Strategic Acquisition of Airbus A380 Aircrafts
TARMAC Aerosave, a prominent French aircraft Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) company, has strategically expanded its operations by acquiring three Airbus A380 aircrafts. This acquisition from EastMerchant Capital GmbH, a German asset management firm, signifies TARMAC Aerosave’s commitment to bolstering its parts supply chain. The company’s facility at Tarbes–Lourdes–Airport (LDE) in Southwest France will oversee the dismantling and recycling of these aircraft over the coming months.
Enhancing Global A380 Support Through Innovative Recycling
The three A380s, already stationed in long-term storage at LDE, will be methodically dismantled. AMS Aircraft Services, located near London Gatwick Airport (LGW), and USM supplier Skyline Aero are crucial partners in this project, providing technical support and expertise in the selection of serviceable materials for the used parts market. This initiative not only supports the global fleet of A380s but also underscores the growing demand for sustainable aviation practices.
Expertise and Facility Expansion
Since its inception in 2007, TARMAC Aerosave has developed substantial capabilities in aircraft re-delivery and decommissioning, having re-delivered around 1,200 aircraft and dismantled 400 airframes and 230 engines. In 2024, the company further enhanced its operational capacity by opening a new $15 million hangar at Teruel Airport (TEV) in Spain. Described as the largest metal-textile hangar in the world, it is equipped to handle one widebody or four narrowbodies simultaneously. This expansion is pivotal in accommodating the increasing number of A380s requiring decommissioning and recycling services.
Commitment to Sustainable Practices
The decision to acquire and recycle these A380s is heavily influenced by TARMAC Aerosave’s dedication to sustainability. As explained by Alexandre Brun, CEO of TARMAC Aerosave, the company is committed to extending the operational life of A380s while ensuring environmentally responsible recycling of non-usable parts. Baldur Vander, Managing Director of EastMerchant, and Bradley Gregory, CEO of Skyline, both commend TARMAC Aerosave’s expertise and rapid decommissioning capability which are crucial in meeting current market demands and supporting long-term commitments to global A380 operators.