Smarter Airport Infrastructure with Fabric Buildings

Across Canada and beyond, airports rely on a range of support buildings; hangars, maintenance shops, logistics bays, and more, to keep operations running smoothly. Traditionally, these buildings have been steel or concrete, but a growing number of operations are now considering fabric airport buildings for their efficiency, adaptability, and code-compliant strength.

At Britespan, we design and engineer fabric structures for various aviation applications. From aircraft storage to temporary logistics hubs, our buildings are built to perform in challenging environments while offering a faster and more flexible alternative to conventional builds.

Why Fabric Buildings Are Gaining Ground in Aviation

Airports face tight budgets, weather exposure, and construction delays. That’s where fabric structures can offer real value. They’re built to meet the demands of aircraft operators and facility managers, without the extended build times that often come with traditional construction.

We’re seeing interest grow from airport teams who need aircraft storage buildings, modular hangars, and general-purpose shelters. These buildings offer a quicker turnaround, lower site disruption, and a clean, open interior space for storage or operations.

Popular Choice: Our Genesis Series is frequently selected for aircraft storage, thanks to its peak roof style and wide clear-span interior.

Fabric Buildings Bring Quicker Construction and Lower Disruption

Fabric structures are manufactured in advance and installed on-site once the foundation is prepared. In many cases, full installation can be completed within weeks, helping reduce operational disruptions or the need for temporary workarounds.

All trusses are hot-dip galvanized for corrosion resistance, and the building envelope is made from durable fabric membranes designed for long-term use. This makes them well-suited for both seasonal and permanent applications in airport zones.

Engineered Buildings for Code Compliance and Functionality

Fabric buildings for aviation use are fully engineered to meet national and local building codes. Our team takes into account snow loads, wind exposure, fire safety, and regional climate.

Designs can include:

• Large-scale widths up to 210 feet
• Entry doors for aircraft, service vehicles, and personnel
• Lighting, insulation, HVAC integration
• Fire suppression systems such as overhead sprinklers or foam suppression setups

Real-World Example: Britespan’s Apex Series has been used in multiple regional aviation and logistics projects. Its high-clearance design and strong roof lines make it ideal for areas with high snow loads or machinery movement.

Built for Flexibility and Adaptability

Whether you’re managing a small airfield or supporting municipal operations, flexibility matters. Our fabric buildings offer clear-span interiors (no interior columns or obstructions) so you can use every square foot effectively.

They can also be customized with modular layouts, additional doors or access points, ventilation systems, and storage mezzanines. Temporary foundations are available for projects that may require future relocation.

This adaptability makes them useful in a variety of airport-adjacent applications, including:

• Emergency response support
• Equipment and de-icing material storage
• Maintenance staging zones

Considering Fabric Buildings for Your Airport Site?

Million Air 280×134 Rigid Beam Series for Aircraft Hangar

Fabric structures are not intended to replace every traditional building. But when your project calls for fast deployment, low operating costs, and long-term durability, they can offer a reliable alternative.

At Britespan, we provide engineered fabric building systems designed for performance, code compliance, and ease of use. Our team works with you to understand your site requirements, space needs, and operational priorities, then recommends a solution tailored to your application.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right structure for airport-related use depends on many factors; timelines, budgets, permitting, and long-term needs. Fabric buildings can help support those goals by offering a faster, efficient building option that’s ready when you are.

If you’re exploring ways to expand, store, or support airport operations with less construction delay, Britespan can help. Get in touch with our team to learn more about engineered fabric buildings for aviation use.