There are many things to consider when attempting to protect dozens of aircraft on a training field. When do you install the covers? If hail covers are bulky, where can they be stored when not in use? Hail is often accompanied by high winds — what if the wind blew the hail covers off of the aircraft in the middle of a hailstorm? The covers mustn’t absorb water.
So, what does Kennon Aircraft Covers recommend? They suggest trying Kennon’s Spoiler Mesh Wing Cover, which will keep a plane from flying when on the ground. The spoilers disrupt the airflow over the wing and prevent lift. They will not blow off of an aircraft because they are constructed out of mesh. The mesh wing covers are lightweight and will not blow off or damage the aircraft. They don’t move because the mesh catches no wind. The mesh covers are part of the way to a solution. Kennon also recommends a rather unorthodox addition to the mesh cover. “Consider experimenting with swimming pool noodles between Kennon’s Spoiler Mesh Wing Covers and the flying surface to create a ‘trampoline effect,’” the company says. The size, location and number of noodles will need to be determined on an individual basis. Kennon cautions readers to remember this is experimental territory but might be worth a try based on testing done at Kennon.