NSR’s Aero Satcom Report Sees Recovering IFC Market Generating US$ 48 Billion through Decade
Cambridge, Mass., April 4, 2022-In its 10th year, NSR’s Aeronautical Satcom Markets (AERO10) report finds a US$ 48 billion+ cumulative revenue opportunity through the decade for both service providers and equipment vendors. Driven by accelerated installation of terminals on narrow-body aircraft and the rapid return of domestic travel, the IFC market sits positioned for recovery ahead of a rebound in aviation traffic.
The installed base for VSAT terminals, both business and commercial aviation, is set to reach approx. 16,750 units by 2025, exceeding 40,000 units through the end of 2031. Overall, demand for HTS capacity in both GEO and Non-GEO orbits reaching an aggregate of 1,000 Gpbs by 2031, presents a $3.8 billion annual revenue opportunity for satellite operators.
Despite current COVID-19 headwinds, the installed base for widebeam satellite and high throughput satellite (HTS) terminals onboard aircraft grew by 19.3% year-on-year to over 10,000 units by the end of 2021. The market now sits solidly at a crossroads as airlines face critical decision making on their IFC strategy.
“IFC growth potential has never been in doubt,” notes report author Joseph Ibeh. “As airline operators return to the negotiation table, 2021 results confirm IFC constitutes an essential component of the modern-day passenger experience. Market stakeholder conversations are now dominated by trends on free Wi-Fi, the budget ceiling for IFC and the potential for Non-GEO solutions.”
A movement towards free Wi-Fi for passengers and IFC penetration in Asia suggests a market significantly untapped compared to the outlook for 2031. Capacity demand per aircraft is projected to skyrocket as improved connectivity experience and free Wi-Fi offering boost take rates through the decade.
Ibeh adds “Overall, IFC is definitely a mobility market worth watching as new and incumbent service providers compete to capture the market upside.”
