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Where Do Aircraft Parts Go When They’re Grounded for Good?

While engines and avionics from retired aircraft are often salvaged and reused, the fate of the remaining materials is far less promising—and largely overlooked. Aircraft recycling companies face significant challenges when it comes to processing the complex mix of metals, composites, plastics, and chemicals that make up the rest of the plane. Many of these materials are difficult, if not impossible, to recycle with current technology, and for some hazardous substances, no recycling options exist at all. As a result, a substantial portion of an aircraft’s structure and interior still ends up in landfills. Although some progress has been made in reusing and recycling certain components, there is still a long way to go before the industry can claim true sustainability. The reality is that too many materials and chemicals are discarded, and the problem remains largely unnoticed, raising serious concerns about the environmental impact of aircraft retirement.