National Electrical Code

NEC Requirements in Aircraft Hangars

May 15, 2018

Highlights of Art. 513 of the 2017 National Electrical Code.

Article 513 of the 2017 National Electrical Code (NEC) provides the requirements for aircraft hangars. Here are some highlights:

Any pit or depression below floor level is a Class I, Division 1 (or Zone 1) location [513.3(A)].
It matters were the aircraft are. For example, an area within 10 ft horizontally from aircraft power plants or fuel tanks is Class I, Division 1 (or Zone 1). And this area extends from the floor to 10 ft above the aircraft [513.3(C)].
Aircraft electrical systems must be de-energized when the aircraft is stored in the hangar and (whenever possible) when the aircraft is undergoing maintenance [513.10(A)(2)].
External power sources for charging aircraft must be at least 18 in. above the floor [513.10(C)(1)].
All 25V, 15A and 20A receptacles that may be used for maintenance and/or portable lighting must be GFCI-protected [513.12].
If it’s a non-current-carrying metal part, bond it [513.16(A)]. The goal is to eliminate dangerous differences of potential.
Use an approved means to maintain the continuity of the grounding (bonding) conductor between the fixed wiring system and the non-current carrying metal parts of pendant, luminaires, portable luminaires, and portable utilization equipment [513.16(B)(2)].

About the Author

Mark Lamendola

Mark is an expert in maintenance management, having racked up an impressive track record during his time working in the field. He also has extensive knowledge of, and practical expertise with, the National Electrical Code (NEC). Through his consulting business, he provides articles and training materials on electrical topics, specializing in making difficult subjects easy to understand and focusing on the practical aspects of electrical work.

Prior to starting his own business, Mark served as the Technical Editor on EC&M for six years, worked three years in nuclear maintenance, six years as a contract project engineer/project manager, three years as a systems engineer, and three years in plant maintenance management.

Mark earned an AAS degree from Rock Valley College, a BSEET from Columbia Pacific University, and an MBA from Lake Erie College. He’s also completed several related certifications over the years and even was formerly licensed as a Master Electrician. He is a Senior Member of the IEEE and past Chairman of the Kansas City Chapters of both the IEEE and the IEEE Computer Society. Mark also served as the program director for, a board member of, and webmaster of, the Midwest Chapter of the 7x24 Exchange. He has also held memberships with the following organizations: NETA, NFPA, International Association of Webmasters, and Institute of Certified Professional Managers.