All About Aircraft Hangars: A Historical Perspective and What is the Best Hangar?

The French Word for a Shed or Enclosure

Aircraft hangars have an interesting history that traces back to the earliest days of aviation. The idea of hangar storage initially arose in the early 20th century, coinciding with the first iterations of powered flight. The term “hangar” comes from the French word for a shed or enclosure, which reflects upon its primary function, serving as a simple covered structure used to house and protect aircraft.

Steel and Concrete Began Replacing Wood

The earliest hangars were very basic, typically constructed of wood and canvas, designed to shield and protect the delicate aircraft of aviation pioneers like the Wright brothers. As aviation technology evolved, so did the design and construction materials used for hangars. During World War I, more durable and larger structures were needed as military aviation grew. Steel and concrete began replacing wood, making possible larger spans and more rugged protection from the elements.

A New Generation of Bombers and Transport Category Aircraft

Following the wartime periods of history, there was an evolution of hangars that took place to accommodate the growing size and complexity of modern aircraft. The integration of steel trusses and reinforced concrete became the new standard, with hangars growing to house a new generation of bombers and transport category aircraft. The iconic arched hangar-shaped structure, characterized by large, open interior spaces, emerged during this time and continues to this day.

Intended to Withstand Harsh Environments

The post-war growth of commercial aviation necessitated the need for even larger and more sophisticated aircraft hangars. Today’s state-of-the-art hangars are highly specialized, featuring complex climate control systems, fire suppression technology, and construction materials intended to withstand even the harshest environments. These enclosures range from small, simple-design private structures to massive, technologically advanced facilities that can handle even the world’s largest wingspan aircraft.

What is the Best Aircraft Hangar?

It is agreed that almost any aircraft purchase typically involves a large outlay of cash or significant funding. That said, it does indeed make sense to protect such a valuable and costly investment with the right kind of structure. Whether you decide to lease or own, the cost of this almost essential protective building can vary substantially. For example, a low-end private, small, general aviation-type hangar will cost around 150 dollars per month to lease. Conversely, a high-end large commercial hangar can easily run 2,000 dollars to upwards of 4,000 dollars each month.

Corporate Flight Department

On the other hand, if the intent is to build a custom aircraft hangar for your prized aircraft, then expect to easily pay upwards of 40 dollars per SQFT. If the goal is to include a bi-folding door, the price could quickly jump to 55 dollars per SQFT. Building a custom hangar often makes sense financially if you are a business or a corporate flight department. Best of all, it is very easy to lease out excess space to other aircraft owners to offset hangar expenses.

The More Voluminous Design

Today airplane and helicopter hangars come in virtually every size imaginable. Determining the right size for your needs can be a challenge. The most widely used hangar design is, of course, the T-hangar, which, as the name implies, is T-shaped. This affords a snugger fit, saving money and space. In addition, the more voluminous design of a standard rectangular-shaped hangar will provide a lot more room. This is ideal for maintenance work and storing additional aircraft-related support equipment.

Airbus A320

The size of the hangar needed for a particular aircraft is, as one would expect, based mainly on aircraft dimensions. For example, an Airbus A320 has an approximate wingspan of 118 feet, a tail height of 38 feet, and an overall length of about 124 feet. With those dimensions, the A320 requires a minimum hangar space of around 175 feet by 175 feet. Conversely, a Lear Jet may only need a hangar size of 50 feet by 60 feet. Whereas a small Piper Cub (J-3) would only require a hangar space of 30 feet by 40 feet.

It Is All About the Door

Door selection for a hangar is a big deal as it will determine the ease of storing and deploying an aircraft. Sliding doors for a hangar open by sliding to one side or the other. The limiting factor in this case is that the door size is restricted to the width of the building. One note of caution concerning sliding-type hangar doors is that they can be difficult to open following moderate to heavy snowfall. Heavy snow and ice combined with freezing temperatures can cause sliding hangar doors to stick or freeze up.

The Bifold Door Requires Electrical Power

On the other hand, there is the bifold hangar door. This type of door is designed to fold horizontally in the middle as it is opened. While in the open position, the door protrudes outward from the hangar structure. The bifold door requires electrical power and a fairly good-sized motor and drive cables to operate. This more elaborate design would not be suitable for smaller hangars or structures that do not have electricity. Finally, there is the hydraulic door, which works similarly to a residential garage door.

Hangars Shelter Aircraft from Harsh Weather Conditions

An aircraft hangar is an important resource for protecting expensive aircraft, offering ironclad security, and insulating aircraft from various environmental and operational risks. Hangars shelter aircraft from harsh weather conditions such as rain, snow, hail, and extreme temperatures, which can cause costly damage to an airplane’s exterior and sensitive avionics systems. Also, by shielding aircraft from damaging UV radiation, a hangar helps prevent the degradation of materials like paint and rubber.

Lowering Maintenance Expenses

Many of these protective structures offer a climate-controlled environment that reduces the risk of corrosion and wear, in effect extending the aircraft’s useful life and lowering maintenance expenses. They also provide a secure and clean space for performing routine repairs or maintenance inspections, allowing technicians to work in a clean, organized setting, ensuring that an aircraft is in optimal condition before each flight.

Lock Down the Structure and Control Entry

Lastly and equally important, security is a critical factor in protecting aircraft from theft, vandalism, and unauthorized access. The ability to lock down the structure and control entry significantly reduces the risk of tampering and other security breaches. If you have an aircraft hangar for sale that you would like to list or lease or require a hangar for your corporate aircraft, Aviation Property Network can help. Call APN today