The New Jersey Forest Fire Service has issued eviction notices to hangar tenants at Aeroflex-Andover Airport (12N), requiring them to vacate by Dec. 31 as the state moves forward with plans to demolish much of the airport’s historic hangar complex. The notices follow an earlier announcement in June that prompted concerns about the future of the airport’s flight school and maintenance business.
Hangar Conditions Disputed
The state previously cited extensive structural and maintenance issues as justification for the demolition. However, according to an Oct. 1 statement from AOPA, independent engineers who examined the buildings reached different conclusions. AOPA says their findings indicate that repairing the hangars would cost substantially less than demolition.
“We are disappointed that the state of New Jersey has decided to move forward with their plan to demolish the historic hangars that make Aeroflex-Andover a great airport,” said AOPA Eastern Regional Manager Sean Collins in the association’s statement. “While the notices have gone out, our efforts to keep these hangars open are not stopping.”
Airport Businesses Face Closure
The demolition could force Andover Flight Academy and an aircraft maintenance business to close. Flight school instructor Justine Pasniewski previously told News 12 that relocating would be difficult because of limited hangar availability. Many of the aircraft based at the airport are vintage, fabric-covered airplanes that require indoor storage.
The state previously confirmed that Aeroflex-Andover would remain open for public use and continue offering outdoor tie-downs, although remaining hangar space would be reserved for firefighting operations. AOPA says it is continuing discussions with local and state officials and seeking a meeting with Gov. Mikie Sherrill in an effort to preserve the existing facilities.
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