How to Find the Best Aircraft Hangars for Sale in the UK
Finding the perfect aircraft hangar for your needs can be challenging, but it’s a critical decision for anyone who owns or operates an aircraft. Whether you own a private plane, multiple airplanes, or manage a commercial operation, an airplane hangar offers protection, storage, and workspace for aircraft maintenance. The proper aircraft hangar provides security and flexibility to ensure smooth operations. In the UK, there are several factors to consider when choosing the best aircraft hangar for sale in the UK.
This blog will explain the essential considerations when searching for the proper airplane hangar, helping you make the best choice for your budget and requirements.
know Your Requirements
Before you start looking at hangars, take the time to define your needs. Understanding your specific requirements will narrow your search for an aircraft hangar for sale in the UK.
Type of Aircraft
The size and type of aircraft you own will determine the size and structure of the hangar you need. A small single-engine plane will require far less space than a large business jet or multiple aircraft. It would help if you also accounted for the airplane's wingspan, tail height, and overall dimensions to ensure the hangar is the correct size.
For example:
- Small private planes: You might only need a simple single-unit aircraft hangar.
- Business jets or larger aircraft: These will require more space and structural flexibility, possibly with larger doors for ease of access.
Additional Space Requirements
Consider the additional space you may need for:
- Storage: Tools, equipment, spare parts, and even vehicles that are related to the aircraft’s upkeep.
- Maintenance Area: If regular maintenance is required, you’ll need ample space to move around the aircraft and perform tasks without obstruction.
- Office or Lounge: Some owners prefer to have a small office or waiting area within the airplane hangar, especially for commercial or business purposes.
At Kit Buildings, we specialize in offering customizable solutions. Our aircraft hangars can be tailored to suit your specific needs, whether you need extra storage or a maintenance workshop integrated into the hangar structure.
Consider the Location
The location of your aircraft hangar is crucial. Ideally, you want to place it at an airfield, airport, or private land that has easy access to both ground transportation and runway facilities. Here are some things to consider:
Proximity to Airfields
Look for a location that’s close to your usual flight operations or home base. If the aircraft hangar is too far from where you conduct business or leisurely flying, it could become inconvenient.
Climate Considerations
The UK weather can be unpredictable, so it is essential to select a location that minimizes exposure to harsh elements. Make sure that the site for your airplane hangar has good drainage to prevent flooding and that the hangar itself is built to withstand local climate conditions such as strong winds or snow.
Kit Buildings offers aircraft hangars designed to suit different locations across the UK. We ensure that our hangars are built to withstand the UK’s diverse weather conditions, so you can rest assured that your aircraft will be safe.
Building Materials and Structure
When looking for an aircraft hangar for sale in the UK, pay close attention to the building materials used. High-quality materials are essential for ensuring long-term durability and protection for your aircraft.
Steel vs. Other Materials
Most modern aircraft hangars are made of steel, which is highly durable, weather-resistant, and low maintenance. Compared to traditional wood hangers, steel hangars are also less likely to suffer from rot or pests.
Advantages of steel airplane hangars:
- Durability: Steel hangars are robust and designed to last, making them ideal for the UK’s varying weather conditions.
- Fire Resistance: Steel does not burn, offering added protection in the event of a fire.
- Low Maintenance: Steel requires very little upkeep, reducing long-term costs.
At Kit Buildings, we provide aircraft hangars made from high-quality materials that are built to last. Whether you need a large or small airplane hangar, we can offer solutions that meet your structural needs.
Door Design
The type of door you choose for your hangar is also an important consideration. Different hangars come with various door designs, such as:
- Bi-fold doors: These are common in many large aircraft hangars and allow for vast opening space.
- Sliding doors: These are easier to operate manually and can be a cost-effective solution.
- Hydraulic doors: These doors offer the benefit of opening smoothly and quickly, perfect for larger aircraft.
The type of door should depend on the size of your aircraft and how often you need access. Larger, hydraulically operated doors are ideal for bigger planes, while smaller hangars might only need simple sliding doors.
Compliance with UK Regulations
When buying an aircraft hangar for sale in the UK, it’s essential to ensure that it complies with local building regulations. In the UK, building codes vary depending on the location and type of structure. For example, certain airfields or private properties may have restrictions regarding the height or size of a hangar.
- Planning permission: You may need to apply for planning permission before constructing your hangar, especially if it’s located on private land or near a residential area.
- Environmental considerations: Ensure that your hangar construction doesn’t impact the surrounding environment. This might include drainage, emissions, or wildlife.
Kit Buildings understands UK regulations and works closely with customers to ensure that all of our airplane hangars meet the necessary legal requirements.
Pricing and Budget
Cost is a critical factor when choosing an aircraft hangar for sale in the UK. Prices can vary significantly depending on the size, materials, and customizations you choose. To avoid surprises, consider the following when budgeting:
Initial Costs
The initial cost of purchasing and constructing a hangar depends on its size and complexity. Smaller airplane hangars will cost less, while larger, more customized hangars can be a significant investment.
Long-Term Maintenance
Though steel aircraft hangars are generally low maintenance, you should still budget for long-term costs such as repairs, door maintenance, or climate control systems. It’s worth investing in quality materials upfront to reduce these costs in the future.
At Kit Buildings, we offer a range of affordable and customizable aircraft hangars. Whether you’re looking for a large commercial hangar or a smaller personal hangar, we have options to fit various budgets.
Customization Options
One of the advantages of purchasing a hangar from Kit Buildings is the ability to customize the design. Customization options can include:
- Interior layout: You can choose to include office space, storage areas, or workshops inside the hangar.
- Exterior design: The hangar's exterior appearance can be adjusted to suit the surrounding environment or your personal preferences.
- Climate control: Adding climate control features may be necessary for those who need to store sensitive equipment or high-value aircraft.
Customizing your aircraft hangar allows you to create a space that fits your exact needs, ensuring that you have everything you need for efficient operations.
Conclusion
Finding the best aircraft hangar for sale in the UK involves careful planning and consideration of your specific needs. From the size and type of your aircraft to the building materials and location, many factors affect the final choice. By working with experts like Kit Buildings, you can ensure that your airplane hangar meets all regulatory standards while providing the perfect space for your aircraft.
If you’re ready to invest in a high-quality, durable aircraft hangar, contact Kit Buildings today to explore our range of customizable options. We are here to help you find the best hangar solution for your needs.