China Aircraft Disassembly, Dismantling, and Recycling Market Growth Analysis - Forecast Trends and Outlook (2025-2034)

The China aircraft disassembly, dismantling, and recycling market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.70% between 2025 and 2034. The market is being driven by the rising air traffic in the country.

China Aircraft Disassembly, Dismantling, and Recycling Market Growth

The aviation sector in China recorded approximately 350 million passenger journeys during the first half of 2024, reflecting a remarkable increase of 23.5% compared to the same period last year, according to the latest statistics from the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC). In 2020, the total number of take-offs conducted by transport airlines across the sector reached 3.711 million.

The swift development of China's aviation sector, encompassing both domestic and international flight operations, has led to an increase in the number of aircraft in service. As older aircraft approach the end of their operational lifespan, there is an escalating demand for disassembly and recycling services. With an ageing fleet, particularly the retirement of older models in favour of more fuel-efficient and technologically advanced alternatives, the volume of aircraft requiring dismantling and recycling is on the rise.

The aircraft dismantling sector has developed into a highly profitable sector in China, surpassing conventional aviation activities due to increasing demand. Typically, more than 90% of aircraft parts are dismantled and salvaged, with valuable components such as engines, landing gear, and avionics being particularly noteworthy. According to data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the global average retirement age for commercial aircraft is 25 years. In contrast, freight aircraft have a marginally extended lifespan of around 32 years, whereas the average retirement age for aircraft in China is notably lower at 17 years.

Key Trends and Developments

Expansion of the aviation sector, regulatory and environmental pressures, economic consideration, technological advancements, and infrastructure development are the major trends impacting the China aircraft disassembly, dismantling, and recycling market growth.

July 2023

CALC, a leading provider of aircraft line and base maintenance services, was awarded the WGO Green Office Certification for the ninth consecutive year.

Jan 2024

Airbus launched its inaugural global aircraft recycling initiative, the Airbus Lifecycle Services Centre (ALSC), located in Chengdu, a significant aviation centre in southwestern China.

July 2024

Airbus, the European aircraft manufacturer, achieved a significant milestone by delivering its 700th A320 family aircraft, which was assembled at the A320 Family Final Assembly Line Asia (FALA) located in Tianjin Municipality, northern China.

Expansion of the aviation sector

The swift development of China's aviation sector, characterised by the rise in both domestic and international flights, has led to an increase in the operational fleet of aircraft. Consequently, as these aircraft approach the conclusion of their service life, there is an escalating demand for disassembly and recycling services.

Regulatory and environmental pressures

China has established rigorous environmental regulations and policies designed to minimise waste and enhance recycling efforts. These measures encompass specific guidelines for the dismantling and recycling of aircraft, promoting the appropriate disposal and recycling of aircraft parts.

Economic consideration of recycling and dismantling aircraft

The process of dismantling and recycling aircraft allows for the recovery of valuable materials and components, including metals, electronics, and engines. This practice can yield economic advantages by generating revenue from the salvaged parts and materials.

Technological advancements

Technological advancements in the dismantling and recycling of aircraft components enhance both efficiency and effectiveness. New processes and equipment innovations facilitate the recovery of valuable materials while promoting environmentally responsible disposal practices.

Infrastructure development

There has been a concerted effort to enhance the infrastructure that supports aircraft disassembly and recycling operations. This includes the development and upgrading of airports, maintenance facilities, and specialised recycling centres. These facilities are equipped with the necessary tools, technology, and expertise to safely and efficiently dismantle aircraft, ensuring that materials are processed in an environmentally responsible manner.

China Aircraft Disassembly, Dismantling, and Recycling Market Trends

As China's aviation sector continues to evolve, the integration of disassembly and recycling services into the broader aviation ecosystem is anticipated to play a vital role in promoting sustainability and resource efficiency. By investing in these services and the necessary infrastructure, China can position itself as a leader in the global aviation sector, committed to responsible practices and innovation.

In addition to the physical infrastructure, there is also a growing emphasis on regulatory frameworks and legal standards that govern the disassembly and recycling processes. These regulations aim to ensure safety, environmental protection, and the ethical treatment of materials throughout the lifecycle of an aircraft.

China Aircraft Disassembly, Dismantling, and Recycling Industry Segmentation

China Aircraft Disassembly, Dismantling, and Recycling Market Report and Forecast 2025-2034 offers a detailed analysis of the market based on the following segments:.

Market Breakup by Mode of Service:

• Recycling
• Component Management
• Disassembly and Dismantling
• Aircraft Storage
• Engine Teardown
• Others

Market Breakup by Aircraft Type:

• Narrow Body
• Wide Body

Market Breakup by Cities:

• Shanghai
• Zhejiang
• Guangdong
• Jiangsu
• Beijing
• Others

China Aircraft Disassembly, Dismantling, and Recycling Market Share

Based on aircraft type, the market is segmented into narrow body and wide body. The narrow body segment is projected to grow at a CAGR of 8.5% during the forecast period of 2025-2034. Narrow-body aircraft, commonly known as single-aisle aircraft, are specifically engineered for short to medium-haul journeys and are predominantly utilised by airlines for regional and domestic travel.

Leading Companies in China Aircraft Disassembly, Dismantling, and Recycling Market

Major players are focusing on advancing technology for dismantling and recycling aircraft to gain a competitive edge in the market.

• Skyho Aviation Technology Co., Ltd
• China Aircraft Leasing Group Holdings Limited (CALC)
• Aircraft Recycling International Limited(ARI)
• Airbus SAS
• Tarmac Aerosave
• Others

The comprehensive report looks into the macro and micro aspects of the market. The report gives an in-depth insight into the market by providing a SWOT analysis as well as an analysis of Porter’s Five Forces model.