“Largest single span aircraft hangar in Europe.” That’s the claim to fame of the North Hangar here at Cambridge Airport. This immense structure has a fascinating history. It involves converting civil TriStars for the Royal Air Force.
Let’s step back to 1983. Marshall Aerospace commissioned R G Carter to undertake a significant project. The task was to construct a new hangar. It needed to accommodate both freighter and tanker aircraft. The result was the North Hangar.
Seven months after construction began, the first TriStar aircraft entered the North Hangar. The hangar’s sheer size allowed it to house five aircraft simultaneously. This capacity was crucial for the conversion work needed for the RAF.
In the summer of 2000, R G Carter expanded their work at Cambridge Airport. They also built the new control tower. The North Hangar played a vital role in aviation history. It supported the RAF’s operations.
The North Hangar is more than just a large building. It represents a period of innovation. It highlights the collaboration between civilian companies and the military. It stands as a testament to British engineering. The North Hangar quickly became the largest single span aircraft hangar in Europe.