The Airbus Lifecycle Services Centre has commenced operations in Chengdu, China offering a comprehensive range of lifecycle management services for aircraft, covering activities from parking and storage to maintenance, upgrades, conversions, dismantling, recycling, and the controlled distribution of used parts.
Airbus Lifecycle Services Centre (ALSC) in a significant step towards advancing sustainable aerospace practices has commenced operations in Chengdu, China. This state-of-the-art centre is the first of its kind, offering a comprehensive range of lifecycle management services for aircraft, covering activities from parking and storage to maintenance, upgrades, conversions, dismantling, recycling, and the controlled distribution of used parts. The ALSC in Chengdu is certified by both the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC), ensuring compliance with international safety and regulatory standards.
The centre occupies a vast surface area of 717,000 square meters and boasts a storage capacity for 125 aircraft. As it ramps up operations between the commencement and 2025, it is expected to directly employ up to 150 professionals. The main buildings have already obtained LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification, reflecting a commitment to reducing environmental impacts associated with operations at the ALSC site.
Cristina Aguilar, SVP Customer Services, Airbus said, “I’m glad to see the Airbus Lifecycle Services Centre enter into service in Chengdu. It echoes our purpose to pioneer sustainable aerospace and shows our approach to environmental responsibility across the entire aircraft lifecycle. Our service centre is a great example of Chinese-European cooperation in the development of the circular economy for the aviation industry.“
The ALSC is positioned as a one-stop shop for the entire aircraft lifecycle, emphasizing Airbus’s dedication to environmental responsibility and sustainable practices across all stages of an aircraft’s operational life. From storage and maintenance to recycling, the centre aims to optimize the use of resources and contribute to minimizing the environmental footprint of aviation.
The centre holds certifications from both EASA and CAAC, ensuring adherence to international safety and regulatory standards. ALSC covers a spectrum of activities, including aircraft storage, maintenance, upgrades, conversions, dismantling, recycling, and the distribution of used parts. The facility spans 717,000 square meters with a storage capacity for 125 aircraft. It is expected to gradually increase its workforce, employing up to 150 professionals directly. The main buildings have obtained LEED certification, indicating a commitment to sustainable construction practices and reducing environmental impacts.
ALSC unites Airbus, Tarmac Aerosave, and the city of Chengdu, along with Airbus company Satair. Tarmac Aerosave contributes over 15 years of expertise in efficient aircraft storage, dismantling, and recycling. Satair, located in the same centre, will acquire aging aircraft, trade, and distribute used parts, completing the full scope of lifecycle services. A significant portion of the aircraft stored at the centre is anticipated to return to service after storage and upgrades, contributing to the reusability of assets. The unique Tarmac Aerosave process during dismantling is designed to recover around 90 percent of the aircraft weight.
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The Airbus Lifecycle Services Centre in Chengdu represents a pioneering initiative in aligning aerospace practices with sustainability goals. As a collaborative effort, it emphasizes the potential for circular economy principles in the aviation sector and sets a precedent for responsible practices in the industry.
Question- What services does the Airbus Lifecycle Services Centre offer?
Answer- The ALSC provides a comprehensive range of aircraft lifecycle management services, encompassing parking, storage, maintenance, upgrades, conversions, dismantling, recycling, and used parts distribution.
Question- How does the ALSC contribute to sustainability?
Answer- EThe center prioritizes resource optimization and environmental responsibility by maximizing aircraft reusability, minimizing waste through recycling, and employing LEED-certified buildings.
Question- Who are the key players involved in the Airbus Lifecycle Services Centre?
Answer- Airbus, Tarmac Aerosave (expertise in storage, dismantling, and recycling), Satair (used parts acquisition and distribution), and the city of Chengdu collaborate to offer this one-stop-shop for aircraft lifecycle management.
Note– MRO Business Today is the Principal Media Partner of the 5th MRO SOUTH ASIA SUMMIT 2024 co-located with the MRO XPO INDIA & AIRCRAFT INTERIORS INDIA 2024 to be held on 27,28 & 29 February 2024 at the Le Méridien New Delhi, India.
