The Cost of Keeping a Plane in a Hangar: Factors, Estimates, and Amenities

Keeping a plane in a hangar is a crucial aspect of aircraft maintenance and preservation. The cost can vary significantly based on several factors, such as the size of the aircraft, its location, and the amenities provided. In this article, we will explore these factors in detail and provide some general estimates to help you understand what to expect.

Factors Influencing the Cost of Hangar Rental

The cost of keeping a plane in a hangar can be influenced by several factors. Here are some of the most important ones:

Aircraft Type: Different types of aircraft have different needs and therefore different costs. Small general aviation planes, such as single-engine planes, generally have lower costs compared to larger aircraft like small jets and business jets. Location: The location of the hangar can significantly impact the cost. Major metropolitan areas and busy airports tend to have higher hangar fees compared to rural or less frequented locations. Amenities: Some hangars offer additional services, such as maintenance, cleaning, and utilities. These services can add to the overall cost. Lease Agreements: Some hangars may require long-term leases, which can affect pricing and availability.

General Estimates for Hangar Costs

Here are some general estimates for hangar costs based on the aircraft type:

Small Aircraft: For small general aviation aircraft like a single-engine plane, hangar fees typically range from 200 to 500 dollars per month. Mid-Sized Aircraft: For larger aircraft like a small jet, fees can range from 500 to 1500 dollars per month. Large Jets: For larger business jets or commercial aircraft, fees can exceed 2000 dollars per month and can go much higher depending on the location and demand.

Location and Additional Costs

Hangar costs can vary significantly by location. Here are some examples:

Larger Airports: Major airports with advanced facilities like power, water, and advanced services like maintenance and storage can command higher fees. Smaller Airports: Smaller airports with basic services may have lower fees. Urban vs. Rural Locations: Airports in major metropolitan areas like Los Angeles or New York can be much more expensive than those in rural areas.

In addition to the basic rental fee, there may be additional costs to consider:

Utilities: Some hangars may charge additional fees for utilities such as electricity and water. Insurance: Insurance costs can vary based on the aircraft and hangar and should be factored into the overall cost. Maintenance and Services: Some hangars offer additional services like maintenance or cleaning which can add to the overall cost.

Examples of Hangar Costs

To give you a more concrete idea, here are some real-world examples of hangar costs:

Unheated Hangar: A recent example I paid for was 425 dollars per month for an unheated hanger with a manual door at a medium-sized airport with excellent services close to town and good instrument approaches but not an ILS approach. Nicer Hangars: Larger, nicer hangars with features like heat, restrooms, power, doors, epoxy floors, and full amenities can cost a lot more. Some even come with full apartments so pilots can sleep after late arrivals or before early departures, and have areas for post-flight socializing with other pilots, typically with second-hand furniture and a fridge, maybe a grill.

Conclusion

When considering the cost of keeping a plane in a hangar, it's essential to research specific hangar options in your desired location to get the most accurate and up-to-date pricing. By understanding the factors that influence the cost and considering the amenities provided, you can make an informed decision that suits your needs and budget.