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Add to CartGlobal Heavy-lift Helicopter Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)
By Point of Sale;
OEM and Aftermarket.By Application;
Military, Civil, and Commercial.By Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America - Report Timeline (2021 - 2031).Introduction
Global Heavy-lift Helicopter Market (USD Million), 2021 - 2031
In the year 2023, the Global Heavy-lift Helicopter Market was valued at USD 21,220.32 million. The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 32,545.04 million by the year 2030, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 6.3%.
The Global Heavy-lift Helicopter Market encompasses a vital sector within the broader aerospace and defense industry, focusing on the design, manufacturing, and deployment of helicopters with exceptional lifting capabilities. These helicopters are instrumental in a wide range of critical missions, including heavy cargo transport, logistical support, search and rescue operations, humanitarian aid, and military logistics. As the demand for heavy-lift capabilities continues to rise across both civilian and military sectors, driven by increasing urbanization, infrastructure development, disaster response requirements, and military modernization initiatives, the market for heavy-lift helicopters experiences steady growth and innovation.
Heavy-lift helicopters are characterized by their ability to lift and transport substantial payloads over long distances and challenging terrain, making them indispensable assets in various industries and operational environments. Equipped with powerful engines, advanced rotor systems, and robust airframes, these helicopters can lift heavy equipment, construction materials, vehicles, and other oversized cargo that conventional aircraft or ground transportation cannot accommodate. Moreover, heavy-lift helicopters play a crucial role in supporting offshore oil and gas operations, delivering cargo to remote locations, and providing aerial firefighting and disaster relief services in challenging conditions.
Heavy-lift helicopters serve critical roles in military operations, enabling rapid deployment of troops, equipment, and supplies in combat zones or austere environments. Military heavy-lift helicopters are often employed for troop insertion and extraction, casualty evacuation, resupply missions, and air assault operations, providing vital logistical support to ground forces and special operations units. Furthermore, heavy-lift helicopters play key roles in vertical replenishment operations for naval vessels, delivering essential supplies and equipment to ships at sea.
The Global Heavy-lift Helicopter Market is characterized by intense competition among major aerospace and defense companies, including established manufacturers such as Boeing, Lockheed Martin, Airbus Helicopters, and Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation, as well as emerging players and international suppliers. These companies continuously invest in research and development initiatives to enhance the performance, reliability, and operational capabilities of heavy-lift helicopters, incorporating advanced technologies such as composite materials, fly-by-wire systems, and digital avionics to improve efficiency, safety, and mission effectiveness.
Global Heavy-lift Helicopter Market Recent Developments
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In January 2023, Boeing delivered the first CH-47 Chinook with an upgraded lifting system to a European country, increasing its payload capacity by 20% and extending its range for tactical and humanitarian missions.
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In March 2024, Sikorsky introduced the new CH-53K King Stallion, capable of lifting heavy payloads up to 36,000 pounds. This helicopter is designed to enhance military logistics and disaster relief operations.
Segment Analysis
The global heavy-lift helicopter market is a critical segment within the broader aerospace and defense industry, catering to specialized missions and logistical requirements that demand exceptional lifting capabilities and operational performance. Heavy-lift helicopters serve a variety of civilian and military applications, ranging from disaster relief and search and rescue operations to troop transport, cargo resupply, and heavy equipment transport in challenging environments.
One key aspect of the segment analysis for the global heavy-lift helicopter market involves categorizing helicopters based on their lifting capacity, range, and payload capabilities. Heavy-lift helicopters typically feature robust airframes, powerful engines, and advanced rotor systems designed to lift and transport heavy loads over long distances and in adverse weather conditions. These helicopters are capable of carrying oversized cargo, vehicles, construction materials, and specialized equipment, making them indispensable assets for disaster response, infrastructure development, and military logistics support.
The segment analysis may focus on the differentiation between civilian and military applications of heavy-lift helicopters. Civilian operators utilize heavy-lift helicopters for various tasks such as construction, firefighting, offshore oil and gas operations, and aerial crane services. These helicopters are essential for lifting heavy equipment and materials to remote or inaccessible locations, supporting infrastructure projects, and providing emergency assistance during natural disasters or humanitarian crises. On the other hand, military heavy-lift helicopters play vital roles in troop transport, aerial refueling, medical evacuation, and heavy equipment deployment for expeditionary and combat missions. Military variants often feature additional defensive systems, armor protection, and mission-specific equipment to operate in hostile environments and support ground forces in combat operations.
The segment analysis may examine the geographical distribution of heavy-lift helicopter operators and end-users worldwide. Different regions have varying requirements and operational environments that influence the demand for heavy-lift helicopters. For example, countries with large territories, rugged terrain, or remote populations may rely heavily on heavy-lift helicopters for transportation, logistics, and emergency response. Additionally, defense budgets, security threats, and geopolitical factors play a significant role in shaping the procurement decisions and fleet requirements for military heavy-lift helicopters across different regions.
Global Heavy-lift Helicopter Segment Analysis
In this report, the Global Heavy-lift Helicopter Market has been segmented by Point of Sale, Application and Geography.
Global Heavy-lift Helicopter Market, Segmentation by Point of Sale
The Global Heavy-lift Helicopter Market has been segmented by Point of Sale into OEM and Aftermarket.
This segment comprises the sale of heavy-lift helicopters directly from manufacturers to end-users, including government agencies, military forces, commercial operators, and private companies. OEMs play a pivotal role in the development, production, and delivery of new helicopters, offering a range of models, configurations, and customization options to meet customer requirements. OEMs collaborate closely with end-users to understand mission needs, integrate advanced technologies, and ensure compliance with regulatory standards. Moreover, OEMs provide comprehensive support services, including training, logistics, and technical assistance, to optimize helicopter performance and enhance operational readiness throughout the lifecycle. As the primary source of new heavy-lift helicopters, OEMs drive market growth through product innovation, customer engagement, and strategic partnerships with suppliers, subcontractors, and service providers.
The aftermarket segment encompasses a wide range of services and solutions related to helicopter maintenance, repair, overhaul (MRO), upgrades, and spare parts distribution. Aftermarket services are essential for sustaining helicopter operations, extending aircraft lifespan, and maximizing fleet availability while minimizing downtime and maintenance costs. Aftermarket providers include OEM-authorized service centers, independent MRO facilities, maintenance organizations, and distributors specializing in helicopter components and systems. These providers offer a diverse portfolio of aftermarket solutions, including scheduled maintenance, unscheduled repairs, component overhaul, avionics upgrades, engine retrofits, and technical support. Additionally, aftermarket services may include warranty management, reliability engineering, fleet management, and asset management solutions to optimize helicopter performance, safety, and cost-effectiveness. As helicopters age and technological advancements evolve, the aftermarket segment plays a critical role in supporting fleet sustainment, operational flexibility, and regulatory compliance for heavy-lift helicopter operators worldwide.
The segmentation of the Global Heavy-lift Helicopter Market into OEM and Aftermarket reflects the dual nature of helicopter procurement and lifecycle management, encompassing both the sale of new aircraft and the provision of aftermarket services to support ongoing operations. By understanding the distinct needs and preferences of customers in each segment, helicopter manufacturers, service providers, and suppliers can tailor their offerings, enhance customer satisfaction, and capitalize on growth opportunities in the dynamic and competitive helicopter industry.
Global Heavy-lift Helicopter Market, Segmentation by Application
The Global Heavy-lift Helicopter Market has been segmented by Application into Military, Civil, and Commercial.
Heavy-lift helicopters play a critical role in military operations, providing essential capabilities for troop transport, cargo resupply, aerial firefighting, medical evacuation, and special operations. Military heavy-lift helicopters are designed to carry heavy loads, including vehicles, artillery, and supplies, to remote or inaccessible locations, supporting ground forces in combat missions, disaster relief efforts, and peacekeeping operations. These helicopters are equipped with advanced avionics, defensive systems, and mission-specific equipment to operate in hostile environments and withstand enemy threats. Military heavy-lift helicopters are indispensable assets for expeditionary forces, rapid deployment units, and air mobility commands, enabling tactical and strategic mobility, sustainment, and force projection capabilities for defense organizations worldwide.
Heavy-lift helicopters are widely used in civil applications for infrastructure development, construction projects, natural resource extraction, and disaster response. Civil heavy-lift helicopters provide aerial crane services, heavy equipment transport, and cargo lifting capabilities for industries such as construction, mining, oil and gas exploration, and forestry. These helicopters support critical infrastructure projects, including bridge construction, tower erection, and pipeline installation, by transporting oversized components and construction materials to remote or inaccessible worksites. Civil heavy-lift helicopters are also deployed in emergency response operations, such as firefighting, search and rescue, and humanitarian aid delivery, providing rapid and flexible aerial support in disaster-affected areas. Additionally, civil heavy-lift helicopters are utilized for passenger transport, VIP charter flights, and tourism activities, offering comfortable and efficient air transportation solutions for corporate clients, high-net-worth individuals, and adventure seekers.
Heavy-lift helicopters serve various commercial applications, including aerial crane services, heavy cargo transport, and infrastructure maintenance for industries such as construction, utilities, and logistics. Commercial heavy-lift helicopters are equipped with specialized lifting equipment, such as external load hooks and cargo nets, to lift and transport heavy payloads, construction materials, and oversized equipment to construction sites, offshore platforms, and remote installations. These helicopters support infrastructure development projects, powerline construction, and telecommunications tower installation, facilitating efficient and cost-effective logistics solutions for commercial clients. Additionally, commercial heavy-lift helicopters are employed in firefighting operations, heavy lifting operations, and aerial filming and photography, providing aerial support services to diverse industries and applications.
Global Heavy-lift Helicopter Market, Segmentation by Geography
In this report, the Global Heavy-lift Helicopter Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.
Global Heavy-lift Helicopter Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024
As a leading region in aerospace and defense, North America holds a significant share of the global heavy-lift helicopter market. The United States, in particular, is a major market for heavy-lift helicopters, driven by robust defense spending, disaster response capabilities, and commercial applications such as offshore oil and gas operations. North American operators and end-users prioritize helicopters with high lifting capacities, long-range capabilities, and advanced mission systems to support various missions, including military logistics, aerial firefighting, search and rescue, and VIP transport.
The heavy-lift helicopter market in Europe is characterized by a diverse mix of military and civilian operators, serving a wide range of missions and operational requirements across the continent. European countries such as the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Russia maintain sizable fleets of heavy-lift helicopters for defense, disaster relief, and commercial applications. The European market is driven by defense modernization programs, infrastructure development projects, and offshore energy exploration activities, creating demand for heavy-lift helicopters with enhanced lifting capabilities, operational efficiency, and mission versatility.
The Asia Pacific region represents a growing market for heavy-lift helicopters, fueled by rapid economic growth, infrastructure development, and increasing demand for transportation and logistics services. Countries such as China, India, Japan, and Australia invest in heavy-lift helicopters to support military operations, disaster response efforts, and commercial activities in remote or inaccessible regions. The Asia Pacific market is characterized by diverse operational requirements, ranging from military airlift and disaster relief to aerial construction and cargo transport, driving demand for versatile and reliable heavy-lift helicopter platforms.
The Middle East and Africa region demonstrate significant demand for heavy-lift helicopters, driven by security challenges, humanitarian crises, and infrastructure development projects. Countries such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and South Africa maintain fleets of heavy-lift helicopters for military logistics, disaster relief, and oil and gas operations. The Middle East and Africa market prioritize helicopters with robust performance, all-weather capabilities, and advanced avionics to operate in harsh environments and support critical missions such as troop transport, medical evacuation, and cargo resupply.
Latin America presents opportunities for heavy-lift helicopter manufacturers and operators, supported by growing investments in defense modernization, natural resource extraction, and infrastructure development projects. Countries such as Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, and Chile utilize heavy-lift helicopters for military operations, firefighting, humanitarian assistance, and VIP transport. The Latin American market emphasizes helicopters with rugged design, high payload capacity, and mission flexibility to address diverse operational requirements and environmental conditions across the region.
Market Trends
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Heavy-lift Helicopter Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities.
Drivers:
- Military Modernization Programs
- Growing Demand for Disaster Relief and Humanitarian Operations
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Search and Rescue Operations - Search and rescue (SAR) operations serve as a significant driver for the Global Heavy-lift Helicopter Market, fueling demand for helicopters with exceptional lifting capabilities, endurance, and mission-specific equipment tailored for lifesaving missions in challenging environments.
One of the primary factors driving the demand for heavy-lift helicopters in search and rescue operations is their ability to access remote, rugged, and inaccessible terrain where traditional rescue vehicles cannot reach. Heavy-lift helicopters are equipped with powerful engines, advanced rotor systems, and rugged airframes capable of operating in adverse weather conditions, high altitudes, and maritime environments, making them indispensable assets for SAR missions in mountainous regions, maritime waters, and disaster-stricken areas. These helicopters provide rapid response capabilities, enabling SAR teams to reach and extract survivors from remote or hazardous locations, thereby increasing the likelihood of successful rescues and reducing response times in critical situations.
Heavy-lift helicopters offer unparalleled versatility and flexibility in SAR operations, allowing for the rapid transport of search and rescue teams, medical personnel, and specialized equipment to the scene of emergencies. These helicopters can conduct hoist operations, long-line rescues, and aerial evacuations, facilitating the extraction of stranded individuals from confined spaces, inaccessible terrain, or hazardous conditions. The lifting capacity and cargo-carrying capabilities of heavy-lift helicopters enable SAR teams to transport multiple survivors, medical supplies, and rescue equipment in a single sortie, optimizing operational efficiency and resource utilization during critical lifesaving missions.
Heavy-lift helicopters are equipped with advanced mission-specific equipment and technologies to enhance situational awareness, coordination, and effectiveness in SAR operations. These helicopters may be outfitted with state-of-the-art sensors, cameras, and searchlights for day and night operations, enabling SAR crews to detect, locate, and assess survivors in distress. Additionally, heavy-lift helicopters may feature medical evacuation (medevac) configurations with onboard medical facilities, stretchers, and life support systems to provide immediate medical care and stabilize injured individuals during transit to medical facilities.
The global proliferation of natural disasters, maritime emergencies, and humanitarian crises underscores the critical role of heavy-lift helicopters in SAR operations worldwide. From earthquake response and avalanche rescues to maritime search and rescue missions, heavy-lift helicopters play a vital role in saving lives, preserving property, and supporting disaster relief efforts in coordination with government agencies, emergency responders, and humanitarian organizations. As the frequency and severity of natural disasters and humanitarian crises continue to rise, the demand for heavy-lift helicopters equipped for SAR missions is expected to grow, driving market expansion, technological innovation, and investment in SAR capabilities within the global heavy-lift helicopter market.
Restraints:
- High Acquisition and Operating Costs
- Limited Market Size and Demand
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Technological and Innovation Challenges - In the report on the Global Heavy-lift Helicopter Market, it's essential to recognize the technological and innovation challenges that act as restraints within the industry. Despite the significant demand for heavy-lift helicopters across various sectors, including defense, construction, and disaster relief, several obstacles hinder technological advancements and innovation within the market.
One of the primary challenges is related to the complexity and cost of developing and manufacturing heavy-lift helicopters with enhanced capabilities. Designing helicopters capable of lifting heavy loads while maintaining safety, reliability, and operational efficiency requires advanced engineering expertise, sophisticated materials, and specialized manufacturing processes. As a result, the development cycle for new heavy-lift helicopter models is often lengthy and resource-intensive, leading to high research and development costs and significant financial risks for manufacturers.
Technological limitations in propulsion systems, rotorcraft dynamics, and aerodynamics pose significant challenges to improving the performance and efficiency of heavy-lift helicopters. Traditional rotorcraft designs, including main rotor and tail rotor configurations, are inherently limited by factors such as noise, vibration, and fuel consumption, which can impact operational flexibility and mission effectiveness. Overcoming these technical constraints requires breakthrough innovations in propulsion technologies, rotor design, and flight control systems to enhance lift capacity, range, and maneuverability while reducing operational costs and environmental footprint.
The integration of advanced avionics, sensor systems, and autonomous technologies presents additional challenges for heavy-lift helicopter manufacturers. Incorporating state-of-the-art navigation, communication, and mission management systems into existing helicopter platforms requires compatibility with legacy architectures, certification requirements, and safety standards. Achieving seamless integration and interoperability while ensuring system reliability and cybersecurity is a complex and time-consuming process, posing challenges for technology adoption and innovation in the heavy-lift helicopter market.
Regulatory compliance, certification, and safety standards represent significant barriers to technological innovation and product development in the heavy-lift helicopter industry. Manufacturers must adhere to stringent aviation regulations and airworthiness criteria imposed by civil aviation authorities and regulatory bodies, which govern design, manufacturing, testing, and operational requirements for rotorcraft. Meeting these regulatory requirements while introducing new technologies and design features entails rigorous testing, validation, and certification processes, leading to delays, cost overruns, and market entry barriers for innovative heavy-lift helicopter solutions.
Opportunities:
- Offshore Oil and Gas Industry
- Commercial Cargo Transport
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Firefighting and Aerial Fire Suppression - One key opportunity lies in the unique ability of heavy-lift helicopters to deliver large volumes of water or fire retardant directly to wildfires, especially in remote or inaccessible areas where traditional firefighting methods are impractical or ineffective. Heavy-lift helicopters, equipped with external water tanks or retardant buckets, can quickly deploy to fire-affected regions and conduct precision drops to suppress flames, protect property, and support ground firefighting crews. The capacity of these helicopters to carry hundreds or even thousands of gallons of water or retardant enables them to cover vast areas and deliver targeted suppression efforts, thereby containing wildfires before they escalate out of control.
Heavy-lift helicopters offer operational flexibility and rapid response capabilities that are essential for effective wildfire management and emergency response. These helicopters can be mobilized at short notice, operate in adverse weather conditions, and access remote or rugged terrain that is inaccessible to ground-based firefighting equipment. Their ability to hover, maneuver, and deliver precise drops in dynamic fire environments makes them invaluable assets for incident commanders seeking to contain and extinguish wildfires while minimizing risks to personnel and property.
Another opportunity in the firefighting and aerial fire suppression segment involves the integration of advanced technologies and firefighting systems into heavy-lift helicopters to enhance their effectiveness and efficiency in combating wildfires. Helicopter manufacturers and equipment suppliers are developing innovative solutions such as aerial ignition systems, infrared cameras, and real-time data analytics to improve situational awareness, optimize firefighting tactics, and ensure safe and effective operations in challenging fire conditions. Additionally, advancements in helicopter design, propulsion systems, and composite materials enable operators to enhance performance, increase payload capacity, and reduce operating costs, thereby improving the overall cost-effectiveness and sustainability of aerial firefighting operations.
The increasing severity and duration of wildfire seasons driven by climate change and environmental factors are expected to fuel sustained demand for heavy-lift helicopters in the firefighting and aerial fire suppression segment. Governments, firefighting agencies, and private contractors are investing in fleet modernization, fleet expansion, and leasing arrangements to bolster aerial firefighting capabilities and enhance preparedness for future wildfire events. As a result, heavy-lift helicopter manufacturers and operators stand to benefit from long-term contracts, service agreements, and partnerships aimed at strengthening wildfire response capabilities and protecting communities from the devastating impacts of wildfires.
Competitive Landscape Analysis
Key players in Global Heavy-lift Helicopter Market include:
- Lockheed Martin Corporation
- Enstrom Helicopter Corporation
- The Boeing Company
- Erickson Incorporated
- Sky Aviation
- Russian Helicopters
- Trans Aero Ltd.
- Airbus SE
- Aviation Corporation of China
- Textron Inc.
In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:
- Company Overview and Product Portfolio
- Key Developments
- Financial Overview
- Strategies
- Company SWOT Analysis
- Introduction
- Research Objectives and Assumptions
- Research Methodology
- Abbreviations
- Market Definition & Study Scope
- Executive Summary
- Market Snapshot, By Point of Sale
- Market Snapshot, By Application
- Market Snapshot, By Region
- Global Heavy-lift Helicopter Market Dynamics
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Drivers
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Military Modernization Programs
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Growing Demand for Disaster Relief and Humanitarian Operations
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Search and Rescue Operations
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- Restraints
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High Acquisition and Operating Costs
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Limited Market Size and Demand
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Technological and Innovation Challenges
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- Opportunities
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Offshore Oil and Gas Industry
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Commercial Cargo Transport
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Firefighting and Aerial Fire Suppression
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- Drivers
- PEST Analysis
- Political Analysis
- Economic Analysis
- Social Analysis
- Technological Analysis
- Porter's Analysis
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- Bargaining Power of Buyers
- Threat of Substitutes
- Threat of New Entrants
- Competitive Rivalry
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Market Segmentation
- Global Heavy-lift Helicopter Market, By Point of Sale, 2023 - 2033 (USD Million)
- OEM
- Aftermarket
- Global Heavy-lift Helicopter Market, By Application, 2023 - 2033 (USD Million)
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Military
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Civil
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Commercial
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- Global Heavy-lift Helicopter Market, By Geography, 2023 - 2033 (USD Million)
- North America
- United States
- Canada
- Europe
- Germany
- United Kingdom
- France
- Italy
- Spain
- Nordic
- Benelux
- Rest of Europe
- Asia Pacific
- Japan
- China
- India
- Australia & New Zealand
- South Korea
- ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Countries)
- Rest of Asia Pacific
- Middle East & Africa
- GCC
- Israel
- South Africa
- Rest of Middle East & Africa
- Latin America
- Brazil
- Mexico
- Argentina
- Rest of Latin America
- North America
- Global Heavy-lift Helicopter Market, By Point of Sale, 2023 - 2033 (USD Million)
- Competitive Landscape
- Company Profiles
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Lockheed Martin Corporation
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Enstrom Helicopter Corporation
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The Boeing Company
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Erickson Incorporated
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Sky Aviation
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Russian Helicopters
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Trans Aero Ltd.
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Airbus SE
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Aviation Corporation of China
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Textron Inc.
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- Company Profiles
- Analyst Views
- Future Outlook of the Market