal layouts. Continuous innovation, regulatory compliance, and regional presence define competitive success across varied operating environments. The Airport Passenger Boarding Bridges Market remains dynamic, with vendors aligning closely with airport authorities and airlines to secure long-term contracts and global expansion.
Recent Developments
- In August 2024, CIMC-TianDa supplied 184 passenger boarding bridges (PBBs) to Paris Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports in preparation for the Summer Olympics. These bridges were installed to streamline the movement of athletes and delegations. With over 10,000 PBBs deployed across 419 airports in 89 countries, CIMC-TianDa continues to showcase its strong global footprint.
- In February 2023, ADELTE Airport Technologies secured a grant from Red.es to develop an autonomous passenger boarding bridge docking system. This innovative solution integrates artificial vision, deep learning, and an IoT platform to enable automated aircraft docking using intelligent PBBs.
- In May 2025, CLX Engineering launched its fully autonomous passenger boarding bridge at Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson Airport, featuring advanced laser safety systems, machine-vision docking, and IoT integration to achieve automated docking within 45–48 seconds.
- In April 2025, Oshkosh AeroTech delivered three new Jetway® passenger boarding bridges to Appleton International Airport, incorporating Jetpower® ground power and JetAire® pre-conditioned air systems tailored for regional climate efficiency.
- In April 2025, Bihta Airport in Patna, India, announced the inclusion of six new passenger boarding bridges as part of its ongoing terminal expansion project, scheduled for completion by April 2027.
Market Concentration & Characteristics
The Airport Passenger Boarding Bridges Market exhibits moderate to high market concentration, with a few dominant global players accounting for a significant share of total revenue. Leading companies such as CIMC-TianDa, John Bean Technologies Corp. (JBT), and ADELTE Group S.L. maintain strong competitive positions through advanced engineering capabilities, global project execution, and long-term service contracts. The market favors established brands with proven reliability, compliance with international standards, and the ability to deliver turnkey solutions tailored to diverse airport requirements. It remains technology-driven, with emphasis on automation, energy efficiency, and integration with smart airport systems. Barriers to entry include high capital requirements, long sales cycles, and technical complexity in installation and customization. Customers prioritize lifecycle support, quick response times, and alignment with sustainability goals. The Airport Passenger Boarding Bridges Market reflects a strong focus on innovation, safety, and operational efficiency, shaping its competitive landscape through product differentiation and regional expansion strategies.
Report Coverage
The research report offers an in-depth analysis based on Type, Model Type, Tunnel Type, Docking Type, Foundation, Technology, Material, Structure and Geography. It details leading market players, providing an overview of their business, product offerings, investments, revenue streams, and key applications. Additionally, the report includes insights into the competitive environment, SWOT analysis, current market trends, as well as the primary drivers and constraints. Furthermore, it discusses various factors that have driven market expansion in recent years. The report also explores market dynamics, regulatory scenarios, and technological advancements that are shaping the industry. It assesses the impact of external factors and global economic changes on market growth. Lastly, it provides strategic recommendations for new entrants and established companies to navigate the complexities of the market.
Future Outlook
- Demand for smart, sensor-enabled boarding bridges will grow as airports adopt digital infrastructure for real-time operations.
- More airports will prioritize climate-controlled tunnels to enhance passenger comfort in varied weather conditions.
- Modular bridge designs will gain popularity due to faster installation, scalability, and cost efficiency.
- Growth in low-cost carriers and regional airports will drive adoption of compact and affordable bridge systems.
- Sustainability goals will encourage the use of recyclable materials and energy-efficient drive mechanisms.
- Retrofit and upgrade projects will rise as older airports seek to modernize boarding infrastructure.
- Airports will increasingly favor bridges compatible with multiple aircraft types for greater operational flexibility.
- Private investments and public infrastructure programs will expand market opportunities, especially in emerging regions.
- Integration with automated docking and centralized airport control systems will become standard.
- Competition among OEMs will intensify with a focus on customization, lifecycle support, and global service networks.
