McCormack Construction is partnering with the Eastern Oregon Regional Airport and the City of Pendleton on a ground-up aircraft hangar facility designed to expand aviation infrastructure at the Pendleton Airport. The $3.7 million project is currently in progress and represents a meaningful investment in commercial aviation capabilities for the region. This public facility serves the City of Pendleton’s population of 17,026 and supports the growing unmanned aerial systems industry in eastern Oregon.
The project involves construction of a three-bay, 20,160-square-foot aircraft hangar with an internal mezzanine and associated sitework located at 3567 NW 38th Court. McCormack is serving as the hard bid, lump sum contractor while providing design-build services for mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire sprinkler systems, as well as the pre-engineered metal building, building foundations, and metal stairs and railings. The scope includes construction of parking and aircraft apron parking pavements, utility connections, and all elements necessary for a fully operational facility. The nine-month project requires coordination with airport operations to ensure minimal disruption to active flight activities.
Key challenges include managing budget constraints while meeting the owner’s operational requirements and adhering to a tight nine-month construction schedule at an active airport facility. Construction at an operational airport demands careful coordination to maintain safety protocols, manage airspace restrictions, and avoid interference with daily flight operations and aircraft movements. Balancing these operational considerations with construction efficiency and schedule adherence requires constant communication and strategic planning.
To address these challenges, McCormack is working closely with design-build subcontractors to ensure that scope design and installation meet all owner requirements while staying within budget parameters. The team maintains continuous coordination with Eastern Oregon Regional Airport and City of Pendleton leadership on all construction activities, ensuring that work progresses safely without disrupting airport operations. Strategic scheduling of construction activities around flight schedules and airspace requirements allows the project to advance efficiently while maintaining the airport’s operational integrity.
The UAS Flex Hangar 3 project is building a strong relationship with both the Eastern Oregon Regional Airport and the City of Pendleton, creating potential for future work throughout the region. For McCormack Construction, this project demonstrates expertise in aviation facility construction, design-build delivery, and the ability to execute complex projects within active operational environments while meeting strict safety and coordination requirements.