Laurinburg Maxton Airport Boneyard: Plane Graveyard Explained

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The Laurinburg Maxton Airport Boneyard, also known as the Plane Graveyard, is a fascinating topic that has sparked the curiosity of many aviation enthusiasts and non-experts alike. Located in North Carolina, USA, this boneyard is one of the largest aircraft storage facilities in the world, housing over 200 planes that are no longer in service.

History of the Laurinburg Maxton Airport Boneyard

The Laurinburg Maxton Airport Boneyard was established in 1942 as a military base for the United States Army Air Forces. During World War II, the airfield served as a training facility for pilots and aircrews. After the war, the base was deactivated, and the airport was converted into a civilian airfield. In the 1960s, the airport began to attract aircraft storage and maintenance businesses, which eventually led to the creation of the boneyard.

What Happens to Planes in the Boneyard?

When an aircraft is no longer airworthy or is retired from service, it is often sent to a boneyard like the Laurinburg Maxton Airport. The planes are typically stored in a dry, secure environment to prevent damage from the elements. The boneyard serves as a temporary or permanent storage facility, depending on the owner's intentions.

Parts Harvesting and Recycling

Many planes in the boneyard are used for parts harvesting, where usable components are removed and sold to other airlines or maintenance companies. This practice helps to reduce waste and extends the life of aircraft parts. Some planes are also recycled, with their metal and other materials being melted down and reused.

Types of Planes in the Boneyard

The Laurinburg Maxton Airport Boneyard is home to a diverse range of aircraft, including:

• Commercial airliners: Boeing 737, 747, and 757, as well as Airbus A320 and A330
• Military aircraft: F-4 Phantom, F-16 Fighting Falcon, and C-130 Hercules
• General aviation aircraft: Cessna 172, Beechcraft Bonanza, and Piper Cherokee
• Helicopters: Bell UH-1 Huey and Sikorsky S-61

Rare and Historic Planes

The boneyard also houses some rare and historic aircraft, such as the:

• Convair 880: A 1950s-era jet airliner
• Douglas DC-8: A 1950s-era jet airliner
• Lockheed Constellation: A 1940s-era propeller-driven airliner

Tours and Visitation

The Laurinburg Maxton Airport Boneyard offers guided tours, which provide visitors with a unique opportunity to explore the facility and get up close to the planes. The tours are led by experienced guides who share the history and stories behind the aircraft.

Photography and Videography

The boneyard is a popular destination for photographers and videographers, who come to capture the dramatic and often surreal landscape of retired planes. Visitors are allowed to take photos and videos for personal use, but commercial photography and videography require prior permission.

Environmental Concerns

The Laurinburg Maxton Airport Boneyard has faced environmental concerns in the past, particularly regarding the storage of hazardous materials and the potential for contamination. However, the facility has implemented measures to mitigate these risks and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.

Sustainability Initiatives

The boneyard has also initiated sustainability programs, such as:

• Recycling programs for aircraft materials
• Energy-efficient lighting and power systems
• Waste reduction and management practices

Conclusion

The Laurinburg Maxton Airport Boneyard is a fascinating and complex facility that serves as a final resting place for hundreds of aircraft. From commercial airliners to military planes, the boneyard is a treasure trove of aviation history. As the aviation industry continues to evolve, the boneyard will remain an important part of the ecosystem, providing a secure and environmentally responsible way to store and recycle aircraft.