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AerFin Completes A320neo Teardowns to Support Global Aviation Supply Chain

AerFin dismantled eight A320neo aircraft, recovering over 9,000 parts to address supply chain delays and engine shortages worldwide.

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This article is based on an official press release from AerFin, supplemented by industry research.

On June 2, 2026, UK-based aviation asset specialist AerFin announced a significant milestone in its Airbus A320neo support program. According to an official company press release, AerFin has successfully completed the teardown of eight A320neo aircraft, harvesting over 9,000 high-demand components to support global fleet operations and alleviate severe supply chain bottlenecks.

This development arrives at a critical juncture for the commercial aviation sector. With a well-documented engine shortage and original equipment manufacturer (OEM) delays grounding hundreds of aircraft worldwide, the secondary market for used serviceable material (USM) has become a vital lifeline for Airlines. To keep active fleets operational, asset managers are increasingly dismantling relatively young aircraft to harvest their parts.

We are observing a shift in how aviation assets are managed, moving away from traditional end-of-life recycling toward strategic, mid-life disassembly to feed a starved global supply chain.

The Strategic Shift to Mid-Life Teardowns

Harvesting High-Demand Components

The recent teardown program executed by AerFin has generated a massive influx of critical spare parts for the A320neo family. According to the company’s announcement, the dismantling of the eight aircraft yielded an average of 1,200 to 1,400 serviceable parts per airframe. The recovered inventory includes major structural assemblies, nacelles, Auxiliary Power Units (APUs), landing gears, rotables, and consumables. Furthermore, AerFin confirmed it is offering fresh-from-shop Pratt & Whitney PW1000 GTF engines for lease or sale.

To ensure these components reach operators quickly, AerFin has strategically positioned the harvested inventory across its global warehousing network. Parts are currently distributed across facilities in Newport (Wales), Gatwick (UK), Singapore, and Miami (Florida), a move designed to significantly reduce lead times for airlines facing Aircraft on Ground (AOG) situations.

Global Logistics and Partnerships

Executing a teardown program of this scale requires a specialized global network. AerFin’s press release notes that the company relied on key strategic partners to manage the disassembly and logistics. The initial European batch of A320neos was dismantled by TARMAC Aerosave at its Tarbes facility in France. Industry data indicates that TARMAC Aerosave utilizes a four-phase recycling process capable of achieving a material recovery rate of up to 92%.

In the Asia-Pacific region, the teardowns were conducted by SIA Engineering Company (SIAEP) in the Philippines. This marked the first-ever A320neo teardown in the country, which was completed nose-to-tail in just 30 days. Logistics, dangerous goods handling, and regional warehousing are being managed by B&H Worldwide out of the Airport Logistics Park of Singapore (ALPS).

“Locating engines and components within the region allows us to respond faster to customer demand, reducing lead times and ensuring operators can access the right assets when they need them.”

— Paul Ashcroft, SVP of Asia Pacific at AerFin, in a company statement.

Navigating the Aerospace Supply Chain Crisis

The GTF Engine Bottleneck

To understand the necessity of AerFin’s teardown program, we must look at the broader macroeconomic factors impacting aerospace manufacturing in 2025 and 2026. The industry is currently grappling with the fallout of a massive recall involving Pratt & Whitney PW1100G (GTF) engines. Following the discovery of a rare powder-metal defect in 2023, airlines have been forced to subject their engines to lengthy inspections. Industry research shows that Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) shop visits for these engines are currently stretching up to 300 days.

At the peak of this crisis, over 700 A320neo family aircraft were grounded worldwide. Compounding the issue, Airbus has struggled to meet its Deliveries targets. In May 2026, Airbus informed customers that A320neo family delivery delays could persist until 2028, driven largely by shortages of Pratt & Whitney and CFM engines, alongside fuselage panel manufacturing issues.

“Pratt & Whitney’s failure to commit to the number of engines ordered by Airbus is negatively impacting this year’s guidance and the ramp-up trajectory… We are very frustrated that they have decided to reallocate more to the in-service [aircraft] to the detriment of Airbus.”

— Guillaume Faury, CEO of Airbus, speaking publicly in February 2026.

AirPro News analysis

The phenomenon of “strategic teardowns” highlights a profound inversion in aerospace asset valuation. Historically, commercial aircraft were operated for 20 to 25 years before facing the dismantler’s torch. Today, we observe relatively young aircraft, such as 2017-vintage A320neos, being acquired specifically for disassembly. When a dismantled eight-to-nine-year-old airframe yields a higher financial return than an intact, flying aircraft, it underscores the severity of OEMs manufacturing delays and the acute scarcity of spare parts.

AerFin’s operations serve as a vital pressure-release valve for the industry. By recycling up to 92% of an aircraft and injecting thousands of certified parts into the secondary market, companies in the USM sector are providing a sustainable, immediate alternative to waiting for delayed OEM components. This circular economy model is no longer just an end-of-life strategy; it is a critical operational requirement for airlines trying to maintain capacity in a constrained market.

AerFin’s Expanding Global Footprint

Founded in 2010 by Bob James, AerFin (Aviation Engine and Repair Finance) has grown into a major player in the aviation asset management space. The company, currently led by CEO Simon Goodson, specializes in buying, selling, leasing, and repairing aircraft, engines, and parts. In 2019, Danish private equity firm CataCap acquired a 61% majority stake in the business.

Operating out of a 116,000-square-foot headquarters in Newport, Wales, AerFin employs over 220 people and serves more than 600 customers across six continents. According to industry reports, the company generates revenues exceeding $350 million annually. With additional A320neo aircraft already secured and entering the onboarding and disassembly phase, AerFin is positioning itself to remain a central figure in mitigating the ongoing Supply-Chain crisis.

“Aircraft teardowns aren’t just a chapter in the end-of-life playbook. They’ve become a strategic lever for owners navigating tough market conditions… The increased pace of mid-life aircraft teardowns is not, in itself, a signal of market strength. It’s a direct consequence of constrained supply chains and pressure on the OEMs.”

— Simon Goodson, CEO of AerFin, in a company statement.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  • What is a strategic aircraft teardown?
    A strategic teardown involves dismantling an aircraft to harvest its individual components (engines, landing gear, avionics) for resale or lease. In the current market, relatively young aircraft are being torn down because their individual parts are in such high demand that they are worth more than the intact aircraft.
  • Why are so many A320neo aircraft grounded?
    A rare powder-metal defect discovered in 2023 in Pratt & Whitney GTF engines requires extensive inspections. Due to a shortage of spare engines and MRO shop visits taking up to 300 days, hundreds of aircraft have been temporarily grounded.
  • How many parts are recovered during a teardown?
    According to AerFin, a standard A320neo teardown yields between 1,200 and 1,400 serviceable components, which are then certified and distributed to the secondary market.

Sources:
AerFin Official Press Release

Photo Credit: AerFin

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MRO & Manufacturing

ExecuJet MRO Belgium Completes Falcon 7X Project

ExecuJet MRO Services Belgium completes a Falcon 7X project, backed by FAA Part 145 approval and Starlink retrofit authorization.

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ExecuJet MRO Services Belgium announced the completion of an extensive project on a Dassault Falcon 7X on June 11, 2026. The milestone highlights the growing heavy maintenance and modification capabilities at the Dassault Aviation subsidiary’s European facility.

While the specific scope of the newly completed Falcon 7X project was not detailed in the company’s initial release, the completion follows a steady expansion of the facility’s service portfolio for the Dassault Falcon fleet. The Kortrijk-Wevelgem International Airport (KJK) heavy maintenance center has steadily increased its throughput since completing its first C-check on a Falcon 7X in May 2025.

Expanding Falcon maintenance capabilities

The recent project completion builds upon significant regulatory approvals secured earlier in the year. In January 2026, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) granted the Belgium-based provider approval to perform line maintenance, Aircraft on Ground (AOG) support, and base maintenance on US-registered business aircraft.

This regulatory approval authorized the facility to conduct base maintenance up to C-checks on several aircraft types. The approved list includes the Falcon 7X, Falcon 8X, Falcon 900EX EASy/DX/LX, and Falcon 2000EX EASy/DX. The certification allows the European facility to service N-registered aircraft operating internationally.

Connectivity and retrofit growth

Beyond heavy maintenance, ExecuJet MRO Services Belgium has expanded its avionics and cabin connectivity retrofit operations. In December 2025, the facility completed the first Starlink connectivity system installation on a Dassault Falcon 8X.

The installation was performed under a supplemental type certificate developed by Dassault Falcon Jet. SpaceX appointed the company as an authorized Starlink dealer, granting the facility authorization to conduct identical retrofits on the Falcon 7X platform.

AirPro News analysis

We view the steady cadence of Falcon 7X and 8X milestones at the Belgium facility as a direct result of Dassault Aviation’s strategy to internalize and expand its European aftermarket support. By securing FAA Part 145 approval earlier in 2026, ExecuJet MRO Services Belgium positioned itself to capture maintenance events from North American operators flying into Europe. The ability to combine heavy C-checks with high-demand upgrades like Starlink connectivity makes the Kortrijk-Wevelgem site a highly competitive option for transatlantic Falcon operators requiring scheduled downtime.

Sources: ExecuJet MRO Services

Photo Credit: ExecuJet MRO Services

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MRO & Manufacturing

Deutsche Aircraft and Hexcel Sign D328eco Composite Deal

Deutsche Aircraft and Hexcel formalized a long-term composite supply agreement for the D328eco regional turboprop on June 12, 2026.

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Deutsche Aircraft and Hexcel Corporation formalized a long-term industrial partnerships and supply agreement on June 12, 2026, to provide advanced composite materials for the D328eco regional turboprop program.

Announced during the ILA Berlin Air Show at the BDLI Pavilion, the agreement secures the supply chain for critical lightweight composite materials required for the aircraft’s primary and secondary structures. According to a joint press release, the partnership directly supports the 40-seat aircraft’s weight reduction, fuel efficiency, and sustainability targets as the manufacturers prepares for the type’s planned first flight in 2026.

Securing the composite supply chain

The agreement with Hexcel represents a major procurement milestone for the modernized evolution of the Dornier 328 turboprop. By locking in a dedicated supplier for advanced composite solutions, Deutsche Aircraft aims to stabilize its manufacturing pipeline ahead of series production.

Patricia Ferrari, Vice President Supply Chain at Deutsche Aircraft, stated that the program is built on strong industrial partnerships. She noted that working with Hexcel allows the manufacturer to combine advanced materials expertise with industrial reliability to deliver a highly efficient aircraft for regional operators.

“This partnership with Deutsche Aircraft reflects Hexcel’s long-standing commitment to supporting innovative, sustainable aerospace programs in Europe,” said Lilian Braylé, President Aerospace Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East, Africa & Industrial at Hexcel. “By combining advanced materials technology with strong industrial collaboration, we are contributing to the development of next-generation regional aircraft that address efficiency, sustainability, and long-term operational needs.”

The Hexcel agreement follows other recent supply chain finalizations for the D328eco. In March 2026, Deutsche Aircraft selected COMTRONIC GmbH to supply the complete overhead panel for the aircraft’s cockpit.

Production ramp-up and program timeline

Deutsche Aircraft is currently transitioning the D328eco from the design phase into physical testing and production. The company rolled out its first test aircraft, designated TAC 1, on May 28, 2025, at its Oberpfaffenhofen headquarters. The program is currently targeting its first-flight before the end of 2026.

Following the flight test campaign, the manufacturer plans to achieve full production readiness at its Leipzig/Halle final assembly line by early 2027. The facility is designed to produce a maximum of 48 aircraft per year and is expected to create between 250 and 350 highly skilled jobs in the region. Entry into service for the D328eco is scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2027.

“Long-term trust-based industrial relationships are essential for the success of complex aerospace programmes,” said Nico Neumann, Chief Executive Officer of Deutsche Aircraft. “This partnership with Hexcel provides a strong foundation for certification, ramp-up, and series production of the D328eco in Germany and across Europe.”

AirPro News analysis

Securing a Tier 1 composite supplier like Hexcel is a critical de-risking step for Deutsche Aircraft as it moves closer to the D328eco’s first flight. Aerospace supply-chains remain constrained globally, and locking in long-term agreements for primary structure materials shields the program from potential bottlenecks during the critical transition from prototyping to series production.

We view the emphasis on advanced composites as essential to the D328eco’s market positioning. The aircraft is being marketed heavily on its environmental credentials, which depend on aggressive weight reduction to maximize the efficiency of its turboprop engines. This composite strategy pairs with the company’s ongoing propulsion initiatives, including testing 100 percent synthetic, zero-aromatic fuels and validating Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) compatibility in cooperation with Pratt & Whitney Canada.

Sources: Business Wire

Photo Credit: Deutsche Aircraft

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MRO & Manufacturing

SeAH Aerospace Wins Boeing Supplier Award for Aluminum Alloys

SeAH A&D received Boeing’s Supplier Production Partner Award and is expanding with a new facility in Changnyeong, South Korea.

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SeAH Aerospace & Defense (SeAH A&D) received The Boeing Company’s Supplier Production Partner Award on June 10, 2026, recognizing the South Korean manufacturer’s operational performance in supplying aerospace-grade aluminum extrusion materials.

The award, announced in a company press release, highlights SeAH A&D’s position as the sole manufacturer in South Korea capable of producing the high-value 2000 and 7000 series aluminum alloys utilized in commercial aircraft fuselages and wings. The recognition follows a multi-year Long-Term Agreement (LTA) signed between the two companies on December 15, 2025.

Capacity expansion and supply chain integration

To support its growing aerospace commitments, SeAH A&D is constructing a second manufacturing facility in Changnyeong, South Korea. The plant is scheduled for completion in the first half of 2027.

Once operational, the Changnyeong site will feature dedicated equipment specifically designed for the production of aluminum extrusion materials for aircraft structures. The company stated this expansion is intended to optimize the aerospace materials supply chain across the Asia-Pacific region, including China, Japan, Southeast Asia, and India.

“Following our record-breaking performance last year, we will focus on the rapid stabilization of our new Changnyeong facility and further establish ourselves as a leading Korean aerospace materials company, while strengthening our position as a trusted supply chain partner to global aircraft manufacturers,” a representative for SeAH A&D stated.

Boeing partnership and material specifications

The December 2025 contract extension solidified SeAH A&D’s role within Boeing’s global supply network. The 2000 and 7000 series aluminum alloys supplied by the company are critical components in modern aircraft manufacturing, requiring stringent quality control and high strength-to-weight ratios.

The supplier award evaluates vendors on strict metrics of operational excellence, delivery reliability, and material quality. The company noted that it plans to build on its expertise in high-strength materials and rigorous quality management to strengthen its competitiveness as a global supplier.

AirPro News analysis

We view Boeing’s recognition of SeAH A&D as a reflection of the airframer’s broader strategy to diversify and secure its raw material supply chains in the Asia-Pacific region. As Boeing works to stabilize commercial aircraft production rates, ensuring a steady flow of specialized aerospace-grade aluminum is critical. The upcoming Changnyeong facility will likely serve as a key node in mitigating future supply chain bottlenecks for structural components.

Sources: SeAH Aerospace & Defense

Photo Credit: SeAH Aerospace & Defense

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