Shaw Afb

Introduction

Shaw Air Force Base (Shaw AFB) is a United States Air Force base located approximately 8.4 miles west-northwest of downtown Sumter, South Carolina. It became one of the active duty USAF ACC's largest military bases. The host unit is the 20th Fighter Wing (20 FW).

Shaw AFB was built in 1941 as a United States Army Air Corps training airfield. Its history dates back to the very beginning of the nation, which is part of what makes it such an important presence for America's allies everywhere. Through the years, it has been integral to national defense and a home base for fighter, bomber, and reconnaissance missions. The base remains a significant strategic asset in the USAF's ability to continue the global presence mission now and for future generations.

Airlines and Destinations

Since it is a military airfield, there are no commercial passenger or cargo airlines based at Shaw AFB. The airport is mostly used by the USAF and other government agencies, although a US Customs service also operates here.

Number of Passengers and Flights

Shaw AFB is a military base with no commercial or cargo traffic. The total number of passengers and aircraft movements at the base is not disclosed. It is primarily used to support the activities of the 20th Fighter Wing and other tenant units on base, as well as those Air Force, Army, Navy, or Marine Corps units located at or training there.

How to Get Here

Shaw AFB is about 8.4 miles west-northwest of downtown Sumter, South Carolina. The base can be entered at its main gate off Polifka Drive from US-378 or SC-763.

The closest commercial airport is Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE), 37 miles away, near Shaw AFB for air travelers. Other local airports include Sumter Airport (SMS), which is located 10 miles to the east of the base, and Florence Regional Airport (FLO), at a distance of around 50 miles to the southeast.

Parking

Visitors and authorized personnel only – Shaw AFB is still an active military installation with limited access as well as very little parking. If you have the proper ID and base access, there are parking locations that provide special spots just for your vehicle. For parking availability and base access procedures, visitors should call the number for the visitor center.

Transportation Prices

Because Shaw AFB is a military installation, there are no accessible public transportation alternatives or service available. All visitors and personnel must provide their own transportation to the base. Rideshare service may be available in the neighboring Sumter area, as well as taxi and rental car services, but pricing is case-by-case.

Terminal Layout

It is not in the traditional airport terminal style at Shaw AFB. The base airfield and support facilities are designed to serve military aircraft and operations, not commercial passenger service. The base has two runways, 4L/22R and 4R/22, both of which are 10,014 feet long by 150 feet wide.

Navigate the Airport

Richland District II Shaw AFB also has restricted access as a military installation, hence folks have to follow very specific protocols on how the base is accessed. All signage put up by the security services must be respected, and any person found violating such rules is strictly dealt with. It is the airfield and support facilities that are not available to general public use, as only approved personnel may enter.

Getting Between Terminals

Shaw AFB, being a military base, has no traditional airport terminal with concourses, and therefore passengers have unrestricted access to board the aircraft. Because the base is made for military operations, there are no passenger-friendly amenities that most commercial airports provide.

Services and Amenities

As a military base, Shaw AFB provides an array of services and opportunities for usage by service members, their families, as well as authorized visitors. These may include:

• BX and Commissary Base Exchange
• Medical and dental clinics
• Recreation (e.g., gyms, sports fields, golf course...)
• Child care centers and schools
• Housing and lodging
• Dining and retail options

However, the general public does not have access to these services and amenities, as they are specifically for those with military or government credentials.

Restaurants and Shops

Dining and shopping options on base at Shaw are limited for the most part to cater mostly to just the basic needs of military families full-time there. These may include:

• BX food court
• Commissary grocery store
• Fast Food & Casual Dining establishments

Specialty stores and services are limited in both selection and availability, catering to the needs of a target population base as they do not have general public access.

Security and Customs

Shaw AFB is a strict military installation with established security protocols and procedures. The base is on high alert and remains a locked-down facility, with all personnel as well as visitors forced to undergo security screening before being allowed access. This is not a port of entry for international travel, so there are no customs or immigration services available here.

Accessibility

Shaw AFB is unique because of its intention to cater to the needs of military members, families, and other individuals who are entitled to access. The base is required to meet standards for accessibility by the USAF and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). As a military base, they obviously have access, but there might be some additional challenges or limitations to consider as well compared to flying commercially.

Travel Tips

Travel Tips for Shaw AFB

• Do your homework: Learn the base's modus operandi regarding access procedures well in advance of showing up. Connect to the visitor center at the base for current details.
• Have appropriate identification: To enter the base, everyone entering as personnel or visitor must have a valid government ID (i.e., military ID), state driver's license, or passport.
• Security Screening: Be prepared to be subject to security screening, including bag checks and vehicle inspections, when entering the base.
• Dress for success: You may find that the base's dress code and grooming standards are more conservative than in civilian life.
• Be aware of the military environment: As a working installation, maintain an awareness and follow all instructions provided by base personnel as necessary.
• Amenities are limited: Services and amenities available at the base cater mostly to military members, spouses, and children, so service options might be less than what you would see in a commercial airport.

These travel tips will help visitors to Shaw AFB have a safe and secure experience while keeping in mind the special nature of this military installation.