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Boeing 747 retirements boost demand for storage and recycling industries

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Boeing 747 retirements boost demand for storage and recycling industries
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Boeing 747 | Wikipedia

As the Boeing 747 reaches the end of its production and service life, many carriers are faced with decisions about storing these large aircraft. According to Simple Flying, the cost of storing a Boeing 747 can reach approximately $10,000 per month, similar to that of an Airbus A380. The storage cost varies based on factors such as location and model.

The Boeing 747 is known for its significant size, with a wingspan ranging from 195 ft 8 in to 224 ft 7 in and lengths between 184 ft 9 in and 231 ft 10 in. Due to these dimensions, storage facilities charge high fees for space allocation. The costs are also influenced by the duration of storage contracts and ground handling requirements.

Pinal Airpark in Marana, Arizona is a notable site where many retired Boeing 747s are stored. This facility gained prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic when numerous carriers retired their aging fleets. Pinal Airpark benefits from a dry climate that helps limit corrosion and has become one of the largest commercial aircraft storage facilities globally.

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Aircraft recycling is another industry gaining traction alongside storage facilities. Companies like Aircraft End-of-Life Solutions (AELS) and Air Salvage International lead this sector, which Research & Markets expects to grow significantly by 2028. Recycling allows airlines to offset some costs associated with storing or replacing their obsolete aircraft by selling valuable parts.

Despite a decline in active service numbers for the Boeing 747 family—more than half have been scrapped or stored—some variants remain operational. As of April 2025, over 400 Boeing 747s were still flying, primarily newer models like the 747-400 and the more modernized version, the 747-8.

With continued retirements expected for this iconic aircraft type, both storage facilities and recycling businesses anticipate growth opportunities as they capitalize on the decommissioning process.

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