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Several Airbus A320neo-family aircraft, which are relatively new to the market, are being dismantled for parts much earlier than expected. The A320neo entered service less than ten years ago and has quickly become a major success for Airbus, with over 11,000 orders placed globally. However, ongoing supply chain issues—especially involving engines—have led operators to strip some of these jets rather than keep them flying.
Recently, two Airbus A321neos that were only six years old were scrapped and stripped for usable components. Earlier this year, Unical Aviation in the United States purchased a "double-digit" number of A320neos specifically to break them up for parts. AerFin, a UK-based company, also acquired four A320neos to be dismantled. Airlines have faced long waits for spare parts deliveries; using components from scrapped aircraft helps reduce maintenance delays and gets grounded planes back in service faster.
Despite high demand for the A320neo family—airlines often wait years after placing an order before receiving their aircraft—the value of salvaged parts has increased significantly. Dismantling one jet can help several others return to operation.
