Box hangars provide dedicated, fully enclosed space for aircraft storage without the shared walls of T-hangars. These rectangular structures offer flexibility and privacy while accommodating various aircraft sizes and owner preferences.
What Defines a Box Hangar?
Basic Characteristics
- Rectangular or square floor plan
- Single aircraft or small number of aircraft capacity
- Private entrance with dedicated door
- Four walls with no shared structures
Typical Sizes
- Small: 40×40 to 50×50 feet (single small aircraft)
- Medium: 50×60 to 60×70 feet (larger singles, light twins)
- Large: 70×80 feet and up (multiple aircraft, workspace)
Advantages Over T-Hangars
Flexibility
- Rectangular shape accommodates wide range of aircraft
- Room for vehicles, equipment, workshop space
- Can store multiple smaller aircraft
- Layout not constrained by triangular geometry
Privacy and Security
- No shared walls with neighbors
- Complete control of your space
- No coordination needed for aircraft movement
- Personal belongings more secure
Customization Potential
- Install workshop without neighbor approval
- Add climate control systems
- Configure interior to your needs
- Upgrade electrical and lighting independently
Compared to Larger Corporate Hangars
Scale Differences
- Box hangars: 1,600-6,000 square feet typical
- Corporate hangars: 8,000-40,000+ square feet
Cost Considerations
- More affordable than large corporate space
- More expensive than T-hangar alternatives
- Better value when full space utilization planned
Common Uses
Primary Configurations
- Single aircraft plus workshop: Most common for active owners
- Two smaller aircraft: Partners or family aircraft
- Aircraft plus vehicle storage: Complete aviation setup
- Restoration projects: Space for extended work
Sublease Opportunities
Larger box hangars offer income potential:
- Rent partial space to another aircraft
- Temporary storage for visiting aircraft
- Shop space rental during non-use periods
Door Considerations
Door Types Common in Box Hangars
- Bi-fold: Clean opening, requires front clearance
- Sliding: Partial opening possible, uses side wall
- Rolling steel: Compact, industrial appearance
Sizing for Aircraft
Door opening determines usable capacity:
- Width: Wingspan plus 6-8 feet minimum
- Height: Tail height plus 3-4 feet clearance
Location Factors
Ramp Access
- Direct taxi access preferred
- Consider taxiing distance to runway
- Evaluate ramp congestion patterns
Utilities and Services
- Electrical capacity for planned uses
- Water availability if needed
- Restroom access nearby
- Fuel and services proximity
Cost Factors
Rental Pricing
Box hangars typically cost 20-50% more than comparable T-hangar space due to:
- More square footage
- Privacy premium
- Flexibility value
- Higher construction costs per unit
Value Assessment
Consider total utility:
- Workshop eliminates separate shop rental
- Vehicle storage saves parking costs
- Flexibility supports changing needs
- Privacy has intangible value
Finding Box Hangars
Box hangars are less common than T-hangars:
- Contact airport management directly
- Check multiple airports in your area
- Consider new construction opportunities
- Join waiting lists at preferred locations
Box hangars offer the sweet spot between T-hangar economy and corporate hangar scale, providing dedicated space with flexibility for owners who need more than basic aircraft storage.
