Three Airbus A220s will continue flying for an interim period before being dismantled for parts, while their engines will be offered on long-term lease. The aircraft were jointly acquired by aviation parts supplier AerFin and private investment firm Turning Rock Partners, Aviation Week reports.

Such transactions reflect strong demand for Pratt & Whitney GTF engines and spare parts. Supply chain difficulties can make dismantling relatively young aircraft financially attractive to owners, even when they remain suitable for continued operation. The latest deal did not specify how long the acquired A220s would remain in service.

For AerFin and Turning Rock Partners, the acquisition builds on an established business model. In 2025, the companies agreed to purchase and dismantle three A320neo aircraft, similarly seeking to unlock the value of their components and engines.

AerFin CEO Simon Goodson said that supplying used serviceable material for the A220 creates additional sources of supply for operators and lessors. According to Goodson, this improves parts availability and gives customers greater flexibility.

Speaking at MRO Europe 2025, Goodson described early aircraft teardowns as a proactive strategy that allows operators to reduce maintenance costs and their exposure to original equipment manufacturers’ pricing and delivery lead times. He explained that owners can unlock the residual value of assets that, although still capable of operating, may offer greater potential with less risk through dismantling under certain market conditions.

The first A220 teardown was carried out in 2025 by Delta Material Services and lessor Azorra. The aircraft had previously operated with EgyptAir, opening up a new source of used parts for the type.

The latest acquisition also follows a change in AerFin’s ownership, after Orix Aviation acquired the UK-based company in August. Orix said at the time that AerFin would expand its capabilities across the aircraft lifecycle, from leasing and asset management to teardown and aftermarket support.

Orix acted as transaction adviser and technical inspector in last year’s acquisition of the three A320neos. For the latest A220 transaction, the technical inspection was performed by Shannon Technical Services.