Air Cargo Security and Screening System Market By Product Type (X-Ray Screening Systems, Explosive Detection Systems, Biometric Screening Systems, CT Scanners), By End-Use (Airports & Cargo Terminals, Air Freight & Logistics, Government & Military, Transportation & Distribution Companies), By Technology (Manual Screening, Automated Screening, Advanced Detection Technologies, AI and Machine Learning-Based Screening Systems), and By Region; Global Insights & Forecast (2023 – 2030)

As per Intent Market Research, the Air Cargo Security and Screening System Market was valued at USD 2.8 Billion in 2024-e and will surpass USD 6.4 Billion by 2030; growing at a CAGR of 12.7% during 2025-2030.

The air cargo security and screening system market is a crucial component of the global logistics and transportation industry. With the growing volume of air cargo, there is an increasing need to ensure the safety and security of shipments. Security measures are essential to detect hazardous materials, prevent terrorist activities, and safeguard the aviation industry from various threats. As the complexity of international trade and air travel grows, so too does the demand for more sophisticated screening technologies. X-ray systems, explosive detection systems, biometric screening, and AI-based technologies are evolving to meet these requirements, creating a dynamic and competitive market environment. The market continues to expand as governments and businesses invest in advanced solutions to maintain air cargo security while minimizing delays and operational inefficiencies.

The market is shaped by various product types, end-use sectors, and technological advancements, with each segment driving specific growth trends. X-ray screening systems and explosive detection systems dominate the product category, while automation and AI-based screening technologies are rapidly gaining traction in response to the need for faster and more efficient solutions. The adoption of biometric screening in air cargo security is also growing as part of the broader trend toward enhancing identification verification processes. The following sections explore the largest or fastest-growing subsegments within each market category.

X-Ray Screening Systems Segment Is Largest Owing to Widespread Adoption in Air Cargo Security

X-ray screening systems hold the largest share of the air cargo security and screening system market, primarily due to their critical role in detecting dangerous items within packages and cargo shipments. These systems are integral to the operations of airports, cargo terminals, and logistics hubs worldwide. X-ray systems provide high-resolution imaging that allows security personnel to identify items of concern without the need to open or disturb cargo. The widespread adoption of both single-view and multi-view X-ray systems has been driven by their ability to provide detailed, real-time images that support fast decision-making.

The X-ray screening system’s dominance is underpinned by its efficiency, scalability, and ability to integrate with other security solutions. As air cargo volumes continue to rise, the need for more advanced X-ray screening solutions with higher throughput and better detection capabilities is also growing. Additionally, developments in multi-view X-ray technology, which enhances image clarity and threat detection, are expected to sustain growth in this subsegment, making it the largest in the market.

Explosive Detection Systems Segment Is Fastest Growing Owing to Heightened Security Concerns

Explosive detection systems (EDS) are the fastest-growing subsegment in the air cargo security market, driven by escalating security concerns and increasing regulatory pressures in the global aviation industry. With the threat of terrorism and smuggling on the rise, airports and cargo terminals are prioritizing the installation of more advanced EDS, including explosive trace detection (ETD) and explosive vapor detection (EVD) technologies. These systems are designed to detect trace amounts of explosives in cargo shipments, ensuring that potentially dangerous materials are intercepted before they can reach an aircraft.

The rapid growth of explosive detection systems can be attributed to stricter regulatory frameworks implemented by international authorities, such as the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). As air travel and freight activities expand, especially in regions with high security risks, the demand for more advanced, efficient, and reliable EDS solutions will continue to rise. These systems are essential for enhancing the safety of air cargo while maintaining operational efficiency and minimizing delays.

Biometric Screening Systems Segment Is Fastest Growing Owing to Increasing Demand for Identity Verification

Biometric screening systems represent the fastest-growing subsegment within the air cargo security market. The increasing adoption of biometric technology, including facial recognition, fingerprint scanning, and iris scanning, is driven by the need for secure and accurate identification verification in air cargo and logistics operations. These systems are particularly valuable in enhancing the security of access control points, where personnel or cargo handlers must be verified before entering secure areas.

The growth of biometric screening systems is linked to the broader trend of digitalization and the desire to streamline and improve security processes. These systems not only improve security by ensuring that only authorized personnel gain access to restricted areas, but they also provide faster, more efficient verification methods compared to traditional identification systems. As security regulations tighten and the need for faster clearance procedures increases, biometric screening systems are becoming a critical component of air cargo security solutions, contributing to their rapid growth.

North America Is Largest Region Owing to Strong Regulatory Environment and Technological Advancements

North America remains the largest region for the air cargo security and screening system market. This dominance is largely attributed to the strong regulatory environment, driven by agencies such as the TSA, and the region’s extensive investment in advanced security technologies. The U.S. and Canada, in particular, have adopted stringent security measures in response to growing threats to aviation, with government initiatives pushing for the implementation of state-of-the-art screening solutions across airports and cargo facilities.

Furthermore, North American companies are leading the development and deployment of new air cargo security technologies, such as AI-driven screening systems and biometric identification solutions. As these technologies gain traction in other regions, North America’s position as a market leader is reinforced. Additionally, the region's robust infrastructure and large number of major international airports and cargo hubs ensure a steady demand for air cargo security solutions, consolidating its role as the largest market for these systems.

Leading Companies and Competitive Landscape

The air cargo security and screening system market is highly competitive, with a number of global players at the forefront of innovation and technological development. Leading companies in the market include Smiths Detection, Leidos, L3 Technologies, Raytheon Technologies, and Nuctech Company Limited, all of which are known for their advanced screening technologies, including X-ray systems, explosive detection solutions, and automated security equipment. These companies are focused on continuous innovation to meet growing demand, improve detection accuracy, and enhance system efficiency.

The competitive landscape is characterized by technological advancements, strategic partnerships, and an emphasis on compliance with international security regulations. Companies are increasingly investing in AI and machine learning to enhance the capabilities of their screening systems, offering smarter and faster solutions. Furthermore, the market is witnessing growing interest from startups and smaller players who specialize in niche technologies, such as biometric systems and automated screening solutions, creating a dynamic and evolving competitive environment. As regulatory standards tighten and security concerns grow, the market for air cargo security systems is expected to continue expanding, with established players and new entrants competing for dominance.

List of Leading Companies:

• Smiths Detection
• Leidos
• L3 Technologies (L3Harris Technologies)
• Raytheon Technologies
• Nuctech Company Limited
• Morpho Detection (A part of Safran Group)
• OSI Systems, Inc.
• Vanderlande Industries
• Rapiscan Systems
• Gilardoni S.p.A.
• Scanna MSC Ltd.
• Selex ES (Leonardo S.p.A.)
• Astrophysics, Inc.
• VOTI Detection
• CEIA S.p.A.

Recent Developments:

• Smiths Detection launched a new multi-view X-ray system designed to provide enhanced image clarity and threat detection capabilities, aimed at improving cargo security at airports globally.
• Leidos recently secured a multi-million-dollar contract to supply advanced explosive detection systems to major international airports, enhancing air cargo screening processes.
• Raytheon Technologies announced the integration of AI-powered algorithms into their screening systems to improve detection rates of dangerous materials in air cargo, offering faster and more efficient screening.
• Rapiscan Systems unveiled a new line of compact and cost-effective cargo screening solutions targeted at small to medium-sized airports, ensuring high-security standards with a more affordable option.
• Nuctech Company Limited was awarded a contract to provide a range of next-generation screening systems to a government in the Middle East, focusing on enhancing air cargo security and meeting stricter international security regulations.

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