A New Chapter for a Historic WWII Hangar: Tillamook Air Museum Under New Ownership
A cherished piece of American aviation history has been granted a new lease on life. The Port of Tillamook Bay Commissioners have greenlit a term sheet for the land lease and prospective sale of the iconic World War II-era Hangar B in Tillamook, Oregon, to the Vintage Aviation Museum. This Utah-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization has acquired the property for the symbolic price of just $1.
The museum had been shuttered since December 2025, following a severe windstorm that ripped a 200-foot-long section from the colossal blimp hangar’s metal roof. This incident placed the future of the structure in jeopardy. Sean O’Brien, President of Vintage Aviation Museum, revealed that his organization had been tracking the Tillamook museum for years. They saw the storm damage as a chance to rescue what he referred to as a “national treasure.”
As per the agreement, the Vintage Aviation Museum intends to restore the hangar, transfer the majority of its historic aircraft collection to Tillamook, and broaden the museum’s aviation exhibits. The land lease is set for an initial term of 25 years, with rent payments of approximately $100,000 annually commencing in 2028. The lease also includes two additional 25-year renewal options. Importantly, officials have confirmed that the museum will retain its original name — the Tillamook Air Museum. O’Brien has set an ambitious target of reopening the museum to the public within 60 days, even before the completion of roof repairs.
Source: Vintage Aviation News – August 22, 2026