Airport hangar facilities insurance

This is a guide to airport hangar facilities insurance, industry shifts, and FAQs. Brokers can see insights here and get product listings through IB Markets

  1. visit our Aircraft Insurance page for a look at all products in this sector 
  2. or focus in on all of the airport hangar facilities insurance products available on IB Markets! 

What is airport hangar facilities insurance? 

This insurance safeguards those who own, operate, or manage buildings used to store, repair, or maintain aircraft. Hangars can house anything from private jets and helicopters to commercial planes and drones. 

Airport hangar facilities insurance covers incidents such as: 

  • damage to third-party aircraft stored in the hangar 
  • fire or explosion inside the hangar 
  • injury to workers or visitors in or around the hangar 
  • theft of aircraft parts or tools stored on site 
  • weather-related damage like flooding or high winds 

With over 40 licensed airports and hundreds of private airfields in the UK, hangars play a vital role in aviation. The high value of aircraft and equipment stored in these spaces makes insurance necessary. 

Why airport hangar facilities insurance matters 

In 2024, a fire broke out at a private airfield in southern England. It badly damaged a hangar and two small aircraft inside.  

The operator did not have hangar keepers’ insurance, so they had to cover the costs themselves. A policy could have paid for the damage, downtime, and legal fees. 

Airport hangar facilities insurance: industry trends and emerging risks 

Purpose-built hangars for drones and rotorcraft are creating demand for specialist insurance. Many hangars now use smart systems like automated doors, lights and sensors, which need extra cover. 

Green buildings with solar roofs are also more common, changing how insurers assess building materials and energy risks. But there are also concerns in airport hangar facilities insurance, such as: 

  • flood and storm exposure: stronger weather events are raising claims and flood-related threats 

  • ground handling incidents: busy and congested hangars increase collision risks during aircraft movement 

  • shared space liabilities: co-use and subletting cause disputes over insurance responsibility 

Drone activity near hangars is growing, raising the risk of accidental damage and unclear liability. High-value aircraft and parts also make theft a concern. 

Airport hangar facilities insurance FAQs 

Who needs airport hangar facilities insurance coverage? 

Insurance for airport hangars is used by many in the aviation sector. These include: 

  • airport owners and private airfields 
  • hangar operators and facility managers 
  • maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) providers 
  • fixed-base operators (FBOs) 
  • private aircraft owners with personal hangars 
  • aerospace firms storing or building aircraft on-site 

The policy helps each group manage dangers tied to high-value aircraft, third-party liabilities, and storage issues. 

What is a hangar keeper? 

A hangar keeper is a person or company in charge of storing or handling aircraft in a hangar. They may be liable for any damage to aircraft in their care, so insurance is critical. 

What are common airport hangar facilities insurance coverage options? 

This insurance includes a mix of cover types. Each one protects a different part of the hangar’s day-to-day risks. Common cover options include: 

  • hangar keepers’ liability 
  • public liability 
  • property insurance 
  • equipment breakdown 
  • business interruption 

Some airport hangar facilities insurance policies may also include cyber cover or protection for airside incidents. Brokers should match cover to the size and use of the hangar. 

What are the most important features of a maintenance hangar? 

A well-designed maintenance hangar helps crew work safely and keeps aircraft in good shape. The layout, tools, and safety systems must support daily operations. Essential features include: 

  • strong, level flooring 
  • ample space 
  • ventilation systems 
  • parts storage areas 
  • fire safety equipment 

Hangars with these features are easier to insure and face fewer operational delays. 

What is the hazard in an aircraft hangar? 

Common hazards include fuel leaks, moving equipment, fire, and poor ventilation. These risks can lead to injury or damage without proper airport hangar facilities insurance. 

What are the ventilation requirements for aircraft hangars? 

Good ventilation in aircraft hangars is needed to remove fumes, control heat, and meet health and safety rules. Key ventilation needs include: 

  1. airflow control 
  2. natural or mechanical systems 
  3. compliance with UK building regulations 
  4. fire safety support 
  5. carbon monoxide and fume removal 

Proper ventilation is often checked during policy assessments for airport hangar facilities insurance. Poor airflow can lead to exclusions or higher premiums. 

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