Inside Look 7 Most Fascinating Abandoned Aircraft Boneyards in the American Southwest

Inside Look 7 Most Fascinating Abandoned Aircraft Boneyards in the American Southwest - Inside Davis Monthan Air Force Base Arizona The Largest Aircraft Cemetery with 4200 Aircraft

Tucked away in Tucson, Arizona, Davis-Monthan Air Force Base houses an extraordinary collection of retired and stored aircraft, earning the title of the world's largest aircraft boneyard. Officially known as the 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group (AMARG), this sprawling 2,600-acre site currently holds a remarkable 4,400 aircraft representing various branches of the US military and even NASA. It all began in 1946 as a storage facility for aging World War II aircraft, but its importance grew significantly during the Vietnam War, reaching a peak of around 6,000 aircraft.

Tucson's unique climate plays a pivotal role in preserving these aircraft. The arid air, with its low humidity and minimal rainfall, along with the high altitude, creates an environment that effectively combats corrosion and keeps the planes in a surprisingly good state of repair. The boneyard functions as a sort of giant spare parts warehouse for the military. The stored planes, from obsolete to potentially reusable, are a crucial resource for maintaining operational fleets at a lower cost. While unfortunately, tours are not offered currently, this vast aviation graveyard is a captivating representation of both the history of military aviation and the continual cycle of development in the field.

Located in Tucson, Arizona, Davis-Monthan Air Force Base houses the world's largest aircraft boneyard, officially known as the 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group (AMARG). This immense facility, spanning over 2,600 acres, currently stores more than 4,400 retired military aircraft, from various branches including the Air Force, Army, Navy, and even NASA. Established in 1946 as a storage site for surplus WWII bombers, the boneyard's role has evolved considerably. During the Vietnam War, its capacity peaked with roughly 6,000 aircraft.

The Tucson climate is crucial to the longevity of these stored aircraft. With very low humidity (10-20%), minimal rainfall (around 11 inches annually), and a high altitude of 2,550 feet, the dry, alkaline soil significantly inhibits corrosion. This unique environment is vital in preserving the aircraft for potentially decades, a remarkable feat considering the complexity and exposed surfaces of many designs.

While the primary function of the boneyard is long-term storage, a significant portion of the aircraft are retained for future part extraction or possible reuse. It serves as a massive inventory of spare components, not just for the US military but potentially the global aviation industry. This facet offers a compelling economic perspective on a seemingly wasteful repository of decommissioned aircraft. It also provides a detailed snapshot of American aviation history. From aging WWII bombers to advanced modern jets, the variety of designs is striking, a testament to the evolution of both military and technological thinking.

Despite its significant role, access to the base and specifically the boneyard is extremely limited. While there have been tours offered in the past, the facility does not currently provide regular public access to the AMARG facility. For those interested in aircraft preservation and engineering, the boneyard, while not generally accessible, remains an intriguing and vital component of the history of aerospace and military operations. Its impact extends to current research activities as engineers and students find value in studying the aircraft's design, materials, and failures to potentially inform future developments. Even in retirement, these aircraft play a unique and valuable role.

What else is in this post?

1. Inside Look 7 Most Fascinating Abandoned Aircraft Boneyards in the American Southwest - Inside Davis Monthan Air Force Base Arizona The Largest Aircraft Cemetery with 4200 Aircraft
2. Inside Look 7 Most Fascinating Abandoned Aircraft Boneyards in the American Southwest - Exploring Mojave Air Spaceport California Where Retired Boeing 747s Find Their Final Rest
3. Inside Look 7 Most Fascinating Abandoned Aircraft Boneyards in the American Southwest - The Roswell International Air Center New Mexico Home to American Airlines Former MD-80 Fleet
4. Inside Look 7 Most Fascinating Abandoned Aircraft Boneyards in the American Southwest - Phoenix Goodyear Airport Arizona Where Delta Airlines Parks Their Retired Aircraft
5. Inside Look 7 Most Fascinating Abandoned Aircraft Boneyards in the American Southwest - Southern California Logistics Airport Former George Air Force Base with 100 Retired Military Jets
6. Inside Look 7 Most Fascinating Abandoned Aircraft Boneyards in the American Southwest - Pinal Airpark Arizona The Final Stop for Many United Airlines Boeing 737s
7. Inside Look 7 Most Fascinating Abandoned Aircraft Boneyards in the American Southwest - Aircraft Storage Area at Edwards Air Force Base California Where Experimental Aircraft Rest

Inside Look 7 Most Fascinating Abandoned Aircraft Boneyards in the American Southwest - Exploring Mojave Air Spaceport California Where Retired Boeing 747s Find Their Final Rest

Nestled in the California desert, Mojave Air and Space Port is a fascinating place where retired commercial airliners, most notably the iconic Boeing 747, come to rest. This expansive facility has transformed into much more than a simple storage location – it's become a hub for aerospace research and development alongside the retirement process of commercial aircraft. The ability to freely wander through the boneyard and take photos has become more difficult due to tighter security measures put into place following the 9/11 attacks, yet the chance to see these enormous jets in varying states of disassembly offers a unique window into aviation history.

Some of the planes are disassembled for parts, while others are refurbished and might even get a new lease on life, highlighting the ongoing evolution of commercial aviation and related technology. The location of the boneyard, situated amidst significant aerospace facilities and along a major highway, emphasizes the close relationship between past aviation innovations and the exciting possibilities for the future in this industry. Witnessing the resting place of these aircraft can be a poignant reminder of the constant cycle of change and advancement within air travel.

Mojave Air and Space Port, situated in California, serves as a prominent aircraft boneyard where retired commercial airliners, notably Boeing 747s, are sent for their final disposition. Since the events of September 11, 2001, access to the facility has become more stringent, affecting photography and entry permissions, reflecting heightened security concerns. Beyond its role as an aircraft graveyard, Mojave has diversified into other critical functions. It acts as a hub for aircraft storage, maintenance, and even scrapping for airlines needing parts. Simultaneously, it also hosts a cluster of secretive aerospace research and development entities, making it a significant location for innovation.

A notable example of the site's role is the final flight of Qantas's Boeing 747, nicknamed "Wunala". On July 24, 2020, this iconic aircraft flew from LAX to Mojave, signaling the end of an era in air travel. The Mojave boneyard is home to a vast collection of retired commercial airliners, primarily passenger jets, alongside a smaller number of military planes. The disposition of these aircraft varies. Many are disassembled for usable components, while some are potentially refurbished for a return to service.


Mojave is just one node in a broader network of aircraft retirement and storage facilities across the nation. The largest, however, remains Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Arizona, which boasts a collection of over 4,400 aircraft. Mojave’s strategic location along California Highway 58, between Edwards Air Force Base and Tehachapi, has been instrumental in its growth as a center for aviation and aerospace.

The aircraft stored at Mojave are in various stages of decay, with some being entirely stripped of their internal components. Studying these reveals crucial insights into past and present aviation engineering practices and technologies. Its value, however, goes beyond mere history. The site continues to be a draw for enthusiasts and aviation aficionados, offering a rare and unique glimpse into the past and present of the aviation industry. In effect, it serves as a testament to human ingenuity and the continuous evolution of aviation technology.

Inside Look 7 Most Fascinating Abandoned Aircraft Boneyards in the American Southwest - The Roswell International Air Center New Mexico Home to American Airlines Former MD-80 Fleet

Nestled in New Mexico, the Roswell International Air Center (RIAC) is a fascinating mix of aviation history and modern-day storage. Located just south of Roswell, this sprawling facility, once a strategic Air Force base, now plays host to a large collection of retired aircraft, with a particular focus on former American Airlines MD-80s, or "Super 80s". The airport itself, which has supported commercial flights since 1940, retains some active commercial routes, primarily to Dallas-Fort Worth, but some other routes like those to Phoenix have seen temporary suspensions.

American Airlines' decision to send their retired MD-80 fleet to Roswell in 2019 highlights the constant change within the airline industry, as these aircraft now join other retired Boeing models and other aircraft types in this large boneyard. It's interesting that this location, with its ties to both historical military usage and the 1947 Roswell UFO incident, and modern airline needs has become a major hub for retired commercial jets in the Southwest. The sheer size of the airfield, encompassing over 5,000 acres with two major runways, gives a sense of its importance, although for the casual traveler, route options might be limited. This air center offers a unique window into how even large aircraft, once symbols of modern travel, eventually come to rest and often are simply stored away for future use, or to be stripped for parts. It's a compelling reminder that even in retirement, these machines continue to play a role in the industry.

The Roswell International Air Center (RIAC), situated just south of Roswell, New Mexico, has witnessed a fascinating transformation from its origins as Roswell Army Air Field during World War II. Initially serving a military purpose, it later transitioned into a hub for cargo operations, a prime example of how air travel evolves from military necessity to commercial utility.

The boneyard's most visible feature, however, is its collection of retired American Airlines McDonnell Douglas MD-80s. These aircraft, the backbone of domestic travel for decades, highlight the evolution of passenger preferences and industry trends. The MD-80 series is known for its resilience, with some aircraft racking up more than 75,000 flight cycles. This demonstrates a testament to robust engineering and strict maintenance practices throughout their service life.

RIAC isn't just a haven for American Airlines' retired MD-80s; it hosts a diverse array of aircraft, including military and cargo planes. This demonstrates the breadth of services the facility provides, encompassing a wide range of logistical and transport requirements. The presence of these retired MD-80s raises interesting questions about the economics of fleet retirement. Airlines can sell or lease parts, mitigating the overall costs of operating current fleets.

Compared to some boneyards, Roswell offers more advanced storage capabilities, potentially including climate control systems that guard the aircraft from harsh weather. This makes it a captivating site for those curious about aircraft preservation. Its history extends beyond commercial operations, as it still services military aircraft, a fascinating intersection of different sectors within aviation.

Roswell has also been involved in the testing of new aviation technologies, making it a center for engineering research and development. Aerospace companies seeking innovation in aviation practices partner with the air center. The connection to the famous Roswell UFO incident of 1947 adds another layer of intrigue, blending aviation history with a popular cultural phenomenon that draws curious visitors.

The future of RIAC seems promising with its ongoing pursuit of new collaborations and flight routes, indicating a willingness to expand its operations. In a wider context, RIAC plays a critical role in shaping the future of regional air travel connectivity. This New Mexico airport shows us how aircraft boneyards not only are a resting place for retired airplanes, but also are a vital aspect of current and future aviation needs.

Inside Look 7 Most Fascinating Abandoned Aircraft Boneyards in the American Southwest - Phoenix Goodyear Airport Arizona Where Delta Airlines Parks Their Retired Aircraft

Located about 20 miles west of Phoenix, Arizona, Phoenix Goodyear Airport has become a significant hub for storing retired aircraft, particularly those belonging to Delta Airlines. The dry climate of the Sonoran Desert, characterized by low humidity, makes this location ideal for preserving retired aircraft, reducing the risk of corrosion and extending their lifespan in storage. You can find many decommissioned planes, including iconic models like the Boeing 747, parked at this facility.

Goodyear Airport, along with other nearby locations like Pinal Airpark, highlights how Arizona has become a center for aircraft retirement and storage in the Southwest. These boneyards are not just dumping grounds, but part of the natural evolution of the airline industry. Airlines routinely retire aircraft, either due to age or evolving operational requirements, leading to a need for well-maintained storage facilities. This demonstrates the ever-changing dynamics of commercial air travel, where new, fuel-efficient aircraft gradually replace older models.

These facilities offer a unique and intriguing perspective for anyone interested in aviation. They are a clear reminder that even massive aircraft, once symbols of modern air travel, ultimately reach the end of their service life. But their story isn't entirely over at these storage locations. Sometimes, these aircraft are refurbished for a new purpose or serve as a valuable source of spare parts. As a result, the aircraft graveyard concept highlights both the cyclical nature of innovation and technology within aviation as well as the challenges and opportunities involved in navigating this dynamic environment.

Phoenix Goodyear Airport, located about 20 miles west of Phoenix, Arizona, is more than just another airport. It's become a significant storage location for Delta's retired aircraft, highlighting the fascinating lifecycle of commercial airliners. This unique role allows Delta to efficiently manage older aircraft that no longer fit their operational needs.


The aircraft parked there usually include models like the Boeing 767, as well as regional jets, reflecting changing airline strategies and customer demands. These planes have long service histories, some having accumulated more than 50,000 flight hours, which provides a wealth of data on aircraft aging and failure modes.


While primarily considered retired, many of these planes are maintained in a state that allows for potential refurbishment. Airlines constantly assess the economic benefits of reintroducing older models, depending on factors such as passenger demand and fuel costs. It's all about optimization of operational expenses.


The climate of the Sonoran Desert is well-suited for aircraft storage. The dry, low-humidity conditions minimize corrosion and keep the planes in relatively good condition, compared to aircraft stored in regions with higher moisture. Goodyear's location also provides a strategic advantage. Its proximity to Phoenix and major air routes makes it convenient for accessing needed parts from retired aircraft or even repositioning planes for future use, minimizing logistical hurdles.


The boneyard also plays a crucial role in parts salvage. Airlines often dismantle retired aircraft to retrieve usable components for their active fleet. This represents a more economical solution than buying brand-new parts and minimizes aircraft downtime.


The accumulation of retired aircraft at Phoenix Goodyear offers a window into the economic health of the aviation industry. Factors like fluctuations in fuel prices, changes in passenger preferences, and the constant drive to lower operational costs all play a role in airline decisions about retiring and storing aircraft.


The Goodyear area has a historical link to aviation. During World War II, it played a major role in aircraft production and testing. This historical backdrop complements its current role as a retirement hub, demonstrating the continued importance of the location to the aviation industry over the decades.


Looking toward the future, Phoenix Goodyear Airport's role in aircraft storage might evolve further. As travel patterns change, it could become a more critical hub for short-term aircraft storage related to new route development or fleet restructuring.


The planes in the Goodyear boneyard have sparked increased interest among engineers. They offer an excellent opportunity to study the design and structures of older aircraft, providing insights into potential failure modes, and developing maintenance strategies that could inform the design of future aircraft. From the old to the new, the evolution of aviation continues.

Inside Look 7 Most Fascinating Abandoned Aircraft Boneyards in the American Southwest - Southern California Logistics Airport Former George Air Force Base with 100 Retired Military Jets

Southern California Logistics Airport (SCLA), previously known as George Air Force Base, offers a compelling glimpse into the past and present of military aviation in the American Southwest. Located in Victorville, California, this 2,200-acre facility transitioned from a vital military base, operational from 1941 until its closure in 1992, to a bustling hub for a variety of aviation-related businesses. Today, SCLA's most intriguing feature is its role as a storage area for roughly 100 retired military aircraft. This collection of jets contributes significantly to the airport's reputation as a fascinating boneyard, a testament to both the might of past military operations and the ongoing evolution of aerospace technology.

The airport still boasts remnants of its military heritage, including a substantial 15,050-foot runway, capable of handling a wide variety of modern aircraft. While its primary function has shifted to civilian use, the lingering presence of the base's infrastructure, some now in a state of decay, coupled with the numerous retired jets, creates a distinct ambiance that draws visitors interested in aviation history. This blend of historical military significance and current civilian activity offers a captivating contrast, making SCLA a unique destination amongst the other aircraft boneyards found within the American Southwest. It stands as a potent reminder of the cyclical nature of military use and the subsequent adaptation of these spaces within the wider aviation landscape.

Located in Victorville, California, roughly 50 miles north of San Bernardino, the Southern California Logistics Airport (SCLA) has a fascinating history intertwined with military aviation. Originally established in 1941 as George Air Force Base, it served a crucial role during the Cold War era, acting as a training ground and staging area for numerous military operations. This base was integral to US military strategy during a turbulent time.

The airport's legacy extends beyond its operational past, as it now houses around 100 retired military jets, showcasing the progression of military aircraft design over several decades. Aircraft like the F-4 Phantom II and the A-10 Thunderbolt II are stored here, offering tangible evidence of engineering milestones in military aviation.

In 1992, George Air Force Base was decommissioned, and the site transitioned to civilian use, primarily focusing on cargo and logistics operations. This shift demonstrates how aviation facilities can adapt to changing industry needs. The airport now has a prominent runway that is 15,050 feet long and a secondary runway of 9,138 feet, a legacy of its military past allowing it to handle a variety of large planes.

SCLA, like other similar storage locations in drier climates, benefits from Southern California's arid environment. The low humidity and lack of rainfall significantly inhibit corrosion, helping to preserve these retired military aircraft, extending their lifespan in storage and making potential future reuse or parts retrieval a possibility.


The airport is a vital source for aerospace component salvage and resale. It's become a hub where parts from retired aircraft are either sold or put back into the supply chain, representing a more economical option than purchasing new components. This perspective shows the practical economic aspects of a location often associated with mere obsolescence.

Furthermore, the airport is employed as a training center, notably for drone operation and flight simulation exercises. This use reveals the facility's relevance to ongoing advancements in aviation technology. The repurposed infrastructure remains visible throughout the site, offering a visible connection to its past.

Engineers gain valuable insights from studying the various aircraft here. The materials and design aspects of these retired jets provide an opportunity to understand how they age and ultimately fail, potentially leading to enhanced designs for future aircraft.


SCLA provides significant economic advantages for the Victorville region by supporting jobs related to aircraft maintenance, logistics, and aerospace engineering. It's become a substantial part of the industrial base in that region.

SCLA is ideally situated for aircraft involved in heavy cargo transport, acting as a key player in cargo logistics operations for major freight companies, reflecting the global demand for seamless cargo transport.


Aviation enthusiasts often gravitate towards SCLA as it presents a distinctive window into the past and present of military aviation. It offers an uncommon view of retired military aircraft in various stages of decomposition and allows for rare photo opportunities for anyone passionate about engineering marvel. The Mojave Desert's natural setting adds to the impression of historical context.

While many might see these locations as a resting place for outdated aircraft, understanding their significance as active components in the aircraft parts supply chain, logistics, and research shows the ongoing value these boneyards provide in the larger scheme of aviation. It's a complex ecosystem related to both aerospace and history.

Inside Look 7 Most Fascinating Abandoned Aircraft Boneyards in the American Southwest - Pinal Airpark Arizona The Final Stop for Many United Airlines Boeing 737s

Pinal Airpark, situated near Tucson, Arizona, has become a significant storage location for retired commercial aircraft, particularly a large number of United Airlines Boeing 737s. Originally established as a military airfield, this 2,080-acre facility has evolved into a prominent aircraft boneyard, offering a solution for airlines looking to retire older aircraft. The dry, desert environment of Arizona is ideal for long-term aircraft storage, significantly reducing the chances of corrosion and preserving the aircraft in good condition. This is beneficial, allowing these aircraft to either be potentially brought back into service at some point or serve as a valuable source of parts for other aircraft.

As major airlines like United and Delta update their fleets with newer, more fuel-efficient aircraft, locations like Pinal Airpark have become critical for efficiently managing the retirement process. It's a reflection of the continuous evolution within the commercial aviation industry. This facility isn't solely focused on retired aircraft either; it also houses private companies and government entities, highlighting its unique position as a mixed-use aviation hub. It's an interesting example of how a former military installation can adapt to new requirements and play a valuable role in the wider aviation landscape.

Pinal Airpark in Arizona, situated about 45 miles southeast of Phoenix, has become a significant resting place for retired commercial aircraft, especially notable for housing a collection of United Airlines' Boeing 737s. Originally established in the mid-1940s as a military airfield, its purpose has evolved over time, reflecting the cyclical nature of aircraft usage and the airline industry's operational dynamics.

The airpark's location in the Arizona desert provides a unique advantage. The dry climate, with its low humidity, significantly minimizes corrosion, thereby preserving the structural integrity of the stored aircraft for extended periods. This contributes to the airpark's attractiveness as a storage hub.

The facility's size, spanning over 2,200 acres, allows for the simultaneous storage of a considerable number of aircraft, often over 300 at any given time. This makes it a crucial location for airlines managing older aircraft, including the Boeing 737s that are increasingly retired as the industry transitions towards newer, more efficient models.

It is noteworthy that the airpark serves not only as a storage location but also as a source of parts and materials for active fleets. Airlines regularly salvage usable components from retired aircraft, often choosing this cost-effective option over buying new parts.

Beyond the practical aspects of parts procurement, Pinal Airpark provides a unique platform for engineering and aviation research. Engineers and specialists frequently use the collection of retired aircraft, including the diverse mix of Boeing 737s and various cargo planes, to study aircraft materials and designs. Such analyses can identify potential failure modes and offer critical insights for advancing future aircraft designs.

Interestingly, the airpark is not exclusively a static storage location. It also functions as a facility for ongoing aircraft maintenance and testing. This multi-faceted role ensures that certain aircraft types remain suitable for potential future use, whether it's reactivation or resale.

However, while Pinal Airpark offers a fascinating window into the history and evolution of aviation, it's also important to acknowledge that access is restricted due to security concerns. Unlike some other boneyards with regular public tours, the airpark maintains tight control over entry, reflecting the critical nature of the assets stored within its confines.

Despite the limited access, Pinal Airpark represents a compelling case study for how aircraft are managed through their lifecycle. It offers a glimpse into the storage techniques designed to preserve retired aircraft in relatively good condition, through periodic inspections and maintenance. This allows for potential reactivation should operational needs change in the future or provides a supply of readily available parts for continued operation of modern aircraft.

The interplay of economic, engineering, and historical aspects at Pinal Airpark showcases the significance of these facilities in the broader aviation landscape. They serve not just as resting places for retired aircraft, but also as crucial nodes in the cycle of aircraft maintenance, technology evolution, and overall cost management within the airline industry.

Inside Look 7 Most Fascinating Abandoned Aircraft Boneyards in the American Southwest - Aircraft Storage Area at Edwards Air Force Base California Where Experimental Aircraft Rest

Edwards Air Force Base's Aircraft Storage Area in California isn't just a graveyard for old planes; it's a living testament to the history of aviation innovation. Founded in the 1930s, Edwards has long been the epicenter of experimental aircraft, reflecting the continuous push towards better and faster aerospace technology. This massive 301,000-acre base is a repository of retired planes, some of which were at the forefront of pioneering aeronautical developments. You'll find a variety of unique aircraft here, many representing a pivotal chapter in the evolution of flight. The Mojave Desert area surrounding Edwards is also a poignant reminder of aviation's inherent risks and rewards, with numerous crash sites of experimental aircraft dotting the landscape, serving as a constant reminder of the progress that came at a cost. It's a place that attracts not just casual observers, but those genuinely interested in aviation's engineering history. It is a captivating blend of deactivated hardware with active aerospace research, providing a vivid picture of both the past and promising future possibilities within the field of aviation.

The Aircraft Storage Area at Edwards Air Force Base, nestled in the high desert of California, is a fascinating repository of experimental aircraft. These planes, often showcasing unique modifications or experimental designs, represent a snapshot of the continuous evolution in aerospace technology. Edwards, with its long history dating back to the 1930s, has been integral to both military and civilian aviation advancements, including the Space Shuttle program and cutting-edge drone technology. The dry, arid climate of the region is a huge benefit, significantly mitigating the corrosive effects of moisture on the delicate materials and intricate designs of these experimental aircraft, thus extending their lifespan.

Among the stored aircraft, you might find planes with unusual and unconventional designs—prototypes that never made it into mass production. These provide a unique opportunity for researchers and engineers to dissect and analyze both successes and failures in design, materials, and operational characteristics. Unfortunately, public access to the storage area is limited due to security regulations. Nonetheless, engineers, researchers, and even aviation enthusiasts are captivated by the insights this site offers into the field of aerospace, a treasure trove of data available even without visiting the site.


Several of the aircraft stored within the perimeter are directly linked to the nation's space exploration initiatives. Modified jets designed to test re-entry conditions, for instance, highlight the connection between aviation and the broader field of aerospace science. The diverse collection of experimental aircraft stored here serves various purposes, from evaluating new weapons systems and technologies to supporting complex research projects, thus solidifying Edwards's critical role in national defense.


Observing how the aircraft transition from active service to storage provides valuable lessons for engineers and designers about managing the lifecycle of complex systems. This transition also offers insights into how the evolution of aerospace technology drives changes in military strategy and priorities. Even in retirement, these aircraft can continue to serve as platforms for testing, experimentation, and research, effectively extending their value and allowing the next generation of aerospace professionals to learn from past endeavors.


The historical prominence of Edwards as a pivotal flight testing ground has fostered a rich collection of stories, myths, and legends, intertwining with the technical aspects of aviation. This area thus becomes not only a place for study but also a vibrant testament to the enduring cultural impact of flight in the Southwest and a cornerstone of aviation history.