How to Build an Aircraft Hangar with a Fabric Structure
Traditional aircraft hangars are constructed with permanent materials. While this seems ideal for long-term use, permanent hangars have their drawbacks: They are often not well ventilated and therefore are uncomfortable working environments for maintenance staff; they cost more, require a concrete foundation, and take longer to build; and they cannot be moved. All these pain points are directly remedied by the superior design and features of Big Top’s fabric hangars and sunshades.
Protection from the Sun & Other Elements
The fabric roof in our shelters is formulated to repel up to 99.95 percent of UV-A and UV-B radiation, which can otherwise be harmful to your employees and equipment when left exposed. Under the protective fabric roof, your crew will be much more comfortable, thanks to the interior temperature naturally remaining, on average, 15 degrees cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter than the outside temperature, and the electronics and paint job of your aircraft and other equipment will enjoy a longer lifespan.
Additionally, the fabric roof is rip resistant and secured to a durable, galvanized steel frame, allowing the hangar to withstand strong forces of nature. We can also engineer a hangar for heavy wind and snow loads in areas where these building codes are required.
Versatility & Portability
Big Top’s fabric hangars and sunshades can be anchored to nearly any foundation, including asphalt, so your crew can perform their maintenance duties directly on the flight line. And, they can be relocated as needed using a crane, or disassembled and stored for shipping or future use.
Cost Savings
Another benefit of having Big Top build a custom hangar or sunshade for your base of operations is that our shelters cost much less than permanent hangars. In fact, a recent study showed that 18 sunshades cost less than one metal T-hangar. And, when you factor in the energy savings you’ll receive thanks to the translucent roof naturally illuminating the interior without relying on artificial lighting, you can certainly save by choosing us.
We’ve Proudly Served the Military Since 1979
Big Top takes great pride in the solutions that we’ve offered the military over the decades. Our fabric hangars and sunshades ensure mission readiness and are approved by the USACE as being compliant with U.S. Air Force Sunshade Management (AFSM), Air Force Instruction (AFI), and IBC. They are also Berry Amendment compliant for military use.
Turnkey Services for Your Hangar or Sunshade
At Big Top, we don’t just sell a few hangar or sunshade designs. Rather, we custom build each shelter to meet the unique needs of our clients. If you’re a fixed-base operator or are involved with the military, we encourage you to contact us today to speak with one of our designers about how we can create the perfect hangar or sunshade for your operations. We can also discuss our installation services, troubleshooting support, and financing options to help you make the most of your investment. No matter your needs, Big Top has you covered.
