Why HangarBot Is the Smart Automation System Every Pilot Needs
By Michelle Ward
For aircraft owners and pilots, a smart hangar automation and security system can offer big benefits, from saving time and money to deterring theft, vandalism and unauthorized “borrowing.” The new system HangarBot does all these things, allowing users to control, automate and secure their general aviation hangars anytime using just a smartphone.
This easy-to-use, all-in-one system brings a holistic approach to security and control by incorporating a thermostat, door sensor and controller, day/night video camera and connected outlet. With so many features in one smart system, it’s an option every pilot should consider.
Save Time and Keep Warm
Trekking out to the hangar to check on your aircraft, turn on the engine preheating system or let in aircraft maintenance technicians, airport personnel and guests can be time consuming. With HangarBot, do it all remotely using a mobile app.
You can view what’s happening inside your hangar, instantly open and close the hangar door and start the battery charger. If you’re headed to the airport and need to preheat the engine, warm up the hangar and flip on the lights, you can do that, too.
Deter Theft and Vandalism
While airport-wide crime sprees or attempts at stealing multiple general aviation aircraft aren’t common, they do happen. Regarding the General Aviation community, the Transportation Security Administration points out “as vulnerabilities within other areas of aviation have been reduced, GA may be perceived as more susceptible to unauthorized use and, consequently, more vulnerable.”
The agency offers guidelines to airport operators and users to help reduce security risks. These include adding video surveillance, maintaining control of keys before and after maintenance procedures, and ensuring door locks are consistently used to prevent unauthorized access or tampering with the aircraft. In addition to these measures, the TSA also suggests that, “…an electric bypass switch and/or alarm and intrusion detection systems could also aid in the security of hangars.”
In addition to access control, HangarBot offers live video surveillance 24/7 with the ability to view motion-activated security snapshots of the hangar anytime. The system stores up to 20 days of video footage, which can be downloaded through the mobile app. HangarBot also offers intrusion detection via user-defined, real-time alerts, such as alerting you when the hangar door opens, or movement is detected.
With a smart security system like HangarBot, you can save on the costs of hiring security personnel and avoid the anxiety of worrying if your hangar is safe. If an issue does arise, you have video proof for your insurance company, making it easier to recoup the value of the damages.
Bonus—HangarBot Provides a Wi-Fi Hotspot
HangarBot uses cellular service to connect with users’ smartphones. While at the hangar, you can tap into that cell service and use it as a Wi-Fi hotspot for your other internet-connected devices. The system has a range of up to 350 feet.
Aircraft owners and pilots can choose from three cellular plans. Since the plans are month-to-month, there’s no long-term commitment. To find out if HangarBot 4G and 3G is in your area, check the AT&T service coverage map.
Whether you want to add smart controls to your hangar, keep an eye on your aircraft, deter theft or use a Wi-Fi hotspot, HangarBot plays an essential role. Visit hangarbot.com to learn more.
References:
- https://www.tsa.gov/sites/default/files/2017_ga_security_guidelines.pdf
- https://www.sacbee.com/news/local/crime/article129975884.html
- https://www.abcactionnews.com/news/region-hillsborough/florida-man-arrested-for-attempting-to-steal-2-airplanes-from-hangar
- https://www.att.com/maps/wireless-coverage.html
- https://hangarbot.com/#features
Possible additional product photos:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1OEQGYo0YMEViGNY1R0mQ99zoIKxEpH1E?usp=sharing
