- Summary
- Table Of Content
- Methodology
Aircraft Soft Goods Market Size:
Aircraft soft goods market size is estimated to reach over USD 908.68 Million by 2032 from a value of USD 717.84 Million in 2024, growing at a CAGR of 3.1% from 2025 to 2032.
Aircraft Soft Goods Market Scope & Overview:
Aircraft soft goods refer to a variety of textile and fabric-based products used in the interiors of an aircraft to enhance passenger comfort, aesthetics, and functionality. It possesses characteristics such as durability, lightweight, fire safety, and more. It plays a crucial role in improving the overall cabin experience while adhering to strict aviation safety regulations, such as flame resistance and durability. There are various types of aircraft soft goods including seat covers, carpets, curtains, and others. It is made of various materials such as nylon, cotton, leather, and others. It is incorporated in commercial aircraft, military aircraft, business jets, and others. The recent development of neurodiversity-friendly seat covers is expanding the market.
Aircraft Soft Goods Market Dynamics - (DRO) :
Key Drivers:
Growing Air Travel is driving Aircraft Soft Goods Market Growth
Global air travel is driven by growing urbanization, an expanding middle-class population, and rising disposable incomes. Global air travel is rising due to convenience, less time, and advancement in the aviation sector. As more passenger flights are increasing, airlines are investing heavily in soft goods such as seat covers, curtains, carpets, and others for aesthetic appeal and comfort. Further, air traffic which is the organized movement of aircraft within a given space is rising, accelerating the market.
- In 2023, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), total air traffic rose 36.9% compared to 2022. Additionally, in December 2023 total air traffic rose 25.3% compared to December 2022. This growth in air traffic is creating aircraft soft goods market demand, as these goods including seat covers, carpets, cushions, and others are integral parts of airlines.
Thus, growing air travel is leading to aircraft soft goods market expansion due to the high preference for aesthetic appearance and comfortable experience.
Integration of DOPO Formulations in Flame Retardant Fabrics is creating Aircraft Soft Goods Market Demand
Flame retardant fabrics are used in aircraft soft goods such as carpets, seat covers, and others, ensuring compliance with stringent fire safety regulations. Integration of 9,10-dihydro-9-oxa-10-phosphaphenanthrene-10-oxide (DOPO) formulations in flame retardant fabrics addresses both safety requirements and the growing preference for sustainable solutions, making it an attractive choice for airlines and manufacturers. Traditionally the production of flame-retardant fabrics involves harsh chemical treatments that cause harm to the environment, while DOPO formulations exhibit low toxicity and are halogen-free producing fewer corrosive gases.
- In 2023, according to a research paper published in Progress in Organic Coatings journal, DOPO-based Flame fabric exhibits higher flame retardant efficacy than traditional halogen-based flame retardants in aircraft. Due to its fire safety, it is being adopted in carpets, seat covers, and other aircraft soft goods, further enhancing the market.
Thus, the integration of DOPO-based environmentally friendly formulations in flame retardant fabrics is leading to aircraft soft goods market expansion, supported by high fire efficacy and sustainable practices.
Key Restraints:
Stringent Safety Regulations are constraining Aircraft Soft Goods Market Growth
Aviation authorities such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and others impose strict safety requirements, including flammability standards, toxicity, and durability compliance. Aircraft manufacturers must ensure that materials used in seat covers, carpets, and other soft goods meet safety standards with respect to fire resistance, smoke density, and toxic gas emissions. Meeting this regulation typically requires the use of advanced, high-cost materials and specialized production processes, increasing the overall cost of manufacturing. Additionally, achieving and maintaining certifications for these standards involves time-intensive testing and approvals, delaying product launches.
Thus, stringent safety standards are constraining the market, due to high production costs and delays in product launches.
Future Opportunities :
Development of Neurodiverse-Friendly Aircraft Seat Covers is expected to create Aircraft Soft Goods Market Opportunities
Neurodiversity encompasses a range of cognitive differences, including autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and other neurological conditions. For individuals with neurodiversity, traditional seat covers sometimes become uncomfortable due to factors like texture, temperature, and material. Neurodiversity-friendly seat covers are designed with specific features to enhance comfort and reduce sensory overload. It includes using soft, smooth fabrics that are non-irritating, offering adjustable temperature control, and incorporating noise-dampening materials to create a calming atmosphere.
- In 2024, Muirhead will develop neurodiversity-friendly aircraft seat cover for individuals with autism, ADHD, and other neurological conditions. It features a soothing palette of greens, blues, and neutrals, with green tones dominating to evoke a calming and tranquil ambiance. Seat covers are a widely used product in the market, further enhancing its application by addressing neurodiversity.
Thus, the development of neurodiversity-friendly aircraft seat covers is creating aircraft soft goods market opportunities, by promoting a calming and soothing experience.
Aircraft Soft Goods Market Segmental Analysis :
By Product Type:
By Product type, the market is divided into seat covers, carpets, cushions, and others.
Trends in Product Type:
- As per aircraft soft goods market trends, high-quality seat covers are used to enhance aesthetic appeal and comfort.
- The use of eco-friendly carpets is growing in aircraft, promoting sustainability and reducing carbon footprints as per market trends.
The seat covers accounted for the largest market share in the year 2024.
- In aircraft soft goods, seat covers are one of the most crucial products, playing an essential role in enhancing passenger comfort and contributing to the overall aesthetic appeal of the cabin.
- These seat covers are made from a variety of materials including synthetic leather, wool/nylon blends, and others, all designed to meet stringent safety and durability standards specific to the aviation sector.
- The growing preference for premium passenger experiences, especially in business and first-class cabins, has contributed significantly to the proliferation of seat covers.
- As airlines increasingly focus on refurbishing and upgrading cabin interiors, seat covers are integral to this shift, offering both functionality and style.
- Thus, seat covers are the dominant product in the market, due to their comfort and style.
The carpets are expected to grow at the fastest CAGR over the forecast period.
- In the aircraft soft goods market, carpets play a pivotal role in enhancing cabin aesthetics and passenger comfort.
- Manufactured from materials such as nylon, wool, and others, these carpets are designed to meet stringent aviation safety standards, including flame resistance and durability.
- Airlines companies are also investing in eco-friendly carpets generally made from recycled nylon with less crude oil and energy production, incorporating sustainability in the market.
- For instance, in 2023, Sri Lankan Airlines launched the green carpet for its aircraft. The carpets are lightweight and assembled from regenerated nylon made of material typically headed for landfills such as abandoned ocean fishing nets better known as ghost nets‚ aquaculture nylon waste‚ used carpet waste‚ used fabric waste and fabric scraps from mills. It further accelerates the market, by reducing carbon footprint through gradual fuel efficiency improvements.
- Thus, the use of carpets in the market is growing significantly to enhance the appeal and passenger comfort.
By Material:
By material, the market is divided into nylon, cotton, leather, and others.
Trends in Material:
- As per aircraft soft goods market trends, nylon material is widely used due to its flame-retardant properties and durability.
- Incorporation of leather material is rising in soft goods, to enhance passenger comfort and aesthetic appeal as per current trends.
The nylon accounted for the largest market share of 42.11% in the year 2024.
- In aircraft soft goods, nylon material is widely used due to its durability, lightweight nature, and excellent resistance to wear and tear.
- Nylon is primarily used for aircraft carpets and seat covers, as it meets the stringent fire safety standards required in aviation.
- The material’s abrasion resistance makes it ideal for high-end traffic areas in the aircraft, ensuring longevity and maintaining a clean appearance over time.
- Its flame-retardant properties further contribute to its sustainability for the aviation sector, ensuring compliance with regulatory environments.
- Nylon’s versatility allows it to be used in various forms, such as nylon yarn for carpets and woven fabrics for seat covers.
- Thus, nylon is a widely used material in the market due to its durability and clean appearance.
The leather is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR over the forecast period.
- In the aircraft soft goods market, leather material is increasingly gaining popularity due to its luxurious appeal and durability.
- Leather is primarily used in premium cabins, such as business and first-class sections, to enhance passenger comfort and provide a high-end aesthetic.
- Further airline companies are incorporating recycled leather to maintain the balance between sustainability and comfort.
- In 2024, LATAM will adopt recycled leather to cover around 7 thousand aircraft seats. The production process of this recycled leather reduces carbon emissions by up to 60% and enables savings of up to 55% in water consumption by reducing the need to raise livestock, as recycled leather avoids the additional use of land for pasture and animal feed, in addition to recycling 95% of the water. It is reducing carbon footprints, and further promoting eco-friendly practices in the market.
- Thus, the use of leather in the market is growing, supported by eco-friendly practices and aesthetic appeal.
By Aircraft type:
By aircraft type, the market is divided into commercial aircraft, military aircraft, business jets, and others.
Trends in Aircraft Type:
- As per market trends, aircraft soft goods are widely used in commercial aircraft to enhance passenger comfort and aesthetic appeal
- Business jets are largely incorporating soft goods supported by an increasing preference for luxury and customized interiors as per the latest market trends.
The commercial aircraft accounted for the largest market share in the year 2024.
- Commercial aircraft are widely used aircraft soft goods, driven by the need to enhance passenger comfort and meet safety standards.
- Airlines focus on upgrading interiors, leading to a high preference for soft goods like seat covers, carpets, curtains, and others.
- These products are made from materials such as nylon, cotton, synthetic leather, and others to ensure durability, comfort, and flame resistance.
- Many airline companies are investing in upgrading their commercial aircraft with high-quality soft goods such as seats, carpets, and others.
- For instance, in 2024, Air India officially launched a USD 400 million refurbishment program to upgrade its 67 commercial aircraft. This program will upgrade the aircraft with new seats, carpets, curtains, and upholstery, further expanding the aircraft soft foods market.
- Thus, commercial aircraft are increasingly using aircraft soft goods such as seat covers, carpets, and others, due to their aesthetic appeal and passenger comfort.
The business jets are expected to grow at the fastest CAGR over the forecast period.
- Business jets are rapidly using aircraft soft goods driven by increasing preference for luxury and customized interiors.
- Business jet owners and companies investing in private aviation prioritize comfort and exclusivity, creating a high preference for premium soft goods such as luxurious leather set covers, high-end upholstery, and customized carpets.
- These products are made from materials like premium leather, wood blends, and high-performance fabrics that provide both comfort and durability, with an emphasis on safety, as they must comply with stringent aviation standards.
- In addition to comfort, business jet interiors typically feature designs with soft goods that play a significant role in enhancing the overall aesthetics.
- Thus, the incorporation of soft goods is rising in business jets due to their luxury appearance and comfort.
Regional Analysis:
The regional segment includes North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East and Africa, and Latin America.
In 2024, North America accounted for the highest market share at 38.10% and was valued at USD 273.50 Million and is expected to reach USD 347.93 Million in 2032. In North America, the United States accounted for the highest market share of 73.89% during the base year of 2024.
The aircraft soft goods market share of North America is driven by a preference for both commercial and business aircraft. The growth in the market is fueled by the rising number of air travelers, particularly in the United States, and the increasing preference for luxury travel, which boosts the preference for high-quality aircraft interiors. Commercial airlines in the North American region are investing heavily in upgrading their cabin interiors to enhance passenger comfort, leading to increased preference for soft goods like seat covers, cushions, carpets, and others.
- In 2024, Soisa Aircraft Interiors, a United States-based aircraft upholstery company, launched a buyer-furnished equipment (BFE) aircraft seat cover and organic armrest. The armrest is made of biodegradable material derived from corn waste and BFE will enhance the efficiency in the supply chain of seat covers. Seat covers and armrests both are integral products of aircraft soft goods, thereby enhancing the market.
Thus, the North American region is dominating the market, supported by a preference for high-quality aircraft interiors and product innovations as per the analysis.
Asia-Pacific is expected to witness the fastest CAGR of 3.7% over the forecast period during 2025-2032.
As per aircraft soft goods market analysis, the aircraft soft goods market share of Asia-Pacific is witnessing significant growth in the market, driven by the rapid expansion of air travel, particularly in countries like China, India, and Japan. The increasing number of commercial aircraft, along with the growing middle–class population, is fueling the preference for improved passenger comfort and interior upgrades. Airlines in the Asia-Pacific region are focusing on enhancing passenger experience, which has led to a rise in the preference for soft goods like carpets, cushions, seat covers, and others. The business jet market is also growing in this region, driven by the rise in high net-worth individuals and corporate executives seeking private air travel. These segments provide high-quality, luxurious materials for interior fillings, including customized upholstery and leather seat covers.
Thus, the aircraft's soft goods market share in the Asia-Pacific region is growing rapidly supported by increasing demand for luxurious interiors and passenger comfort as per the analysis.
According to aircraft soft goods market analysis, the Europe region is witnessing rapid growth driven by the region’s strong presence of leading aircraft manufacturers like Airbus and well-established airlines. The market benefits from the increasing air travel demand, rising passenger expectations for enhanced comfort, and a growing focus on sustainable cabin interiors. European airlines are investing in premium-quality materials, such as lightweight and eco-friendly fabrics, to improve passenger experiences while reducing environmental impact. Strict regulations by agencies like the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) ensure high standards of safety, including flammability, durability, and recyclability of materials, further propelling the market in this region.
The Middle East and Africa region is growing steadily in the market supported by the region’s expanding aviation industry and increasing investment in luxury air travel. The world’s leading airlines such as Emirates, Etihad, and Qatar Airways in this region are prioritizing premium-quality interiors to enhance passenger comfort and brand identity. This has created a strong demand for high-end seat covers, carpets, and other soft goods made from durable and luxurious materials like leather and lightweight textiles. In Africa, the market is primarily driven by the modernization of aircraft fleets and a focus on affordable yet durable soft goods for commercial airlines as per market analysis.
As per market analysis, the market is growing steadily in Latin America driven by the region’s expanding aviation industry and increasing investments in fleet modernization. Countries like Brazil, Mexico, and Chile are key contributors, with growing domestic air traffic and the presence of regional airlines such as LATAM Airlines and Avianca. These airlines are focusing on enhancing passenger comfort to remain competitive, driving the demand for high-quality seat covers, carpets, cushions, and other soft goods. The region’s growth is also supported by rising tourism, increasing air traffic, and large-scale fleet expansions. However, the region faces challenges such as limited infrastructure for local airline manufacturing and economic fluctuations, further constraining the market.
Top Key Players and Market Share Insights:
The aircraft soft goods industry is highly competitive with major players providing products to the national and international markets. Key players are adopting several strategies in research and development (R&D) and product innovation to hold a strong position in the global aircraft soft goods market. Key players in the aircraft soft goods industry include-
- Botany Weaving (Ireland)
- RAMM AEROSPACE (United States)
- INTECH AEROSPACE (United States)
- Spectra Interior Products (United States)
- Aerofoam Industries, LLC (United States)
- Tapis Corporation (United States)
- LANTAL (Switzerland)
- ANKER Gebr. Schoeller GmbH + Co. KG (Germany)
- Mohawk Group (United States)
- Hong Kong Aircraft Engineering Company Limited. (China)
Recent Industry Developments:
Launches:
- In 2024, Gen Phoenix launched the first fully recyclable aircraft seat covers made from circular material. It allows airlines to recycle 100% of their end-of-life seat covers into new seat cover material with no compromise on quality, durability, or certification requirements.
- In 2024, Caon Design Office launched 3D knitted merino wool for the aircraft seat covers. Merino wool is made of natural, renewable, and biodegradable fibers and will be used in the production of aircraft seat covers.
Partnerships and Collaborations:
- In 2023, PriestmanGoode collaborated with Lantel to develop new sustainable carpets for aircraft. This collaboration will explore Lantel’s DEEP DYEING CARPET technology to produce a new set of carpet designs. DEEP DYEING CARPET technology facilitates the production and hyper-personalization of carpets ‘on demand’ with greatly reduced waste and no compromises compared to traditionally woven carpets.
Aircraft Soft Goods Market Report Insights :
| Report Attributes | Report Details |
| Study Timeline | 2019-2032 |
| Market Size in 2032 | USD 908.68 Million |
| CAGR (2025-2032) | 3.1% |
| By Product Type |
|
| By Material |
|
| By Aircraft Type |
|
| By Region |
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| Key Players |
|
| North America | U.S. Canada Mexico |
| Europe | U.K. Germany France Spain Italy Russia Benelux Rest of Europe |
| APAC | China South Korea Japan India Australia ASEAN Rest of Asia-Pacific |
| Middle East and Africa | GCC Turkey South Africa Rest of MEA |
| LATAM | Brazil Argentina Chile Rest of LATAM |
| Report Coverage |
|
Key Questions Answered in the Report
How big is the Aircraft soft goods market? +
In 2024, the Aircraft soft goods market is USD 717.84 Million.
Which is the fastest-growing region in the Aircraft soft goods market? +
Asia-Pacific is the fastest-growing region in the Aircraft soft goods market.
What specific segmentation details are covered in the Aircraft soft goods market? +
Product type, material, and aircraft type are covered in the Aircraft soft goods market.
Who are the major players in the Aircraft soft goods market? +
Botany Weaving (Ireland), RAMM AEROSPACE (United States), and Tapis Corporation (United States) are some of the major players in the market.
