AerFin, the aviation asset specialist that buys, sells, leases and repairs aircraft, engines and parts, has made history by undertaking the first-ever commercial disassembly of aircraft at the bustling Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA), a project that underscores our commitment to innovation, operational excellence and sustainable aviation practices.

The ambitious project involved the acquisition of six Airbus A330-200 aircraft. These aircraft had been parked at HKIA since 2018 and required careful planning and precise execution to disassemble them safely and efficiently within one of the world’s busiest airports, an environment where over 1,000 flights operate daily.

AerFin’s Chief Executive Officer, Simon Goodson, said: “This project embodies the AerFin way – a unique blend of commercial insight, operational rigour and technical excellence. It shows what can be achieved when we combine ambition with deep industry collaboration and an unwavering desire to solve complexity on behalf of our customers.

“Our team worked hand-in-hand with operators and stakeholders over many months to design a practical, safe and efficient plan for this disassembly – and we delivered it with the precision and professionalism that define us. When we say we’ll do something, we do it — with confidence, reliability and a clear view of the way ahead.”

AerFin’s Chief Operational Officer, Simon Bayliss, said: “This project marks a significant milestone not only for AerFin and its project partners China Development Bank, CDB Aviation, HAECO, Great China Aviation Consulting (GCAC) and others, but also for the broader aviation aftermarket industry. By completing this complex harvesting, disassembly and USM distribution project at a tier-one international airport, we’ve set a new benchmark for what’s possible in asset management.

“As we continue to grow and expand our global footprint, this achievement reflects the commitment and technical expertise that define AerFin. Our forward-looking approach means we don’t just adapt to change — we anticipate it, bring clarity to complexity and find new ways to support our customers and partners.”

This milestone project forms part of a broader strategic initiative. In 2024, 32 A330ceo aircraft were permanently retired from commercial service. AerFin secured 18 of those assets — a move that significantly enhances our ability to support A330ceo operators with an unparalleled inventory of high-quality, lower-cost components. It’s a bold step forward that reinforces our position as a trusted partner for customers seeking value, availability and support across the A330ceo platform.

Overcoming Unprecedented Challenges

This project presented unique challenges from the outset. Conducting an aircraft disassembly at an active airport required extensive coordination with multiple stakeholders, including the Hong Kong Civil Aviation Department (HKCAD) and Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK). Both organisations needed assurance that the project would meet rigorous safety, regulatory and environmental standards.

The complexity was heightened by the inclusion of Pratt & Whitney PW4000 engines which presented a unique set of disassembly and logistics challenges. Handling these engines safely within the HKIA environment required detailed technical planning and adaptive engineering solutions, which AerFin’s teams navigated with precision.

In addition to securing the necessary regulatory approvals, AerFin collaborated closely with local partners, including HAECO and Great China Aviation Consulting (GCAC), to work with the AAHK to establish a protected disassembly bay within the airport. This innovative solution allowed disassembly work to proceed without disrupting HKIA’s daily operations.

AerFin’s Chief Operational Officer, Simon Bayliss, added: “The complex logistics of this project were further compounded by unpredictable external factors, including typhoons. Despite these challenges, our teams maintained exceptional adaptability and focus, ensuring the project remained on track.”

A True Collaborative Effort

The success of this groundbreaking initiative was made possible through collaboration with local stakeholders, each bringing essential expertise and resources:
• HAECO provided vital maintenance support.
• GCAC / Skyrise managed the disassembly process.
• B&H Worldwide oversaw the complex logistics.
• PAPAS facilitated airside access for personnel and equipment.
• The Hong Kong Civil Aviation Department and Airport Authority Hong Kong ensured regulatory compliance.

This project is another example of AerFin’s proven ability to navigate complex, high-stakes transactions — delivering progress with confidence and the reliability our partners have come to expect.

It also further strengthens AerFin’s close working relationship with HAECO across a number of areas of mutual strategic interest and growth.

What set this project apart was our integrated approach. Our commercial, operational and technical teams worked as one — aligning across time zones, disciplines and challenges to find the way ahead. It’s this balance of insight and execution that enables us to take on high-stakes programmes like this one and deliver value without compromise.

But this wasn’t just a story of external collaboration. It was also a powerful demonstration of what we can achieve when we work together across the business. From engineering and logistics to commercial, contracts, and compliance – nearly every part of AerFin played a role in making this project a success. This was collective effort at its best: aligned, agile and all pulling in the same direction to deliver a result that sets a new industry benchmark.

AerFin’s groundbreaking work has since been recognised by the industry, with the project receiving the prestigious Editor’s Choice award at the Ishka Deals of the Year Awards.

Delivering Value and Sustainability

The disassembly of these six aircraft is already yielding tangible results. The parts harvested from the airframes are being repurposed to support airlines worldwide, reducing the need for newly manufactured components and contributing to more sustainable aviation practices. This approach aligns with AerFin’s purpose: to breathe new life into aviation.

The engines removed from these aircraft have already found new homes, with eight sold in October 2024 and four more placed shortly afterward. This rapid turnaround reflects the high demand for quality Used Serviceable Material (USM) and AerFin’s capability to deliver it efficiently.