Community hangars offer shared aircraft storage space where multiple owners keep their planes under one roof. This arrangement provides hangar protection at reduced cost while fostering connections with fellow aviators.
How Community Hangars Work
Basic Structure
Community hangars typically feature:
- Large open floor space accommodating multiple aircraft
- Shared access through common doors
- Individual spaces marked or assigned
- Common areas for ground support equipment
Management Models
- Airport-managed: Airport authority assigns spaces and handles administration
- FBO-operated: Fixed base operator manages as part of services
- Tenant association: Group of owners self-manages shared space
Advantages of Community Hangars
Cost Efficiency
- Lower monthly cost than private hangars
- Shared utility and maintenance expenses
- No individual door maintenance costs
- Economy of scale for insurance
Social Benefits
- Built-in community of fellow pilots
- Shared knowledge and experience
- Help available for pushing/moving aircraft
- Safety net when issues arise
Availability
- Often available when private hangars have waiting lists
- Flexible space allocation for various aircraft sizes
- Easier to find temporary space while waiting for private hangar
Challenges to Consider
Access Limitations
- May need to move other aircraft to access yours
- Coordinating with other owners for departures
- Peak times create congestion
- Last aircraft in may be first to move
Security Concerns
- Multiple people have access to the space
- Personal items less secure than private hangar
- Responsibility unclear when damage occurs
Damage Risks
- Other aircraft moving near yours
- Less control over who operates near your plane
- Disputes over responsibility for incidents
Making Community Hangars Work
Position Selection
If you have choice of position:
- Corner spots offer more protection
- Near-door positions allow easier access
- Consider traffic patterns for your typical schedule
Good Neighbor Practices
- Communicate your flying schedule when possible
- Help others move aircraft when asked
- Keep your area clean and organized
- Address concerns directly and politely
Protecting Your Aircraft
- Use wing and tail covers even indoors
- Install discrete surveillance if permitted
- Don’t leave valuable items visible
- Document aircraft condition regularly
Insurance Considerations
Coverage Needs
- Verify your policy covers shared hangar storage
- Understand liability for damage to other aircraft
- Check hangar owner’s liability coverage
- Consider umbrella policy for additional protection
Evaluating Community Hangar Options
Questions to Ask
- How many aircraft share the space?
- How is position assignment determined?
- What are the access hours and procedures?
- Who handles disputes between tenants?
- What’s the process when damage occurs?
Trial Period
If possible, try community hangar arrangement before committing long-term. Experience actual operations to ensure it meets your needs.
Ideal Candidates
Community hangars work best for:
- Budget-conscious owners prioritizing protection over convenience
- Pilots with flexible schedules who can coordinate access
- Owners who enjoy social aspects of aviation
- Those waiting for private hangar availability
Community hangars provide valuable protection at accessible prices while connecting you with the broader aviation community at your airport.
