When the call came in for a new aviation hangar project at Sanford Regional Airport, the PATCO team was eager to take on the challenge. While PATCO Construction has built several commercial structures near the airport in the past, this project marked our first hangar located inside the airport gates — an exciting opportunity to expand our experience into a new area of construction.

Designing for Function and Flexibility

From the start, PATCO’s Project Manager, Ethan, and the design team worked closely with the owners and the Sanford Airport team to ensure the hangar met all clearance, structural, and operational requirements. “One of the key design considerations,” Ethan explains, “was creating a space that could accommodate a wide variety of aircraft sizes while maintaining clearances and dimensions that support safe, efficient storage.”

The structure includes a 1,600-square-foot strap-lift bi-fold door, a standout feature requiring the coordination of structural steel, field welding, insulation, and electrical systems — all while ensuring a weather-tight seal. “This was our first time working with a door of this complexity,” Ethan notes, “so careful planning, communication, and teamwork were critical to get it right.”

Midway through construction, the owners requested an epoxy floor finish — a three-layer full-flake system that not only enhances durability but also gives the interior a polished, professional look. “The finished product really makes the inside of the hangar something special,” says Ethan.

Teamwork Takes Flight

Like any complex build, this project came with unique challenges, from coordinating installation of the bi-fold door to navigating logistics within an active airport environment. Ethan credits the project’s success to collaboration and open communication between PATCO, the Sanford Regional Airport team, and the owners.

“Allison Navia and the airport staff were incredible partners,” Ethan shares. “They were flexible with scheduling, access, and deliveries — and their aviation insight helped us ensure every detail aligned with airport requirements.”

A Shared Vision Brought to Life

“The level of communication between us and Ethan was great,” said the owner. “He was very easy to talk to and very encouraging as he helped us through the process. You can tell that Ethan really enjoys what he does and was always looking out for our best interests.”

For Ethan, the most rewarding part of this project was seeing the owners’ satisfaction when the doors — quite literally — opened. “The most significant part for me was making sure the owners were excited and fulfilled with the final product,” he says. “Our team worked hard to make sure they felt like a crucial part of the process, and that their vision was brought to life.”

The completed hangar now stands as another example of PATCO’s craftsmanship, communication, and commitment to client satisfaction — proving that when teamwork and vision come together, even the sky isn’t the limit.

Employee Spotlight

Fran Sclafani

Fran joined PATCO Commercial in 2024, bringing administrative experience from a hardscape company in Haverhill, Massachusetts.

Where did you grow up?

Tewksbury, MA

What has your work experience been?

I bring 27 years of experience from a hardscape company in Haverhill, MA. My career there concluded when I retired after moving to Effingham, NH. The recent opening at PATCO presented an ideal chance to return to work part-time, and I was thrilled to join the team.”

What drew you to PATCO Commercial?

My friend Lisa works here as well, and she told me about the part-time position.

How long have you worked there?

6 Months

What is a typical day in the life of your job?

I’m an administrator assistant, so I help my colleagues with emails, invoicing, maintaining work files, working on new proposals.

What is the best part about your job?

I enjoy the people here.  Patco is a very organized company.

What do you do when you’re not working?

I love playing golf, reading, cooking and doing puzzles.