3 Ways to Store Your Small Plane

When one buys a small plane, it’s most likely pictured in the sky, not on the ground. One imagines the clouds entered and miles traversed, not an idle machine still and earthbound. However, storage is just a much an element of aviation as is flight. Proper storage protects both the pilot and their equipment. Methods vary and usually find themselves dictated by budget. Read on to explore three different ways you can store your small plane safely and effectively.

1. Climate-Controlled Hanger

The highest-end option for plane storage is the climate-controlled hanger. Within this selection you’ll find an even greater variety of options. Hangers can simply be heated for the colder months, while some can allow for humidity adjustment and even more offer air-conditioning for hotter climates. The advantages of this route include not only the comfort of the pilot, but also protection for all their avionics and equipment. Instruments remain shielded from even the harshest conditions. Of course, this option does come at a higher price than the next two, but given your investment, the expense may be worth it.

1. Tie-down Outside on the Ramp

The simplest, most straightforward storage for you plane is the tie-down option. This route secures your plane on the ramp of your main airport, away from other flyers; however, this option does present tremendous exposure to all the elements. Ice, sleet, snow, fluctuating heat and cold, even just the sun’s rays, all will take their effect on your aircraft. While this is probably the most budget-friendly, this isn’t the best choice for long-term storage.

1. Raw Hanger Storage

This final option meets somewhere in between the first two. Raw hanger storage allows protection from most of the outside elements, including rain and wind, but without the expense of climate-control. It’s simply a hanger without heating or cooling, but complete with a roof and walls for your aircraft. It acts in the same way a common car garage works for automobiles at home.

Even though often an after thought, storage for your aircraft is vital. The route you choose will determine the condition of your plane for years to come. Be sure to explore all your options and choose the one that fits your plane type, local climate and the duration of storage.