As the aerospace industry continues to grapple with global supply chain constraints, Boeing is expanding its Used Serviceable Material (USM) capacity as part of its sustainable growth strategy. With this move, the company aims to enhance efficiency in spare parts supply, strengthen operational continuity, and contribute to the circular economy within the sector.
Strong Growth Prospects in the USM Market
Valued at approximately USD 7 billion, the global USM market is growing at an annual rate of 10%. The retirement of more than 400 aircraft each year is rapidly driving up demand for second-hand service parts.
By tapping into this potential, Boeing is increasing its USM investment and expanding its consignment product range to provide airlines with greater access to spare parts.
William Ampofo, Boeing’s Senior Vice President of Parts, Distribution, and Supply Chain, commented on the development:
“By expanding our USM capacity, we are not only offering airlines a reliable source of spare parts but also maximising the value of their retiring fleets. These investments help our customers navigate supply chain complexities and maintain operational integrity.”
Responsible Fleet Retirements and Circular Economy
Boeing’s new Aircraft Recycling Programme is designed to turn retired aircraft into a high-quality source of spare parts.
Under the programme, Boeing engineers manage the aircraft teardown process end to end, while recovered parts go through meticulous repair and certification procedures before re-entering service.
With this initiative, Boeing promotes environmentally friendly dismantling processes, creates new revenue opportunities for airlines, and minimises waste.
Collaboration with AFRA-Accredited Partners
To maintain the highest environmental and quality standards in aircraft dismantling, Boeing works exclusively with facilities accredited by the Aircraft Fleet Recycling Association (AFRA).
The first strategic collaboration under this initiative has been established with ecube, a subsidiary of Unical Aviation Inc.
Ryan Faucett, Boeing’s Vice President of Environmental Sustainability, highlighted the programme’s significance:
“Effective lifecycle management is no longer just a requirement for the aerospace industry—it is a strategic imperative. With material recovery rates of up to 90%, this initiative reduces landfill waste, eases supply chain constraints, and delivers a return on investment for our customers.”
Sustainable Growth and Operational Strength
For more than 20 years, Boeing has been developing innovative solutions for aircraft recycling and the preservation of valuable components.
Having helped establish AFRA in 2006, the company notes that each dismantled aircraft can provide up to 6,000 certified reusable parts.
The new Revenue Sharing Model enables airlines and leasing companies to benefit from Boeing’s expertise in parts distribution, inventory management, and sustainability.
A Call to the Industry: “Join the Transformation”
Boeing invites all stakeholders in the aerospace sector to join its vision for responsible growth and resource efficiency.
Through its Aircraft Recycling Programme, Boeing aims to build a strong bridge between environmental responsibility and economic sustainability across the industry.
Aero Haber X-Twitter you can follow his account. Follow
