The Aircraft Fleet Recycling Association (AFRA) and Boeing have announced a joint vision aimed at improving transparency and data analysis across aircraft end-of-service management as part of wider efforts to advance sustainability and circularity within the aviation sector.

Speaking at AFRA’s recent 20th anniversary event, the organisations outlined a series of initiatives designed to provide the industry with better insight into the environmental and economic impact of aircraft retirement, parts reuse, material recovery and recycling activities.

The initiative reflects a growing industry focus on measuring and demonstrating the value generated through end-of-life aircraft management and the role it can play in supporting sustainability objectives.

As part of the effort, AFRA revealed it is developing a range of tools to support sustainability across the aviation ecosystem. These include the introduction of voluntary key performance indicators (KPIs) and reporting mechanisms within its accreditation framework, creating a common baseline for data management and continuous improvement across the sector.

According to the organisations, the approach complements Boeing’s focus on lifecycle traceability, stronger data governance and support for customers managing ageing fleets. It also builds on existing collaboration between AFRA and Boeing to facilitate secure data sharing among suppliers, OEMs, maintenance providers, dismantlers and recyclers.

The two organisations are also working with wider industry stakeholders, including through the International Aerospace Environmental Group (IAEG), where Boeing co-leads Working Group 14, which focuses on circularity and end-of-life considerations.

Boeing has increasingly expanded its activities in the aircraft recycling sector. In 2023, the manufacturer committed to using AFRA-accredited organisations for the dismantling and recycling of Boeing-owned aircraft. More recently, it has expanded its used serviceable material (USM) capabilities and launched an Aircraft Recycling Program aimed at supporting the aviation circular economy.

Lionel G. Roques, executive director of AFRA, said: “Boeing has been an integral part of AFRA’s journey since our inception two decades ago, and its growing commitment reflects the increasing importance of collaboration, transparency, and measurable outcomes across aviation sustainability.

“20 years on, the conversation is evolving, as aviation sustainability is incomplete without end-of-life management. More reliable and structured data, greater transparency, and shared standards are the building blocks of driving measurable progress in aircraft circularity.”

Tony Guiliano, director of strategy at Boeing Global Services, added: “Reliable, sector-wide data and traceability are essential to measure progress and scale circular solutions, and we will continue to collaborate across the industry to advance those outcomes.

“High-quality data also underpins more accurate valuation and stronger residual values for aircraft by improving maintenance transparency and customer confidence.

“We remain committed to using AFRA-accredited organisations for Boeing-owned aircraft and to practical actions that increase availability of used serviceable material for our customers.”

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