Aircraft hangars are not merely storage areas, but important facilities that safeguard precious aircraft, facilitate easy maintenance work, and enforce safety.
Regardless of personal, commercial, or corporate purposes, the construction of a hangar has to be strategically planned and detailed. Several factors should be taken into consideration before commencing a construction project to prevent costly errors and ensure its sustainability.
Why Build an Aircraft Hangar?
The ownership or management of an aircraft is a significant investment, and it is crucial to store it properly to keep the plane safe and secure. Planes are kept in an aircraft hangar, which protects and secures them against unfavorable weather conditions, corrosion, theft, and vandalism.
In addition to providing protection, hangars also offer space for checking, maintaining, and storing equipment. Time-saving and efficient operations are also beneficial to frequent flyers or aviation businesses that have their own hangar. A spacious hangar will protect your aircraft and will offer long-term value. If you can afford it, go for a prefab garage.
Vital Factors You Should Consider
An effective hangar system keeps your aircraft safe and also increases the efficiency of your operation and its long-term value. Before building an aircraft hangar, consider the following key factors:
Location and site selection
Planning an aircraft hangar begins with selecting the correct location. The runways, wind directions, and airport zoning regulations are all contributing factors.
A location that is near taxiways reduces the challenges of maneuvering and facilitates the smooth movement of the aircraft. Moreover, address soil stability and drainage to avoid future foundation problems.
Layout requirements and size requirements
Aircraft are available in a wide range of shapes and sizes, and your hangar should be able to accommodate them comfortably. Look beyond your existing fleet and consider what you may purchase in the future.
An easy-to-move layout, ample equipment space, and a designated area for maintenance will enhance efficiency. Oversizing will incur additional initial expenses, while under-sizing will present ongoing constraints.
Design structure and materials
The integrity of a hangar is the most important. Some of the reasons why steel is used include its longevity, ability to withstand extreme weather conditions, and minimal maintenance requirements.
Another design consideration is the roof height, type of door (sliding, bifold, or hydraulic), and insulation. Good structural design is also safe, durable, and in line with the aviation standards.
Air conditioning and heating
The hangars should be able to accommodate changes in humidity and temperature. Condensation may occur due to poor ventilation, and corrosion may result.
Proper insulation, HVAC systems, and dehumidifiers are installed to ensure that the conditions inside the aircraft are ideal and that the aircraft does not suffer any long-term damage to its equipment.
Budget and cost planning
Aircraft hangar construction is a significant financial investment. The cost will depend on the size, materials, site preparation, and any additional features, such as offices or workshops. A budget should be set clearly, and financing should be studied in case of need. Corner-cutting can lower initial expenses, but potentially affect safety and long-term durability.
Safety standards and regulatory compliance
Lastly, there is no negotiation on the compliance with aviation and construction policies. Fire safety, local building codes, and FAA (or other aviation authority) regulations must be strictly adhered to.
Safety measures, such as improving lighting, ensuring emergency exits are accessible, and installing fire suppression systems, are essential for maintaining both legal and operational security. Metal Pro Buildings are experts in building aircraft hangars, and they obey safety standards.
Conclusion
An aircraft hangar construction project is an exercise that involves engineering, budgeting, and regulatory planning. With due consideration for location, size, design, environmental control, budget, and compliance, you can tailor your hangar to meet both your current and future needs.
