Demystifying Inflatable Aircraft Shelters: What You Need to Know
Aircraft don’t wait for the weather. When maintenance needs to happen, especially at remote stands or during AOG events, you need an environment you can trust. Inflatable aircraft shelters solve that problem by creating a controlled, weather-protected workspace in minutes rather than days.
This guide explains what an inflatable shelter is, how it works, and why solutions like the IglooMX® are now standard equipment for MROs, airlines, and defence operators worldwide.
What Exactly Is an Inflatable Aircraft Shelter?
An inflatable aircraft shelter is a self-supporting, air-pressurised structure designed to create an instant maintenance space around an aircraft or component.
It replaces the heavy frame of conventional hangars with engineered fabric arches that become rigid when inflated. This means:
- No steel structure
- No foundations
- Minimal ground equipment
- Deployment anywhere an aircraft can park
Once inflated, the structure maintains shape using integrated pressure-controlled blowers and anchors securely to the apron using ballast, straps or dedicated anchoring points.
Why the Aviation Industry Uses Inflatable Shelters
Time-Saving
Frame-based temporary hangars can take weeks to build. An IglooMX® inflatable shelter can be deployed in a matter of hours by a small team.
For AOG teams and line maintenance crews, this speed translates directly into reduced downtime and faster return-to-service.
Cost-Efficient
Inflatable shelters eliminate heavy logistics, cranes, transport trucks and long construction schedules.
They are reusable, portable, and deployable anywhere, meaning a single unit can support multiple bases across an airline’s network.
Safe and Weather-Ready
They create a sealed, stable workspace that protects engineers from wind, rain, snow, sand and extreme temperatures.
Operators frequently use them in environments ranging from sub-zero winter ramps to high-heat desert conditions.
Operational Flexibility
Suitable for:
- Engine change operations
- Wing repairs
- Nacelle and APU maintenance
- Avionics and cabin work
- Composite repairs
- Remote stand operations
- Military deployments
How an Inflatable Shelter Is Constructed
High-Strength Fabric
Modern shelters are manufactured using heavy-duty coated textiles engineered for tear resistance, UV stability, and fire retardancy.
Air-Supported Structural Arches
The arches inflate and act as the load-bearing skeleton.
Once at operating pressure, they become extremely stable and resistant to wind.
Integrated Ventilation and Environmental Control
Depending on the mission, shelters can be fitted with:
- Heating
- Cooling
- Filtration (including HEPA for FOD-sensitive operations)
- Lighting
- Power distribution
- Doors and access points
Anchoring Systems
To remain safe in challenging conditions, shelters use:
- Weighted ballast
- Fuselage straps (for engine change units)
- Hard-point anchoring
- Ground plates and straps
Introducing IglooMX® — The Industry’s Leading Inflatable Aircraft Shelter
Developed by JB Roche® and trusted by airlines, MROs and defence forces globally, the IglooMX® is engineered specifically for aviation.
Key advantages include:
- Rapid deployment
- Modular design
- AOG-ready transport cases
- Compatibility with narrow-body and wide-body aircraft
- Engineered for apron conditions and harsh climates
- Proven field performance over more than two decades
Whether you need an engine change shelter for a 737 MAX, a wing-covering solution for the A350, or a fully enclosed workspace for an A330 fuselage task, there is an IglooMX® solution sized for your operation.
Real-World Example: Extreme Cold Operations
Operators in Alaska utilise inflatable shelters to perform critical maintenance tasks during the winter.
Sub-zero temperatures and strong winds make open-air repairs difficult and unsafe.
With a fully enclosed IglooMX®, technicians can work in a stable, controlled environment that maintains operational safety even in severe weather.
Why Inflatable Shelters Are Outperforming Traditional Hangar Solutions
Compared to fixed or frame-based temporary hangars, inflatable shelters offer:
| Feature | Inflatable Shelter | Frame-Based Structure | Permanent Hangar |
| Deployment Time | Minutes/Hours | Days/Weeks | Months/Years |
| Cost | Low | Medium–High | Very High |
| Logistics | Minimal | Heavy equipment | Construction project |
| Portability | High | Low | None |
| Ideal For | AOG / remote stands | Medium-term | Base maintenance |
This is why more MROs are integrating inflatable shelters into their workflow.
FAQs
How long does it take to deploy?
Typically 20 minutes – 2 hours, depending on size.
Can it handle strong winds?
Yes. With proper ballast/anchoring, IglooMX® shelters withstand the wind loads they are engineered for.
Can it integrate heating or cooling?
Yes. HVAC, ducting, filtration and lighting systems can be added.
Is it safe to use near engines or aircraft structures?
Yes. All materials are aviation-grade and approved for apron use.
Can I use it for wide-body aircraft?
Yes. Solutions exist for A330, A350, A380, B777, B787, KC-135 and more.
Explore Our Range
See the full selection on our Standard Inflatable Shelters page or contact us for a configuration tailored to your operation.
Inflatable aircraft shelters are no longer niche accessories.
They are essential tools that help airlines, MROs and defence teams maintain operational readiness, reduce downtime and operate safely in challenging conditions.
If you want a shelter engineered specifically for aviation tasks, the IglooMX® delivers performance, speed and reliability wherever your aircraft is parked.
