The average lifespan of a Boeing passenger plane shows they're beasts made to last

The average lifespan of a Boeing passenger plane is proof that they are built to go the distance.

For the last two decades, the average global jet age has sat between 10 to 12 years.

This is dwarfed in comparison to the average of a Boeing plane, some of which are comfortably over double that figure.

But how are the lifespans of planes figured out?

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The average lifespan of a Boeing passenger plane will leave you stunned

When it comes to determining a plane’s lifespan, a lot is taken into account.

Experts will measure how much a plane is used, how often it leaves without problems, and what maintenance costs are expected.

Boeing spares no expense or manpower when it comes to checking its planes.

A ‘heavy check’ – a top-to-bottom inspection – is done every six to 12 years and can take up to 50,000 hours to complete, Jalopnik reported.

That sounds like a lot – and it is – but it’s no wonder when you consider what needs to be done.

These planes will be opened up to look for signs of fatigue and corrosion before repairs are undertaken.

So with that in mind, how long are Boeing planes generally expected to be in service?

For a typical Boeing 737, you could expect it to fly for around 20 years before it would be put into retirement.

As for planes with a wider body, the 747, the 777, and the 787 generally last five years longer.

But we can’t help but wonder…what happens to these planes once they’re retired from service?

Where do old planes go when they no longer fly?

There’s no standard answer for the fate of unused planes, as it varies wildly.

Some end up in deserts set up for preservation.

Others are dismantled for parts or resold.

And that’s not even the half of it.

Some planes are unlucky enough to end up in aircraft graveyards, like this one in California.

In fact, many planes even go on to live second lives and become hotels, restaurants, or even homes.

And Boeing planes are counted in that lineup.

A few creative people have converted old jetliners into backyard offices or Airbnb rentals, allowing guests to stay inside an aircraft cockpit.

It takes the idea of ‘reduce, reuse, recycle’ to a whole new level.

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