In 2024, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines were the leading airlines in the U.S., with a domestic market share of 21 percent. That year, American Airlines had the second-largest market share of 20 percent. U.S. airlines' domestic market share The passenger air transportation market is a thriving industry, taking individuals to locations around the globe. American Airlines was the third largest airline in the North America based on operating revenue, reaching nearly 40.5 billion U.S. dollars in 2023. Passenger airlines can face much scrutiny for their passenger satisfaction and comfort. A 2025 North American Airline Satisfaction Study by J.D. Power & Associates listed Southwest Airlines as the best long-haul, closely followed by low-cost carrier JetBlue Airways. United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, American Airlines and Southwest Airlines are the top-ranked airlines based on 2024 domestic market share. Delta operates out of Atlanta, and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Delta’s hub, sees the most passenger traffic in the United States. Chicago-headquartered United Airlines is a subsidiary of United Continental Holdings. United has flights to 210 domestic destinations and 120 destinations internationally.

United Airlines, founded in 1926 as Varney Air Lines, is one of the four major air carriers in the United States, with a domestic market share of *** percent in 2021. United Airlines in the U.S. In 2010, United Airlines merged with Continental Airlines, following discussions started in 2008, and changed its name to United Continental Holdings to reflect the merger agreement into one of the world’s largest airlines. The airline brought in over **** billion U.S. dollars in revenue from its Canadian and domestic routes in 2021. Its largest hub, Denver International, handled *** million passengers that year. United Airlines in the worldDue to the COVID-19 pandemic, the airline generated only **** billion U.S. dollars in operating revenue and transported only ***** million passengers worldwide in 2021. The company is often amongst the leading airlines in the world in terms of ancillary revenue, passenger kilometers flown or brand value. United Airlines is one of the world’s largest airline when it comes to the number of destinations served – *** destinations as of August 2022.

The US Aviation Market Report is Segmented by Aircraft Type (Commercial Aviation, General Aviation, and Military Aviation), Propulsion Technology (Turboprop, Turbofan, Piston Engine, Turboshaft, and Others), and End User (Civil and Commercial Operators, Government and Defense Agencies, and Business and General Aviation Owners). The Market Forecasts are Provided in Terms of Value (USD).

Domestic airline revenue varies with changes in domestic travel patterns. Airlines are investing in modern technology and upgrading aircraft to reduce costs. Mainline fleets are expanding aircraft size to carry more passengers per flight, enhancing economies of scale. Major carriers, like Delta Airlines, focused on advancing premium service offerings, while the competitive landscape was further shaped by budget airlines offering low-cost fares. Revenue is expected to expand at a CAGR of 16.5% to $243.8 billion through the end of 2025, including growth of 0.4% in 2025 alone. The double-digit CAGR is attributed to the low comparison base recorded in 2020. Rebounding travel is providing airlines with an opportunity to attract more travelers by offering appealing fare options and continuing to enhance service quality. Easing inflationary pressures and interest rate reductions are improving consumer and business sentiment and driving a rebound in passenger and business travel, supporting growth through 2025. Airlines are capitalizing on this positive momentum, with investments directed toward enhancing customer loyalty programs and expanding their service offerings. Despite facing competitive pressures from low-cost carriers, major airlines are strategically positioning themselves through partnerships and aligning with financial institutions to secure funding. Major airlines continue to seek profit improvements and are investing in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) to curb their environmental footprint and reduce exposure to jet-fuel cost fluctuations. Ongoing investments into SAF are expected to foreshadow the airline's continuing commitment to prioritizing fuel efficiency and sustainability. The industry is expected to consolidate further, with Big Four airlines maintaining their lead despite intensifying regulatory scrutiny. Airlines will benefit from airport and infrastructure upgrades as unallocated funding from the IIJA capitalizes and projects come online. Easing monetary policy and improving liquidity are expected to support consumption and drive domestic travel, setting the stage for a return to sustained growth. Industry revenue is set to expand by a CAGR of 1.3% to an estimated $260.2 billion through the end of 2030.

About Dataset:

This dataset provides detailed information on airline flight routes, fares, and passenger volumes within the United States from 1993 to 2024.

Data Features:

1. tbl: Table identifier 2. Year: Year of the data record 3. quarter: Quarter of the year (1-4) 4. citymarketid_1: Origin city market ID 5. citymarketid_2: Destination city market ID 6. city1: Origin city name 7. city2: Destination city name 8. airportid_1: Origin airport ID 9. airportid_2: Destination airport ID 10. airport_1: Origin airport code 11. airport_2: Destination airport code 12. nsmiles: Distance between airports in miles 13. passengers: Number of passengers 14. fare: Average fare 15. carrier_lg: Code for the largest carrier by passengers 16. large_ms: Market share of the largest carrier 17. fare_lg: Average fare of the largest carrier 18. carrier_low: Code for the lowest fare carrier 19. lf_ms: Market share of the lowest fare carrier 20. fare_low: Lowest fare 21. Geocoded_City1: Geocoded coordinates for the origin city 22. Geocoded_City2: Geocoded coordinates for the destination city 23. tbl1apk: Unique identifier for the route

Potential Uses: 1. Market Analysis: Assess trends in air travel demand, fare changes, and market share of airlines over time. 2. Price Optimization: Develop models to predict optimal pricing strategies for airlines. 3. Route Planning: Identify profitable routes and underserved markets for new route planning. 4. Economic Studies: Analyze the economic impact of air travel on different cities and regions. 5. Travel Behavior Research: Study changes in passenger preferences and travel behavior over the years. 6. Competitor Analysis: Evaluate the performance of different airlines on various routes.

The global airline industry is booming, with a projected market size of $633 billion in 2025 and a steady CAGR of 2.9%. This comprehensive analysis explores market drivers, trends, restraints, regional breakdowns (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, etc.), key players (American Airlines, Delta, etc.), and future growth projections. Discover insights into domestic vs. international travel, long-haul vs. regional routes, and the impact of LCCs.

Snapshot img

Commercial Airlines Market Size 2025-2029

The commercial airlines market size is valued to increase by USD 430.2 billion, at a CAGR of 8.7% from 2024 to 2029. Increase in air passenger traffic will drive the commercial airlines market.

Major Market Trends & Insights

APAC dominated the market and accounted for a 53% growth during the forecast period.
By Revenue Stream - Passenger segment was valued at USD 515.10 billion in 2023
By Type - International segment accounted for the largest market revenue share in 2023

Market Size & Forecast

Market Opportunities: USD 50.56 billion
Market Future Opportunities: USD 430.20 billion
CAGR from 2024 to 2029 : 8.7%

Market Summary

The market represents a dynamic and ever-evolving industry, driven by numerous factors that shape its current landscape and future trajectory. Core technologies, such as advanced avionics and digitalization, continue to revolutionize air travel, enhancing efficiency and passenger experience. Applications, including in-flight entertainment and connectivity, are witnessing significant growth, with increasing air passenger traffic fueling demand. Service types, such as low-cost and full-service carriers, cater to diverse consumer preferences. Regulations, including safety standards and environmental initiatives, remain a critical influence. For instance, the European Union's Emissions Trading System (ETS) has driven airlines to adopt more fuel-efficient aircraft and operational practices.
According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), passenger traffic grew by 4.3% in 2019, with smart airports becoming increasingly popular to streamline the travel experience. Despite this growth, rising operating expenses, including fuel costs and labor, pose challenges. However, opportunities, such as market consolidation and expansion into emerging markets, offer potential for growth.

What will be the Size of the Commercial Airlines Market during the forecast period?

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How is the Commercial Airlines Market Segmented ?

The commercial airlines industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Revenue Stream

  Passenger
  Cargo


Type

  International
  Domestic


Range Outlook

  Short-haul
  Medium-haul
  Long-haul
  Ultra-long haul


Fuel Efficiency

  Conventional Jet Fuel
  Biofuels
  Electric Propulsion
  Hydrogen-powered


Operation Model

  Scheduled Flights
  Charter Flights
  Wet Leasing


Business Model

  Network Carriers
  Point-to-Point Carriers
  Ultra-Low-Cost Carriers (ULCCs)


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    Italy
    UK


  Middle East and Africa

    Egypt
    KSA
    Oman
    UAE


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan


  South America

    Argentina
    Brazil


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Revenue Stream Insights

The passenger segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

In the dynamic and evolving the market, various sectors are witnessing significant developments. The passenger segment experienced a notable surge in 2024, with around 4.6 billion passengers passing through airports worldwide, marking a 28.3% increase. This growth can be attributed to the burgeoning air travel industry, particularly in the Asia Pacific region. To cater to this increasing demand, major aircraft Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) are expanding their production capabilities to meet scheduled deliveries. Low-Cost Carriers (LCCs) are also modernizing their fleets to capitalize on new market opportunities. The procurement of new aircraft is a primary response to the growing number of air passengers.

Operating costs remain a significant challenge for commercial airlines. To address this, various solutions are being implemented. In-flight entertainment systems are being upgraded to enhance the passenger experience, contributing to fuel efficiency improvements. Airline alliances are collaborating to optimize fleet operations and reduce maintenance costs through shared resources. Airworthiness directives, aircraft navigation, weather forecasting, flight simulation, and flight data analysis are essential tools for maintaining aircraft safety and efficiency. Flight operations are being streamlined through advanced technologies like avionics systems, aircraft maintenance software, and safety management systems. Passenger safety is a top priority, leading to advancements in aircraft design, technology, and ground support equipment.

Aircraft leasing companies are playing a crucial role in fleet optimization, providing flexible financing options for airlines. The market for aviation

Market Size statistics on the Domestic Airlines industry in the US

Snapshot img

Aviation Market Size 2025-2029

The aviation market size is forecast to increase by USD 715.6 billion, at a CAGR of 8.4% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is experiencing significant shifts, driven by the increasing emphasis on efficiency within the airline industry. This push for improved productivity is leading to the adoption of advanced technologies, such as radio-frequency identification (RFID), to streamline operations and enhance passenger experience. Simultaneously, the aviation sector faces complexities in its supply chain due to the rapid pace of technological advancement.
These challenges necessitate agile and adaptive strategies from industry players to effectively manage their supply chains and mitigate potential disruptions. Companies seeking to capitalize on market opportunities and navigate these challenges must stay abreast of emerging technologies and maintain a flexible, innovative approach to business operations.

What will be the Size of the Aviation Market during the forecast period?

Explore in-depth regional segment analysis with market size data - historical 2019-2023 and forecasts 2025-2029 - in the full report.
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The market continues to evolve, with dynamic interplay between various sectors shaping its landscape. Aircraft leasing and financing facilitate fleet management for airlines, enabling operational flexibility and cost efficiency. Aircraft insurance mitigates risks, ensuring financial security for lessors and lessees. In the realm of airline operations, supply chain management optimizes processes, enhancing efficiency and reducing costs. Business travelers demand superior passenger experience, driving investments in communication systems, passenger services, and crew scheduling. General aviation, including business jets and rotary-wing aircraft, caters to diverse needs, from executive travel to emergency medical services. Safety remains a top priority, with continuous advancements in aviation safety regulations, accident investigation techniques, and aviation law.

The aerospace industry innovates in aircraft design, materials, and propulsion systems, such as turbine engines and noise reduction technologies. Air traffic management and aviation training adapt to growing global trade and increasing air traffic volumes. Embracing technology, aviation incorporates advanced navigation systems, flight control systems, and airport infrastructure to improve efficiency and reduce emissions. The ongoing integration of these elements underscores the continuous dynamism of the market.

How is this Aviation Industry segmented?

The aviation industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Type

  Commercial aviation
  Military aviation
  General aviation


Revenue Stream

  Passenger
  Freight


Component

  Aircraft engines
  Airframe systems
  Avionics
  Cabin interiors
  Landing gears


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    UK


  Middle East and Africa

    UAE


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan
    South Korea


  Rest of World (ROW)

.

By Type Insights

The commercial aviation segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The market encompasses various sectors, including defense industry, freight forwarding, jet engines, fixed-wing aircraft, rotary-wing aircraft, aviation law, safety regulations, aerospace industry, navigation systems, ground handling, aviation security, military aviation, aircraft design, aircraft financing, fleet management, aircraft maintenance, baggage handling, passenger experience, passenger services, air traffic management, aviation training, airline ticketing, cargo operations, fuel efficiency, aircraft certification, air traffic control, air transportation, global trade, business jets, aircraft leasing, aircraft insurance, airline operations, supply chain management, business travel, general aviation, communication systems, aviation safety, route planning, pilot training, flight control systems, crew scheduling, airport infrastructure, and emissions reduction. The commercial aviation segment, which includes general aviation and scheduled airline services, is experiencing notable growth in market revenue.

Commercial aviation is utilized for diverse transportation needs, such as tourism, passenger travel, business travel, and freight transportation. Factors fueling this growth include the expanding middle-class population with increasing disposable income and the emergence of low-cost airline companies. Major components of commercial aviation consist of the wings, power plants, fuselage, tail or empennage, and landing gear. Commercial aviation plays a crucial role in various indus

North America Low Cost Airline market size was USD 120617.04 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.2% from 2024 to 2031. North America has emerged as a prominent participant, and its sales revenue is estimated to reach USD 175015.7 Million by 2031. This growth is mainly attributed to the region's increasing demand for affordable travel options and a rise in budget-conscious travelers.

In 2024, the U.S. airline industry generated ***** billion U.S. dollars in revenue from passenger fares. This represented an increase compared to the fare revenue reported a year earlier. The 2024 passenger revenue was also the new peak registered in the given period.

The Latin America Airlines Market is Segmented by Type (Commercial Aircraft, Military Aircraft, and General Aviation) and Geography (Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, and the Rest of Latin America). The Report Offers Market Sizes and Forecasts for all the Above Segments in Terms of Value (USD).

In 2020, the total market size of domestic airlines in the United States dropped to ** billion U.S. dollars. Until the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, this market has experienced a steady increase and is expected to increase to ***** billion U.S. dollars in 2021.

The North America Commercial Aviation Market is Segmented by Aircraft Type (Freighter Aircraft, Passenger Aircraft) and by Country (Canada, Mexico, United States). Key Data Points Observed Include Air Passenger Traffic, Air Transport Freight, Defense Spending, Military Aircraft Active Fleet, Revenue Passenger Kilometers, High-Net Worth Individuals, and Inflation Rate.

The North America Aviation Market is Segmented by Type (Commercial Aircraft (Passenger Aircraft and Freighter Aircraft), Military Aircraft (Combat Aircraft and Non-Combat Aircraft), and General Aviation (Helicopter, Piston Fixed-Wing Aircraft, Turboprop Aircraft, and Business Jet)) and Geography (United States and Canada). The Report Offers Market Sizes and Forecasts for all the Above Segments in Value (USD).

The North America General Aviation Market Report is Segmented by Aircraft Type (Business Jets, and More), Propulsion Type (Conventional Piston/Turbine, Hybrid-Electric, and More), Ownership Model (Full Private Ownership, and More), End-User Application (Business/Corporate Transport, Personal and Leisure Flying, and More), and Geography (United States, Canada, and More). The Market Forecasts are Provided in Terms of Value (USD).

North America Airline Market is expected to grow during 2025-2031

The US Aviation MRO Software Market Report is Segmented by Deployment (Cloud-Based and On-Premise) and End User (Airlines, Mros, and OEMs). The Report Offers Market Size and Forecasts for all the Above Segments in Value (USD).

The global airline industry, valued at $614.3 billion in 2025, is projected to experience steady growth, with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 2.8% from 2025 to 2033. This growth is driven by several factors, including the increasing affordability of air travel, particularly on regional routes, a rise in disposable incomes globally fueling leisure travel, and the expansion of low-cost carriers. The industry is segmented by route type (long-range and regional) and travel type (domestic and international). International travel, particularly between major hubs in North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific, contributes significantly to the market's overall value. Technological advancements, such as improved aircraft efficiency and enhanced booking platforms, also contribute positively to the sector's expansion. However, the industry faces challenges including fluctuating fuel prices, geopolitical instability impacting travel demand, and increased competition amongst established and emerging players. While North America and Europe currently hold the largest market shares, the Asia-Pacific region is expected to experience significant growth driven by rapid economic development and rising middle classes in countries like China and India. This growth will likely lead to increased competition for market share among major airlines globally. Continued focus on sustainability initiatives, enhancing passenger experience, and adapting to evolving consumer preferences will be crucial for airlines to maintain profitability and market competitiveness in the coming years. The projected market size in 2033 can be estimated based on the provided CAGR of 2.8% and 2025 market size. Applying this growth rate year-over-year, we project substantial growth across all segments. The long-range route segment is anticipated to maintain significant market share due to the increasing demand for international travel, while the regional route segment will likely see substantial growth fueled by the rise of low-cost carriers and increased domestic travel. Similarly, within the application segment, both domestic and international travel sectors are predicted to expand, although the proportion of international travel is expected to be relatively higher considering global travel trends. Key players, including those mentioned, will leverage strategic alliances, fleet modernization, and expansion into new markets to strengthen their competitive positions within this dynamic and growing landscape.

American Airlines reported $9.21B in Market Capitalization this December of 2025, considering the latest stock price and the number of outstanding shares.Data for American Airlines | AAL - Market Capitalization including historical, tables and charts were last updated by Trading Economics this last December in 2025.