Why Proper Storage Matters

Your aircraft is a multi-million-dollar asset that requires proper protection when not in use. Exposure to sun, rain, hail, wind, temperature extremes, and other environmental factors accelerates paint deterioration, seal degradation, avionics component aging, and interior material breakdown. Beyond environmental protection, proper storage ensures your aircraft is secure from unauthorized access, vandalism, and foreign object damage.

Aircraft that are consistently hangared maintain higher resale values, experience fewer unscheduled maintenance events, and present better overall condition than comparable aircraft stored outdoors. For most aircraft, the annual cost of hangar storage is a fraction of the depreciation and maintenance costs that result from outdoor exposure — making hangaring one of the best investments an owner can make in asset preservation.

Hangar Options

Plane Selection helps each owner secure the most appropriate hangar arrangement based on aircraft type, home base location, budget considerations, and operational requirements:

Private Hangar

For owners who desire exclusive access and maximum privacy, a private hangar provides dedicated space for your aircraft alone. Benefits include:

• Exclusive access with no scheduling conflicts from other aircraft movements
• Customizable space for owner amenities: office, crew lounge, storage for spare parts and equipment
• Enhanced privacy — no public observation of your travel patterns
• Opportunity to install custom security systems, lighting, and environmental controls
• Storage space for ground support equipment, tow vehicles, and maintenance supplies

Private hangars are available at most airports, though availability at high-demand locations (Teterboro, Van Nuys, Le Bourget, Farnborough) may require advance planning. Plane Selection maintains relationships with hangar owners and developers at major business aviation airports worldwide and can often access space that is not publicly marketed.

Shared Hangar (Community Hangars)

Shared hangars offer a cost-effective alternative to private facilities, typically reducing hangar costs by 40-60% compared to exclusive arrangements. Your aircraft shares the hangar space with a small number of other aircraft, with access coordinated by the FBO or hangar operator. Key considerations include:

• Significant cost savings compared to private hangar
• Professional management by the FBO or hangar operator
• Shared towing and ground handling services
• Hangar keeper's liability insurance coverage (supplemented by your own policy)
• Potential scheduling coordination for aircraft movement in and out of the facility

FBO-Based Storage

At many airports, FBOs provide hangar storage as part of their service package, often with preferential terms for aircraft that regularly purchase fuel and services. FBO hangar arrangements offer:

• Integrated ground handling and line services
• Professional staffing for aircraft movement and positioning
• Access to FBO amenities (passenger lounges, conference rooms, crew facilities)
• Fuel discount programs linked to hangar agreements
• Flexibility to adjust arrangements as needs change

Climate-Controlled Storage

Climate control is particularly important for aircraft stored in extreme environments — hot, cold, humid, or highly variable conditions. Plane Selection arranges climate-controlled storage where available and appropriate:

• Temperature control: Maintaining consistent temperatures (typically 15-25C / 60-77F) prevents thermal cycling that stresses seals, avionics components, and interior materials
• Humidity control: Controlled humidity (40-60% relative humidity) prevents corrosion, mold growth, and material degradation
• Ventilation: Proper air circulation prevents moisture accumulation and ensures even temperature distribution
• UV protection: Enclosed hangars eliminate UV exposure that deteriorates paint, window seals, and interior furnishings

For aircraft that will be stored for extended periods (seasonal use, between owners, during major maintenance), we implement comprehensive long-term storage protocols including engine preservation, battery maintenance, tire care, and periodic system exercises to ensure the aircraft returns to service without delay.

Security Systems

Aircraft security extends beyond simple access control. Plane Selection ensures comprehensive security measures are in place at every storage location:

• Physical access control: Badge-access doors, secure fencing, and controlled entry points with visitor logging
• Video surveillance: 24/7 CCTV monitoring with recorded footage and real-time alerting capabilities
• Alarm systems: Motion detection and intrusion alarms with monitored response
• Fire protection: Hangar fire suppression systems, smoke detection, and emergency response plans
• Lighting: Adequate exterior and interior lighting for security and safe aircraft movement
• Aircraft-level security: Door locks, cockpit access controls, and GPS tracking systems

Ground Handling and Line Services

Ground handling encompasses all the services your aircraft requires between landing and the next departure. Plane Selection coordinates these services at your home base and at every destination:

• Aircraft towing and positioning: Safe movement of your aircraft between ramp, hangar, and runway using appropriate tow equipment
• Fueling coordination: Arranging fuel delivery and supervising fueling operations to ensure correct fuel type and quantity
• GPU (Ground Power Unit): External power supply for cabin climate control and avionics operation while the aircraft is on the ground
• Lavatory and water service: Timely servicing of lavatory systems and potable water systems
• De-icing coordination: Arranging de-icing services during winter operations, with proper Type I/IV fluid selection
• Baggage handling: Secure handling and loading/unloading of passenger luggage and cargo

Cleaning and Detailing

A well-maintained aircraft interior and exterior reflects pride of ownership and contributes to passenger comfort and satisfaction. Our cleaning and detailing program includes:

Routine Cleaning (After Every Flight)

• Cabin vacuuming and surface wiping
• Lavatory cleaning and sanitization
• Galley cleaning and restocking
• Window cleaning (interior)
• Trash removal and waste disposal

Detailed Cleaning (Monthly or As-Needed)

• Deep carpet cleaning and stain treatment
• Leather conditioning and treatment
• Wood veneer polishing and care
• Upholstery cleaning and deodorizing
• Exterior wash and wax
• Engine inlet and exhaust area cleaning
• Landing gear and wheel well cleaning
• Window polishing (exterior)

Pre-Flight Preparation

When you schedule a departure, our ground operations team ensures your aircraft is fully prepared and ready before you arrive at the airport:

• Aircraft pulled from hangar and positioned on the ramp at the requested time
• Cabin climate control activated to achieve comfortable temperature before boarding
• Catering loaded and verified per your preferences and the trip manifest
• Publications and navigation databases updated to current versions
• Fuel loaded per the flight plan
• Cabin configured per your preferences (seat positions, entertainment, lighting)
• Crew pre-flight inspection completed
• Ground transportation coordinated for passenger arrival

Worldwide Network

Plane Selection's hangar management capabilities extend well beyond your home base. Through our global network of FBO partners and ground handling agents, we can arrange hangar storage, ground services, and aircraft care at airports worldwide. Whether your aircraft needs overnight hangaring during a business trip, seasonal storage at a vacation destination, or temporary accommodation during a maintenance event away from home, our team coordinates all arrangements seamlessly.

Our network spans major business aviation hubs across North America, Europe, the Middle East, Asia-Pacific, and Africa. At each location, we have vetted the facilities, established pricing agreements, and verified security and service standards to ensure your aircraft receives consistent care regardless of location.