Avioeroon

Avioeroon is a term of Finnish origin that translates to "airplane graveyard" or "aircraft boneyard." It refers to a place where decommissioned or retired aircraft are stored. These sites are typically large, open areas where planes are brought after their operational service life has ended. They serve a variety of purposes, including storage, dismantling for parts, and sometimes as a source of raw materials.

The reasons for an aircraft ending up in an avioeroon are varied. They can be due to age, obsolescence, damage sustained in service, or economic factors making continued operation unfeasible. Many aircraft are flown to these locations for long-term storage, where they await a decision on their future. This decision might involve being sold for scrap, refurbished for a new purpose, or preserved as museum pieces.

The process of dismantling at an avioeroon often involves salvaging usable parts, such as engines, avionics, and structural components, which can then be sold to other airlines or maintenance facilities. The remaining fuselage and airframe are typically broken down for their metal content, primarily aluminum, which is then recycled. Some aircraft may undergo complete dismantling, while others might remain largely intact for extended periods.

These sites are often located in arid or desert climates, as dry conditions help to preserve the aircraft from corrosion and decay for longer. While often seen as a final resting place for aircraft, avioeroons play a crucial role in the aviation industry's lifecycle, facilitating the responsible disposal and recycling of aging fleets.