Client:
US Airforce
Location:
Andersen Air Force Base, Guam
Details:
Completed 2005
Construction Cost $32 Million
Housing and protecting a fleet of multi-billion dollar stealth bombers is no small undertaking. Architects must design an aircraft hangar which not only withstands natural disasters, but is also low maintenance while addressing multiple military and administrative functions. In 2003, The U.S. Air Force called upon Architects Pacific, Inc. to achieve just that.
Andersen Air Force Base in Guam was in need of a new hangar for its Aircraft Expeditionary Force (AEF), Forward Operation Location (FOL) operations. Architects Pacific’s solution? A sleek, two-story, multi-purpose structure to accommodate a host of functions including security, safety, operational and administrative needs.
Architects Pacific’s new Aircraft Maintenance Hanger features a folded plate circular arch to accommodate the aircrafts’ massive wingspan, which complements the Base’s existing Hangar 1. Additionally, a special air-conditioned hangar bay efficiently cools down the engines of the B-2 Stealth Bombers. In consideration of the Anti-Terrorism Force Protection requirements, all mechanical equipment is situated on the ground level in an enclosed space.
The lower hangar bay is divided by a mobile interior curtain wall, providing space for two B-2 Bombers to be housed and maintained simultaneously. Two exterior hangar doors on both ends allow aircrafts to be quickly and easily pulled through the structure. The ground floor also accommodates the emergency generator, communications, fire protection equipment, hazardous waste storage and mechanical operations as well as tools, supplies and production control.
Innovative Use of Space
To reduce the length of the hangar, administrative offices and support functions are conveniently located atop of the hangar bay on the second floor, accessed by stairways. Offices, toilets, showers and locker rooms are located there as well, making the hangar more efficient and functional for the personnel.