Recent severe winter weather across the United States has disrupted airline operations, emphasizing the need for more effective aircraft hangar heating solutions. Traditional heating systems, which aim to warm the entire volume of large hangar spaces, often perform poorly during extreme cold, especially as energy costs increase and operational demands fluctuate.
Stephen Levy, CEO of Shadow Infrared Heating, explains that many maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facilities are reconsidering their heating strategies. He states, "This winter has really exposed the limits of traditional heating in aircraft hangars." Operators are seeking solutions that reduce energy waste, lower carbon footprints, and ensure consistent worker comfort—a challenge in high-ceiling hangars susceptible to thermal stratification, where hot air rises and leaves technicians working in colder, unheated zones.
Benefits of Radiant Infrared Systems
Levy advocates for radiant infrared systems, which operate differently from warm-air heating by directly warming surfaces and people rather than the surrounding air. These systems retain heat effectively even when hangar doors open, providing rapid temperature recovery and maintaining stable working conditions. This approach results in greater energy efficiency and improved comfort, especially in large, high-ceiling environments where temperature disparities are pronounced.
“Radiant systems create far greater temperature stability, reduce recovery times after door openings, and support consistent working conditions even in environments with frequent air exchanges,” said Levy.
While retrofitting these systems involves considering structural load and zoning control, Levy notes that the installation process is often less disruptive than expected. The ability to independently control heating zones allows operators to target specific areas, optimizing energy use and minimizing downtime during upgrades.
