Demand for storage space at Cotswold Airport in Gloucestershire doubles as the pandemic idles planes

British Airways' 747s stored at Cotswold Airport. Credit: ITV West Country

At more than 70 metres long and with a wing span of almost the same length it's not easy finding space to store a 747 aircraft.

Now with the airline industry on its knees an increasing number of major airlines are flying planes to a Gloucestershire airport to save on storage fees during the pandemic.

Storage and parts company Air Salvage International, that is based at Cotswold Airport, says it has seen demand from airlines wanting to park planes double since March.

Mark Gregory has seen demand for storage space double since the coronavirus pandemic hit in March. Credit: ITV West Country
Skyline Aero Limited has been dismantling aircrafts for 25 years. Credit: ITV West Country

Before Covid-19 the company was dismantling planes for parts - a 747's engine is worth £2 million.

Now this side the business is down 90% as airlines face the pain of parking these huge assets.

  • Prof Andrew Graves, Aviation expert, University of Bath

Cotswold airport currently has 11 747s stored here, with three more expected imminently.

But it is feared their days are numbered with very few operators actually using the 747s.

So these planes will stay here for now, awaiting their fate, and wondering if they will ever welcome passengers on board again.