Pioneering On-Airport Aircraft Disassembly Operations

The challenge

AerFin was engaged to manage the disassembly of six Airbus A330-200 aircraft parked at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA). While the aircraft offered significant material value, the location presented an unprecedented operational barrier. HKIA is one of the world’s busiest airports, with more than 1,000 daily movements, and had never before permitted a commercial aircraft disassembly on site.

The project demanded meticulous planning, extensive stakeholder coordination, and the ability to meet rigorous regulatory, safety, and environmental requirements. The inclusion of Pratt & Whitney PW4000 engines added further technical and logistical complexity. Achieving a safe, efficient, non-disruptive teardown within a live airport environment would require a new approach.

The way ahead

AerFin brought together its commercial, operational and technical teams to design and deliver a practical, compliant, and scalable solution. Working closely with the Hong Kong Civil Aviation Department, Airport Authority Hong Kong and local partners including HAECO, Great China Aviation Consulting (GCAC), Skyrise and B&H Worldwide, we created a protected disassembly bay within the airport – ensuring operations could proceed seamlessly alongside HKIA’s daily schedule.

Our teams built the plan from the ground up, aligning stakeholders across time zones and disciplines while navigating variable conditions such as typhoons and complex PW4000 engine requirements. Every stage was supported by AerFin’s internal expertise, from contracting and compliance to engineering and logistics.

This collaborative model enabled us to carry out full aircraft harvesting, disassembly and material distribution on a scale never before attempted at HKIA. The project forms part of AerFin’s wider strategy, following the acquisition of 18 A330ceo, followed by eight A320neo and three B777-300ER in 2025 to support operators with reliable, cost-effective inventory.  

The outcome

The programme marked a historic milestone – the first-ever commercial aircraft disassembly at Hong Kong International Airport – and a new benchmark for asset management in complex environments. The entire programme was completed in just eight months, with all six aircraft fully harvested, disassembled and removed for final recycling – an average of one aircraft every 40 days. The project was recognised with the Editor’s Choice award at the Ishka Deals of the Year Awards, reflecting its scope, technical ambition, and industry impact. 

Material recovered from the aircraft is now supporting global fleets, extending asset life and reducing reliance on newly manufactured components. Engines removed from the aircraft achieved rapid placement, with eight sold in October 2024 and additional units placed soon after.

This was progress delivered by a unified AerFin team and a trusted network of partners. It demonstrates the strength of our integrated model and our ability to bring clarity to complexity, unlock value where others may not see it, and support customers with confidence and reliability.

Through projects like this, AerFin continues to define the way ahead in sustainable asset management – with smarter solutions, greater flexibility and a deep commitment to keeping global fleets flying.