Steel Prices Ease for Hangar Construction

Steel prices have stabilized after two years of volatility, bringing some relief to pilots planning hangar construction projects.

Pre-engineered metal building costs dropped roughly 15% from peak levels, making new hangar construction more financially viable for private owners and airport authorities.

What This Means for Pilots

Build-to-suit hangar projects that were shelved during the price spike are being reconsidered. Several FBOs have announced expansion plans they’d previously delayed.

New construction still costs significantly more than pre-2020 levels. Pilots should expect quotes 30-40% higher than historical norms even with recent moderation.

Timeline Considerations

Lead times for pre-engineered buildings have shortened to 12-16 weeks from the 30+ week delays seen during supply chain disruptions. This allows more predictable project planning.

Smart money suggests locking in pricing now rather than waiting for further declines. Construction industry analysts expect steady prices through mid-year.