Air Cargo Security Equipment Market By Product Type (X-ray Screening, Explosive Detection Systems, ETD, Metal Detectors, Physical Screening); By Cargo Type (Belly Cargo, Freighter Cargo); By Deployment Type (Fixed Systems, Mobile Units); By End User (Airports, Freight Forwarders, Customs, Military); By Geography, Segment Revenue Estimation, Forecast, 2024–2030

Introduction And Strategic Context

The Global Air Cargo Security Equipment Market will witness a robust CAGR of 6.8% , valued at approximately USD 1.27 billion in 2024 , and is projected to appreciate and reach nearly USD 1.89 billion by 2030 , confirms Strategic Market Research.

 

This market encompasses a suite of technologies and systems designed to screen, detect, and prevent the transport of contraband, explosives, or other threats via air cargo shipments. As global trade accelerates and cargo volumes rise post-pandemic, aviation authorities, freight forwarders, and logistics providers are intensifying investments in modernized security frameworks.

 

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) mandates robust security protocols for all air freight movements, pushing for innovation in explosive detection systems (EDS) , X-ray screening machines , ETD (explosives trace detection) , metal detectors , and automated cargo inspection platforms . These systems are often integrated with AI-based analytics and real-time data-sharing protocols to improve accuracy and throughput at checkpoints.

 

Several macroeconomic and strategic forces are converging to define the trajectory of this industry between 2024 and 2030:

• Globalization and e-commerce : Rising international trade and cross-border e-commerce have expanded air cargo volumes, particularly in Asia-Pacific and North America. This drives the need for scalable and automated security solutions.

• Terrorism threats and geopolitical tensions : Heightened risk environments, especially near conflict zones or politically sensitive regions, necessitate multi-layered screening infrastructures.

• Technological convergence : The integration of AI, ML, and IoT sensors into traditional security hardware is creating predictive and preventive risk assessment capabilities — a paradigm shift from reactive security.

• Regulatory enforcement : Institutions like the TSA (U.S.), ECAC (Europe), and CAAC (China) are rolling out stricter mandates, pushing freight handlers and airports to invest in certified and compliant screening technologies.

 

Key stakeholders across this landscape include:

• Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) producing advanced screening systems

• Airport authorities and freight terminals seeking to meet regulatory thresholds

• Government aviation security agencies enforcing standard operating procedures (SOPs)

• Investors and technology partners developing AI-based scanning and threat detection

• Logistics integrators and e-commerce leaders prioritizing fast but secure shipping models

Expert insights suggest that between 2024 and 2027, AI-integrated explosive detection systems and next-gen CT scanners will become standard in high-volume air cargo terminals, particularly in hubs like Frankfurt, Dubai, and Shanghai.

 

As global cargo demand evolves, the air cargo security equipment market is not just a compliance-driven vertical — it is a critical enabler of trade continuity, supply chain resilience, and public safety.

 

Market Segmentation And Forecast Scope

The air cargo security equipment market is segmented to reflect the diversity of technologies, use cases, and operational environments in which these solutions are deployed. For the forecast period 2024–2030, the market is categorized across four primary dimensions:

By Product Type

• X-ray Screening Systems

• Explosive Detection Systems (EDS)

• Explosives Trace Detectors (ETD)

• Metal Detectors

• Physical Screening Systems (e.g., sniffer dogs, manual checks)

Among these, X-ray Screening Systems accounted for the largest revenue share in 2024 , comprising over 31% of the total market. These systems are extensively adopted due to their fast throughput and ease of integration with conveyerized cargo operations. However, Explosive Detection Systems (EDS) are anticipated to register the fastest CAGR through 2030 , driven by regulatory pushes and AI-powered innovations in automated threat identification.

 

By Cargo Type

• Belly Cargo (Passenger Aircraft)

• Freighter Cargo (Dedicated Air Cargo Aircraft)

While Freighter Cargo remains the dominant segment, Belly Cargo screening solutions are witnessing growing deployment as international passenger flights resume post-COVID. Governments are enforcing full-spectrum screening across all cargo hold areas, creating fresh demand from commercial airlines.

 

By Deployment Type

• Fixed Screening Systems

• Portable and Mobile Screening Units

Portable systems are gaining traction in developing markets and military installations, where permanent infrastructure is limited or operations are mobile. Fixed systems, however, continue to dominate at international airports and high-volume hubs.

 

By End User

• Airports

• Freight Forwarders and Cargo Terminals

• Customs Authorities

• Defense and Military Aviation

The Airport segment remains the largest end user, driven by compliance mandates and increasing cargo loads. However, Customs Authorities are projected to become strategic buyers of air cargo security equipment, especially in regions tackling smuggling and contraband challenges.

 

By Region

• North America

• Europe

• Asia Pacific

• Latin America

• Middle East & Africa

Asia Pacific is set to emerge as the fastest-growing regional market , fueled by rapid growth in cross-border e-commerce, airport infrastructure expansion, and rising security concerns.

Strategically, vendors focusing on modularity, AI-compatibility, and regulatory certification will be best positioned to win large-scale airport and government contracts.

 

Market Trends And Innovation Landscape

Between 2024 and 2030, the air cargo security equipment market is undergoing a transformation powered by technological advancement, real-time data intelligence, and predictive threat detection. Innovation is not only addressing regulatory compliance but also reshaping operational efficiency, safety protocols, and inter-agency collaboration across the global cargo network.

1. AI and Machine Learning in Threat Detection

One of the most influential trends is the integration of AI-driven algorithms into security screening equipment . These technologies enable systems to:

• Automatically detect anomalies within cargo,

• Minimize false positives,

• Improve screening speeds while maintaining accuracy.

For instance, machine learning models are being trained on massive datasets of cargo imagery, enabling systems to learn threat patterns and identify concealed explosives or contraband with increasing reliability.

Vendors that offer adaptive systems — capable of self-upgrading threat libraries via cloud-based intelligence feeds — are seeing increased adoption, especially at high-traffic freight hubs.

 

2. Next-Gen Imaging and Computed Tomography (CT)

Modern CT-based cargo scanners now offer three-dimensional imaging, allowing better visualization of complex cargo structures. Unlike traditional X-ray systems, CT scanners provide rotational scanning, improving visibility and reducing blind spots — particularly useful for densely packed pallets.

Expert feedback highlights that CT scanning is becoming a future compliance standard in the EU and U.S., owing to its enhanced detection capabilities and support for automated decision-making.

 

3. Mobile and Modular Security Units

To meet the needs of remote airstrips, military transport routes, and temporary cargo operations (e.g., during large events or humanitarian missions), there is increasing interest in portable screening systems . These modular units come equipped with X-ray, ETD, and sometimes biometric access control features in a single mobile trailer or van format.

Such solutions are in demand across Africa, Southeast Asia, and conflict zones where fixed infrastructure is lacking.

 

4. Integration of IoT and Cloud-Based Screening

IoT sensors embedded in security hardware are enabling real-time status updates, predictive maintenance, and automated alerts . These connected systems can share screening data with command centers , customs databases, and international agencies to flag suspicious trends or high-risk parcels.

Cloud-native screening dashboards are emerging as the preferred interface for large cargo operators, especially in multi-terminal environments.

 

5. Strategic Collaborations and Innovation Hubs

Several OEMs are forming partnerships with:

• Software firms to co-develop intelligent screening platforms,

• Airport authorities to test pilot technologies in operational settings,

• Defense contractors to extend dual-use capabilities (civil + military).

Recent years have also seen the rise of airport-based innovation hubs , particularly in cities like Amsterdam, Singapore, and Dubai — where security startups and legacy players collaborate on the next wave of air cargo screening technologies.

The next frontier in air cargo security lies at the intersection of smart detection, interoperability, and seamless regulation — where machines don't just scan, but also learn, adapt, and predict threats before they manifest.

 

Competitive Intelligence And Benchmarking

The air cargo security equipment market is moderately consolidated, with a blend of global security tech giants and specialized OEMs offering advanced scanning and detection systems. These companies are competing on the basis of regulatory certifications, AI integration, throughput efficiency, and lifecycle support.

Here are the 7 leading players in the global landscape:

Smiths Detection

A longstanding leader in aviation security, Smiths Detection focuses on high-performance explosive detection systems and X-ray scanners. The company’s global footprint spans North America, Europe, and Asia, and it regularly collaborates with government aviation authorities to pilot cutting-edge technologies. Its recent focus has been on CT-based systems and adaptive threat recognition software.

 

OSI Systems (Rapiscan Systems)

Through its Rapiscan brand, OSI Systems delivers a broad portfolio of air cargo screening products, including mobile X-ray units and ETD systems. Its competitive edge lies in developing integrated platforms that combine imaging with automatic object recognition. It also offers significant support services for government contracts in the U.S. and Europe.

 

Leidos

Leidos has made strategic inroads in the aviation security space via its acquisitions and defense -related technology integrations. The company’s solutions are often deployed in high-risk zones, offering robust CT scanners and AI-powered cargo screening systems. Leidos leverages its cybersecurity and defense background to create secure data-sharing ecosystems within cargo terminals.

 

Nuctech Company Limited

Based in China, Nuctech is a major provider of advanced security inspection technologies across Asia, Africa, and parts of Europe. Its equipment is known for affordability, high throughput, and scalability. Despite facing export restrictions in some Western countries, it remains dominant in many developing markets due to price-performance balance.

 

FLIR Systems (now part of Teledyne Technologies)

FLIR , under Teledyne , brings thermal imaging and smart sensor integration into the cargo security domain. Their systems are often used in niche applications such as contraband detection, cargo tampering surveillance, and integrated perimeter monitoring. Its thermal + AI combo is a growing niche in remote and night-time air cargo operations.

 

Analogic Corporation

Analogic specializes in medical-grade CT imaging and has leveraged this strength to build some of the most advanced cargo CT scanners available today. With a reputation for high-resolution imaging and automation, the company is gaining traction at European and Middle Eastern airports seeking future-proof systems.

 

Astrophysics Inc.

U.S.-based Astrophysics Inc. is known for designing customizable X-ray security scanners and ETD units. It competes on compact designs, cost-efficiency, and rapid deployment, making it a preferred vendor in smaller cargo terminals and for tactical airfields. The company focuses heavily on user interface simplicity and maintenance ease.

 

Strategic benchmarking reveals three critical differentiators:

• AI-Enabled Software Integration : Leaders like Smiths Detection and Leidos invest in self-learning detection platforms with automated decision-making.

• Geographic Reach : While Nuctech and Rapiscan have wide global presence, firms like Astrophysics Inc. focus on specialized regional deployments.

• Deployment Flexibility : Vendors offering mobile screening platforms and modular systems are increasingly preferred in emerging markets.

As the competitive landscape evolves, companies that offer scalable platforms with certification adaptability — especially TSA, ECAC, and ICAO compliance — will dominate procurement cycles.

 

Regional Landscape And Adoption Outlook

The adoption of air cargo security equipment varies significantly across regions, influenced by infrastructure maturity, regulatory oversight, cargo volumes, and geopolitical conditions. Each region exhibits distinct characteristics in terms of technology penetration, compliance urgency, and investment momentum.

North America

North America, particularly the United States , leads the global market due to stringent TSA regulations, high cargo throughput, and federal funding programs. Large cargo hubs such as Memphis, Anchorage, and Louisville are equipped with next-gen CT-based screening and automated explosive detection systems . The U.S. government continues to upgrade airport security under its Air Cargo Advanced Screening (ACAS) program.

Canada also demonstrates strong adoption, driven by CBSA mandates and a rise in North American e-commerce corridors.

 

Key Highlights:

• High spending per airport on AI-integrated security solutions

• Strong OEM presence and advanced pilot programs

• Federal security modernization funds support multi-terminal upgrades

 

Europe

Europe presents a balanced blend of regulation and innovation. The European Civil Aviation Conference (ECAC) sets strict standards on air cargo screening, influencing member states to continuously upgrade infrastructure. Countries like Germany, the UK, and the Netherlands are front-runners in adopting CT and AI-based security systems .

Amsterdam Schiphol Airport and Frankfurt are case studies in integrating data-rich, interoperable cargo security platforms.

Key Highlights:

• High regulatory alignment across EU nations

• Demand for sustainable, low-energy screening technologies

• Investments in customs-integrated cargo clearance systems

 

Asia Pacific

Asia Pacific is the fastest-growing region , driven by rapid e-commerce expansion, new airport development, and increasing cross-border trade. China , India , and Singapore are at the forefront, with governments pushing for security upgrades to match rising international freight demands.

While China has a mature domestic equipment manufacturing base (e.g., Nuctech ), India is accelerating airport privatization, opening procurement opportunities for foreign and local OEMs alike.

Singapore’s Changi Airport is a benchmark for security innovation in the region, deploying multi-layered AI-enabled cargo security.

Key Highlights:

• Massive airport expansion programs in India, Indonesia, and Vietnam

• Public-private partnerships drive tech infusion

• Regional focus on cost-effective modular screening platforms

 

Middle East & Africa (MEA)

The Middle East is aggressively modernizing its air cargo infrastructure, especially in hubs like Dubai , Doha , and Riyadh , where high cargo volumes and global connectivity demand cutting-edge systems. These countries are leveraging sovereign wealth and national logistics visions (e.g., Saudi Vision 2030) to equip terminals with premium security systems.

In contrast, Africa presents white space opportunities . While infrastructure is less developed, there is growing need for mobile and scalable screening solutions in nations like Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa , especially for customs and defense applications.

Key Highlights:

• Gulf countries dominate MEA security tech spending

• Africa’s need for donor-funded mobile systems is rising

• Geopolitical risk fuels demand for dual-use civil-military platforms

 

Latin America

Latin America shows uneven progress. While Brazil , Mexico , and Colombia are investing in modernization, smaller nations face budgetary constraints. That said, organized crime and smuggling issues are prompting customs agencies and private airports to adopt X-ray and ETD systems aggressively.

Brazil’s São Paulo-Guarulhos and Mexico City’s airports are focusing on interoperable systems linked with customs authorities.

Key Highlights:

• Demand driven more by anti-smuggling than terrorism concerns

• Regional initiatives seek OAS-backed aviation security upgrades

• Growth potential in secondary cities and cargo terminals

Across regions, a dual trend is emerging: mature economies focus on AI-enhanced compliance systems, while developing markets seek modular, cost-efficient, and mobile screening infrastructure to expand reach and coverage.

 

End-User Dynamics And Use Case

The air cargo security equipment market serves a spectrum of end users, each with specific needs shaped by regulatory burden, throughput expectations, and operational scale. Understanding these dynamics is essential for vendors aiming to tailor solutions across the value chain.

1. Airports

International and regional airports are the largest end users, responsible for adhering to both domestic and global cargo screening mandates. These facilities deploy a mix of fixed CT scanners, X-ray machines, and ETD systems across dedicated cargo terminals and passenger aircraft belly cargo checkpoints.

• Large airports (e.g., Atlanta, Dubai, Frankfurt ) prioritize high-speed, automated systems with real-time threat recognition and remote access capabilities.

• Smaller airports lean toward compact, cost-efficient systems , often using mobile units or shared facilities.

Airports are increasingly investing in future-proof platforms that integrate with digital customs, centralized data dashboards, and inter-agency protocols.

 

2. Freight Forwarders and Cargo Terminal Operators

Private freight forwarders and cargo handlers are critical stakeholders, particularly in privatized terminal models. These operators focus on equipment ROI, screening speed, and compliance certification to avoid shipment delays.

• Emphasis is on low-maintenance , user-friendly interfaces , and multi-mode compatibility (X-ray + ETD + biometrics).

• Demand is high for scalable and modular systems that can be relocated based on throughput cycles.

Vendors who offer hardware plus software-as-a-service (SaaS) support models have a competitive edge in this segment.

 

3. Customs and Border Protection Agencies

Customs authorities are increasingly adopting standalone and embedded screening systems at air cargo hubs to pre-clear goods and identify illicit items. Their focus is on:

• Real-time data-sharing with security systems

• Integration with digital manifests and risk scoring models

• Multi-lane, unattended systems for rapid cargo classification

For customs agencies in emerging economies, mobile and battery-operated ETD units have become essential tools for field inspections.

 

4. Defense and Military Aviation

Military airbases and defense logistics teams require dual-use air cargo screening equipment for national security applications. This includes systems with:

• High-threat detection capacity

• Field-operability under harsh environmental conditions

• Encryption-enabled image/data storage and transmission

This segment prefers ruggedized systems that are portable, operable with minimal personnel, and compliant with NATO or national defense standards.

 

Use Case: AI-Driven Cargo Security Upgrade at Incheon Airport, South Korea

In 2025, Incheon International Airport partnered with a local security integrator to deploy a CT-based air cargo screening system enhanced with AI-powered threat detection . The system replaced older X-ray equipment in its freighter terminal.

The AI engine was trained on over 750,000 cargo images , enabling it to:

• Reduce false positives by 40%

• Cut average screening time per parcel by 20 seconds

• Automatically route suspicious cargo to secondary screening

The deployment resulted in a 19% increase in cargo throughput and received TSA and ECAC dual certification. The solution’s cloud-based dashboard also allowed Korean customs officials to monitor alerts in real time, enabling proactive intervention and reducing manual inspections by 25%.

This case reflects how AI-enabled cargo screening not only improves efficiency but also fosters agency collaboration and reduces bottlenecks in trade-heavy environments.

 

Recent Developments + Opportunities & Restraints

Recent Developments (2023–2025)

• Smiths Detection Unveils HI-SCAN 100100T-2is Pro with Enhanced AI In early 2024, Smiths Detection launched an advanced dual-view X-ray system featuring AI-enhanced automated threat recognition (ATR) for high-volume cargo screening. This unit was deployed across multiple European airports in Q1 2025.

• Leidos Secures $200M TSA Contract for CT Screening Deployment Leidos was awarded a multi-year contract to supply CT scanners with machine-learning analytics to U.S. freight terminals, in line with TSA’s next-generation screening program.

• Nuctech Partners with Ethiopian Airlines to Modernize African Cargo Hubs Nuctech announced a strategic collaboration with Ethiopian Airlines in 2023 to provide X-ray and trace detection systems across several key African cargo terminals.

• Astrophysics Inc. Launches Compact ETD Unit for Mobile Security Teams In 2024, Astrophysics introduced a portable explosives trace detector designed for customs officers and military airstrips, focusing on rapid deployment in high-risk environments.

• Dubai Airports Introduce Cloud-Based Screening Command Center Dubai Airports deployed a centralized AI-enabled dashboard in mid-2024 to monitor real-time cargo scans, link them with customs databases, and trigger predictive alerts.

 

Opportunities

• Surge in E-Commerce and Express Air Cargo The global rise in time-sensitive e-commerce shipments is driving demand for faster, more accurate, and integrated screening solutions at cargo hubs.

• AI and Predictive Threat Detection Platforms Vendors that embed self-learning algorithms and real-time analytics into their systems are seeing growing interest from both developed and emerging markets.

• Public–Private Investments in Emerging Markets Governments in Latin America, Africa, and Southeast Asia are actively partnering with OEMs and multilateral agencies to modernize security infrastructure — a significant greenfield opportunity.

 

Restraints

• High Capital Costs and Long Procurement Cycles The upfront investment required for CT, EDS, and AI-integrated systems often deters small terminals or low-volume airports, particularly in developing nations.

• Complex Certification and Regulatory Approval Processes Compliance with TSA, ECAC, ICAO, and other regulatory bodies can delay product deployment, especially when integrating new technologies like AI.

 

7.1. Report Coverage Table

Report Attribute	Details
Forecast Period	2024 – 2030
Market Size Value in 2024	USD 1.27 Billion
Revenue Forecast in 2030	USD 1.89 Billion
Overall Growth Rate	CAGR of 6.8% (2024 – 2030)
Base Year for Estimation	2024
Historical Data	2019 – 2023
Unit	USD Million, CAGR (2024 – 2030)
Segmentation	By Product Type, By Cargo Type, By Deployment Type, By End User, By Geography
By Product Type	X-ray Screening, EDS, ETD, Metal Detectors, Physical Screening
By Cargo Type	Belly Cargo, Freighter Cargo
By Deployment Type	Fixed Systems, Mobile Units
By End User	Airports, Freight Forwarders, Customs, Military
By Region	North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East & Africa
Country Scope	U.S., UK, Germany, China, India, Japan, Brazil, UAE, South Africa
Market Drivers	- Rise in global e-commerce - Regulatory mandates for 100% screening - Adoption of AI-enabled threat detection
Customization Option	Available upon request