Lackland Air Force Base

LACKLAND AIR FORCE BASE: THE FRONT DOOR TO AIRMEN'S TRAINING AND BEYOND

Introduction

Located in San Antonio, Texas, USA, Lackland Air Force Base (IATA: SKF) is one of the largest military bases operating under the US Department of Defense. Being the sole site for United States Air Force and United States Space Force enlisted Basic Military Training (BMT) makes this installation a significant part of molding our nation's warfighters.

Airlines and Destinations

Although Lackland is a military base, it hosts the Kelly Field Annex (formerly Kelly Air Force Base), an air branch of San Antonio International Airport. The airport has one runway, designated 16/34. For ICAO and airline transport outside the United States, it is identified by a different code — KSKF and SKF in relation to IATA. Lackland Air Force Base, however, does not have any commercial passenger flights. The closest major airport can be found in San Antonio, TX (IATA: SAT), 12 miles northeast of Randolph AFB.

Passengers and Flights

Since it is a military base, not many civilian passenger flights go through Lackland Air Force Base. Most of the air traffic at the base is military, with a mix of training aircraft. Although, the number of flights and passengers moving through an Air Force base is not typically public information due to national security concerns.

How to Get Here

For civilians, gaining access to Lackland Air Force Base is a bit of a challenge as it's essentially off-limits to military personnel only. The primary entrance to the base is on Highway 90 West, only a few miles from downtown San Antonio. Every visitor must have a valid Military ID or be escorted on post by someone who has access to the base. Editor's Note: Hill AFB is a closed military installation, and security screening of all visitors is required.

Parking

Lackland Air Force Base Parking: The majority of parking at Lackland AFB is only available to military personnel or those with authorized access. The base has scattered parking lots, but civilian access is forbidden. Those visitors without a military ID may have to park off-base and rely on shuttles or other transportation.

Transportation Price

Buses are available nearby, but not on the base since Lackland AFB is strictly a military installation and provides no transportation services to civilians. Transportation to and from the base is entirely up to visitors, such as personal vehicles (you park just an elevator ride away), taxis/rideshare, or car rentals. The cost of getting there will depend on the selected mode and where you live.

Terminal Layout

The layout at Lackland A/F Base is not like an ordinary airport terminal. The aviation facilities at the base, which include Kelly Field, are controlled by the U.S. military and are used for training purposes as well as to maintain the readiness of Air Force fighters based around Texas only. No passenger terminals or commercial airport amenities.

Navigate the Airport

Finding your way around a new base and adapting to the different security procedures isn't easy on Lackland Air Force Base. Its kind is easily recognized as separating into sectors, each part being open to various points of entrance and having some limitations. Visitors are requested to follow directions given by security personnel and signage within the base to reach their required areas of interest.

Getting Between Terminals

Also, Lackland Air Force Base itself is rather unique for a regular airport layout, as it does not have various terminals and transportation in between them. The Kelly Field and all other aviation facilities of the base are included in this integrated military installation.

Services and Amenities

Lackland Air Force Base is a military base that provides all the services and amenities specifically for active-duty personnel, their families, and authorized visitors. This can include such things as housing on base, dining facilities (chow halls), places to work out and relax, hospitals/clinics, and other field support services. Nevertheless, the availability and access to such facilities for non-military visitors can be rare.

Restaurants and Shops

As well as the numerous (non-commercial) dining and shopping options on Lackland Air Force Base, they can be found at fast-food chains, small mini-marts, and a few military-specific retail outlets. It just may have a more limited selection and hours of operation compared to a typical civilian airport.

Security and Customs

Lackland Air Force Base is a restricted access US Military facility. Military ID Holders are also screened and inspected like all other visitors upon entry. This might include bag checks, metal detectors, and other security processes. The base, of course, is in the United States, so there are no customs or immigration procedures here.

Accessibility

Lackland Air Force Base is considered accessible to people with disabilities. The base provides different facilities and services that can cater to varying needs of the disabled. The accessibility features and help that you will have at your disposal may change depending on the area or facility within the base. Those visitors with special needs should contact the base Disability Program Manager or through the Airman and Family Readiness Center for more information.

Travel Tips

One of the security addresses all travelers will make is visiting Lackland Air Force Base. Guests are required to have a current military ID or be escorted on and off the base by someone who has access. You should also make arrangements for your transportation and know how to get around the base, as well as some activities might be restricted. Also, make sure to be aware of the base's hours and any changes that may affect them (many bases are very secretive about when they close or what might interrupt their operations, such as a military exercise).