The Airport Moving Walkways Market is estimated to be valued at USD 2.7 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 3.7 billion by 2035, registering a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.4% over the forecast period.
A growth momentum analysis of the provided dataset indicates a stable yet gradual expansion pattern, reflecting the market’s alignment with steady airport infrastructure upgrades rather than rapid cyclical surges. From 2025 to 2028, the market progresses from USD 2.7 billion to USD 3.0 billion, showing consistent year-over-year gains supported by modernization projects in major airports and incremental expansions in regional air travel hubs.
This period reflects a dependable demand base driven by passenger convenience requirements and operational efficiency targets. Between 2029 and 2032, the market advances to USD 3.4 billion, maintaining similar momentum. The growth is reinforced by the replacement of aging walkway systems with energy-efficient and low-maintenance models, as well as the integration of safety-enhancing technologies. The pace remains steady, indicating predictable capital investment cycles in the aviation sector. In the final phase from 2033 to 2035, the market reaches USD 3.7 billion, maintaining its gradual incline. This stability suggests that while absolute growth remains modest, the segment benefits from consistent infrastructure renewal programs. Long-term momentum will depend on sustained airport expansion in emerging markets and global air travel volume recovery.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Airport Moving Walkways Market Estimated Value in (2025 E) | USD 2.7 billion |
| Airport Moving Walkways Market Forecast Value in (2035 F) | USD 3.7 billion |
| Forecast CAGR (2025 to 2035) | 3.4% |
The airport moving walkways market is regarded as a specialized yet steadily expanding category within its broader parent industries. It is estimated to represent about 2.0% of the global airport infrastructure and equipment market reflecting demand for passenger convenience systems. Within the airport systems and terminal conveyor equipment sector, a share of approximately 3.3% is assessed driven by use in passenger transfer, security and boarding zones. In the automated people mover and intermodal transport equipment segment around 2.6% is calculated supported by integration with automated people mover systems. Within the overall airport facility modernization services market, a contribution of roughly 2.2% is observed reflecting inclusion in renovation and upgrade programs. In the commercial construction and engineering systems industry about 1.8% is evaluated given incorporation into broader terminal design and fit-out services.
Trends in this market have been shaped by increasing airport modernization programs featuring enhanced passenger flow efficiency. Innovations have been focused on energy efficient walkway drives, lightweight walkway belts and smart sensors for speed modulation. Interest has increased in systems integrated with biometric access or airport app control to manage access and traffic management. The Asia Pacific region has been observed to exhibit the fastest adoption while Middle East and Europe have maintained strong demand under large hub expansion projects. Strategic initiatives have included collaborations between walkway system suppliers and airport authorities or engineering firms to deliver modular systems with predictive maintenance, condition monitoring and seamless integration into terminal building management platforms.
The airport moving walkways market is gaining momentum due to rising global air passenger traffic, expansion of airport infrastructure, and the need for efficient intra-terminal transit systems. With airports focusing on minimizing passenger transfer time and improving accessibility for the elderly and disabled, moving walkways have become a core element of terminal modernization projects.
Integration with smart technologies, energy-efficient motors, and advanced safety mechanisms is further boosting deployment.
Additionally, growing investments in automated airport systems, especially across Asia-Pacific and the Middle East, are fueling demand for scalable, low-maintenance walkway solutions that enhance operational flow and reduce congestion in high-footfall zones.
The airport moving walkways market is segmented by type, inclination angle, speed, and geographic regions. By type, the airport moving walkways market is divided into belt-type and pallet-type. In terms of inclination angle, the airport moving walkways market is classified into Horizontal and Inclined. Based on the speed of the airport moving walkways, the market is segmented into Constant moving walkways (CMW) and Accelerating moving walkways (AMW). Regionally, the airport moving walkways industry is classified into North America, Latin America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Balkan & Baltic Countries, Russia & Belarus, Central Asia, East Asia, South Asia & Pacific, and the Middle East & Africa.
Belt type walkways are projected to dominate the airport moving walkways market with a 61.0% revenue share by 2025. This segment’s leadership is driven by its continuous motion mechanism, superior grip, and smooth operation, making it ideal for handling luggage trolleys and heavy foot traffic in long concourses.
Belt types offer enhanced passenger comfort, reduced vibration, and improved aesthetics, leading to their preference in modern terminals.
The segment is further supported by innovations in low-noise materials, fire-retardant polymers, and energy-saving motors, all of which align with airport sustainability goals and operational standards.
Horizontally inclined walkways are expected to account for 67.0% of the market share in 2025, making them the leading inclination type. These systems are particularly suited for flat terminal layouts, offering consistent speed and safety for passengers navigating between gates, security checkpoints, and baggage claims.
Their simpler structural requirements and ease of integration into architectural designs make them cost-effective for both new installations and retrofits.
Additionally, the reduced mechanical strain on components contributes to lower maintenance costs, extending lifecycle performance and ROI for airport operators.
Constant moving walkways (CMW) are projected to hold 71.0% share of the speed segment in 2025, establishing themselves as the preferred configuration in airport environments. CMWs offer uninterrupted motion that facilitates smooth and predictable passenger flow, which is critical during peak operational hours.
These systems ensure uniform speed, simplifying safety compliance and improving accessibility for users with mobility aids or baggage carts.
Their reliability, combined with simplified control systems and energy efficiency, has made them a default choice in terminal corridors and connecting passages.
Airport moving walkways have been widely installed to facilitate passenger movement across long terminal corridors, reducing travel time and enhancing convenience. These systems have been used in both domestic and international airports to improve passenger flow efficiency, particularly during peak traffic hours. Demand has been influenced by airport expansion projects, terminal modernization programs, and increasing air passenger volumes. Manufacturers have been focusing on energy-efficient drive systems, low-maintenance designs, and advanced safety features to meet operational and regulatory standards in high-traffic transportation hubs.
Ongoing airport expansion projects have been a primary driver for the adoption of moving walkways, as they support seamless passenger mobility in large terminals. Newly constructed airports in Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, and Africa have integrated these systems to enhance overall passenger experience and operational flow. In North America and Europe, modernization of aging terminals has included the replacement of older walkways with more efficient, quieter, and safer models. Moving walkways have been installed in both arrival and departure areas, connecting check-in zones, security checkpoints, and boarding gates. The integration of moving walkways has reduced congestion, improved accessibility for passengers with reduced mobility, and increased efficiency in baggage claim and transfer zones. This trend has been reinforced by rising air travel demand and airport infrastructure investment commitments.
Manufacturers have been developing advanced moving walkway systems with improved energy efficiency, durability, and passenger safety. Variable speed drive technology has been introduced to adjust walkway speed according to passenger traffic, reducing energy consumption during off-peak hours. Automated lubrication systems, LED lighting, and low-friction handrail designs have reduced maintenance requirements while improving reliability. Safety enhancements such as automatic stop sensors, anti-slip surfaces, and visual guidance systems have been incorporated to prevent accidents. Companies in Japan, Germany, and the United States have been pioneering modular walkway designs, enabling easier installation and replacement in existing terminal layouts. These innovations have extended the operational life of moving walkways while aligning with airport efficiency and passenger satisfaction objectives.
Global passenger traffic growth has significantly contributed to the need for efficient terminal mobility solutions, including moving walkways. Airports in high-traffic hubs such as Dubai, Singapore, and Atlanta have expanded walkway coverage to accommodate surging traveler volumes. The ability of moving walkways to reduce passenger fatigue and maintain steady flow through busy terminals has been particularly valuable during peak travel seasons. In transfer-heavy airports, these systems have minimized missed connections by reducing walking times between gates. Increasing adoption in medium-sized airports has also been observed, as operators recognize the benefits of improved passenger movement and accessibility. The direct link between passenger throughput and operational efficiency has positioned moving walkways as an essential infrastructure investment in modern airport planning.
Despite their operational benefits, moving walkways have faced challenges in terms of high capital investment and ongoing maintenance expenses. The installation process requires significant structural integration, often adding to terminal construction or renovation costs. Regular inspections, part replacements, and compliance with safety regulations contribute to higher operational expenses compared to other passenger movement systems. Smaller airports with limited budgets have opted for alternative mobility solutions such as electric carts or shorter fixed walkways. Additionally, downtime during maintenance or repairs can disrupt passenger flow and affect terminal efficiency. Without cost optimization strategies, increased component lifespan, and modular repair options, moving walkway adoption may remain concentrated in large and well-funded airport projects.
| Country | CAGR |
|---|---|
| China | 4.6% |
| India | 4.3% |
| Germany | 3.9% |
| France | 3.6% |
| UK | 3.2% |
| USA | 2.9% |
| Brazil | 2.6% |
The airport moving walkways market is expected to grow at a global CAGR of 3.4% between 2025 and 2035, driven by expansion of airport infrastructure, rising passenger traffic, and demand for enhanced transit convenience. China leads with a 4.6% CAGR, supported by large-scale airport construction and modernization projects. India follows at 4.3%, fueled by government-led aviation expansion and increasing international passenger volumes. Germany, at 3.9%, benefits from advanced engineering capabilities and upgrades in major European airports. The UK, projected at 3.2%, sees steady growth from terminal refurbishment and passenger mobility initiatives. The USA, at 2.9%, reflects stable replacement demand in established airports. The report provides insights for 40+ countries, with the five below highlighted for their strategic importance and growth outlook.
China is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.6% from 2025 to 2035 in the airport moving walkways market, supported by ongoing expansion and modernization of major airports. Domestic manufacturers such as Shanghai Mitsubishi Elevator, Xizi Otis, and Canny Elevator are supplying advanced belt and pallet-type walkways designed for high passenger throughput. The surge in domestic air travel, coupled with the development of new regional airports, is creating sustained demand. Integration of energy-efficient drives and smart monitoring systems is becoming standard to enhance operational efficiency. Collaborations between walkway manufacturers and airport authorities are ensuring customized solutions for terminal layouts.
India is forecasted to achieve a CAGR of 4.3% from 2025 to 2035, driven by terminal upgrades in both metropolitan and tier-2 city airports. Companies such as KONE India, Schindler India, and Thyssenkrupp Elevator India are focusing on modular moving walkway designs to fit varied terminal configurations. The rise in passenger traffic from domestic tourism and international routes is prompting airports to adopt wider, higher-capacity units. Demand is also supported by government-backed airport expansion programs under initiatives like UDAN, where passenger flow optimization is a priority.
Germany is projected to post a CAGR of 3.9% from 2025 to 2035, supported by its status as a European air travel hub and emphasis on advanced passenger transport solutions. Manufacturers such as Thyssenkrupp Elevator AG and Schindler Deutschland are introducing moving walkways with regenerative drives and automated lubrication systems to reduce maintenance costs. Integration with airport building management systems is becoming a common feature for real-time monitoring. Upgrades at major hubs such as Frankfurt and Munich airports are driving demand for high-durability walkway solutions capable of continuous operation.
The United Kingdom is expected to record a CAGR of 3.2% from 2025 to 2035, driven by passenger experience enhancement programs in major and regional airports. Players such as Stannah Lifts, Otis UK, and KONE UK are supplying walkways with low-noise operation and sleek architectural finishes for terminals undergoing modernization. Heathrow, Gatwick, and Manchester airports are investing in replacements of older walkways with more efficient models. Increased emphasis on accessibility for elderly and reduced-mobility passengers is influencing design requirements.
The United States is forecasted to grow at a CAGR of 2.9% from 2025 to 2035, with demand driven by large-scale airport renovation programs. Manufacturers such as Otis Elevator Company, Fujitec America, and Mitsubishi Electric US are delivering heavy-duty walkways capable of handling high passenger volumes in major hubs like Atlanta, Chicago, and Dallas. There is growing adoption of walkways with predictive maintenance capabilities powered by IoT sensors to reduce downtime. Sustainability requirements are prompting the use of energy-saving motors and LED lighting in new installations.
The airport moving walkways market is led by global vertical transportation and mobility solution providers with extensive experience in large-scale infrastructure projects. Kone Corporation and Otis Elevator Company hold strong positions through advanced moving walkway systems designed for high passenger throughput, low energy consumption, and minimal maintenance in airport environments. Schindler Group and Thyssenkrupp AG are recognized for delivering heavy-duty, long-span moving walkways capable of handling continuous operations in busy terminals. Hitachi and Mitsubishi Electric integrate precision engineering with automated control systems, offering walkways that ensure smooth operation, safety, and reliability across international airports. Hyundai Elevator Company serves both domestic and export markets with competitively priced moving walkways tailored for regional airport expansions and modernization projects. Key strategies among market leaders include securing multi-year airport infrastructure contracts, developing modular and extendable walkway designs for easier installation, and integrating IoT-based monitoring systems for predictive maintenance. Competitive advantage is shaped by proven project execution in major transportation hubs, compliance with international safety standards, and the ability to offer custom solutions for unique terminal layouts. Entry into this market is restricted by high engineering expertise requirements, long sales cycles tied to public infrastructure funding, and the strong presence of established suppliers in global airport projects.
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Quantitative Units | USD 2.7 Billion |
| Type | Belt type and Pallet type |
| Inclination Angle | Horizontal and Inclined |
| Speed | Constant moving walkways (CMW) and Accelerating moving walkways (AMW) |
| Regions Covered | North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East & Africa |
| Country Covered | United States, Canada, Germany, France, United Kingdom, China, Japan, India, Brazil, South Africa |
| Key Companies Profiled | Kone Corporation, Otis Elevator Company, Schindler Group, Thyssenkrupp AG, Hitachi, Hyundai Elevator Company, and Mitsubishi Electric |
The global airport moving walkways market is estimated to be valued at USD 2.7 billion in 2025.
The market size for the airport moving walkways market is projected to reach USD 3.7 billion by 2035.
The airport moving walkways market is expected to grow at a 3.4% CAGR between 2025 and 2035.
The key product types in airport moving walkways market are belt type and pallet type.
In terms of inclination angle, horizontal segment to command 67.0% share in the airport moving walkways market in 2025.
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Airport Moving Walkways Market
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