Published : 23 Apr 2025
The Aircraft Recycling Market, valued at USD 5.12 Billion in 2024, is anticipated to surpass USD 11.68 Billion by 2033, reflecting a projected CAGR of 9.7%
The aircraft recycling market is evolving into a critical part of the global aviation ecosystem as the focus on sustainability, efficient resource utilization, and cost-effective operations intensifies. With the global commercial fleet expanding rapidly over recent decades, a significant number of aircraft are now approaching or have already reached the end of their service lives. This emerging scenario, combined with rising concerns about environmental impact and raw material scarcity, has prompted stakeholders across the aviation value chain to re-evaluate the lifecycle of aircraft assets.
Aircraft recycling encompasses a range of activities, from dismantling and decommissioning to the recovery of usable components and raw materials. This process not only helps mitigate waste generation but also supports the aftermarket by supplying certified used serviceable materials (USMs). As aircraft manufacturers, MRO providers, airlines, and recycling firms converge to create a closed-loop supply model, the market is seeing growing interest, especially from regions investing heavily in fleet modernization and circular economy initiatives. This emerging scenario, combined with rising concerns about environmental impact and raw material scarcity s driving innovation and investment in recycling technologies, positioning the market as a key pillar of sustainable aviation for the future.
A sharp rise in aircraft retirements is one of the core factors driving market expansion. With fleets averaging over 20 years in service, especially in the narrow-body category, airlines are opting to phase out older models in favor of newer, fuel-efficient alternatives. According to data from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), of the over 27,000 commercial aircraft currently in service worldwide, more than 20 percent are over 20 years old and expected to be decommissioned within the next decade. It is projected that over 20,000 commercial aircraft will reach retirement age in the next 20 years. This has created a continuous stream of aircraft being removed from operations and redirected to recycling or part-out facilities.
The high cost of new aircraft parts, combined with the need for operational efficiency, has spurred demand for affordable and reliable USMs. These components, recovered from retired aircraft and certified for reuse, offer considerable cost savings to airlines and MRO providers, making aircraft recycling an economically viable solution.
Governments and international aviation bodies are imposing stricter environmental regulations focused on minimizing landfill waste and reducing the carbon footprint of the aviation industry. This is pressuring airlines and aircraft owners to adopt greener practices, including responsible end-of-life management, which in turn supports the growth of recycling services.
Aircraft recycling is increasingly seen as part of a broader move toward circular manufacturing. OEMs are designing aircraft with easier disassembly in mind, and recycled materials are being reused in new production lines, especially in non-structural applications.
Dedicated facilities equipped with environmentally compliant dismantling lines and certified handling systems are emerging in various parts of the world. These facilities follow stringent procedures for material tracking, hazardous waste disposal, and value recovery, providing a higher standard of service and accountability.
Leading aircraft manufacturers such as Airbus and Boeing are partnering with recyclers or establishing in-house sustainability programs to ensure proper end-of-life management of their products. These collaborations are also enabling better planning and documentation throughout an aircraft’s lifecycle, from design to retirement.
The worldwide aircraft recycling market is divided into 5 segments: aircraft type, component, material, end-use, and regional markets
North America remains a dominant region due to its massive commercial and military fleet base. The U.S., home to several major recyclers and part-out facilities, benefits from mature MRO networks and established procedures for aircraft end-of-life management. Regulatory bodies like the FAA also play a role in setting environmental and operational standards for recycling.
Europe is a leader in sustainable aviation practices and has strong government support for circular economy models. Programs such as the Clean Sky initiative and strict waste directives are pushing aircraft operators to engage with certified recycling partners. The presence of major OEMs like Airbus also encourages local recycling partnerships and innovation in dismantling processes.
Asia-Pacific is the fastest-growing region, fueled by rapid fleet expansion and a wave of upcoming aircraft retirements in China, India, and Southeast Asia. Governments are investing in aviation infrastructure, including recycling capabilities, and several MRO hubs are beginning to integrate end-of-life services. While still developing compared to Western regions, the growth potential here is immense.
Aircraft recycling companies profiled in the report include Airbus, Boeing, TARMAC Aerosave, Aircraft End-of-Life Solutions (AELS), CAVU Aerospace, AAR Corporation, AerSale Inc., Aircraft Recycling International Limited, ComAv, Ascent Aviation Services, GA Telesis LLC, Aerocycle, and Air Salvage International Ltd.
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Parameter |
Details |
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Size in 2024 |
USD 5.12 Billion |
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Forecast by 2033 |
USD 11.68 Billion |
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CAGR During 2025 - 2033 |
9.7% |
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Largest Aircraft Type Segment (% Share 2024) |
Narrow-body – 60% |
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Largest Region Size (2024) |
North America - USD 2.66 billion |
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Fastest Growing Region (% CAGR) |
Asia-Pacific – 10.6% |
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Key Players Covered |
Airbus, Boeing, TARMAC Aerosave, Aircraft End-of-Life Solutions (AELS), CAVU Aerospace, AAR Corporation, AerSale Inc., Aircraft Recycling International Limited, ComAv, Ascent Aviation Services, GA Telesis LLC, Aerocycle, and Air Salvage International Ltd. |
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Mr. Richard Johnson
Acumen Research and Consulting
India: +91 8983225533