Your Midwest Mission Begins At Whiteman Air Force Base
Introduction
Located in central Missouri, Whiteman Air Force Base (IATA: SZL) is a medium-sized airport that provides an important gateway for the area. Thanks to its strategic location and a range of services, the airport has developed into an operational hub for residents of some cities as well as travelers from near and far.
Airlines and Destinations
Whiteman Air Force Base is a military airfield that serves the US Air Force for most of its requirements. The base is home to the state-of-the-art B-2 Spirit bomber, which has become iconic with U.S. air power. The airport has no scheduled commercial passenger flights, but is home to a few charter operations and operates alongside the city-run Ogden-Hinckley Airport.
Passengers and Flights
Because it is a military base, data regarding passenger counts and flights are not released publicly by Whiteman Air Force Base. Nonetheless, the airport is a bustling hub with thousands of military personnel and contractors as well as authorized visitors coming through its gates every day.
How to Get Here
Whiteman Air Force Base lies just south of Knob Noster, Missouri and about 80 miles east of Kansas City. It is near several major highways, including U.S. Route 50 as well as Interstate 70. Note: Whiteman Air Force Base is a secure military installation, and access to the base for non-authorized personnel is restricted.
Parking
Authorized visitors may park at Whiteman Air Force Base, but parking is limited. Travelers are advised to prepare and arrive early, as there may not be enough parking. Additionally, those who need it can drive right up to the entrance and park in handicap-accessible parking.
Transportation Price
Public Transportation: Not available due to Whiteman Air Force Base being a military installation. Visitors with a vehicle or private transportation, such as a taxi cab, etc. are needed for departure to/from the airport.
Terminal Layout
The airport has only one building that functions as a terminal, which is used for military and general aviation operations. There is a passenger lounge, along with administrative offices and other support facilities in the terminal.
Navigate the Airport
Because it is a military airport, Whiteman Air Force Base can be intimidating to first-time travelers who are not familiar with the layout of the facility. Along with the clearer signage, there have been warnings to travelers to get familiar with the base layout and follow signs — this is important, as wandering around with split concentration between looking for the way out and navigating cobblestone paths that run from washroom blockades can be challenging.
Getting Between Terminals
Since Whiteman Air Force Base is a single-terminal airport, there are no terminal changes. The airport only features one terminal for both arrivals and departures.
Services and Amenities
Whiteman Air Force Base employs a variety of services and amenities to care for its military personnel and other sponsored guests. Among those are a passenger lounge, bathrooms, and basic concessions. However, the airport is not as equipped with amenities as a commercial one.
Restaurants and Shops
The airport does offer a small snack bar and reduced convenience store services, but visitors should not anticipate eat-in dining or robust shopping options.
Security and Customs
Whiteman Air Force Base is a military installation, so it understandably has high security standards. Every visitor has to pass a comprehensive security check while revealing their identity before being allowed entry onto the base. Because the airport does not serve some international flights, it lacks customs or immigration facilities.
Accessibility
Whiteman Air Force Base prides itself on having facilities and services that are accessible to passengers with reduced mobility. Onsite parking, including designated handicap-accessible spots and ramps, as well as elevators, make it an easy process accessing the terminal building.
Travel Tips
When visiting Whiteman Air Force Base, it is important to be prepared to follow all security protocols and plan ahead, arriving early for a smoother transition through the airport.