Ten Applications of Retired Aircraft in the Low-Altitude Economy

Category: Industry News

Release time: 2025-06-21

Overview: With the rapid development of China’s low-altitude economy, retired aircraft are transforming from “airborne giants” into carriers for multi-sector resource recycling. Their application scenarios are continually expanding, making them a vital force in driving the green economy and industrial innovation.

With the rapid development of China’s low-altitude economy, retired aircraft are transforming from “airborne giants” into versatile platforms for resource recycling across multiple sectors. Their application scenarios continue to expand, making them a vital force driving the green economy and industrial innovation. Drawing on years of experience in servicing retired aircraft, Changhang Technology has identified ten innovative applications of retired aircraft in the low-altitude economy:

1. Aviation Education and Training Platform

Retired aircraft are widely used in teaching and practical training at aviation colleges and vocational schools. “For example, models such as the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 have been converted into instructional tools, enabling students to acquire professional skills through hands-on courses involving disassembly and maintenance,” said the head of vocational education business at Century Aviation Group. According to statistics, more than 100 retired aircraft are already serving the field of vocational education in China. “Most of these retired aircraft were introduced to Chinese institutions with our assistance from overseas, and currently we still have over 30 retired aircraft in stock domestically,” said the head of vocational education business at Century Aviation Group.

2. Aviation Science Popularization and Study-Travel Base

“Museums, science and technology museums, and aviation-themed parks are introducing retired aircraft and combining them with VR technology and dynamic simulations to create immersive science education experiences,” said the head of vocational education at Shiji Hangda Aviation Group. “Aviation science education and study tours are also emerging as important areas for the repurposing of retired aircraft.” Visitors can step into the aircraft cabins to experience the principles of flight or disassemble components to gain a deeper understanding of aviation technology, thereby sparking young people’s interest in aviation.

3. Creative Renovation of Commercial Spaces

Retired aircraft are being repurposed into unique spaces such as themed restaurants, cafes, and hotel rooms. For example, the passenger cabin can be transformed into a dining area, observation decks can be built above the wings, and the cockpit can become a popular打卡 spot for social media influencers. “This kind of renovation not only boosts commercial value but also gives aircraft a ‘second life,’” said the head of vocational education at Century Aviation Group.

4. Aircraft Material Recovery and Recycling

High-value components that have been disassembled—such as engines, landing gear, and avionics equipment—are refurbished and reintroduced into the aviation parts market, helping airlines reduce their operating costs. Airbus’s aircraft full-lifecycle service center established in China achieves a material recovery rate of over 90%, significantly higher than the industry average.

5. Air Sports and Flying Camps

Retired helicopters and small aircraft are being used for aviation sports activities such as simulated flight experiences. “Currently, many aviation flight camps across China have introduced retired aircraft and complete sets of aviation simulation equipment to offer simulated flight experiences,” said the head of vocational education at Shiji Hangda Aviation Group.

6. Art Exhibitions and Cultural & Creative Derivatives

Aircraft components are being transformed into artistic creations such as sculptures, furniture, and accessories. For example, aircraft wings can be fashioned into desks, and fuselage skins can be processed into decorative paintings—preserving the industrial aesthetic while also generating economic value.

7. Emergency Rescue and Drill Facilities

Retired aircraft fuselages are used in scenarios such as fire drills and emergency evacuation training. “The internal structure of retired aircraft can simulate real disaster environments, enhancing the practical skills of rescue personnel while reducing training costs,” said the head of vocational education at Century Hangda Aviation Group.

8. Research and Technological Innovation Test Bench

Aircraft R&D companies are using retired aircraft to test new sensors or communication equipment. According to the head of vocational education at Century Aviation Group, “For example, some manufacturers and universities are making full use of retired aircraft in their research on aircraft and components to verify performance and accelerate the practical application of new technologies.”

9. Reuse of low-carbon materials

After being sorted and recycled, metal materials such as aluminum and titanium can be used to manufacture components for new-energy vehicles or building structures, thereby reducing resource waste. This initiative aligns with the “dual-carbon” goals and promotes a green transformation of the aviation industry.

10. Vocational Skills Training for Veterans

Retired aircraft serve as training platforms for veterans, providing instruction in areas such as aviation operations and aircraft maintenance. In some regions across China, collaborations among government, educational institutions, and enterprises are helping veterans acquire skills related to the low-altitude economy and facilitating their career transitions.
The diversified applications of retired aircraft in the low-altitude economy not only extend their service life but also promote industrial integration and efficient resource utilization. In the future, with continued policy support and technological innovation, this sector will unlock even greater economic and social value, becoming a key growth engine for "new-quality productivity."

Keywords: Ten Applications of Retired Aircraft in the Low-Altitude Economy