17 Wing Winnipeg
17 Wing Winnipeg Military Base Guide
Military Base History
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17 Wing Winnipeg began as a Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) station in 1925, supporting aviation training and air operations in western Canada. Its early mission included aerial photography, mapping, and civil support, highlighting the growing importance of air power in the interwar years.
During World War II, the base became a critical training hub under the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan (BCATP). Thousands of aircrew from across the Commonwealth trained here, making it one of the busiest airfields in Canada.
The base expanded rapidly during the war, adding new hangars, runways, and support facilities to meet wartime demands. This growth allowed the base to accommodate increased training and operational needs.
Postwar, the installation shifted to support Cold War air defense missions. It hosted key units such as transport squadrons, search and rescue teams, and NORAD-related operations.
The base underwent several upgrades to accommodate new aircraft and advanced technologies, reinforcing its strategic value during the Cold War era.
Today, 17 Wing Winnipeg serves as a major RCAF support and training center. It houses air mobility, search and rescue, and training units, providing essential support to Canadian Armed Forces operations at home and abroad.
The base remains a vital part of the Winnipeg community, contributing to local economic and civic life through employment and partnerships.
Name Changes: The base has been known as RCAF Station Winnipeg and CFB Winnipeg before adopting its current designation as 17 Wing Winnipeg in 1997, reflecting the RCAF's modern organizational structure.
Major Units & Training Programs
Captain Katelynn Pinsent is the Administration Officer at the Canadian Forces School of Aerospace Studies at 17 Wing Winnipeg, Manitoba. She has been a Canadian Armed Forces member for more than nine years and currently deployed on Exercise Rim of the Pacific 2016 in Hawaii. She is the Joint...
Major Units
17 Wing Headquarters
Provides command and control for all wing operations at 17 Wing Winnipeg, overseeing air operations, support, and administration for assigned units.
402 "City of Winnipeg" Squadron
Operates the CT-142 Dash-8 aircraft to provide air navigation and observer training for Royal Canadian Air Force and allied aircrew.
1 Canadian Air Division Headquarters
Serves as the operational-level headquarters for the Royal Canadian Air Force, responsible for the command and control of all RCAF operations in Canada and abroad.
Training Schools
Canadian Forces Air Navigation School (CFANS)
Overview
Delivers specialized training in air navigation and air operations to RCAF and allied aircrew, focusing on advanced navigation techniques and mission preparation.
Course Length
Several months (varies by course)
Who Attends
Aircrew trainees, primarily navigators and air operations officers
Arrival & In-Processing
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Welcome to 17 Wing Winnipeg! Arriving at a new base can be a big transition, but being prepared helps everything go smoothly. Review these steps to ensure your check-in and base access are seamless. For official updates and resources, visit the 17 Wing Winnipeg official website.
The main entrance to 17 Wing Winnipeg is the Main Gate, which serves as the primary access point for all personnel and visitors. The Main Gate typically operates 24/7, ensuring round-the-clock access. All individuals must present a valid Military ID, Common Access Card (CAC), or approved government-issued photo ID. U.S. state driver's licenses must comply with the REAL ID Act for access. Be prepared for 100% ID checks and random vehicle inspections as part of the base's robust security measures. Family members and visitors must obtain a pass at the Visitor Control Center before entering the installation. Always follow posted instructions and cooperate with security personnel to ensure a safe environment for everyone.
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PCS Orders (multiple copies)
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Military ID/CAC
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Marriage Certificate (if applicable)
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Birth Certificates for dependents
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Social Security Cards
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Vehicle Registration & Insurance
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Medical and Dental Records
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Proof of Immunizations
17 Wing Winnipeg offers a robust sponsor program to help new arrivals settle in. To request a sponsor, contact your gaining unit's orderly room or personnel office as soon as you receive your assignment. Your sponsor will provide guidance, answer questions, and help coordinate your arrival and in-processing.
Formal in-processing takes place at the Welcome Center, located near the Main Gate for easy access upon arrival. The Welcome Center is open Monday through Friday, 0800 to 1600. During in-processing, you will visit key offices such as Personnel, Finance, Housing, and Medical. Plan for initial check-in and paperwork to take a few hours, with the entire process usually completed within 2-3 days. Your sponsor will help guide you through each step.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is conveniently located just outside the Main Gate. The VCC operates Monday through Friday, 0700 to 1700. Services include issuing visitor passes, DBIDS registration, and assisting with the process for sponsoring guests. All visitors must check in at the VCC before entering the base.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
Jerry Leama, Barry Van Lines mover, carries a box of household goods onto a moving truck on Dover Air Force Base, Delaware, July 16, 2021. Dover AFB and the Air Force Aid Society provide 20 hours of free permanent change of station care for each child upon arrival to and departure from their duty stations. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Nicole Leidholm)
PCS to 17 Wing Winnipeg follows the standard process for U.S. service members relocating to a CONUS installation. After you receive your official orders, promptly contact your local Transportation Office to discuss your move options and start planning. Most members use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) at move.mil to schedule and track their Household Goods (HHG) shipment or arrange a Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY).
Entitlements like Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) and Dislocation Allowance (DLA) help offset costs during your move. TLE covers your temporary housing expenses at your new location for up to 10 days, and DLA helps with miscellaneous relocation costs. Be sure to check your eligibility and claim these benefits.
Using DPS is critical for tracking your shipment and resolving issues. Keep all important documents handy, and reach out to your gaining unit for a sponsor. 17 Wing Winnipeg is located in Winnipeg, Manitoba, so coordinate with your gaining command for any special requirements related to cross-border moves or customs clearance. Always confirm base-specific check-in procedures before you arrive.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor from your gaining unit as soon as possible.
- Keep orders, passports, and key documents with you during travel.
- Check customs requirements for bringing household goods into Canada.
- Label boxes clearly and take photos of high-value items.
- Contact the Transportation Office early for best moving dates.
- Plan ahead for pet travel and required vaccinations.
- Review check-in procedures with your gaining command before arrival.
Important Forms & Links
Schedule and manage your household goods move.
Find up-to-date rates for TLE, DLA, and other allowances.
Guides, checklists, and support for your PCS move.
Estimate your Dislocation Allowance (DLA).