Tarmac Aerosave recently signed a partnership agreement with EastMerchant for the recycling three Airbus A380sa commitment to a more sustainable aviation industry. The agreement, reached at the MRO Europe show in Barcelona, aims to dismantle these jumbo jets to recover and reuse their parts, thus meeting the growing demand for aeronautical components. In parallel, Tarmac Aerosave has already put back into service 29 A380 since 2021. Located in Tarbes, this project illustrates their ability to innovate in aircraft recycling, while respecting the environment and strengthening the aeronautical supply chain.
October 23, 2024, at the prestigious MRO Europe show in Barcelona, Tarmac Aerosave made its mark by unveiling an innovative partnership with German company EastMerchant. This ambitious contract covers the recycling of three Airbus A380s, a project in line with the company's ongoing efforts to offer environmentally-friendly recycling solutions.
The emblematic place of Tarbes
The Tarbes site will be the setting for this complex process. The three A380s, currently parked at Tarmac Aerosave, will undergo meticulous dismantling to enable spare parts to be reused. This project meets a growing demand for components for airline fleets worldwide. The Tarbes site, already renowned for its expertise, was strategically selected to host this huge worksite.
Proven expertise
Since 2021, Tarmac Aerosave has not only returned 29 A380s to service, but also recycled up to 15 of these giants of the air. This latest initiative underlines the company's perseverance in its quest for excellence. By adhering to modern standards of sustainable development, it has positioned itself at the forefront of the aeronautical industry when it comes to aircraft recycling.
Partnership with EastMerchant
The partnership with EastMerchant is a major asset for Tarmac Aerosave. By recycling three aerial behemoths, they are effectively meeting market demand for used parts that are still in good condition. This latest contract illustrates the interconnection of these two entities, eager to demonstrate their commitment to eco-responsibility.
An ambitious, environmentally-friendly project
This initiative comes at a time when environmental concerns are taking center stage. Tarmac Aerosave and EastMerchant are proud to be at the forefront of aeronautical recycling. By deconstructing aircraft and recycling every possible component, they are helping to reduce carbon footprints while optimizing existing resources.
Expanding industrial capacity
Building on this momentum, Tarmac Aerosave recently inaugurated a fourth hangar dedicated to wide-body aircraft. This ultramodern 8,000-square-meter structure, which can accommodate up to four A320s in addition to the A380, bears witness to the company's continued growth. It extends the company's handling and storage capacity to meet growing market needs.
Ongoing commitment
Tarmac Aerosave's work doesn't stop there. Their partnership with the Occitan design office Zelin takes the goal of greening the industry even further. While Boeing explores solutions to make its cabins more recyclable (more info here), Tarmac Aerosave continues to transform the face of modern aeronautics.

Comparing aspects of the Tarmac Aerosave partnership
Aspect | Description |
Partner | EastMerchant |
Number of Airbus A380s recycled | 3 units |
Recycling location | Tarbes site |
Contract date | October 23, 2024 |
Type of aircraft | Large carriers |
Industrial capacity | Increased in Tarbes |
Innovative company | Tarmac Aerosave |
Demand response | Increasing number of parts |
Re-commissioned model | 29 A380s since 2021 |
Related event | MRO Europe |
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