U.S. 5G in Aviation Market Summary

The U.S. 5G in aviation market size was estimated at USD 695.2 million in 2024 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 31.7% from 2025 to 2030. The substantial market expansion is primarily driven by several key factors, including a stronger focus on airspace modernization as part of initiatives led by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), a significant surge in the demand for high-speed inflight connectivity across business jets, and the increasing necessity for rapid and reliable network restoration in areas impacted by natural or man-made disasters.

Both government entities and private aviation service providers are increasingly adopting 5G technologies to enable secure communication systems and boost overall operational efficiency. Moreover, there is a growing interest in non-terrestrial 5G infrastructures across the U.S., such as the integration of low Earth orbit satellites and the use of airborne relays, particularly for emergency response and defense applications. Nonetheless, the market faces regulatory challenges owing to the FAA’s stringent airworthiness approvals and spectrum certification procedures. The mounting need for secure and resilient communication systems across defense, homeland security, and emergency services highlights a significant market opportunity.

Key Market Trends & Insights

• In 2024, the small cells segment held the largest market share at 62.3%. This dominance can be attributed to the surging demand for dense and high-capacity wireless infrastructure, particularly across major U.S. airports such as Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and Chicago O’Hare International Airport, which require robust coverage and bandwidth to meet passenger and operational requirements.
• The enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB) segment led the U.S. 5G in aviation industry in 2024. This leadership is primarily due to the growing need for ultra-fast inflight internet services, especially on domestic and long-haul transcontinental flights operated by major U.S. airlines including Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and American Airlines. The eMBB technology supports high-speed streaming, video conferencing, and other bandwidth-intensive applications, significantly enhancing the passenger experience.
• The air-to-ground communication segment held the largest market share in the U.S. 5G in aviation industry in 2024. This growth was propelled by the increasing demand for consistent inflight connectivity across domestic routes. The segment facilitates real-time data transmission between aircraft and ground stations, supporting critical functions such as live video streaming, aircraft tracking, predictive maintenance alerts, and efficient flight management systems that improve safety and operational reliability.
• In 2024, the aircraft segment accounted for the largest share within the U.S. 5G in aviation market. This was driven by the rising need for uninterrupted inflight connectivity and real-time communications. These technologies are instrumental in elevating both passenger satisfaction and operational effectiveness by enabling streaming services, onboard communication, and timely system updates during flight.

Order a free sample PDF of the U.S. 5G in Aviation Market Intelligence Study, published by Grand View Research.

Market Size & Forecast

• 2024 Market Size: USD 695.2 million
• 2030 Projected Market Size: USD 3,591.1 million
• CAGR (2025 - 2030): 31.7%

Key Companies & Market Share Insights

Major players operating within the U.S. 5G in aviation industry include Gogo Business Aviation LLC; Ericsson Inc.; Honeywell International Inc.; Collins Aerospace; and Cisco Systems, Inc. These key companies are implementing competitive strategies such as service differentiation, customization, personalized offerings, and enhanced customer support to effectively address evolving consumer needs and intensifying market competition.

Founded in 1991 and based in Chicago, Illinois, Gogo Business Aviation LLC is a leading provider of inflight broadband internet and wireless solutions for the business aviation sector. The company delivers fast internet connectivity, voice services, and onboard entertainment systems specifically designed for private and corporate aircraft. Gogo utilizes advanced air-to-ground communication and satellite-based technologies to ensure seamless data exchange and connectivity during flight operations.

Founded in 1876 and headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden, Ericsson Inc. is a subsidiary of Ericsson AB and a globally recognized leader in telecom and networking infrastructure. The company specializes in delivering 5G technology solutions, including radio access networks (RAN), core networks, and cloud-based platforms. Ericsson offers comprehensive end-to-end connectivity solutions tailored to the aviation industry, enabling ultra-reliable and low-latency communications to enhance network performance for both aircraft and airport operations.

Key Players

• Gogo Business Aviation LLC
• Honeywell International Inc.
• Collins Aerospace
• Cisco Systems, Inc.
• Ericsson Inc.
• Nokia of America Corporation (Nokia Corporation)
• Panasonic Avionics Corporation
• AT&T Inc.
• OneWeb
• Thales USA Inc.

Explore Horizon Databook – The world's most expansive market intelligence platform developed by Grand View Research.

Conclusion

The U.S. 5G in aviation market is set for robust expansion, underpinned by rapid technological adoption, government-driven airspace modernization, and surging demand for real-time inflight connectivity. As regulatory processes evolve and private-public collaborations strengthen, the integration of terrestrial and non-terrestrial 5G infrastructure will become increasingly mainstream. Key market segments, including small cells and air-to-ground communication, will continue to dominate due to their critical role in network resilience and operational performance. As industry leaders pursue innovation and tailored services, the market will witness accelerated transformation, redefining both commercial and defense aviation communication landscapes across the U.S. through 2030 and beyond.