The Tillamook Air Museum, Tillamook, Oregon, has provided another update on the recovery of Hangar B, saying the first phase of storm-damage repairs is expected to begin soon despite a delay involving the contractor hired to carry out the work. The latest update follows months of uncertainty over the future of the historic WWII-era blimp hangar, which suffered major roof damage during a severe storm in December 2025. The damage forced the Tillamook Air Museum to close while officials assessed the structure and considered options for its recovery. Earlier this year, officials pursued federal and state assistance while examining the condition of the building. A detailed lidar drone scan was also carried out to create a three-dimensional model of Hangar B that could help engineers and preservation specialists assess the damage and plan future work.
(Image credit: Tillamook Air Museum)
The recovery effort faced another major setback in May, when the Port of Tillamook Bay Board voted against proceeding with repairs to the damaged roof section. That decision followed months of financial analysis and discussions surrounding potential funding for the historic structure. The Port has since moved forward with the first phase of work, which will focus on removing a large section of damaged roofing material that remains hanging below the opening in the roof. The work had been scheduled to begin this week, but the contractor has encountered a delay. Officials now expect the work to get underway soon. In preparation for the project, Tillamook People’s Utility District has been working at the site to de-energize the area and remove electrical wires and poles in and around the work zone. The precaution is intended to protect workers and prevent additional damage while the roofing material is removed.
(Image credit: Tillamook Air Museum)
The Port said safety remains a priority as work progresses and that it will provide photographs and additional updates once the contractor begins work. Hangar B is one of the few surviving WWII wooden blimp hangars in the United States. Built by the U.S. Navy in 1942, the structure is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has housed the Tillamook Air Museum for decades. Its companion Hangar A was destroyed by fire in 1992, leaving Hangar B as the surviving example at the site. For more information and to support the Tillamook Air Museum, click on this link: www.tillamookair.com.
