Rapid-build clamshell hangar boosts Irish Air Corps emergency response

Weatherhaven delivers rapid-deploy clamshell hangar for the Irish Air Corps, assembled in under a week to boost Emergency Aeromedical Service.

Helicopter Hovering Next To Hangar
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Weatherhaven Global Solutions demonstrated unmatched efficiency by delivering and assembling a full-scale helicopter hangar at Custume Barracks in under a week. Arriving in just four ISO containers, the redeployable facility was installed seamlessly to support the Irish Air Corps’ Emergency Aeromedical Service. This achievement showcases Weatherhaven’s global expertise in rapid-deployment infrastructure — ensuring Ireland’s air ambulance operations continue uninterrupted, with full compliance to defence and aviation standards under exceptionally tight timelines.

The newly completed hangar features state-of-the-art clamshell doors at both ends, allowing the AW139 helicopter to tow straight through for maintenance or rapid launch. Electrically powered with manual override, the doors open fully in under 90 seconds. This unique twin-access design maximises operational readiness, blending functionality, durability, and safety into an all-weather structure tailored for critical air-medical response missions.

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Delivered in four 20-foot ISO containers, every element of the hangar was man-portable and ergonomically packed to minimise logistical footprint. Once installed, the containers were repurposed on-site for secure storage and structural anchoring. Weatherhaven’s efficient containerised system exemplifies mobile infrastructure innovation — ready for redeployment, expansion, or future mission use with minimal site preparation and zero environmental footprint after disassembly, reinforcing the flexibility demanded by emergency operations.

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The 20.5 m × 28 m × 8 m hangar is a fully insulated, corrosion-resistant structure designed for extreme conditions. Built with aluminium arches and a galvanised steel base, it withstands 195 km/h winds and 275 kg/m² snow loads. A double-coated PVC fabric exterior and thermal inner liner maintain controlled internal conditions — ensuring aircraft, equipment, and crews operate efficiently year-round. Every element meets stringent Eurocode and EN standards for structural, thermal, and fire performance.

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A ten-person team — two supervisors and eight trained workers — completed the full assembly, from base frame to gantry crane, in just six working days. All construction was done at ground level, eliminating work-at-height risks and ensuring safety throughout. Weatherhaven’s streamlined build process included mechanical anchoring, electrical systems, lighting, heating, and fire alarm integration — transforming an empty site into a fully operational aviation facility in less than a week.

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Equipped with LED lighting, power distribution, heating, and a 1000 kg gantry crane, the hangar enables full maintenance capability for the AW139 fleet. Integrated fire and security systems ensure round-the-clock safety. The insulated liner reduces energy consumption while providing consistent interior temperatures. Every component — from obstruction lights to emergency exits — is plug-and-play, simplifying maintenance and maximising uptime for Ireland’s vital emergency air medical missions.

Weatherhaven Team and Deputy Prime Minister inside Hangar

At the official opening, Tánaiste and Minister for Defence Simon Harris highlighted Weatherhaven’s role in strengthening the nation’s emergency response network. The new redeployable hangar enhances the EAS fleet’s readiness, ensuring faster dispatch and improved patient outcomes. By delivering an advanced, flexible, and rapidly deployable aviation asset, Weatherhaven Global Solutions reaffirmed its position as a trusted partner in mission-critical infrastructure that saves lives across Ireland.

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Susannah Kirk

Managing Director

MD of Weatherhaven Global Solutions. Chartered Aeronautical Engineer.

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Client feedback

Quotation Mark

Project Manager

I would like to thank you and your team for your dedication and professionalism in getting the project over the line. 

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