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What size should my hangar be?

Written by Central author | Aug 24, 2021 4:05:33 PM

What do I need to consider for my hangar layout?

The design and construction of your own private hangar is a sizable project and one you want to get right. Custom building a hangar allows you to best optimise the entire shed space for your needs, reaping the very best return on investment.

To avoid future frustrations or problems, it’s important to partner with a company that offers these customised building solutions, specifically designed for you and your aircraft. Let’s delve a little further. Below are some design considerations to get the most out of a hangar size, it’s a great starting point.

Aircraft hangar floorplan ideas

We custom design and value engineer all our buildings according to client needs. The type of aircraft, the land plot and location are all factors to consider when choosing the layout for your hangar.

Free-standing aircraft hangar 

A free-standing hangar is simple in design. Mostly for private use, the hangar is either rectangular or square in shape, comprising of three walls, a roof and door.

Side-by-side hangars 

We often refer to side-by-side hangars as multi-tenant hangars due to them frequently built by an airport or investor – and then sold or leased individually to pilots. If you have an extensive plot of land, you might consider occupying more than one hangar or even leasing any remaining. This option could be the right choice for you.

because often they are often built but an investor or airport and then sold individually to pilots. If you have a big enough plot of land and would like to rent out or occupy more than one hangar this could be the right choice for you.

Back-to-back hangars 

This design is similar to side-by-side hangars however back-to-back hangars are larger, including another set of hangar bays. The clear span width is designed to accommodate the extra length. Each hangar is separated by internal walls and doors.

Stacked T hangars 

Stacked T hangars are designed to maximise internal floor space usage however it’s impractical to store more than one aircraft in each hangar bay. There is extra space at either end of the hangar which can be used for additional storage or amenities.

Nested T hangars 

These hangars need a wider clear span than standard stacked T hangars to allow for the backing bays. Like stacked T hangars, there is added space at either end of the hangar which can be used for extra storage or amenities. However, due to the design, each hangar bay can only be accessed through the main hangar doors.

How your land plot can affect hangar design

The design of your aircraft hangar and the door system you choose will depend on your site.

We work with you to find out the best design and size of hangar to suit your requirements and plot of land. If your site is narrow, short or small – choosing the most appropriate hangar door system can help maximise the space you occupy. 

Hangars require specific engineering to withstand internal uplift from wind – through the full width opening. Central Steel Build engineers all structures according to the specific wind region and location of installation.

Common recreational planes in Australia and recommended hangar size

Here is a list of recreational aircraft that are commonly found in Australia and the minimum hangar size we recommend to house them.


At Central Steel Build, we work with clients to determine the best design and size of hangar to suit their specifications and location. We custom design and value-engineer all our buildings according to your needs.

For a more accurate cost of your value-engineered, custom hangar you can click on the Request a Quote tab on this page.