Contents:
The best hangar sites in the country are becoming scarce, which means operators need to be intentional about how they use their land. One of the most effective ways to maximize project efficiency — and fit more hangars on a given site — is by rethinking how the hangar door is configured.
A Client Example: Reducing Footprint Through Door Design
A client recently approached us with a bi-parting hangar door layout that included:
- 6 leaves on 3 rails
- A center-opening configuration
- 100 feet of clear opening
- Two 17′ × 8′-6″ pockets added to the PEMB to make the design fit
After reviewing the aircraft they planned to store, it was clear a narrower opening would still meet their operational needs. Once the client confirmed this, we proposed a revised configuration:
- 4 leaves on 4 rails
- Panels 1 and 4 motorized
- Leaves able to travel either direction
- 75 feet of clear opening
- No pockets required — reducing the building footprint and removing the PEMB’s need to build those 17′ × 8′-6″ pockets, which lowers material and construction cost
The cost difference for the revised door — including installation — was only about $10,000 more.
Why This Matters
A pocket-free design isn’t the right fit for every project, but this example shows how small adjustments can reshape the entire hangar footprint. In many situations, eliminating pockets can:
- Save valuable land
- Reduce structural steel
- Simplify construction
- Improve long-term usability and aircraft maneuverability
And this approach scales easily. Whether a hangar is 240 feet wide or 180 feet wide, we simply adjust the number of panels, rails, and motors to match the building requirements.
Build Better Hangars With Better Information
Our goal is to help owners, architects, and builders think strategically about hangar design. With the right door configuration, you can build more efficiently, reduce costs, and get the most out of every square foot of your site.
If you’re planning a new hangar and want to explore the smartest way to configure your door system, we’re here to help.
- Floating Hangar Doors — Why Owners Are Making The Shift - December 23, 2025
- Smarter Hangar Design Starts With Smarter Door Planning - December 18, 2025
- Coordinating Hangar Door Installation with Other Trades - July 25, 2025
