Historic Hangar Up for Lease at NASA Glenn
NASA's Glenn Research Center in Cleveland has opened a unique opportunity for industry and academia by inviting proposals to lease its historic aircraft hangar, officially named the Flight Research Building. This facility, built in the 1940s, spans an impressive 65-by-250 feet and is heated, capable of housing numerous aircraft of various sizes. Alongside the hangar, the lease includes access to a parking lot, tarmac, and a small neighboring office building, providing a comprehensive space for potential tenants.
The call for proposals was announced on July 31, with submissions due by 1 p.m. EDT on Nov. 28. This initiative is part of NASA's broader strategy to modernize its Cleveland and Sandusky campuses, as the agency looks to reduce maintenance costs while fostering innovation through strategic partnerships. The hangar is located near Cleveland Hopkins International Airport at Glenn's main campus, Lewis Field, which is already home to world-class facilities like wind tunnels and vacuum chambers.
Lease Terms and Strategic Goals
The lease agreement for the Flight Research Building comes under the National Historic Preservation Act, offering a base period of 10 years with two optional five-year extensions. NASA first revealed plans to lease this and other underutilized facilities in May 2024, utilizing the government's Enhanced Use Lease authority. This program allows space, aeronautics, and related industries to use agency land and facilities, creating a win-win situation for both NASA and its partners.
By leasing out such facilities, NASA aims to offset operational costs while encouraging collaboration with external entities. 'Glenn is making great progress as we modernize our Cleveland and Sandusky campuses to support future missions,' noted a statement from the agency. This move is expected to bolster the local economy, as NASA Glenn already contributes more than $2 billion annually to Ohio through jobs and business development opportunities.
Broader Implications for Ohio's Aerospace Future
The leasing of the Flight Research Building aligns with ongoing efforts by Ohio officials to position the state as a central hub for aerospace and technology. Recent posts on X highlight support from figures like Governor Mike DeWine and Senator Jon Husted, who have advocated for relocating NASA's headquarters to Cleveland, citing Ohio's rich aerospace heritage and lower operational costs. While this lease opportunity is a smaller step, it reflects a growing interest in expanding NASA's presence in the region.
Located within the cities of Brook Park, Cleveland, and Fairview Park, the Glenn Research Center is strategically positioned to attract innovative companies and research institutions. The nearby Neil Armstrong Test Facility in Sandusky, a remote campus of Glenn, further complements these efforts with its extensive space simulation test facilities. As proposals come in, the future of this historic hangar could play a pivotal role in shaping Ohio's contributions to national and international aerospace advancements.