Satair Chengdu, an Airbus Services company, has completed the acquisition of an A319 airframe from China Asset Leasing Company (CALC Tianjin), a wholly owned subsidiary of China Aircraft Leasing Group. The agreement marks the first asset purchase for Satair Chengdu and represents an important step forward in the company’s ambition to become a leader in aircraft end-of-life solutions.
The aircraft in question, manufactured in 2005 and formerly operated by Sichuan Airlines, will be dismantled by Airbus (Chengdu) Lifecycle Services (ALS). Once dismantled, the high-quality used serviceable materials (USM) will be made available through Satair’s global distribution channels as well as those of VAS Aero Services. This ensures the components will be reused efficiently, extending their value across international markets.
A key aspect of the deal is its scope, which includes both the airframe and the engines. ALS will provide CALC with engine services covering the removal, preservation, and storage of the A319’s two engines. This arrangement is designed to deliver a fully integrated end-of-life solution, ensuring that all major parts of the aircraft are treated with equal focus on quality and efficiency.
Andy Lee, Managing Director for Satair in China, described the transaction as a “significant milestone” for Satair Chengdu. He emphasised that working with an established partner such as CALC, while drawing on the expertise of ALS, would allow the business to strengthen its capacity to meet rising demand for high-quality USM and to support the full lifecycle of aircraft within the global market.
For CALC, the transaction represents the beginning of a new collaboration. Donald Liu, General Manager of CALC Tianjin noted: “We are delighted to have completed this transaction with Satair Chengdu. This sale represents a successful collaboration and demonstrates our commitment to working with industry leaders to provide comprehensive and efficient aircraft solutions across the asset’s entire lifecycle.”
The airframe was officially delivered on September 18, with the deal secured by a sale-and-purchase agreement. Both companies see the transaction as the foundation for a long-term partnership that could expand further in the years ahead, reflecting the growing importance of sustainable and efficient end-of-life aircraft management in the aviation sector.
