Lionel G Roques, vice president sales at Tarmac Aerosave, shares that the journey of an aircraft doesn’t end at its retirement – it’s just the beginning of a new, sustainable chapter.
Since its creation in 2007 by Airbus, Safran Aircraft Engines and Suez, Tarmac Aerosave has placed sustainability at the heart of its operations. Anticipating aircraft end-of-life challenges, our founders established a unique deconstruction centre focused on environmentally responsible parts removal and material recycling.
Today, we’ve evolved into a one-stop shop expert in the lifecycle of aircraft and engines, with 85% of our activities focused on maintenance, storage and transition before aircraft return to service. We are also one of the very few companies worldwide to hold dual AFRA accreditation for both dismantling and recycling.
Maintenance and storage
We conduct aircraft storage and maintenance using strict environmental best practices. During storage, aircraft ‘live’ with systems and engines regularly tested under protocols to minimise ecological impact, including optimised energy use and eco‑friendly products.
Our hangars in Tarbes (France) and Teruel (Spain) are state-of-the-art, built to the latest insulation standards. They help conserve resources while ensuring maximum safety for all operations, from routine checks to the most complex maintenance projects.
Recycling: Deconstruction for a sustainable future
Unlike traditional approaches, we don’t break down aircraft – we deconstruct them. Every part and material is meticulously removed, sorted and repurposed. From fluids to wiring, metals and plastics, everything is sent to specialised recycling channels.
Our patented cutting gantry, the only one of its kind in the world, sections aircraft with precision, using water spraying to reduce dust emissions, and the water is collected and recycled.
As a key player in the circular economy, we collaborate with the International Aerospace Environmental Group (IAEG) to develop sustainable solutions throughout an aircraft’s lifecycle.
Beyond recycling, each project offers crucial insights into aircraft aging, information which is then shared with manufacturers to enhance the eco-design of future aircraft.
Aircraft reborn: Circular economy
At Tarmac Aerosave, an aircraft never truly dies – it is reborn.
Reusable parts find new life in other planes, while recycled materials are integrated into various industries. Even the remaining 8% of non-recyclable materials, primarily composites, are on the brink of being fully repurposed, thanks to our partnership with Suez, which continues to innovate in this field.
A shining example of our philosophy is the A380. While its production has ended, parts recovered by our services are helping maintain the global fleet.
Green leadership
Combining technical expertise with sustainable innovation, we lead in responsible aviation, redefining green practices with every aircraft deconstructed, part reused and material recycled.
This feature was first published in MRO Management – November/December 2024. To read the magazine in full, click here.
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