China’s first aircraft dismantling project within the Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP) was officially launched on Friday at the Hainan FTP One-Stop Aircraft Maintenance Base, marking a significant step in the development of the region’s aviation industry.
The project is being carried out by Grand China Aviation Maintenance Co Ltd under HNA Technic and represents the completion of Hainan’s aviation maintenance value chain, from aircraft servicing to end-of-life dismantling and component recycling.
Aircraft dismantling plays a crucial role in the aviation circular economy. The process involves disassembling retired aircraft, inspecting and refurbishing usable components, and recycling valuable materials. This helps extend the lifespan of aviation parts, reduces waste, and generates both economic and environmental benefits.
The project is expected to strengthen the competitiveness of Hainan’s aviation maintenance sector by enabling the recovery and reuse of aircraft components for domestic and international markets.
The Hainan Free Trade Port offers several advantages for the industry. Located on China’s southern coast, Hainan serves as an important gateway linking China with the Pacific and Indian Oceans. The region also benefits from established expertise in aircraft maintenance, repair and modification.
Supportive policies introduced under the Hainan Free Trade Port framework have further boosted the sector. The free trade port, regarded as the world’s largest by area, fully implemented island-wide special customs operations in December 2025, allowing easier movement of overseas goods, broader zero-tariff benefits and a more business-friendly regulatory environment.
Industry experts note that the global market for repaired and remanufactured used serviceable aircraft components continues to grow. Hainan’s preferential policies, particularly its zero-tariff measures and streamlined import procedures, are expected to help companies lower operational costs and improve efficiency when refurbishing parts recovered from retired aircraft.
The launch of the project is seen as an important milestone in expanding China’s aviation recycling industry and supporting the sustainable development of the aviation sector.
