Ep 3. Aircraft Boneyard

The Aviators season 4 episode 3, titled "Aircraft Boneyard," explores the fascinating world of airplane graveyards, where hundreds of retired planes are stored and eventually destroyed. Hosts Kurtis Arnold, Anthony Nalli, and Sara Rejman visit one of the largest aircraft boneyards in the world located in Arizona, USA, where they witness firsthand the massive scale of the operation.

The hosts meet with experts who explain the inner workings of aircraft boneyards, including the process of dismantling and recycling old planes. They learn about the various stages of aircraft retirement, from when an aircraft is still in service to when it is stripped down for parts and ultimately destroyed. The hosts also examine the various types of aircraft found in a boneyard, ranging from small private planes to massive commercial airliners.

Throughout the episode, the hosts discuss the environmental impact of aircraft boneyards and explore the ways in which the industry is working to reduce its carbon footprint. They also delve into the economic and historical significance of aircraft boneyards, with some retired planes being saved for display in museums or repurposed for use in films and television shows.

In addition to exploring the boneyard, the hosts also take to the skies in a vintage B-25 bomber and a helicopter to get a unique aerial view of the massive facility. They highlight the importance of proper aircraft maintenance and discuss the dangers of neglecting upkeep on an airplane.

Overall, "Aircraft Boneyard" provides an in-depth look at a little-known aspect of the aviation industry and sheds light on the process of decommissioning and salvaging retired planes. With stunning aerial footage and insightful interviews with industry experts, this episode is a must-see for aviation enthusiasts and anyone interested in the inner workings of the aviation industry.