<p>Aircraft Storage</p>

Aircraft Storage

Sheltirx™ aircraft storage buildings provide covered space for aircraft that need a defined place between flights, assignments or operating seasons. We plan the building around fleet size, aircraft dimensions, parking positions, retrieval order and the equipment used to move aircraft into and out of storage.

Storage Capacity 
Starts With the Aircraft Mix

The number of aircraft a building can hold depends on more than floor area. Wingspan, length, tail height, parking angle and the clearance needed to tow or manoeuvre each aircraft all affect usable capacity. Two fleets with the same aircraft count may require very different layouts if their aircraft sizes or retrieval patterns differ.

Prepare a list of the aircraft to be stored, their overall dimensions and any aircraft that may be added later. Then map the positions and movement paths. A plan that fits every aircraft tightly may leave no practical way to remove one without shifting several others. A usable storage layout balances capacity with access, inspection and day-to-day movement.

Organize Parking for
Retrieval, Not Just Occupancy

Think about how often each aircraft is used and when it needs to leave. Frequently flown aircraft may need a direct route to the main opening, while seasonal or reserve aircraft can occupy less immediate positions if the layout allows them to be retrieved safely. Establish a consistent parking plan and mark the area reserved for tugs, tow bars, wheel chocks and other ground equipment.

If the building stores a mixed fleet, group aircraft by size or operating pattern where it improves access. Keep pedestrian paths clear of tow routes and avoid using door approaches as overflow parking. If a stored aircraft may need inspection or minor servicing, identify that requirement early rather than assuming every storage bay can function as a repair station. For operators handling visiting or leased aircraft, agree on a check-in and parking allocation process so incoming aircraft do not block the planned exit route for the next departure.

Reduce Direct Weather
Exposure During Storage

A covered building reduces direct exposure to rain, snow, sun and wind compared with leaving aircraft outside. It also provides a more organized environment for parking and routine visual checks. The structure alone, however, does not control humidity, temperature, dust, condensation or corrosion. Those risks depend on the aircraft, site climate, storage duration and whether the building is insulated or mechanically ventilated.

Consider the storage period and aircraft condition. Aircraft entering storage may require a documented preparation process, fluid and battery management, covers or other preservation steps based on manufacturer guidance. The building should support the operator’s procedure rather than be treated as a substitute for it. Sensitive electronics or removable components may need separate storage conditions inside the facility.

Plan the Supporting
Space Around the Fleet

Aircraft storage operations often require room for covers, stairs, ground power units, maintenance carts, spare tyres, aircraft documents and selected removable components. If all of these items are placed wherever space remains, access aisles can quickly narrow. Allocate clearly identified equipment zones and keep them outside aircraft clearance envelopes.

If the facility serves a flight school, charter operator, club or private collection, consider the pattern of arrival and departure throughout a normal day. A storage building may need a small preparation area or a staging position near the entrance, but activities involving repair, welding, painting or specialist maintenance should be assessed separately for utilities, ventilation and applicable safety controls. Where multiple owners or operators share the same building, label parking allocations and agree who controls keys, access and movement requests. That prevents one aircraft’s storage position from being treated as available simply because it is temporarily empty.

Select an Engineered
Building for the Location

The structure should reflect the site’s wind and snow loads, building size, openings, foundations, anchoring and local code requirements. Access conditions and ground preparation matter as well, particularly where aircraft or towing equipment will move between the apron and the building. The final configuration should match both the stored aircraft and the practical limitations of the property.

Plan Your Aircraft
Storage Building

Share your fleet size, aircraft dimensions, parking layout and access requirements. Sheltirx™ can help configure a covered storage building around your aircraft, ground equipment and site conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What affects aircraft storage building capacity?

Aircraft dimensions, parking positions, towing paths, required clearance and how frequently each aircraft needs to be retrieved all affect usable capacity.

Can aircraft be stored for an entire season?

Covered storage can be used for seasonal periods, but aircraft preservation and maintenance steps should follow the operator’s and manufacturer’s procedures.

Does an aircraft storage building control humidity?

Not by itself. Humidity and condensation control may require insulation, ventilation, heating or dedicated environmental systems.

Can a storage building hold different aircraft types?

Yes, if the building dimensions and parking layout account for each aircraft’s size, clearance and movement requirements.

Can ground support equipment be stored inside?

Space can be allocated for tugs, carts and other equipment, provided it does not obstruct aircraft movement or required access routes.

What should I provide for an aircraft storage quote?

Share aircraft dimensions, quantity, parking and retrieval requirements, storage duration, site conditions and any environmental-control needs.