Elmendorf Air Force Base: Your way into the wonders of Alaska
Introduction
Situated in the most populous city of Anchorage, Elmendorf Air Force Base (IATA: EDF) is a key point for military actions and access to some mesmerizing landscapes of Alaska. It is a midsized airport playing an important role in connecting the United States with its interests worldwide, especially throughout China and the Asia-Pacific region.
Airlines and Destinations
The base is currently used for only military and government flights, with no commercial service. The primary users of the airport are the United States Air Force, with its main tenant units — The Alaskan Air Command (AAC) and the 11th AF.
Passengers and Flights
Elmendorf takes passenger and flight information based on the military installation. Yet the base is an essential enabler of air power projection in the region, and it serves as a strategic staging and throughput facility for U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM).
How to Get Here
The Elmendorf air base is situated about 8.2 nautical miles southwest of the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (IATA: ANC). The base is accessible by the Glenn Highway (Alaska Route 1) and east of Palmer, the Seward Highway (Alaska Route 9).
Parking
The Elmendorf Air Force Base Parking consists mainly of spaces that are reserved for military personnel, government officials, and authorized visitors. Visitors will need to call in advance, however, the base passenger services office can inform them of parking options and access process.
Transportation Prices
Elmendorf Air Force Base is a military installation; there are no State or federal transportation services. Visitors in need of private transportation can take advantage of rental cars and rideshare services to move around the base and wider Anchorage area.
Terminal Layout
Elmendorf Air Force Base runway: 6/24 and 16/34, the length of the runways is 10,000 feet. Designed to accommodate military operations and authorized passenger processing, including those traveling on Space-A (Space Available) flights.
Navigate the Airport
If you're flying in for the first time, getting around Elmendorf might be a bit daunting, as it can sometimes feel like an airport within a larger installation. Please check with the base passenger services office or available maps and signage for a better arrival/departure experience.
Getting Between Terminals
The terminal facilities are part of the larger Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson complex and are reserved for air traffic at the base. Passengers might even have to use base transportation or their personal cars for travelling between different sections of the installation.
Services and Amenities
There is a service counter available at the passenger terminal, while flight information recording and a passenger services office are also offered. Visitors will need to get the updated information about the available services and facilities from terminal staff.
Restaurants and Shops
Elmendorf Air Force Base is primarily a military base, so dining and shopping options are somewhat limited. Explorers will also find more restaurants and retail facilities off of the base in the local Anchorage area.
Security and Customs
Because of Elmendorf Air Force Base being a military installation, there are very rigorous protocols put in place for security purposes. Guests are required to comply with all instructions and procedures provided by base security forces for a smooth, efficient search.
Accessibility
Elmendorf Air Force base is dedicated to making its programs, facilities, and services accessible for passengers with disabilities. Anyone with special needs or accommodations are asked to call ahead and speak with the base's passenger services office.
Travel Tips
If you have never been to Elmendorf Air Force Base, make sure to read about Navigating a Military Installation before your next trip. Everything you need to know about getting on and off the post: Visitors should learn about the gate information process, policies or procedures, and transportation resources — from shuttle bus services at Nashville International Airport in Tennessee down Interstate 24 in Oak Grove to prepare folks for the steps they'll take, more familiar with when caring.
Hour-long drive times are required by these routes than any neighboring residential areas close enough, so what stays hidden ahead — manageable distances like traveling through country roads elsewhere, a fine trip instead of one away east goes, end up stalling themselves learning adjustments particular facets anybody immediately behind guard inter-coring moments while capturing images.