Cable Cars and Ropeways Market Gears Up for a Sky-High Future

The global cable cars and ropeways market is on track for significant expansion, forecast to nearly double in value from USD 5.1 billion in 2025 to USD 9.7 billion by 2032. This impressive growth, at a projected CAGR of 11.4%, underscores the rising importance of cable cars and ropeways as both tourism attractions and urban mobility solutions.

These systems, historically tied to alpine tourism, are now transforming into essential urban infrastructure, offering sustainable alternatives to congested road networks while providing unique travel experiences in tourist destinations worldwide.

Cable Cars and Ropeways Emerge as Eco-Friendly Transport Solutions

Cable cars and ropeways operate on fixed cables, with an additional propulsion rope enabling smooth transit over steep or rugged terrains. Their minimal environmental footprint in both construction and operation makes them increasingly attractive for governments and developers focused on sustainable transport solutions.

Unlike traditional bridges or extensive road networks, cable cars require less invasive construction, preserving landscapes and ecosystems. This is especially relevant in mountainous regions or over bodies of water, where ecological sensitivity and construction costs present significant challenges.

“Cable cars are no longer purely tourism infrastructure; they’re evolving into critical urban transport systems,” said an industry expert at Doppelmayr Garaventa Group. “Their ability to reduce traffic congestion, minimize emissions, and integrate seamlessly into smart city frameworks positions them as a vital piece of future urban mobility.”

Tourism Sector Continues to Dominate Market Demand

While urban applications are expanding, tourism remains the dominant end-use segment, projected to account for approximately 45% of the market share in 2025. Scenic destinations increasingly deploy ropeways to enhance visitor experiences, providing panoramic views and efficient transport across challenging terrains.

Popular tourist hubs such as the Swiss Alps, Indian hill stations, and Latin American mountains rely on cable cars to boost accessibility and promote sustainable tourism. The global travel rebound post-pandemic is further fueling demand, as destinations compete to attract travelers with unique experiences.

Cable cars not only enhance logistics but also serve as major tourist attractions themselves, creating memorable experiences that differentiate destinations in a competitive tourism market. Marketing campaigns often spotlight these ropeway rides as signature experiences, driving tourist footfall and contributing to local economies.

Urban Adoption Accelerates Amid Traffic Woes

Beyond tourism, urban centers are increasingly integrating ropeways into public transport systems, particularly in regions where road expansion is physically or economically impractical. Cities like Medellín, Colombia, and La Paz, Bolivia, have pioneered urban cable car networks, offering reliable transport solutions in dense or geographically complex urban landscapes.

Urban cable car systems can carry high passenger volumes at relatively low operational costs compared to traditional transit methods. Their small spatial footprint makes them ideal for cities battling limited land availability and traffic congestion.

Governments view ropeways as critical components of smart city initiatives, using them to reduce carbon emissions, lower noise pollution, and improve urban mobility. Innovations such as autonomous operations, energy-efficient systems, and advanced safety features are accelerating their adoption.

Technological Innovations Fuel Market Momentum

Continuous technological development underpins the market’s growth trajectory. Newer cable car models incorporate cutting-edge design, improved materials, and digital connectivity. Features like autonomous operation, enhanced safety systems, and integration with smart city infrastructure are becoming standard.

One prominent example is the launch of Faber Leisure Group’s SkyOrb cable cars in April 2024. Marketed as the world’s first chrome-finished, spherical cabin, SkyOrb features glass panels on all sides—including the floor—to deliver a breathtaking panoramic experience. Such innovations exemplify the merging of tourism appeal with technological sophistication, driving both consumer interest and industry competitiveness.

Renewable energy integration is another trend reshaping the market. Ropeway systems increasingly incorporate solar and wind energy sources, aligning with global efforts to reduce carbon footprints and promote green transportation. Electrification and hybrid technologies are also gaining traction, enhancing energy efficiency and reducing operational costs.

Regional Markets Show Diverse Growth Patterns

North America Maintains Strong Market Leadership

North America is projected to maintain its leadership position, accounting for approximately 35% of the global market share in 2025. The region’s significant government investment in tourism infrastructure and urban mobility solutions drives this growth.

In areas prone to severe winters and heavy snowfall, cable cars are essential not only for tourism but also for practical transit, ensuring accessibility when road networks are less reliable. Urban regions across the United States and Canada are increasingly exploring cable cars as part of public transit systems to alleviate congestion and reduce environmental impact.

Asia Pacific Emerges as a High-Growth Market

Asia Pacific is anticipated to be the fastest-growing region during the forecast period. Rapid urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and expanding tourism industries in countries like India, Vietnam, and China are fueling demand for ropeway systems.

India, in particular, is integrating cable cars into its tourism infrastructure, especially around religious sites and hill stations where traditional road access is limited or congested. Ropeway systems are also emerging as urban transit solutions in cities challenged by hilly terrain or dense urban cores.

As Asian governments push sustainable development agendas, cable cars and ropeways offer a practical, eco-friendly alternative to conventional transport modes, supporting both tourism and urban mobility.

Europe Holds Firm with Mature Installations

Europe remains a significant market, with over 10,000 operational ropeway systems, accounting for more than 30% of the global market share. Countries like Switzerland, Austria, France, Germany, and Italy continue to dominate due to their strong alpine tourism industries.

Switzerland alone operates over 1,700 ropeway installations, with Austria boasting more than 2,800. The region is witnessing investments aimed at modernizing existing infrastructure, improving efficiency, and enhancing tourist experiences.

European markets also see growing urban applications, particularly in cities focusing on sustainable mobility. While growth rates are more moderate compared to emerging markets, Europe’s emphasis on environmental standards and technological advancement secures its steady market position.

Market Challenges Remain Despite Positive Outlook

Despite the strong growth trajectory, the market faces several constraints. Geographical and environmental limitations restrict the deployment of cable cars in flat terrains or highly urbanized areas where alternative transport modes may be more viable.

Harsh weather conditions, including strong winds and heavy snowfall, can disrupt operations, while coastal and tropical environments accelerate equipment corrosion, increasing maintenance costs.

Moreover, regulatory challenges in ecologically sensitive areas can delay or prevent projects due to environmental concerns such as habitat disruption or visual impact.

Competitive Landscape: Innovation and Expansion

The global market is highly competitive, with major players including Doppelmayr Garaventa Group, Leitner Group, POMA Group, and Bartholet Maschinenbau AG leading through innovation and expansive service networks. These companies leverage extensive expertise to develop advanced ropeway systems capable of handling high capacities and challenging terrains.

Smaller regional players compete by specializing in niche markets or customized solutions. Strategic collaborations, government partnerships, and expansion into urban transit applications are key tactics deployed by market leaders to maintain competitiveness.

Key recent developments include:

• May 2024: Jordan Free and Development Zones Group launched a new digital platform for the Ajloun cable car, enhancing visitor engagement and streamlining bookings.

• January 2024: Damodar Ropeways and Infra Ltd inaugurated the Neemach Mata Mandir ropeway in Udaipur, India, employing a mono cable fixed grip system capable of transporting 400 passengers per hour.

Outlook: A Promising Future for Ropeways

The cable cars and ropeways market stands at the intersection of tourism, sustainable transport, and urban development. Driven by increasing tourism demand, urban congestion challenges, and technological innovation, the sector is set for robust growth through 2032.

While geographic limitations and environmental concerns remain hurdles, the market’s expanding applications and technological strides position it for continued global relevance. As cities and tourist destinations alike seek eco-friendly, efficient solutions, cable cars and ropeways are poised to become integral components of both leisure and everyday urban life.