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Eielson Air Force Base

Welcome to Eielson Air Force Base, located about 26 miles southeast of Fairbanks, Alaska. This base has a rich history, starting as Mile 26 Satellite Field in 1943. It became Eielson Air Force Base in 1948, named after polar pilot Carl Ben Eielson. Eielson AFB is home to the 354th Fighter Wing, which plays a key role in training exercises like RED FLAG-Alaska. These exercises prepare U.S. forces for combat scenarios. The base now hosts 54 F-35 Lightning II aircraft, which arrived between 2020 and 2022. This increase in aircraft also brings more military personnel and their families to the area. Eielson AFB is an important part of Alaska's military landscape and offers a unique glimpse into Air Force operations.

Live Air Traffic

Eielson Air Force Base (IATA: EIL) is located about 26 miles southeast of Fairbanks, Alaska. It serves as a key military installation for the United States Air Force. The base opened in 1943 and was named after polar pilot Carl Ben Eielson. Eielson AFB hosts the 354th Fighter Wing, which plays a vital role in training exercises like RED FLAG-Alaska. These exercises prepare U.S. forces for combat scenarios. The base is also home to 54 F-35 Lightning II combat aircraft, which arrived between 2020 and 2022. This increase in aircraft brings around 3,500 military and civilian personnel to the base. Eielson AFB is an important part of Alaska's military presence and supports various air operations in the region.

air Arrivals
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Basic information about airport

Airport code: PAEI
Type: medium
Continent: NA
Country code: US
Country: United
City Fairbanks
IATA: EIL
Longitude: -147.102005
Latitude: 64.66570282

Eielson Air Force Base on Google Maps

metkaEielson Air Force Base
Today 5 °C / 41 °F
  • sunScattered clouds
  • humidityHumidity: 42
  • WindWind: 0.14 m/sec
Sun

3 C / 37.4 °F

Mon

2 C / 35.6 °F

Tue

2 C / 35.6 °F

Wed

-1 C / 30.2 °F

Thu

3 C / 37.4 °F

Your Doorway to Alaska's Out-of-the-Way Eielson Air Force Base

Introduction

Eielson Air Force Base (IATA: EIL) in the heart of Alaska can be both a vital military hub and gateway to adventure into virgin Alaskan wilderness. It began as Mile 26 Satellite Field in 1943 and has grown during its remarkable history to become a key installation at the intersection of global security and power projection – home to the US Air Force's 354th Fighter Wing.

Airlines and Destinations

Because Eielson Air Force Base is a military airbase, there are no commercial passenger flights to the field. But it is a key part of the support structure for U.S. Air Force operations, particularly training and readiness missions.

Passengers and Flights

Eielson Air Force Base is primarily used for military operations and training exercises, not for commercial passenger traffic. The primary mission of the base is to support RED FLAG-Alaska, a series of Pacific Air Forces commander-directed field training exercises for U.S. forces in joint offensive counter-air, interdiction, and close air support operations, plus large-force employment that provides realistic combat training in Alaska's unique environment.

How to Get Here

Eielson AFB is about 26 miles (42 km) southeast of Fairbanks, Alaska and just southeast of Moose Creek, AK. The closest major airport is Fairbanks International Airport (FAI / PAFA). It also serves as a military base. The base is accessible to personnel and visitors by private vehicle or shuttle bus.

Parking

There are parking areas that have been designated by Eielson Air Force Base for authorized personnel and visitors. Parking is limited, but you do not need a parking permit as there will be space to park around the base unless security is threatened.

Transportation Price

Eielson Air Force Base is an active-duty military installation, so there's no public transportation option. Transportation to and from the base is required for visitors, with shuttle service likely provided along with parking available for authorized personnel.

Terminal Layout

There is one runway, 14/32, with an airfield and a vital length of 4,429 meters (14,530 feet) in width and a height of about 55 centimeters minimum. It features an asphalt concrete runway that is grooved to facilitate rainwater siphoning.

Navigate the Airport

Eielson Air Force Base – properly authorized and with the proper clearances, of course. Control tower: yes, operates a control tower (EIELSON Tower). UNICOM: 123.0, MON-FRI 1630-0838; SAT, SUN AND HOL CLSD. FAIRBANKS Approach/Departure: Provides approach/departure services, 21337 NSENTINEL ST, FAIRBANKS, AK 99723.

Getting Between Terminals

Eielson Air Force Base is a military airbase, so there are not separate terminals like civilian airports. The base is such that all operations and facilities are centralized within its boundaries.

Services and Amenities

Eielson Air Force Base may be small in comparison to other installations, but it has a wealth of perks and services available that help the military personnel and any authorized visitors. In addition to on-base housing, dining facilities, recreational activities, and support services are among the key elements.

Restaurants and Shops

At the base, there are some dining facilities like Bonfire Grille and Restaurant and Two Seasons Dining Hall that serve military personnel along with their families.

Security and Customs

Eielson Air Force Base is a secure military installation, and access to the base is restricted. Before a person can enter the base, they must go through security screening and show proper identification.

Accessibility

The exterior of Eielson Air Force Base meets the basic needs for military personnel and authorized visitors. The facilities and infrastructure on the base are constructed to meet several accessibility standards.

Travel Tips

If you plan to visit Eielson Air Force Base, it is crucial that you follow the security protocol of these places, as otherwise your transport strategy can be hindered. Visitors may also prepare for the unique Alaska environment, climate, and rugged tundra location where Eielson is located.