AIRCRAFT END-OF-LIFE

Where do aircraft go when they die? The global aviation sector is expanding at a rapid pace and by 2050; the industry could be handling some 16 billion travellers and 400 million tons of cargo annually. At some stage, maintenance, repair and upgrading become uneconomic and at this point the owner will consider taking the aircraft out of service. It is estimated that over 9,700 aircraft are to be permanently retired or withdrawn from service over the next 20 years. In many cases the retired airframe will contain valuable components and parts that can be returned to 
service.

LIFESPAN OF AN AIRCRAFT

Bhoja air crash at Islamabad had generated widespread comment on the age of the aircraft being above 20 yrs old and still being engaged in service.Without prejudice to the impending investigation, let's look at what governs the airworthiness of an aircraft and especially when aging.