Story ID: 303_HanedaHangar.doc
Tokyo’s Airports Gets First Bizav Hangars
By: Curt Epstein
Caption: The new facilities can provide shelter for any business aircraft and will become private aviation maintenance hubs.
Word Count: 228
With the Tokyo area beginning preparations to host the 2020 Olympics, its airports are already seeing improvements to handle the expected influx of private aircraft.
  
Tokyo Haneda International Airport received its first private aviation hangar last month when Wings of Life began operations in a former 12,067-sq-m (129,850-sq-ft) Japan Airlines facility purchased by the company. The hangar features 5,007 sq m (53,894 sq ft) of aircraft storage, and is large enough to shelter aircraft up to a Boeing 747. 
  
In addition to storage, the hangar will provide shelter for private aircraft maintenance activities at the airport, and the company plans to add full FAA maintenance authorization in the future. At present, its JCAB Class 1 certified aircraft mechanic staff can provide assistance, including troubleshooting, parts procurement and mechanical support, along with a full suite of tools and equipment available for rental. The location features available office space, as well as mechanic and crew lounges for handling and maintenance companies to support their work within the hangar.
  
At Narita, the airport corporation has leased a former 7,655 sq m (82,400 sq ft) JAL maintenance hangar to AGP Corp., which will provide private aircraft storage and accommodate third-party maintenance activities. Limited operations there began at the beginning of February, as the facility undergoes renovation. Like the Haneda hangar, it will be able to accommodate any class of business aircraft.