Aviationtags release key and luggage tags made out of Airbus A380 scrap metal.

Airbus A380 9V-SKA is now barely recognisable.
Airbus A380 9V-SKA is now barely recognisable. Photo credit: Getty Images/Aviationtags.com

The first Airbus A380 to fly commercially back in 2007 is now barely recognisable, sitting in a scrapyard slowly being pulled apart.

But, parts of this historic aircraft will live on after a company called Aviationtags purchased sections of the aircraft remains, upcycling them into specially designed key and luggage tags which are then sold on the company's website.

Aviationtags release key and luggage tags made out of Airbus A380 scrap metal.
Photo credit: Aviationtags.com

The tags are cut from the outer skin of the aircraft by hand before being shaped and polished at a special facility in Cologne.

Each tag is then engraved using a laser with details of the aircraft type and registration.

Just 12 years ago this same aircraft marked with the registration 9V-SKA took part in what would have been one of Singapore Airlines largest-ever marketing and publicity events, its maiden flight taking off from Changi Airport in Singapore.

Just over a decade later, the early retirement of the former flagship superjumbo came about due to newer, much more fuel-efficient aircraft entering the market. Despite its massive capacity, the A380 had simply become uneconomical to run.

It's not the first time aircraft scrap has been upcycled and given another life. 

Lufthansa turned an old aircraft into furniture and accessories.
Lufthansa turned an old aircraft into furniture and accessories. Photo credit: Lufthansa

The items ranged from coffee tables made from wing flaps to toiletry bags made from onboard blankets and seat covers.