The Boeing airspace is a 67.5 metre x 67.5 metre shallow domed awning anchored to the ground by just four columns 14.2 metres tall. The 4,556m² airspace is used by Boeing to house both Wedgetail and C-17 aircraft, as well as a host of other planes currently used by RAAF Base Amberley in Queensland.

s²'s challenge was to devise a solution that satisfied the ongoing operational requirements of Project Wedgetail without shutting down Boeing's main hangar during construction.  The solution was to assemble the airspace structure at ground level away from the hangar site and then relocate it 350m down the tarmac using prime movers.  It was then lifted from each corner by crane while the columns were fixed and bolted into position.

Moving and lifting the airspace took only one day.

The airspace has delivered a 35% increase in productivity to Boeing's Project Wedgetail, and it can be re-located and re-used in the future at any Boeing site around the world.

WINNER: Australian Steel Institute (QLD) Structural Engineering Steel Design Award - High Commendation