It’s a common misconception that the age of commercial aircraft is measured like that of human beings, based solely on the number of years they have been in service. However, did you know that the lifespan of narrow-body short-range commercial jets is usually shorter than that of long-range commercial jets? This is because an aircraft’s lifespan is primarily determined by the number of pressurization cycles rather than the number of years it has been in operation.
So, what exactly do we mean by pressurization cycles? A pressurization cycle occurs when an aircraft is pressurized, which typically happens during takeoff and landing. If we relate this to the lifespan of a typical commercial aircraft, it can operate for about 20 to 35 years, depending on how it is utilized.
Pressurization allows passengers to breathe normally at altitudes above 10,000 feet. However, the process of cabin pressurization puts stress on the aircraft’s airframe. Over time, this can lead to wear and tear, which may result in serious safety issues if not properly managed. For this reason, airlines closely monitor the pressurization cycles of each aircraft in their fleet to ensure airworthiness.
Why Long-Range Planes have a Longer Lifespan
Given this information, one might assume that the lifespan of long-range jets is shorter than that of smaller planes, but the opposite is true. Short-range aircraft typically have shorter lifespans than long-range wide-body aircraft. This is largely due to their higher utilization rates; they undergo pressurization more frequently throughout the day. For example, a Boeing 737 can complete up to eight short sectors in a single day, resulting in eight pressurization cycles. In contrast, a Boeing 777 flying long-haul may only be pressurized twice in a 24-hour period, regardless of the flight duration. The key factor here is the number of times a plane is pressurized, not just the duration of the flight.
Is there a way to extend an aircraft’s lifespan? Manufacturers usually specify the maximum number of pressurization cycles for each aircraft. Most airlines opt to replace older models with newer, more efficient ones. However, some airlines may choose to extend the lifespan of older aircraft, though this process can be extensive and costly. Maintaining older planes can incur high maintenance costs, as they require thorough inspections to ensure airworthiness and safety.
Ultimately, regardless of a plane’s age in years, the story differs significantly when considering pressurization cycles.
