Boeing 737NG Engines Worth More Than Airframe

A Boeing 737NG's engines are often its most valuable assets when it reaches the end of its service life.

According to IBA Group data, a single CFM56-7B engine carries a half-life maintenance value of $3.8 to $7.1 million, depending on the subvariant and remaining life of its limited parts.

A pair of midlife engines can be worth $7.6 to 14.2 million combined, while green-time engines - those with usable cycles but approaching their next shop visit - trade for between $2.8 million and $3.4 million, as per Safe Fly Aviation's 2026 market report.

Airframe values tell a different story; aviation valuation expert Rob Mikus demonstrated that once high-value components are removed, the airframe has 'almost no value.' This principle applies to older 737NGs where the airframe has depreciated further while CFM56 demand has kept engine values elevated.

A single spare CFM56-7B engine can generate $45,000 per month through leasing or resale, and a green-time engine purchased at $3 million pays for itself in lease revenue in about six years before accounting for maintenance reserves.