Small Drone Market Insights: Size, Share, Growth Analysis & Forecast (2024-2029)
The report covers a comprehensive analysis segmented By Type (Fixed Wing (CTOL, VTOL), Rotary Wing (Single, Multi, Bicopters, Tricopters, Quadcopters, Hexacopters, Octocopters), Hybrid), By Mode of Operation (Remotely Piloted, Optionally Piloted, Autonomous), By Application (Commercial, Defense, Military, Government & Law, Consumer, Others), By Power Source (Fuel Powered, Battery Powered), By Geography (North America, South America, Asia Pacific, Europe, The Middle East, Africa).
Small Drone Market Snapshot
Small Drone Market Overview
The global small drone market is estimated to be at $10.8 Bn in 2024 and is anticipated to reach $18.13 Bn in 2029. The global small drone industry is registering a CAGR of 10.92% during the forecast period 2024-2029.
Small drones are utilized across various industries for tasks such as aerial photography and videography, surveying and mapping, agricultural monitoring, infrastructure inspection (e.g., bridges, pipelines), search and rescue operations, environmental monitoring, and delivery services. The market for small drones includes both consumer and commercial drones with a wide range of applications, such as recreational use, aerial photography, agriculture, construction, infrastructure inspection, and public safety services. Consumer drones have become increasingly affordable and accessible, contributing to their widespread adoption among consumers worldwide.
Commercial drones are equipped with specialized sensors, cameras, and software for tasks such as aerial surveying, mapping, monitoring, and surveillance. Such drones offer significant benefits in terms of cost savings, efficiency improvements, and enhanced data collection capabilities compared to traditional methods. The small drone industry continues to evolve rapidly, driven by technological innovation, expanding applications, and increasing adoption across industries. Despite challenges such as regulatory hurdles and safety concerns, the market outlook remains optimistic, with continued growth expected in the coming years.
Small Drone Market Coverage
| Historical & Forecast Period | 2018-2029 |
| Base Year | 2023 |
| Forecast Period | 2024-2029 |
| Units | Billion US$ |
| Segments | Type, Mode of Operation, Application, Power Source |
| Geographies | North America, South America, Asia Pacific, Europe, the Middle East, Africa |
| Key Vendors | Autel Robotics Co., Ltd., AeroVironment, Inc., The Boeing Co., SZ DJI Technology Co., Ltd., Lockheed Martin Corp. |
Key Geographies of Small Drone Market, 2023
Porter’s 5 Forces Analysis of Small Drone Market
Small Drone Market Trends
The Small Drone industry is always advancing, with technology being the trending force behind improvements in flight stability, battery life, obstacle avoidance, and camera capabilities. As technology evolves, drones are becoming more accessible, easier to fly, and capable of capturing higher-quality imagery. Artificial Intelligence technologies, including machine learning and computer vision, are being integrated into drones to enhance their capabilities. AI-powered features such as autonomous navigation, object recognition, swarm intelligence, and intelligent flight modes are making drones easier to use and enabling new applications in areas like agriculture, construction, and public safety.
AI algorithms enable drones to navigate autonomously, avoiding obstacles and navigating complex environments without human intervention. Computer vision algorithms allow drones to detect and recognize objects such as people, vehicles, and buildings. Artificial Intelligence enables drones to communicate and collaborate in swarms, allowing them to perform tasks collectively that would be challenging for individual drones. Swarm intelligence algorithms coordinate the actions of multiple drones to achieve common goals efficiently. Regulatory frameworks governing the use of drones are evolving to keep pace with technological advancements and address safety and privacy concerns. The advancement in technology has always been a key factor that is being included in all domains. With the integration of research in drones, the introduction of light detection and ranging (LiDAR) into small drones is now possible. The implementation of drones with advanced imaging technology allows for accurate image capture and the creation of 3D models. The concept of urban air mobility, which involves the use of drones and other aerial vehicles for transportation within urban areas, is gaining traction. Companies are exploring the feasibility of using drones for tasks such as passenger transport, package delivery, and emergency medical services in densely populated cities.
Small Drone Market Driving Factors
There is a growing demand for smaller, more portable drones that can be easily transported and deployed in various environments. For instance, on January 16, 2024, Elistair Co., collaborated with Rheinmetall Canada Inc. to offer military clients an advanced solution for unmanned reconnaissance and convoy escort. While drones were initially popular among hobbyists and enthusiasts, their use in commercial applications is rapidly expanding. Industries such as agriculture, construction, real estate, filmmaking, and infrastructure inspection are increasingly leveraging drones for tasks such as crop monitoring, site surveying, aerial photography, and asset management. As the commercial drone market matures, there is a growing demand for drone services provided by specialized companies.
Continuous innovations in drone technology, including improvements in flight stability, battery life, camera quality, and autonomous capabilities, are driving the growth of the small drone industry. These advancements make drones more accessible, user-friendly, and capable of performing a wide range of tasks, fueling demand across various sectors. The cost reduction of drone components has lowered barriers to entry for individuals and businesses interested in using drones for commercial or recreational purposes, leading to increased adoption and market growth. Investment in drone startups and technology companies is fueling product development, commercialization, and market expansion, driving the growth of the small drone industry.
Small Drone Market Challenges
The Small Drone industry is confronted with challenges in navigating the complex and diverse regulations governing drone operations. These regulations are multifaceted and encompass various aspects, including drone registration, pilot certification, flight restrictions, and privacy concerns. The regulatory requirements vary significantly across countries and regions, which poses significant compliance challenges for manufacturers, operators, and users alike. Safety is a significant concern in the Small Drone industry, ensuring safe and responsible drone use requires adherence to safety protocols, operational guidelines, and risk management measures. The widespread use of Small Drones raises concerns about privacy infringement and data security. Drones are capable of collecting vast amounts of data, raising concerns about privacy, surveillance, and data protection. Companies need to address these ethical considerations and comply with relevant laws and regulations to maintain public trust. Navigating these regulations can be complex and costly for companies operating in multiple jurisdictions. Despite advancements, small drones still have limitations in terms of battery life, range, payload capacity, and reliability. Improving these aspects while keeping costs down is a constant challenge for manufacturers. Concerns about the environmental impact of drones, particularly regarding energy consumption and disposal of batteries, are emerging. Developing sustainable practices and technologies is crucial for addressing these concerns and reducing the industry’s ecological footprint.
Small Drone Market – Key Industry News
- In March 2024, DJI, a maker of civil drone and creative camera technology has launched DJI Dock 2 to the global market.
- In February 2024, An American drone manufacturer partnered with an Indian company to introduce its commercial drone products in India.
- In August 2023, The US Navy signed an agreement with Sagetech Avionics to jointly explore advanced capabilities for small unmanned aerial systems.
Small Drone Market Competitive Landscape
The participants in the global small drone industry are always developing their strategies to preserve a competitive advantage. SZ DJI Technology Co Ltd is known for its popular drones such as the Mavic, Phantom, and Mini-series. These drones are known for their OcuSync transmission technology, which provides a stable video feed even at long ranges, and their intelligent flight modes. For example, on 27 April 2020, DJI launched the new Mavic Air 2 drone which features a large Quad Bayer 1/2″ sensor that can record up to 4K 60p footage and 8K hyper-lapse, as well as high-resolution 48-megapixel photos. In addition to its consumer drones, DJI also excels in the commercial drone market with advanced autonomy technology that enables drones to navigate complex environments and perform tasks autonomously. Other companies like AeroVironment, Autel Robotics, and others differentiate themselves through features, performance, pricing, and customer support. Some focus on providing high-quality aerial photography and videography capabilities for consumers, while others target commercial and industrial applications such as agriculture, construction, mapping, and surveillance. The companies primarily use acquisitions, R&D, partnerships, and technological launches. Several important entities in the small drone industry market include Autel Robotics Co., Ltd., AeroVironment, Inc., SZ DJI Technology Co., Ltd., Lockheed Martin Corp., Boeing Co., and others.
Small Drone Market Company Share Analysis, 2023 (%)
Small Drone Market – Key Companies
Reason to Buy from us
Table of Contents
| 1. Introduction |
|---|
| 1.1. Research Methodology |
| 1.2. Scope of the Study |
| 2. Market Overview / Executive Summary |
| 2.1. Global Small Drone Industry Market (2018 – 2022) |
| 2.2. Global Small Drone Industry Market (2023 – 2029) |
| 3. Market Segmentation |
| 3.1. Global Small Drone Industry Market by Type |
| 3.1.1. Fixed Wing(CTOL,VTOL) |
| 3.1.2. Rotary Wing (Single, Multi, Bicopters, Tricopters, Quadcopters, Hexacopters, Octocopters) |
| 3.1.3. Hybrid |
| 3.2. Global Small Drone Industry Market by Mode of Operation |
| 3.2.1. Remotely Piloted |
| 3.2.2. Optionally Piloted |
| 3.2.3. Autonomous |
| 3.3. Global Small Drone Industry Market by Application |
| 3.3.1. Commercial |
| 3.3.2. Defense |
| 3.3.3. Military |
| 3.3.4. Government & Law |
| 3.3.5. Consumer |
| 3.3.6. Others |
| 3.4. Global Small Drone Industry Market by Power Source |
| 3.4.1. Fuel Powered |
| 3.4.2. Battery Powered |
| 4. Regional Segmentation |
| 4.1. North America |
| 4.1.1. The U.S |
| 4.1.2. Canada |
| 4.1.3. Mexico |
| 4.2. South America |
| 4.2.1. Brazil |
| 4.2.2. Argentina |
| 4.2.3. Colombia |
| 4.2.4. Chile |
| 4.2.5. Rest of South America |
| 4.3. Asia Pacific |
| 4.3.1. China |
| 4.3.2. India |
| 4.3.3. Japan |
| 4.3.4. South Korea |
| 4.3.5. Rest of Asia Pacific |
| 4.4. Europe |
| 4.4.1. UK |
| 4.4.2. Germany |
| 4.4.3. Italy |
| 4.4.4. France |
| 4.4.5. Spain |
| 4.4.6. Rest of Europe |
| 4.5. The Middle East |
| 4.5.1. Turkey |
| 4.5.2. UAE |
| 4.5.3. Saudi Arabia |
| 4.5.4. Rest of the Middle East |
| 4.6. Africa |
| 4.6.1. Egypt |
| 4.6.2. South Africa |
| 4.6.3. Rest of Africa |
| 5. Value Chain Analysis of the Global Small Drone Industry Market |
| 6. Porter Five Forces Analysis |
| 6.1. Threats of New Entrants |
| 6.2. Threats of Substitutes |
| 6.3. Bargaining Power of Buyers |
| 6.4. Bargaining Power of Suppliers |
| 6.5. Competition in the Industry |
| 7. Trends, Drivers and Challenges Analysis |
| 7.1. Market Trends |
| 7.1.1. Market Trend 1 |
| 7.1.2. Market Trend 2 |
| 7.1.3. Market Trend 3 |
| 7.1.4. Market Trend 4 |
| 7.1.5. Market Trend 5 |
| 7.2. Market Drivers |
| 7.2.1. Market Driver 1 |
| 7.2.2. Market Driver 2 |
| 7.2.3. Market Driver 3 |
| 7.2.4. Market Driver 4 |
| 7.2.5. Market Driver 5 |
| 7.3. Market Challenges |
| 7.3.1. Market Challenge 1 |
| 7.3.2. Market Challenge 2 |
| 7.3.3. Market Challenge 3 |
| 7.3.4. Market Challenge 4 |
| 7.3.5. Market Challenge 5 |
| 8. Regulatory Landscape |
| 9. Competitive Landscape |
| 9.1. Autel Robotics Co., Ltd. |
| 9.2. AeroVironment, Inc. |
| 9.3. SZ DJI Technology Co., Ltd. |
| 9.4. Lockheed Martin Corp. |
| 9.5. The Boeing Co. |
| 9.6. Company 6 |
| 9.7. Company 7 |
| 9.8. Company 8 |
| 9.9. Company 9 |
| 9.10. Company 10 |
Small Drone Market – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the current size of the global small drone market?
The market size for the global small drone market in 2024 is $10.8 Bn.
Who are the major vendors in the global small drone market?
The major vendors in the global small drone market are Autel Robotics Co., Ltd., AeroVironment, Inc., SZ DJI Technology Co., Ltd., Lockheed Martin Corp., The Boeing Co.
Which segments are covered under the global small drone market segments analysis?
This report offers in-depth insights into each type, mode of operation, application, power source.