Toward a Strategic Approach to End-of-Life Aircraft Recycling Projects A Research Agenda in Transdisciplinary Context

Abstract

The number of planes at the end of life is increasing. Innovative management practice of aircraft at the end of life can be considered as a transdisciplinary context. Moreover, regarding dynamics and multidimensionality of aircraft recycling projects, conventional management systems cannot be sufficient and responsive. The purpose of this paper is to address a research agenda that support various aspects of dynamics and transdisciplinarity of end of life aircraft recycling projects (EOLARP) by a strategic conceptual framework. Four sections of the framework including business model, market and industry, knowledge management and performance measurement make a basis for addressing the essential issues in EOLARP business ecosystem, which needs an incorporated approach of different disciplines and players. Further studies and works on each arena in this framework are valuable in overcoming difficulties facing managers and strategic partners in EOLARP.

Product End-of-Life Problem in the Context of Reverse Supply Chain Analysis

“…The volume of EOL aircraft is very small compared to that of electronics or vehicles. In addition, the residual value of components and materials in aircraft can be very high, depending on the technology of dismantling and disassembly used; aircraft consisting of high-quality alloys and sub-assemblies with substantial market value, such as engines and landing gear [7]. The treatment of these aircraft must be economically attractive to produce value for all actors and advanced methods and processes are therefore required.…”

“…Stakeholder theory emphasizes that companies need to consider the effect of their actions on the group of stakeholders. Suppliers are the main stakeholder in implementation of a green supply chain, but it is also necessary to identify other internal and external stakeholders and assess the impact of manufacturer's strategies on them [7], [23]. An alternative theory, resource dependence theory, proposes that in the supply chain, member firms should cooperate to find higher performance advantages in the long term instead of pursuing short-term benefits at the expense of others [24].…”

“…The market for components and the number of aircraft to be scrapped, the effect of technological development on expected life time and the role of stakeholders are other factors that determine the problem context of the aircraft EOL business. According to [7] the role of component dealers, the demand for spare part components, and external factors, which include financial crisis and the demand for used aircraft are other elements that affect the economics of this value chain. The first step of a value chain analysis is mapping [29].…”

“…The International Standards Office (ISO) has introduced a method for calculating the performance of the recycling of Road Vehicles. However, no model has been defined for measuring performance within the aviation sector [7]. This section provides a review of some indicators that help evaluate the rebirthing value chain.…”

Raw material usage and waste recycling challenges in aircraft industry

“…3. The recycling process of the End-of-Life aircrafts [20] grade industrial purposes, and only 15% is used for high grade industrial purposes. Energy harvesting is totally absent (Figs 4 and 5).…”