Thanks Craig, that was very helpful and some of your own thoughts mirrored mine. You comments about the sense of community when the hangar door is up are so true. I used to own a hangar, and would love to build or buy another one.
Right on for all ten. Apart from keeping the plane in good condition, it's interesting that personal hangars are great for both socializing and solitude... when you need either. Hangars are generally had to come by these days.
I’m a fellow ‘65 Cherokee pilot too. Our hangars have a lot in common except I have a workbench along the back wall. I fully agreed with all 10 of your points. Right after getting my plane painted, I obtained a hangar in 2016. I use Blackfire rinseless wash to clean the bugs off after every flight and my paint still looks like new. My favorite aspect of having a hanger is getting in a cooler plane to take off. Planes get so hot out in the sun on the tarmac that it is miserable being in the hot plane before takeoff. With the hangar my plane is usually pretty comfortable, both winter and summer, to jump in and fly.
Glad I found this video! I’m in Canyon Falls which is 1 mile north of NW Regional airport; 52F. Been looking at hangars as we’re looking to buy a Bonanza A36 or similar soon.
Yes, I've heard of the hordes storming the castle, but I've never heard of them storming the hangar! I guess that's what makes it a sanctuary. Lol. Thank you for watching.
Very few things in aviation are cheap, then again, I never mind paying for something that has value. I think hangars fit into that category. Thanks for your comment and thanks for watching.
@@craigshangar4958 AMUs are what they are called . Aviation monetary units. And anything under 1000 dollars ( one AMU ) barely gets my attention anymore. But since Covid and build back better things have almost doubled in price for many aviation parts.
Thanks! Great video. I agree on all ten points as well. I live in Canada. AVGAS almost $10 a gallon! Hangers are expensive! Unfortunately you need deep pockets to fly here!
Yes, I understand that everything is almost twice as expensive in Canada. In fact, I just saw a very interesting UA-cam video featuring Pierre Poilievre who was discussing that very issue. Apparently a house in Canada costs almost double compared with house 20 minutes away in the United States even when neighborhoods are similar. I'm sad to hear that it also affects aviation. Whatever you do, just keep flying. Thanks for your comment and thanks for watching.
@@craigshangar4958 Also our present Woke Prime minister is ruining our once beautiful country! Hopefully Pierre Pollievre will turn it around in the next election!
Great video. You make some excellent points. I kinda disagree about the hangar being a great place to do maintenance though. My experience has been the opposite. They are an awful place to do maintenance. For starters, the lighting is usually dreadful. Most hangars only have one or two light bulbs way up high in the ceiling. This can be remedied by purchasing tower lights, drop lights, etc, but most hangars only have one or two 110v outlets, so again you are limited. Most hangars don't have a 220v outlet either. If you need to use Tig/GTAW to weld anything, or run an air compressor, 110v outlets are very limiting. Up here in the upper midwest, most hangars are also extremely freezing cold in the winter, often dropping below zero degrees Fahrenheit for days or weeks at a time, and hot and humid in the summer with heat indexes well over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. For doing maintenance in winter, you will need to heat your hangar, which can be challenging. I use jet fuel in a 140,000 btu forced air heater. It seems to work okay, but warming up the air can sometimes cause condensation on everything that is still cold. Just like an ice cold glass of your favorite beverage in the middle of summer. In the summer you will need several fans to move the air to help keep you cooler because most hangars don't have any fans or a ventilation system. I use a box fan and a big lollipop fan. It's still hot and sweaty to work in the hangar in summer, but it helps. My dream hangar would have a radiant floor heating system, several ceiling fans, LOTS of lights, an electrical outlet about every 6 ft, and at least one 220v outlet for welding and heavy equipment, such as an air compressor. If you're just doing quick, simple, light maintenance like putting air in a strut or tire, or changing oil, a hangar is probably ok for that, but anything more than that will probably require additional lighting, heating, or cooling. Without some additional lighting, heating, and cooling, a hangar isn't a great place for maintenance, but it is better than nothing, and it's also better than just a shade hangar.
First, I appreciate you spending the time to make such a detailed comment. And yes, maintenance may or may not be easy depending upon your situation. I'm blessed to have a very nice hanger set up. It does get cold in Texas in the winter and it can get very warm in the summer, but I'm fortunate to have a hangar that is well lit with an epoxy floor that stays clean. I also bought a small portable air conditioner and I keep a couple of space heaters. It's definitely manageable for me. I realize it may not be that manageable for pilots with hangars in locations with poor weather. Thanks for watching the video.
where can we get the book, I googled No Hangar for Charlie Bravo and didn't find it. I'm trying to get all the aviation based children's books I can find for my son.
Hi Jason. Sorry for the slow reply. I am working on getting the books published, but until then, here is a link to view them on-line. The site has the English and Italian versions. Interested in your feedback. - Craig sites.google.com/view/libri-di-aviazione-per-bambini/home
I’m trying to decide if hangars always increase their value as an investment? I’m looking at some around SoCal that are around 350K. Seems like the values are soaring. Thoughts?
No doubt there is a shortage of hangars, not only here but in Europe as well. I believe it is a good investment. People who own airplanes usually have discretionary income, so if you decided to move or not keep an airplane in the future, you could always sell the hangar or rent it as a source of income.
Excelent list. Unfortunately the waiting list is awful in most municipal airports in my area. I live in Irving TX and fly (rent) out of Grand Prairie Muni (Kgpm). I want to secure a hanger before I buy my aircraft.
Yes, I've been on some rather long waiting lists for hangers in the past as well. It's a real problem. The only explanation must be government bureaucracy, because you would think that the demand for hangers would be taken care of by free market forces. Incidentally, I flew to Grand Prairie Municipal last August. It's a very nice airport with a nice restaurant. Here's a link to a picture I took and used in my other video called 10 reasons you don't need to fly fast. photos.app.goo.gl/nWSY2yEBysYzHQgf9 Thanks for your comment and thanks for watching. I hope you find a hanger soon.
I understand. There are many competing financial priorities in life. But if inclined, it never hurts to get on a waiting list even if you decide not to follow through with renting a hangar.
I currently rent a hanger, but I could see myself buying a hanger situated on a Municipal Airport lease or possibly my own private property someday. Thanks for your comment and thanks for watching.
I know. I was in the same situation here in North Texas but kept searching. I found a good hangar, but it took some persistence and patience. There is turnover, but it is slow. Hope you find a hangar soon.
I always put my tools away after every job and before leaving. Tool accountability is very important to prevent it from becoming lost or forgotten and then becoming fod in the aircraft.
If you own a hangar and don't mind sharing your space with other airplane owners, that's very true. I appreciate your comments and thank you for watching.
Yes, hangars are expensive, so I guess it comes down to the value it adds in your own life. I will pay a premium only for things that are important to me while forgoing other desires. That prioritization is always evolving as life changes. Thanks for your comment.
The #1 reason to OWN a hangar is appreciation and income generation. Few airports are building new ones so the supply is fixed and the demand high. I own five. All are income generating income far over the investment (and they are appreciating at 20% per year) and a hangar requires NO real maintenance unless the tennant damages it, so they have to repair it too. Otherwise, why make a big investment in a plane then leave it out in the wind, rain and some places snow? Silly.
Yes, anytime you have high demand and short supply, someone's going to make money. Sounds like you are a very smart investor. Thanks for your comment and thanks for watching.
At our airport way too many hangars have nothing but cars and boats in them and the airport authorities do nothing even though pilots are looking for places to store their planes
@@arthurbrumagem3844 You need to push the issue with your airport. Airports are certified under FAA regulations, one of them is non-aviation use of hangars.
@@speedomars3869 been doing that for a dozen years or so. As long as they are getting their land rent they aren’t interested in doing anything unfortunately
Gee...I never thought of having a hangar....ohhh could it be because there aren't any?! Most airport authorities are too stupid to build them. They want corporate jets to get the big fuel sales and high taxes. Neither of which ever materialize.
Yes, finding a good reasonably priced hangar is definitely a challenge. That said, there's always an option somewhere. It just may require driving driving farther. That's been my experience. Thanks for watching.
Yes, I remember when my airplane was based out of Northern California, I experienced the same problem. Things are a little better here in North Texas. It took a little looking, but I found a great hanger at a reasonable price. Now I have about a 45 minute drive, which is manageable. Good luck on the hunt if you're looking for a hanger and thanks for watching the video. I appreciate your comment.
Thanks Craig, that was very helpful and some of your own thoughts mirrored mine. You comments about the sense of community when the hangar door is up are so true. I used to own a hangar, and would love to build or buy another one.
Right on for all ten. Apart from keeping the plane in good condition, it's interesting that personal hangars are great for both socializing and solitude... when you need either. Hangars are generally had to come by these days.
I love your honesty, the bowflex gave me a chuckle. Knowing it’s there and impressing your friends😂
Thanks for your comment. And yes, I do go to Planet Fitness when I'm not at the hangar! Lol
Wise words Craig. Thanks for sharing
Thanks
I’m a fellow ‘65 Cherokee pilot too. Our hangars have a lot in common except I have a workbench along the back wall. I fully agreed with all 10 of your points. Right after getting my plane painted, I obtained a hangar in 2016. I use Blackfire rinseless wash to clean the bugs off after every flight and my paint still looks like new. My favorite aspect of having a hanger is getting in a cooler plane to take off. Planes get so hot out in the sun on the tarmac that it is miserable being in the hot plane before takeoff. With the hangar my plane is usually pretty comfortable, both winter and summer, to jump in and fly.
Thanks for watching and thanks for your comments.
Great advices. Thank you.
I'm glad you enjoyed the video. Thank you for watching.
This was very helpful. Thank you!
Glad it was helpful!
I’m currently at KSAC in a shade hangar and I’ve met Jamaal. There’s a long waiting list for a hangar. Thanks for the video.
Please say hello to Jamaal for me!
Glad I found this video! I’m in Canyon Falls which is 1 mile north of NW Regional airport; 52F. Been looking at hangars as we’re looking to buy a Bonanza A36 or similar soon.
Sorry for my late reply to your comment. Did you find an airplane to buy and a hanger?
Hope of been a pilot one day .just hard to obtain here in Jamaica 🇯🇲.Love your videos .one love
You can do it!
Aviation needs ticket agents and baggage handlers too. You can get a job in aviation and work your way up to pilot. 🤠
Your home is your castle,your hangar is your sanctuary
Yes, I've heard of the hordes storming the castle, but I've never heard of them storming the hangar! I guess that's what makes it a sanctuary. Lol. Thank you for watching.
Glad I bought my hangar 21 yrs ago. Cheap ,not really but it helps with my sanity and a great place to hang out with like minded pilots
Very few things in aviation are cheap, then again, I never mind paying for something that has value. I think hangars fit into that category. Thanks for your comment and thanks for watching.
@@craigshangar4958 AMUs are what they are called . Aviation monetary units. And anything under 1000 dollars ( one AMU ) barely gets my attention anymore. But since Covid and build back better things have almost doubled in price for many aviation parts.
Thanks! Great video. I agree on all ten points as well. I live in Canada. AVGAS almost $10 a gallon! Hangers are expensive! Unfortunately you need deep pockets to fly here!
Yes, I understand that everything is almost twice as expensive in Canada. In fact, I just saw a very interesting UA-cam video featuring Pierre Poilievre who was discussing that very issue. Apparently a house in Canada costs almost double compared with house 20 minutes away in the United States even when neighborhoods are similar. I'm sad to hear that it also affects aviation. Whatever you do, just keep flying. Thanks for your comment and thanks for watching.
@@craigshangar4958 Also our present Woke Prime minister is ruining our once beautiful country! Hopefully Pierre Pollievre will turn it around in the next election!
Great video. You make some excellent points.
I kinda disagree about the hangar being a great place to do maintenance though. My experience has been the opposite. They are an awful place to do maintenance.
For starters, the lighting is usually dreadful. Most hangars only have one or two light bulbs way up high in the ceiling.
This can be remedied by purchasing tower lights, drop lights, etc, but most hangars only have one or two 110v outlets, so again you are limited.
Most hangars don't have a 220v outlet either. If you need to use Tig/GTAW to weld anything, or run an air compressor, 110v outlets are very limiting.
Up here in the upper midwest, most hangars are also extremely freezing cold in the winter, often dropping below zero degrees Fahrenheit for days or weeks at a time, and hot and humid in the summer with heat indexes well over 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
For doing maintenance in winter, you will need to heat your hangar, which can be challenging. I use jet fuel in a 140,000 btu forced air heater. It seems to work okay, but warming up the air can sometimes cause condensation on everything that is still cold. Just like an ice cold glass of your favorite beverage in the middle of summer.
In the summer you will need several fans to move the air to help keep you cooler because most hangars don't have any fans or a ventilation system. I use a box fan and a big lollipop fan. It's still hot and sweaty to work in the hangar in summer, but it helps.
My dream hangar would have a radiant floor heating system, several ceiling fans, LOTS of lights, an electrical outlet about every 6 ft, and at least one 220v outlet for welding and heavy equipment, such as an air compressor.
If you're just doing quick, simple, light maintenance like putting air in a strut or tire, or changing oil, a hangar is probably ok for that, but anything more than that will probably require additional lighting, heating, or cooling.
Without some additional lighting, heating, and cooling, a hangar isn't a great place for maintenance, but it is better than nothing, and it's also better than just a shade hangar.
First, I appreciate you spending the time to make such a detailed comment. And yes, maintenance may or may not be easy depending upon your situation. I'm blessed to have a very nice hanger set up. It does get cold in Texas in the winter and it can get very warm in the summer, but I'm fortunate to have a hangar that is well lit with an epoxy floor that stays clean. I also bought a small portable air conditioner and I keep a couple of space heaters. It's definitely manageable for me. I realize it may not be that manageable for pilots with hangars in locations with poor weather. Thanks for watching the video.
where can we get the book, I googled No Hangar for Charlie Bravo and didn't find it. I'm trying to get all the aviation based children's books I can find for my son.
Hi Jason. Sorry for the slow reply. I am working on getting the books published, but until then, here is a link to view them on-line. The site has the English and Italian versions. Interested in your feedback. - Craig
sites.google.com/view/libri-di-aviazione-per-bambini/home
I’m trying to decide if hangars always increase their value as an investment? I’m looking at some around SoCal that are around 350K. Seems like the values are soaring. Thoughts?
always increase their value? no.
No doubt there is a shortage of hangars, not only here but in Europe as well. I believe it is a good investment. People who own airplanes usually have discretionary income, so if you decided to move or not keep an airplane in the future, you could always sell the hangar or rent it as a source of income.
Excelent list. Unfortunately the waiting list is awful in most municipal airports in my area. I live in Irving TX and fly (rent) out of Grand Prairie Muni (Kgpm). I want to secure a hanger before I buy my aircraft.
Yes, I've been on some rather long waiting lists for hangers in the past as well. It's a real problem. The only explanation must be government bureaucracy, because you would think that the demand for hangers would be taken care of by free market forces. Incidentally, I flew to Grand Prairie Municipal last August. It's a very nice airport with a nice restaurant. Here's a link to a picture I took and used in my other video called 10 reasons you don't need to fly fast. photos.app.goo.gl/nWSY2yEBysYzHQgf9
Thanks for your comment and thanks for watching. I hope you find a hanger soon.
He has a couch in his hanger. I want a couch!
Nothing better than being lazy on a Saturday afternoon, laying on the couch, watching your friends, takeoff and land! Thank you for watching.
We have very expensive hangars at my field and unfortunately mice love those couches even in 250k hangars
Hangers are great but around here, the DC area, they are insanely expensive with long waiting lists.
I understand. There are many competing financial priorities in life. But if inclined, it never hurts to get on a waiting list even if you decide not to follow through with renting a hangar.
Do you rent or purchased?
I currently rent a hanger, but I could see myself buying a hanger situated on a Municipal Airport lease or possibly my own private property someday. Thanks for your comment and thanks for watching.
I absolutely want a hangar, but there are none available within 2 hrs driving distance of where I live.
I know. I was in the same situation here in North Texas but kept searching. I found a good hangar, but it took some persistence and patience. There is turnover, but it is slow. Hope you find a hangar soon.
Can I ask what size your hangar is?
My hangar is 42' wide.
@@craigshangar4958 thank you
When doing maintenance, repairs or upgrades that take more than one day… or month… or year, you don’t have to put every tool away before leaving.
You're right, but I really should buy two sets of tools, because most of the ones from the house end up in the hanger!
I always put my tools away after every job and before leaving. Tool accountability is very important to prevent it from becoming lost or forgotten and then becoming fod in the aircraft.
Electric - you assume the hangar has more than 5 amps capacity installed.
Sorry, I didn't quite understand your statement. Could you elaborate?
.... and a further argument: if the hangar is somewhat larger, it gives you an fairly good revenue
If you own a hangar and don't mind sharing your space with other airplane owners, that's very true. I appreciate your comments and thank you for watching.
Sounds great until you start talking about price! In the North East my airport wants $495.00 a month! That's a steep price to pay to store my plane!
Yes, hangars are expensive, so I guess it comes down to the value it adds in your own life. I will pay a premium only for things that are important to me while forgoing other desires. That prioritization is always evolving as life changes. Thanks for your comment.
The #1 reason to OWN a hangar is appreciation and income generation. Few airports are building new ones so the supply is fixed and the demand high. I own five. All are income generating income far over the investment (and they are appreciating at 20% per year) and a hangar requires NO real maintenance unless the tennant damages it, so they have to repair it too. Otherwise, why make a big investment in a plane then leave it out in the wind, rain and some places snow? Silly.
Yes, anytime you have high demand and short supply, someone's going to make money. Sounds like you are a very smart investor. Thanks for your comment and thanks for watching.
At our airport way too many hangars have nothing but cars and boats in them and the airport authorities do nothing even though pilots are looking for places to store their planes
@@arthurbrumagem3844 You need to push the issue with your airport. Airports are certified under FAA regulations, one of them is non-aviation use of hangars.
@@speedomars3869 been doing that for a dozen years or so. As long as they are getting their land rent they aren’t interested in doing anything unfortunately
Gee...I never thought of having a hangar....ohhh could it be because there aren't any?! Most airport authorities are too stupid to build them. They want corporate jets to get the big fuel sales and high taxes. Neither of which ever materialize.
Yes, finding a good reasonably priced hangar is definitely a challenge. That said, there's always an option somewhere. It just may require driving driving farther. That's been my experience. Thanks for watching.
5 year waiting lists
Yes, I remember when my airplane was based out of Northern California, I experienced the same problem. Things are a little better here in North Texas. It took a little looking, but I found a great hanger at a reasonable price. Now I have about a 45 minute drive, which is manageable. Good luck on the hunt if you're looking for a hanger and thanks for watching the video. I appreciate your comment.