This article is based on an official press release from AerFin.

AerFin Acquires Third Ex-JAL Boeing 777-300ER in 2025 to Boost Global Parts Inventory

On December 16, 2025, UK-based aviation aftermarket specialist AerFin announced the acquisition of a Boeing 777-300ER, marking its third purchase of this aircraft type from Japan Airlines (JAL) this year. The transaction underscores a strategic push to secure high-quality Used Serviceable Material (USM) for the global aftermarket, specifically targeting the airframe and GE90 engine components that remain in high demand.

According to the company’s official statement, this latest acquisition completes a significant year of investment in the widebody segment. The aircraft will be disassembled to harvest components, supporting a strained global supply chain where operators are extending the lives of existing fleets due to delays in new aircraft deliveries.

Strategic Expansion of the 777 Portfolio

AerFin’s acquisition strategy in 2025 has heavily favored the Boeing 777-300ER platform, specifically assets previously operated by Japan Airlines. This consistent sourcing allows AerFin to offer a uniform standard of components to its customer base.

The timeline of these acquisitions highlights an aggressive expansion:

• May 2025: AerFin completed the teardown of its first ex-JAL B777-300ER of the year.
• September 2025: The company took delivery of a second unit, designating it for disassembly in the United States to support Americas and Asia-Pacific markets.
• December 2025: The third acquisition was finalized, securing a steady pipeline of GE90-115B engine material and airframe parts heading into 2026.

Auvinash Narayen, Chief Investment Officer at AerFin, emphasized the company’s commitment to this specific asset class in the press release:

“Purchasing another 777-300ER to our portfolio reflects our continued confidence in the asset and the operators who rely on it. Our global footprint and material stock provide the resilience our customers need to plan ahead with certainty.”

, Auvinash Narayen, CIO, AerFin

Market Context: The Demand for USM

The decision to acquire and tear down these aircraft is driven by specific anomalies in the current aviation market. Industry analysis indicates that delays in the certification and delivery of the Boeing 777X have forced major international carriers to extend the operational service lives of their existing 777-300ER fleets.

Supply Chain Constraints

As these older aircraft fly longer than originally planned, they require heavier maintenance and more frequent component replacements. Simultaneously, the production of new spare parts has faced global bottlenecks. Companies like AerFin bridge this gap by harvesting “Used Serviceable Material” (USM), certified parts removed from retired aircraft, which offers a faster and often more cost-effective solution than waiting for new OEM components.

Rising Asset Values

Securing these assets has become increasingly competitive. According to market intelligence from IBA and other industry observers referenced in sector reports, the market value for B777-300ERs and their engines has risen significantly throughout 2025. Some data suggests a jump of nearly 78% in half-life market values compared to previous years. AerFin’s ability to close three such deals in a single year suggests strong capital backing and effective relationship management with top-tier operators like JAL.

AirPro News Analysis

Why Japan Airlines?
From an editorial perspective, we note that AerFin’s specific focus on ex-Japan Airlines inventory is likely a calculated quality control measure. JAL is renowned in the industry for rigorous maintenance standards. Components harvested from their retired fleets typically command a premium in the aftermarket because they are less likely to suffer from unusual wear or deferred maintenance issues compared to assets from less regulated operators.

The “Hat-Trick” Strategy
By securing three identical airframes from the same operator, AerFin achieves economies of scale in its teardown operations. It also allows them to offer “matched” sets of components to airlines, which simplifies integration for maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) providers. This move positions AerFin not just as a parts trader, but as a critical infrastructure partner for airlines struggling to keep their long-haul fleets airborne amid OEMs delays.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is USM in aviation?
USM stands for Used Serviceable Material. It refers to aircraft parts that have been removed from a retired airframe or engine, inspected, repaired if necessary, and recertified for use on an active aircraft.

Why is the GE90 engine significant?
The Boeing 777-300ER is powered exclusively by the GE90-115B engine. It is one of the most powerful and complex commercial jet engines in service. As the 777 fleet ages, demand for GE90 spare parts (blades, disks, and accessories) has surged, making them highly valuable assets for teardown companies.

Where will the aircraft be disassembled?
While the specific location for the December acquisition was not detailed in the immediate release, previous units acquired by AerFin in 2025 were disassembled in the United States (specifically New Mexico) to facilitate distribution across the Americas and Asia-Pacific regions.

Sources

• AerFin Press Release
• Aviation Business News
• IBA Data