UK-Based Ecube Expands Aircraft Dismantling Operations to Arizona
In an ambitious move to meet rising demand in the aviation industry, Ecube, a company based in the United Kingdom, has inaugurated a new facility at Coolidge Municipal Airport, Arizona. This expansion marks Ecube as the singular entity providing end-of-life aircraft solutions on both European and North American soil.
Ecube, with existing operations in Wales and Spain, has responded to increased customer demand by opening its Coolidge facility. The company anticipates a surge in the retirement of both narrow-body and wide-body aircraft towards the end of 2022 and into 2023. According to Lee McConnellogue, CEO of Ecube, “We underwent an extensive exercise over the past 12 months in speaking with and listening to our customers to understand the optimal location for asset owners of EOL aircraft, this inevitably resulted in Ecube planting its flag at a new location in Arizona.” He added that the U.S. expansion aims to deliver consistent service and underscore the importance of the industry’s circular economy.
The decision to select Coolidge followed a thorough evaluation of potential sites, including four in Arizona and two in New Mexico. Key considerations included the acceptance of various aircraft types, a dry climate, and “favorable” sales tax conditions for customers.
In a 10-year lease agreement with Coolidge, Ecube secured 6.82 acres at the airport, committing to a base rent of $3,702.6 monthly, alongside fees for fuel and aircraft parking. The company projects its first-year revenue in Coolidge will be between $2 million and $3 million, with expectations to exceed $7.5 million by 2028.
Ecube has commenced operations with the dismantling of a Boeing 737-700. The company plans to disassemble 15 to 20 aircraft in its initial year, with numbers set to increase annually. Employment is also set to expand, with initial staffing between 15 to 25 employees growing to over 75 within five years.
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