Stennis International Airport Hanger Facility, Concrete Apron, Fuel Farm
Aviation Infrastructure
Digital Engineering was integral to the successful development and enhancement of SELEX Galileo’s aircraft hangar facility at Stennis International Airport. Serving as the Project Manager for this $3.4 million endeavor, DE provided a full spectrum of services to support the design, construction, and operational readiness of this critical aviation infrastructure. The SELEX Galileo hangar, an expansive 56,900-sq-ft facility capable of housing two C-131 aircraft, required a multifaceted approach to meet stringent operational, safety, and regulatory standards. DE’s scope included service utilities, site and interior improvements, a 27,125-square-foot Aircraft Ground Equipment (AGE) pad, a 39,000-sq-ft concrete apron, and a state-of-the-art fuel farm.
Client
Hancock County Board of Supervisors
Project Location
Hancock County, Mississippi
A key challenge of the project was meeting the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 409 fire flow requirements. DE addressed this by designing and overseeing the construction of a 10,100 LF, 12” C-900 water loop. This system not only enhanced fire suppression capabilities but also ensured long-term resilience and compliance with safety standards.
As part of the apron and AGE pad construction, DE applied advanced engineering to create robust pavement systems that could withstand heavy aircraft loads. Designed to meet FAA standards and supported by FAARFIELD software, the 12” thick concrete apron was constructed atop a layered base comprising cement-treated and crushed aggregate materials. When poor soil conditions were encountered, DE adapted the design to include over-excavation and backfilling with sand encased in geotextile fabric, ensuring stability and durability. Aircraft tie-downs, grounding connections, and an environmentally compliant wash-down area with trench drains and an oil/water separator were integrated into the apron to support daily operations.
The project also included the development of a cutting-edge fuel farm to support SELEX Galileo’s Department of Defense contracts. DE’s design featured two 30,000-gallon defuel storage tanks with 400 GPM bulk loading fueling systems, addressing ATA 103 and NFPA 407 standards. This system allowed the facility to handle defueling operations efficiently, with separate storage for fuel from different contracts, ensuring compliance and operational integrity. Additionally, the system was equipped with filtration, fuel recirculation for Millipore Testing, and recovery capabilities for each tank.
Throughout the project, DE managed all phases of development, from the preparation of bidding documents to construction administration and resident inspection. Our comprehensive involvement ensured the successful execution of every component, delivering a cohesive and functional facility that supports SELEX Galileo’s critical aviation operations.
