Selecting the right hangar size requires balancing aircraft dimensions, operational needs, and budget constraints. Too small creates daily frustration; too large wastes money. Strategic planning ensures your hangar serves you well for years to come.
Aircraft Dimension Requirements
Wingspan Considerations
Your aircraft’s wingspan determines minimum hangar width:
- Add 3-4 feet per side for comfortable clearance
- Consider wing folding options if available
- Account for pitot tubes and antennas extending beyond wingtips
Length Requirements
Nose to tail determines depth requirements:
- Include propeller arc or spinner
- Add space for tow bar attachment
- Consider door overlap when closed
Height Needs
Vertical clearance must accommodate:
- Tail height with adequate clearance
- Door mechanism when operating
- Any overhead storage or equipment
Common Aircraft Hangar Fits
Light Sport and Trainers
Aircraft like C-150, Sport Cub, or LSAs typically fit in:
- T-hangars: 36-42 feet wingspan capacity
- Box hangars: 40×40 feet or similar
Four-Place Singles
C-172, Cherokee, Bonanza class require:
- Minimum 40-foot clear width
- Box hangars: 45×45 feet comfortable
High-Performance Singles and Light Twins
Cirrus, Mooney, Baron, or similar need:
- 50-60 foot clear width
- Deeper hangars for longer fuselages
Beyond Aircraft Storage
Workshop Space
If you’ll perform maintenance or projects, add space for:
- Workbench area (6-8 feet minimum width)
- Tool storage and parts shelving
- Clear area around aircraft for ladder access
Vehicle Storage
Many pilots keep a vehicle at the hangar:
- Golf cart or airport vehicle: 6×10 feet
- Car or truck: 10×20 feet
- Consider not blocking aircraft access
Additional Storage
Account for items you’ll keep in the hangar:
- Ground support equipment (tow bar, tugs, chocks)
- Spare parts and supplies
- Seasonal items and covers
- Furniture (some pilots create lounge areas)
Future Planning
Aircraft Upgrades
Will you upgrade to a larger aircraft?
- Consider next likely aircraft’s dimensions
- Larger hangar now may save moving later
- Excess space can be subleased meanwhile
Partner or Shared Ownership
If considering partnership:
- Second aircraft storage requirements
- Shared space for both owners’ items
- Simultaneous access considerations
Cost Considerations
Size vs. Price
Larger hangars cost more, but not proportionally:
- Doubling square footage rarely doubles rent
- Per-square-foot costs often decrease with size
- Value of extra space may exceed cost premium
Availability Factor
At airports with limited hangar availability:
- Take what’s available rather than waiting for ideal size
- Larger hangars may be easier to find than small ones
- Join waiting lists for preferred size while using available space
Measuring Existing Hangars
When evaluating available hangars:
- Verify clear dimensions, not wall-to-wall measurements
- Note column locations that affect usable space
- Check door opening dimensions versus interior size
- Consider floor condition and drainage
Thoughtful size planning ensures your hangar meets current needs while accommodating reasonable future changes in your aviation activities.
