Wheeler Army Airfield

Wheeler Army Airfield: Discovering Hawaii's Military Past

Introduction

In the heart of Oahu lies Wheeler Army Airfield (IATA: HHI, ICAO: PHHI, FAA LID: HHI), a symbol of Hawaii's military past and present. What was once called Wheeler Field, and then renamed Wheeler Army Airfield, is a fantastic mid-sized aerodrome that has offered the best value in Hawaii's aviation industry for many years.

Established as Wheeler Army Airfield, it opened in January and has been active with aircraft units in Hawaii since April. While initially designated a large and small bomber installation for the pursuit group stationed at Luke Field, it now operates as an auxiliary airfield for the US Army, and provides vital support to units based in Hawaii with its main tenant being The 25th Infantry Division. In addition to its military importance, the airfield is partially open for civilian access and has drawn aviation enthusiasts from around the world, making it an interesting spot for a wide range of interested visitors.

Airlines and Destinations

Wheeler Army Airfield is a smaller airport located in Hawaii and provides mostly military services, but does not offer many commercial airline service options. However, the airport does welcome some civilian flights, albeit in rather short supply and mostly like charters or rent-a-planes.

The airport's only runway, 6/24, is available for both civilian and military aircraft usage, subject to operational demands and security protocols. The types of airlines that fly here, and which destinations there are flights to, will change, but the fact that it is a great jump-off point for military or government-related air transportation remains.

Passengers and Flights

As military installations are focused on airfield operations, detailed statistics about the number of passengers and flights are not usually published. However, it is known that Wheeler Army Airfield largely serves the needs of the US Army, with most of those activities relating to military exercises/training and logistical support.

While the airfield does not see commercial passenger traffic in anywhere near similar volume as larger civilian airports elsewhere within Hawaii, it serves an integral role to military flight operations - enhancing 25th Infantry Division readiness and mobility, along with other units positioned across a vast region.

How to Get Here

The main post from Wheeler Army Airfield is located in the Wahiawa District of Oahu, approximately 12 miles north of Honolulu. The airfield is accessible by H-2 Freeway and Kamehameha Highway.

If you are visiting the Aerodrome, be aware that it is a restricted area and HAD-1 security clearance (NVCL equivalent) with appropriate ID must be arranged before arriving at the facility. Public access is restricted, and all navigation follows the operational guidelines published on the website. Contact responsible facility personnel for current airfield practices, including visitation policy enforcement, as unauthorized persons will be detained by gate guards or local law enforcement.

Parking

Military personnel, government officials, and authorized visitors are the primary patrons of Wheeler Army Airfield parking areas. Although the airfield provides a few assigned parking sections, these are generally only given to those with proper recognition and clearance.

Civilian visitors can park in some of those lots, but space is limited and entry to all portions of the base again depends on security. Anyone planning to visit the airfield should call airfield management for entry instructions.

Transportation Prices

Being a military post, no public transportation or pricing structure is available to civilian visitors at Wheeler Army Air Field. General access to the airfield and any transportation service is usually restricted to authorized personnel or invited guests.

Anyone planning to visit this airfield should be prepared for their identity and clearance documentation, and take instructions from the administrators of the field when necessary.

Terminal Layout

The terminal facilities are designed to serve military passengers, rather than the general public for which Honolulu International Airport in nearby Oahu is used. The configuration and accommodation aboard Jane's Landing are designed for efficient aircraft handling, maintenance operations, and support of the United States Army.

The airfield does have some small terminal space and amenities for those authorized to use it, but the facility is not designed or laid out like a typical airport set up specifically for public passenger services similar to larger commercial airports. The site will therefore be much more of a utilitarian military operation and security, one aimed to get the immediate job conducted.

Navigate the Airport

Sometimes, Wheeler Army Airfield can be tough to get around because the base is really designed for military folks and those who have access. The airfield's signage and wayfinding systems are tailored to the movement of military assets and personnel, not civilians.

Civilian visitors to the airfield should expect guidance and instruction provided by staff at that location. Pilots should familiarize themselves with the airfield layout and access points before arrival, and coordinate directly with airport administration to facilitate expedited movement through.

Getting Between Terminals

Since Wheeler Army Airfield is not a commercial passenger airport, it does not have the same set-up as airports with multiple terminals for different types of flights. The airfield primarily serves military aviation, but its use for civilian purposes is encouraged with provisions allowing non-military access and movement.

Visitors to the airfield may require assistance from staff at the airside boundaries if they need help finding their way between any visitor areas or facilities. The following list includes some general instructions to keep in mind when operating on or around the airfield, but always follow your individual airport policy and training.

Services and Amenities

Wheeler Army Airfield services and amenities are focused on serving the U.S. Army, its personnel, and dependents upon military orders or authorization. The base primarily is involved in airfield operations/utilization and support functions for the units & personnel who are stationed there.

The airfield does provide a few services and amenities for authorized visitors, but they may be limited to those generally required by the facility user. Visitors will not encounter the same degree of passenger-facing services and amenities that they may otherwise be used to at larger commercial airports.

Restaurants and Shops

The food and retail stores are also limited, given that Wheeler Army Airfield is not a civilian airport but designed for military operations. The airfield does have a small on-site Dining Facility that is open to military members and authorized visitors.

At Wheeler Army Airfield, there is only the 1 on-base eatery. No particular retail or shopping options are present here.

Security and Customs

There are security protocols that need to be followed because, make no mistake, the Wheeler Army Airfield is a military installation and will always carry out those operations under strict control. Visitors to the airfield - both civilian and military personnel - are screened for weapons and identification before being allowed onto the base.

Similarly, the customs and immigration processes at the airfield are U.S. military in design, allowing ease of movement for both personnel (and their families) as well as equipment/supplies without fear of detention or customs "loopholes". In each of those identified circumstances, civilian guests will be more closely examined and documented based upon the nature of their visit and the prevailing security conditions.

Accessibility

Wheeler Army Airfield has limited access, mostly applying to military personnel and their families or authorized visitors who need some kind of base passes. Certain infrastructure and facilities at the airfield are tailored to meet specific needs of the US Army, with only limited accommodations for public use.

Persons with disabilities or others needing special assistance in order to use the airfield are encouraged to make advance arrangements by contacting the airfield administration office. The airport's staff will advise on mobility options and the arrangements to be made.

Travel Tips

If you have a visit coming up at Wheeler Army Airfield, it is important to be aware that this particular airfield sits on an active military base. All potential visitors need to be prepared for the obvious security protocols, have their required identification and clearance documentation available at all times, and follow any instructions given by the staff of the airfield.

It is furthermore advised to make arrangements with the airfield management for a faster, more convenient service. Please note that due to operational and security needs, visitors may have limited access or be prohibited from viewing certain areas of the airfield and its supporting functions.

By learning about the base's wartime uses and following prescribed protocol, everyone involved can experience this historic airfield in Hawaii without endangering themselves or those around them.