Airway Management Devices Market - Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, Segmented By Product (Supraglottic, Infraglottic, Resuscitators, Laryngoscopes, Others), By Application (Anesthesia, Emergency Medicine, Others), By End Use (Hospitals, Homecare, Others), By Region and Competition, 2020-2030F

Market Overview

Global Airway Management Devices Market was valued at USD 3.02 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 4.60 billion in the forecast period with a CAGR of 7.23% through 2030. Airway management is a critical aspect of medical care, ensuring the delivery of oxygen and ventilation to patients who are unable to maintain these functions on their own. In recent years, the global airway management devices market has witnessed significant growth, driven by technological advancements, increasing prevalence of respiratory diseases, and a growing emphasis on efficient patient care. The global airway management devices market encompasses a wide range of equipment designed to assist healthcare professionals in maintaining clear airways and facilitating breathing in patients. These devices are essential in various medical scenarios, such as surgeries, emergency care, intensive care units (ICUs), and pre-hospital settings. The escalating prevalence of respiratory disorders, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, and sleep apnea, has led to an increased demand for airway management devices. These devices aid in managing and maintaining airway patency, ensuring patients receive adequate oxygenation and ventilation. Continuous advancements in medical technology have led to the development of innovative airway management devices that are more user-friendly, precise, and efficient. These technologies include video laryngoscopes, supraglottic airway devices, and portable ventilators, which enhance patient outcomes and improve the ease of use for healthcare providers.

The aging global population is prone to a higher incidence of respiratory disorders and other health conditions that necessitate airway management. This demographic shift has driven the demand for these devices, as older adults often require specialized care. Surgical procedures often require airway management devices to maintain patients' breathing during anesthesia. The growing number of surgical interventions, both elective and emergency, has contributed to the market's expansion. The global airway management devices market is on an upward trajectory, fueled by factors such as the prevalence of respiratory disorders, technological advancements, and the needs of an aging population. Despite challenges related to costs, training, and regulations, the market continues to expand as key players innovate and collaborate to develop solutions that enhance patient care and healthcare providers' efficiency. As we move forward, the intersection of technology and medical expertise promises a brighter future for the airway management devices market, ultimately benefiting patients around the world.

Key Market Drivers

Rising Prevalence of Respiratory Diseases 

The global healthcare sector continues to grapple with a marked rise in respiratory diseases, fueled by rapid urbanization, air pollution, unhealthy lifestyles, and an aging population. Chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma, COPD, and bronchitis are becoming increasingly prevalent across both developed and developing nations. According to the Global Burden of Disease Study 2023, COPD alone was responsible for over 3.5 million deaths globally, making it the third leading cause of death. Additionally, asthma affects an estimated 262 million people worldwide, reflecting a sharp increase over the last decade. Urban environments have intensified exposure to environmental pollutants like PM2.5 and allergens, aggravating respiratory symptoms and increasing hospitalization rates. The upward trend in respiratory disease incidence is compelling healthcare providers to adopt more advanced and effective respiratory support systems.

The burden of respiratory diseases has been further amplified by global lifestyle shifts and environmental degradation. Sedentary habits, increased tobacco use, and poor dietary choices contribute significantly to deteriorating lung health. Notably, the World Health Organization (WHO) attributes around 8 million deaths annually to tobacco use, with a significant portion linked to respiratory conditions such as lung cancer and COPD. Furthermore, climate change and worsening air quality exacerbate existing respiratory ailments. A 2024 report from the Lancet Commission on Pollution and Health found that air pollution was responsible for 6.7 million premature deaths alone. These figures underscore the urgent need for comprehensive strategies, including preventive healthcare, public awareness, and medical innovation, to mitigate the growing burden of respiratory illnesses worldwide.

As the incidence of respiratory diseases continues to climb, there is a parallel surge in the demand for advanced airway management devices. These tools are essential in maintaining proper oxygenation and ventilation in patients suffering from compromised respiratory function. From operating rooms and intensive care units to emergency services and home care, airway management devices like endotracheal tubes, laryngeal masks, and ventilators are indispensable. The COVID-19 pandemic served as a critical inflection point, significantly increasing global awareness and investment in respiratory care solutions. In fact, global sales of airway management devices surged by nearly 18% in 2020 alone, according to a 2024 report by the Global Medical Devices Market Observatory. This demand continues to grow, driven by the aging population and the chronic nature of many respiratory conditions, making airway management a cornerstone of modern respiratory care.

Growing Surgical Procedures 

The global increase in surgical procedures is a significant driver for the growth of the airway management devices market. With the rising prevalence of chronic diseases, trauma, and cancer, there has been a notable surge in the number of surgeries performed annually. Furthermore, elective procedures such as bariatric, orthopedic, and cosmetic surgeries are gaining popularity due to evolving lifestyles and rising income levels. According to the latest OECD 2024 Health Report, over 230 million major surgeries are performed globally each year. Every surgical procedure demands efficient airway management to maintain adequate oxygenation and ventilation throughout the operation. Whether under general or regional anesthesia, airway devices such as endotracheal tubes or supraglottic airway devices are vital to ensure patient safety and prevent intraoperative complications, especially in high-risk cases or lengthy procedures.

Airway management is a cornerstone of patient safety during surgery, and its role becomes even more critical in emergency and complex operations. The ability to maintain a secure airway significantly reduces the risk of intraoperative hypoxia or postoperative respiratory distress. Anesthesiologists and surgical teams rely on advanced airway management devices that enable precise control over the patient’s breathing. The rise in minimally invasive and outpatient surgical procedures also necessitates devices that support quick recovery and minimal side effects. As surgical complexity increases, healthcare systems globally are investing in smart and adaptable airway solutions to ensure the best outcomes. The heightened awareness of potential complications linked to improper airway control further accelerates the demand for reliable and easy-to-use devices that can function efficiently across different surgical environments.

In addition to clinical efficacy, airway management devices contribute directly to improved recovery times and reduced healthcare costs. Proper airway control ensures fewer post-operative complications, such as aspiration pneumonia or prolonged ventilation support, which can lead to extended hospital stays. Shorter recovery periods translate into higher patient turnover and better resource utilization for healthcare facilities. With patient safety and satisfaction becoming central performance metrics, hospitals are increasingly prioritizing investments in high-quality airway devices. The global surgical device market is projected to grow steadily, and as surgical volumes rise, the reliance on airway management technologies is expected to intensify. The strategic adoption of these devices not only enhances surgical precision but also bolsters institutional reputation by demonstrating a commitment to patient-centered care..

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Key Market Challenges

Technological Complexity and Integration

The increasing sophistication of airway management devices, while offering enhanced functionality and precision, also introduces significant technological complexity. Modern devices such as video laryngoscopes, automated ventilators, and fiber-optic intubation systems come with intricate interfaces, advanced features, and compatibility requirements that require thorough training and expertise. This complexity can pose a barrier to adoption, especially in low-resource settings or facilities with limited skilled personnel. The learning curve associated with these advanced technologies often results in delayed usage or improper handling, compromising patient safety. Furthermore, frequent updates in device software, calibration requirements, and reliance on connectivity and sensors demand continuous training and investment from healthcare providers. As new-generation airway devices enter the market, aligning operational simplicity with clinical efficacy remains a key challenge that manufacturers and healthcare systems must address to encourage broader and safer adoption.

Another critical aspect of technological complexity is the need for seamless integration with existing hospital infrastructure and monitoring systems. Advanced airway management solutions are often designed to interface with patient monitoring equipment, electronic health records (EHRs), and data analytics tools. However, achieving this integration can be challenging due to disparities in hardware platforms, data formats, and cybersecurity concerns. Inconsistent compatibility can disrupt workflows, create data silos, and hinder real-time decision-making, particularly in emergency settings. Moreover, many older hospitals and clinics still rely on legacy systems that may not support newer technologies, necessitating costly upgrades. Without standardized interoperability, the full potential of these advanced airway systems including automated data logging, remote monitoring, and AI-powered decision support remains underutilized. Healthcare institutions are therefore required to invest in IT infrastructure and workforce training, adding to the overall cost and complexity of deployment.

From a market perspective, technological complexity also presents challenges in terms of regulatory compliance, product customization, and user adaptability across diverse healthcare environments. Manufacturers must navigate stringent approval processes while ensuring their devices meet the clinical and operational needs of different regions. Customizing products for various healthcare systems whether in developed nations with cutting-edge hospitals or in developing countries with limited infrastructure—adds to design and production complexity. 

Key Market Trends

Technological Advancements

Airway management encompasses a range of techniques and devices used to establish and maintain a patient's airway. This is crucial in situations such as surgeries, anesthesia administration, intensive care, and emergency medicine. Traditional airway management devices like endotracheal tubes and laryngeal masks have been widely used for decades. However, the landscape is rapidly evolving with advancements in medical technology. Traditional direct laryngoscopy is being replaced by video laryngoscopy, a technique that employs a camera and display screen to visualize the airway. This method offers enhanced visualization, particularly in difficult airway cases. The integration of fiber optics into these devices enables clinicians to navigate complex anatomical structures more effectively. Supraglottic airway devices (SGAs) are gaining popularity due to their ease of use and effectiveness. These devices, such as the laryngeal mask airway (LMA) and the i-gel, sit above the vocal cords and offer a less invasive alternative to endotracheal intubation. Recent improvements in SGA design have led to better sealing capabilities, minimizing the risk of aspiration. The integration of sensors, connectivity, and data analysis capabilities into airway management devices is transforming patient care. Smart devices can monitor factors like airway pressure, patient oxygen levels, and even provide real-time feedback on device placement and effectiveness. This technology enhances patient safety and allows for prompt intervention if complications arise. The advent of telemedicine has extended its reach to airway management. Clinicians can now seek remote assistance from airway management experts during challenging intubation scenarios. This real-time collaboration ensures that patients receive the best possible care, regardless of their geographical location.

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are further enhancing the functionality of airway management devices. These technologies can analyze large volumes of patient data to predict potential complications, recommend optimal airway management strategies, and customize ventilation settings in real time. AI-driven algorithms are being integrated into ventilators and smart laryngoscopes to assist clinicians in making faster, evidence-based decisions. This not only reduces human error but also improves patient outcomes, particularly in high-stakes environments like intensive care units and emergency rooms. The ongoing incorporation of predictive analytics represents a major step forward in achieving personalized and precise airway management.

Another significant advancement is the development of portable and battery-operated airway management devices tailored for field use and resource-limited settings. Innovations in compact video laryngoscopes and lightweight ventilators are helping emergency medical services (EMS) and disaster response teams deliver quality care outside hospital environments. These devices are designed to function efficiently even under harsh conditions, providing real-time diagnostics and enabling rapid intervention. Additionally, many of these portable units feature intuitive interfaces, making them easier to operate by professionals with varying levels of training. This trend is expanding access to advanced airway care globally, particularly in rural or underserved regions.

Segmental Insights

Product Insights

In 2024, the Airway Management Devices market was dominated by Supraglottic segment and is predicted to continue expanding over the coming years. Supraglottic airway devices are medical devices that are placed in the oropharynx to establish a secure airway during various medical procedures, including surgeries and emergencies. Unlike endotracheal tubes, which are inserted through the vocal cords, supraglottic devices rest above the glottis, making them less invasive and reducing the risk of trauma to the airway. They are particularly valuable in situations where intubation through the vocal cords might be challenging or inappropriate. One of the key reasons for the dominance of supraglottic devices is their versatility. They are suitable for a wide range of clinical scenarios, from routine surgical procedures to emergency situations like cardiac arrests. This adaptability makes them an essential tool in various medical settings, including operating rooms, intensive care units, and pre-hospital care.

Application Insights

In 2024, the Airway Management Devices market was dominated by the Anesthesia segment and is predicted to continue expanding over the coming years. Anesthesia is a crucial part of many surgical procedures. As the number of surgeries and medical interventions increased worldwide, the demand for airway management devices used during anesthesia administration also grew. The field of anesthesia has witnessed significant technological advancements in airway management devices. These devices have become more sophisticated, efficient, and safer over time. This likely contributed to their dominance in the market, as healthcare providers seek state-of-the-art equipment to ensure patient safety and optimal outcomes. Additionally, the rising prevalence of chronic diseases requiring surgical intervention has further fueled the demand for anesthesia-related airway devices. Continuous training of anesthesiologists and increased adoption of video-assisted and fiber-optic technologies are also driving segment growth.

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Regional Insights

North America has a well-established and well-funded healthcare infrastructure, with a high demand for quality medical devices. Hospitals, clinics, and healthcare facilities in the region prioritize patient care and invest in the latest medical equipment, including airway management devices, to ensure the best outcomes for patients. North America, particularly the United States, has been a hub for technological advancements in the medical device industry. The region has a robust infrastructure for research and development, leading to the creation of innovative and advanced airway management devices. These technological advancements could give North American companies a competitive edge in the global market. North America has stringent regulatory standards for medical devices, ensuring safety and effectiveness. Devices that receive approval from organizations like the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are often perceived as high-quality and reliable by healthcare professionals and patients alike. This trust in regulatory standards can boost the adoption of North American airway management devices globally.

Asia Pacific is expected to witness the fastest growth in the airway management devices market due to several key factors. Rapidly improving healthcare infrastructure, especially in emerging economies like India and China, is expanding access to surgical and critical care services. The region is experiencing a sharp rise in the number of surgeries, trauma cases, and respiratory disorders due to urbanization, pollution, and aging populations. Additionally, increasing healthcare investments by governments and private sectors are driving the adoption of advanced medical devices. The growing presence of local manufacturers offering cost-effective solutions and favorable regulatory reforms are further boosting market growth.

Recent Developments

• In April 2025, KARL STORZ has introduced the Slimline C‑MAC® S, a sleek and high-performing video laryngoscope designed for modern airway management. With its ultra-thin, ergonomic blade and high-definition imaging, the Slimline C‑MAC S enhances visibility and precision during intubation. Lightweight yet durable, this device is ideal for emergency, anesthesia, and critical care settings, offering increased maneuverability and improved patient outcomes.
• In October 2024, Verathon has launched the first-ever single-use video laryngoscope incorporating bio-based plastics. This eco-friendly innovation combines high-definition imaging with a lightweight, disposable design, eliminating the need for sterilization. Ideal for emergency and point-of-care settings, it enhances patient safety by reducing cross-contamination risks. Additionally, its sustainable materials support health systems' environmental goals while maintaining performance and ease of use.
• In September 2024, Baxter has launched the next generation of The VEST airway clearance system, designed to improve comfort, convenience, and effectiveness for patients with chronic respiratory conditions. The updated system features a lighter, more flexible garment and an intuitive touchscreen interface that enhances user experience. It continues to use high-frequency chest wall oscillation (HFCWO) technology to help loosen and clear mucus from the lungs, supporting better breathing and easier daily airway management for patients of all ages.
• In March 2023, the BHV Partners, the pioneer healthcare-focused venture builder in Southern Europe, has introduced the startup Conus Airway. This new endeavor will center its efforts on creating and promoting inventive medical instruments aimed at enhancing anesthesia and surgical procedures related to the respiratory system.

Key Market Players

o   Medtronic plc

o   Teleflex Incorporated

o   Ambu A/S

o   Smiths Medical, Inc.

o   Medline Industries, LP

o   Vbm Medizintechnik

o   VYAIRE MEDICAL, INC.

o   SunMed Medical

o   Intersurgical Ltd

o   Flexicare (Group) Limited

Report Scope:

In this report, the Global Airway Management Devices Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

• Airway Management Devices Market, By Product:

o   Supraglottic

o   Infraglottic

o   Esuscitators

o   Laryngoscopes

o   Others

• Airway Management Devices Market, By Application:

o   Anesthesia

o   Emergency Medicine

o   Others

• Airway Management Devices Market, By End-Use:

o   Hospitals

o   Homecare

o   Others

• Airway Management Devices Market, By Region:

o   North America

§  United States

§  Canada

§  Mexico

o   Europe

§  France

§  United Kingdom

§  Italy

§  Germany

§  Spain

o   Asia-Pacific

§  China

§  India

§  Japan

§  Australia

§  South Korea

o   South America

§  Brazil

§  Argentina

§  Colombia

o   Middle East & Africa

§  South Africa

§  Saudi Arabia

§  UAE

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the Global Airway Management Devices Market.

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Company Information

• Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).

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