The amount of light needed for an airplane hangar for maintenance and tasks depends on several factors, including the size of the hangar, the specific tasks being performed, and any regulatory requirements. PrimeLights of Texas, shipping to the entire United States is here to help.  As a general guideline, you can aim for an average illuminance level measured in foot-candles (fc) or lux.

Airplane Hangar Light Fixture Calculator. From 16 Foot to 30 Foot.

1. Average Illuminance Levels:

   • For general maintenance and inspection tasks in an airplane hangar, a recommended average illuminance level is typically between 50 to 100 foot-candles (fc) or approximately 500 to 1000 lux.
   • For detailed or precision tasks that require more focused illumination, such as engine maintenance or avionics work, higher illuminance levels of around 100 to 200 foot-candles (fc) or approximately 1000 to 2000 lux may be necessary.
   • NOTE: Lux is dependent on your actual application and cannot be determined by a fixture itself. Lux is calculated with your factors like mounting height, workplane height, reflectivity, environment, etc. We can create a custom computerized layout for your aircraft hangar. 

2. Uniformity and Distribution:

   • Ensure that the lighting fixtures provide uniform light distribution across the entire hangar space, minimizing shadows, glare, and dark spots. Uniform lighting enhances visibility and safety during maintenance and tasks.
   • Use a combination of overhead lighting, task lighting, and portable lighting as needed to achieve the desired illuminance levels and uniformity throughout the hangar.

3. Color Rendering Index (CRI):

   • Choose lighting fixtures with a high color rendering index (CRI) to accurately represent colors and details of aircraft components and systems. A CRI of 80 or higher is recommended for aviation maintenance environments.

4. Regulatory Requirements:

   • Be aware of any regulatory requirements or guidelines regarding lighting levels and quality in aircraft maintenance facilities. Regulatory bodies such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) may have specific standards or recommendations for lighting in hangars.

5. Energy Efficiency:

   • Select energy-efficient lighting fixtures, such as LED lights, to minimize energy consumption and operating costs while still providing adequate illumination for maintenance tasks. LED lights offer high lumen output, long lifespan, and low maintenance requirements, making them ideal for hangar applications.

By carefully assessing the specific lighting needs and requirements of your airplane hangar, including the size of the space and the nature of the tasks performed, you can determine the appropriate amount of light needed to ensure visibility, safety, and productivity during maintenance and tasks. Consulting with lighting professionals or engineers at PrimeLights 512.843.1383 may also be helpful in designing an optimal lighting solution for your hangar. 

PrimeLights fixture calculator. 

IN DEPTH (for the folks who want to know a little more...)

Enhancing Safety and Efficiency: LED Lighting Solutions for Aircraft Hangars

When it comes to maintaining aircraft and ensuring the safety of personnel in airplane hangars, the importance of efficient and reliable lighting cannot be overstated. Traditional lighting systems not only consume excessive energy but also require frequent maintenance, leading to downtime and increased operational costs. However, with the advent of LED technology, hangar lighting has undergone a significant transformation, offering unparalleled benefits in terms of energy efficiency, durability, and safety.

Energy-Efficient Illumination
One of the primary advantages of LED lighting in airplane hangars is its exceptional energy efficiency. High bay LED lights are designed to deliver maximum brightness using minimal energy, resulting in substantial cost savings for hangar operators. By transitioning to LED hangar lighting, facilities can significantly reduce their energy consumption and carbon footprint without compromising on illumination quality.

Long-Lasting Performance
LED fixtures boast an impressive lifespan compared to traditional lighting sources, making them ideal for the demanding environment of aircraft maintenance facilities. With minimal maintenance requirements and robust construction, industrial-grade LED fixtures ensure reliable performance even in the most challenging conditions. This longevity translates to reduced maintenance costs and increased operational uptime, allowing hangar personnel to focus on their core tasks without interruptions.

Enhanced Safety Measures
Aviation lighting solutions play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of aircraft and personnel within hangar environments. LED lighting offers several features that contribute to enhanced safety measures, including motion sensor technology and daylight harvesting capabilities. Motion sensor lighting automatically adjusts illumination levels based on occupancy, optimizing energy usage while maintaining adequate brightness levels. Additionally, daylight harvesting technology leverages natural sunlight to supplement artificial lighting, creating a well-lit and comfortable working environment while reducing reliance on electric lighting during daylight hours.

Advanced Control Systems
Modern hangar lighting solutions incorporate sophisticated control systems that allow operators to manage illumination levels with precision and ease. Lighting control systems enable remote monitoring and scheduling of lighting operations, facilitating proactive maintenance and energy management strategies. Furthermore, dimmable LED fixtures offer flexibility in adjusting brightness levels according to specific tasks and preferences, enhancing user comfort and productivity.

Compliance with Regulations
Aircraft hangars are subject to stringent safety regulations, including requirements for lighting quality and visibility. LED lighting solutions address these regulatory concerns by providing uniform light distribution, high color rendering index (CRI), and anti-glare features. These attributes ensure optimal visibility for maintenance tasks, inspection procedures, and aircraft movements, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and compliance with industry standards.

Sustainable Lighting Practices
In addition to their operational benefits, LED lighting solutions align with sustainability initiatives aimed at reducing environmental impact and conserving resources. Retrofitting existing hangar lighting with LED fixtures minimizes waste and extends the lifespan of lighting infrastructure, contributing to a circular economy model. Furthermore, the energy-efficient nature of LED technology reduces greenhouse gas emissions and supports efforts to mitigate climate change, making it a preferred choice for environmentally conscious organizations.

Conclusion
LED lighting has emerged as a game-changer in the realm of aircraft hangar illumination, offering a compelling blend of energy efficiency, durability, and safety. By embracing LED technology, hangar operators can optimize their lighting systems for maximum performance while minimizing operational costs and environmental footprint. From energy-efficient illumination to advanced control features, LED lighting solutions pave the way for a brighter, safer, and more sustainable future in aviation maintenance facilities.

Our sophisticated reps with knowledge and powerful software will help customize your hangar.  Call PrimeLights 512.843.1383 for your complimentary layout.