The Boneyard in Arizona is a large storage and preservation facility for military aircraft located outside Tucson. Officially known as the 309th Maintenance and Regeneration Group (309 MRG), it is part of the U.S. Department of Defense and managed by the Air Force Materiel Command.
This evergreen explainer covers what the site stores, how it preserves aircraft, who manages and visits the Boneyard, and answers common questions about its role and operations.
What the Boneyard Stores and Why
The primary purpose of the Boneyard is to extend the life of military aircraft and store surplus equipment until decisions are made to reuse, retire, or scrap them. Aircraft are kept in a dry desert climate that slows corrosion and preserves materials.
Types of Aircraft and Materials Stored
The site holds a wide range of retired military aircraft, including fighters, bombers, cargo planes, and tankers. Components such as engines, avionics, and accessory units may be removed, tested, and stored for future reuse.
Roles in Readiness and Sustainability
By preserving aircraft and parts, the Boneyard supports fleet readiness, reduces procurement costs, and minimizes waste. It serves as a holding area for aircraft awaiting maintenance, reactivation, or retirement processing.
How Preservation Works at the Site
Preservation methods include careful placement on stands to protect tires and landing gear, covering or sealing vulnerable components, and applying corrosion-inhibiting treatments. Staff follow standardized procedures tailored to each aircraft type and material.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Common Name | Boneyard (informal), 309th Maintenance and Regeneration Group (official) | DoD Fact Sheet |
| Location | Davis-Monthan Air Force Base vicinity, Tucson, Arizona | Official installation records |
| Managing Command | U.S. Air Force / Air Force Materiel Command (AFMC) | AFMC organizational data |
| Primary Function | Aircraft storage, maintenance, regeneration, and retirement processing | Program documentation |
| Climate Benefit | Dry, arid environment reduces corrosion and extends storage life | Engineering assessments |
Management, Oversight, and Public Access
The Boneyard is managed by the U.S. Air Force and operates under the 309th Maintenance and Regeneration Group. Public tours are available through authorized vendors and base programs, subject to security protocols and scheduling.
Regulatory and Security Considerations
Access is controlled, and security procedures govern photography, movement, and handling of materials. Environmental compliance covers storage fluids, hazardous materials, and land use practices.
Tour Operations and Visitor Information
Official and vetted tour operators coordinate visits to designated viewing areas. Visitors receive guidance on rules, photography policies, and safety requirements before arrival.
Common Questions and Clarifications
People often ask whether every aircraft at the Boneyard can be returned to service, how long planes remain stored, and what happens to materials that are no longer needed.
- Not all stored aircraft are candidates for reactivation; decisions are based on condition, service history, and requirements.
- Storage duration varies from months to decades, depending on aviation needs and material availability.
- Materials deemed unusable are processed through approved disposal and recycling channels.
Environmental and Community Considerations
The site’s location in a dry climate reduces some environmental risks, but storage practices include measures to manage fluids, batteries, and composite materials responsibly. Local communities benefit from jobs related to maintenance, logistics, and tour operations.
Compliance and Best Practices
The installation follows federal and state regulations for hazardous materials, waste management, and land stewardship. Continuous improvements aim to balance preservation needs with environmental protection.
Key Facts at a Glance
A concise overview of core attributes helps distinguish common myths from verified information about the Boneyard’s purpose and operations.
| Metric | Estimate or Range | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Aircraft | Thousands (varies over time) | Stored and processed inventory |
| Climate | Arid desert | Supports long-term storage |
| Managing Authority | U.S. Air Force, AFMC | DoD program |
| Public Access | Tours available by arrangement | Through authorized providers |
| Primary Purpose | Storage, preservation, regeneration | Support readiness and sustainability |
Tags
Tags: aircraft preservation, military storage, Davis-Monthan, Tucson Arizona, 309th Maintenance and Regeneration Group