Hangar Planning 101: From Aircraft Mix to Infrastructure Integration

INTRODUCTION

In today’s dynamic aviation market, where private jet traffic continues to surge and space on airport campuses is at a premium, delivering high-performance hangars that align with both operations and regulations is critical. This white paper offers a streamlined guide to the four foundational elements of hangar planning, drawing on key components from our Aviation Development Planning checklist to provide operators and developers with insights that ensure efficient, compliant, and future-ready facilities.

ELEMENT ONE Aligning Hangar Design with Aircraft Fleet Type and Operational Tempo

Effective hangar design begins with a detailed understanding of the aircraft fleet composition and the operational tempo. Planners must evaluate wingspans, tail heights, and fuel capacities to accommodate the most frequently used aircraft. It is essential to distinguish whether the facility will host full-time tenants, transient users, or be charter-based or corporate in nature. The purpose of the hangar—whether it supports maintenance, quick turns, or long-term storage—significantly impacts fire protection requirements, building code classifications, and apron needs. Additionally, the frequency of aircraft movements informs hangar depth, door dimensions, and the facility's placement in relation to ramps and taxiways.

ELEMENT TWO

Site Logistics - Apron Design, Tug Routes, and Operational Efficiency

Site logistics are critical to maintaining safe and efficient operations. Adequate apron clearance must be maintained for aircraft towing, proper turning radii, and dual-direction ground movement. Tug and tow paths should be clearly marked and protected to reduce conflicts with pedestrian walkways and fuel truck operations. Fueling infrastructure, whether mobile or fixed-point, should comply with safety standards while facilitating rapid aircraft turnaround. Trash enclosures and delivery zones should be secure, discretely located, and easily accessible without impeding customer-facing or operational areas.

ELEMENT THREE

Interior Space Planning - Function Meets Flexibility

The interior of a hangar must integrate functional and flexible support spaces while enhancing the customer experience. Maintenance and shop areas should include proper fire-rated separations, utility access, and ventilation. Lounges and reception areas must offer welcoming, high-touch environments with views to the ramp and aircraft. Facilities should also provide dedicated spaces for pilot planning, sleeping quarters, lockers, and secured entrances. Kitchens or warming stations should be included to support inflight catering. Flexible walls and modular design elements ensure the facility can adapt to evolving operational requirements.

ELEMENT FOUR

Infrastructure Integration - Building Systems That Serve Aviation Operations

Behind every high-performing hangar is a well-integrated network of utility systems. Electrical service must include dual-feed power, emergency generators, and aircraft-appropriate voltage. Low voltage systems such as IT, security, fire alarms, access control, and audiovisual components should be planned from the outset. Plumbing systems should support restrooms, shop sinks, kitchens, and wash-down drains with proper oil separation. HVAC systems need to be zoned appropriately for office and shop environments, with attention to sound attenuation. Trench drains and wash bays should align with ramp elevation and wastewater regulations, and are required in many jurisdictions.

CONCLUSION

Build with Confidence. Partner with Experts.

At VJS Construction Services, we understand that a hangar is more than just a building—it is a strategic asset that supports aviation workflows, complies with complex codes, and enhances user experience. With expertise in hangar planning and design, fire protection systems, and design-build delivery, VJS is a trusted turnkey partner to corporate flight departments, FBOs, charter operators, and aviation campus developers.