Introduction

When an airplane is not in the air, it needs a place to rest and be maintained. Understanding the various terms used to describe these places can help in distinguishing between temporary and final resting spots for aircraft. Let's delve into the details of these locations.

Understanding Aircraft Hangars

An aircraft hangar is a closed building or structure designed to house and protect airplanes when on the ground. These structures come in various sizes, ranging from small, private hangars to large commercial hangars capable of accommodating multiple aircraft. Hangars are essential for several reasons:

Protection from elements: They shield aircraft from harsh weather conditions, including rain, snow, and extreme temperatures. Maintenance and repairs: Regular upkeep and major overhauls can be performed inside hangars, ensuring that planes remain airworthy. Storage: Hangars provide a secure and controlled environment for storing aircraft when not in use.

Hangars are crucial for the aviation industry, as they allow airlines and operators to maintain their fleet in a controlled environment, thereby reducing downtime and ensuring that flights can be operated smoothly. The word hangar itself comes from Middle French hanghart.

Aerodromes: Temporary Resting Places

A aerodrome is defined by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) as 'a defined area on land or water including any buildings, installations, and equipment intended to be used either wholly or in part for the arrival, departure, and surface movement of aircraft.' While many people use the terms 'aerodrome' and 'airport' interchangeably, an aerodrome certify may not necessarily include all the features of a commercial airport.

Large aircraft such as airliners and cargo jets are generally not stored in aerodromes. Special hangars, specifically designed for these larger planes, are used for maintenance purposes only. These hangars are often located in areas where space and resources can be better utilized for the specialized needs of large aircraft.

Aircraft Boneyard: The Final Resting Place

An aircraft boneyard or aircraft graveyard is a storage area for decommissioned or retired aircraft. These locations are typically found in desert areas where environmental conditions are favorable for preserving aircraft over long periods. The term 'boneyard' is often used because these areas resemble graveyards and are home to thousands of scrap aircraft.

Aircraft Boneyards are primarily found in desert climates such as at Tucson, Arizona, Marana, Arizona, and Tonopah, Nevada. These locations offer ideal conditions for preserving aircraft. When an aircraft is no longer flyable or when a carrier decommissions their aircraft, they are often stored in these boneyards to be preserved and refurbished as necessary. Some old military aircraft, such as the SR-71 Blackbird, continue to serve as flying displays in these historic sites, while others are left to gather dust, symbolizing the end of their service life.

In conclusion, the location of an aircraft when not in the air can vary depending on whether it is in active use or has been retired. Understanding the terms hangar, aerodrome, and aircraft boneyard can provide clarity on the purpose of each facility and help in planning and management within the aviation industry.