Aviation Maintenance Complex
Niagara Falls, NY
NY Air National Guard
Fed/State/Mil
Achieving the mission of the NY Air National Guard required a new $10 million aviation maintenance complex and substantial renovation of two existing buildings. S E A provided architectural and all engineering services required to deliver a state-of-the-art facility for maintenance operations, administration, and fueling for large KC-135 aircraft. The main hangar's innovative shape, massive cantilever, and overhead fabric doors contributed to reduced size and cost, speed of construction, functionality, and visual grace.
Project awards
- Recipient of National and Regional ACEC Engineering Excellence Award for innovative architectural and structural design
Sustainable features
S E A reduced the hangar building area by 30% and the volume by 55% by designing chamfered corners and a pitched roof. Utilization of highly insulated overhead fabric doors reduced energy use while increasing ease of operation. An AFFF fire suppression and containment system enabled fighting potential jet fuel fires without harm to groundwater.
Client collaboration
S E A organized the design schedule to allow significant client input and advice. Periodic meetings were held in Niagara Falls and Cambridge to review innovative products such as the fabric doors, and to constantly monitor budget and schedule, since the approved government budget could not be exceeded.