Altus AFB
Altus AFB PCS Guide
Military Base History
Civilian aircraft performers, Tora! Tora! Tora!, fly in formation during the Altus Airpower Stampede Open House and Air Show at Altus Air Force Base, Oklahoma, April 13, 2025. Tora! Tora! Tora! delivers a historically detailed account of the events leading to the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor,...
Altus Air Force Base began operations in 1943 as a training center for heavy bomber crews during World War II. Its original mission focused on preparing aircrews for overseas combat, primarily using the B-17 Flying Fortress and B-24 Liberator.
After the war, the base closed briefly, reflecting the postwar drawdown. Altus AFB reopened in 1953 as the Cold War intensified, adapting to new military demands.
During the Cold War, Altus AFB expanded to support Strategic Air Command operations. The base hosted B-47 Stratojets and KC-97 Stratofreighters, playing a key role in nuclear deterrence and air refueling.
Major construction during this era included new runways, hangars, and support facilities. These upgrades accommodated jet aircraft and increased personnel, enhancing the base's operational capacity.
In the 1960s, Altus AFB shifted to airlift and mobility training, becoming the primary training site for C-141 Starlifter and C-5 Galaxy crews. The arrival of the C-17 Globemaster III in the 1990s reinforced this mission.
The 97th Air Mobility Wing, the base's main unit, now trains aircrews for the C-17, KC-135 Stratotanker, and KC-46 Pegasus. This training supports global Air Force operations and ensures readiness for a variety of missions.
Today, Altus AFB is a cornerstone of Air Force mobility training. It supports global operations by preparing aircrews for rapid deployment, humanitarian missions, and aerial refueling.
The base remains vital to both the local Oklahoma economy and the broader U.S. Air Force mission. Altus AFB has retained its original name since establishment, with no significant official name changes.
Major Units & Training Programs
There's more to flying than landing and take off. The aircrew prepares the C-17 for flight. More than 400 Airmen assigned to Flights 341-351, graduated from U.S. Air Force Basic Military Training at Joint Base San Antonio, Texas, May 15-16, 2024. Col. Jeffrey Marshall, Commander, 97th Air...
Major Units
97th Air Mobility Wing
The 97th Air Mobility Wing is the host unit at Altus AFB, responsible for training aircrews on the C-17 Globemaster III, KC-135 Stratotanker, and KC-46 Pegasus. The wing's mission is to provide global mobility training for airlift and aerial refueling operations.
56th Air Refueling Squadron
The 56th Air Refueling Squadron specializes in training pilots, boom operators, and maintenance personnel on the KC-46 Pegasus and KC-135 Stratotanker, supporting worldwide aerial refueling operations.
58th Airlift Squadron
The 58th Airlift Squadron conducts formal training for C-17 Globemaster III aircrews, preparing pilots and loadmasters for global airlift missions.
Training Schools
C-17 Globemaster III Formal Training Unit
Overview
Provides initial and advanced flight and loadmaster training for C-17 aircrews, focusing on airlift, airdrop, and global mobility operations.
Course Length
2-4 months (depending on crew position)
Who Attends
Air Force pilots and loadmasters assigned to the C-17
KC-135 Stratotanker Formal Training Unit
Overview
Delivers pilot and boom operator qualification training on the KC-135, emphasizing aerial refueling and global mobility skills.
Course Length
2-4 months (depending on crew position)
Who Attends
Air Force pilots and boom operators assigned to the KC-135
KC-46 Pegasus Formal Training Unit
Overview
Provides qualification and upgrade training for pilots and boom operators on the KC-46, with a focus on new aerial refueling technologies and procedures.
Course Length
2-4 months (depending on crew position)
Who Attends
Air Force pilots and boom operators assigned to the KC-46
Arrival & In-Processing
United States Representative Frank Lucas meets with leadership from the 97th Air Mobility Wing (AMW) and the City of Altus during a visit at Altus Air Force Base (AFB), Oklahoma, Aug. 3rd, 2023. U.S. Air Force Col. Jeffrey Marshall, 97th AMW commander, shared Altus AFB’s top priorities of...
Welcome to Altus Air Force Base! Arriving prepared helps your check-in and transition go smoothly. Review these steps to ensure you and your family have a seamless start at your new assignment. For more details, visit the official Altus AFB website.
Altus AFB’s main entrance is the Main Gate, located at the primary access point to the installation. The Main Gate is open 24/7 for all inbound and outbound traffic. Bring your Military ID, CAC, or appropriate DoD credentials for entry. State driver’s licenses must comply with the REAL ID Act—non-compliant IDs require a secondary form of identification. All vehicles are subject to 100% ID checks and random security inspections. The base maintains a vigilant security posture for your safety. To sponsor a visitor or family member, stop at the Visitor Control Center outside the Main Gate to request a temporary pass. Ensure your guest brings valid, government-issued photo ID.
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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/Dental Records
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Proof of Housing (if arranged in advance)
Altus AFB offers a sponsor program to help new arrivals settle in. Contact your gaining unit or the Military Personnel Flight to request a sponsor. You may also submit a request through the newcomer section on the Altus AFB website.
Formal in-processing is held at the Welcome Center, Building 52, located near the Main Gate for easy access. The Welcome Center operates Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. You will check in with Personnel, Finance, Housing, and Medical offices. Unit-specific check-ins may also be required. Most personnel complete in-processing within 2-3 business days.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is just outside the Main Gate. The VCC is open Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Services include issuing visitor passes, DBIDS registration, and processing guest sponsorships. Arriving after hours? Use the Main Gate for emergency visitor requests.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
A moving truck sits at the ready to move a family from Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas, June, 16, 2021 to their new home and base. There has been a shortage and complications with organizing PCS moves due to the COVID-19 pandemic. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class David Phaff)
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor early to help with local info and in-processing.
- Keep orders, IDs, and important documents with you during travel.
- Understand your weight allowance to avoid excess charges.
- Label boxes clearly and take photos of valuable items.
- Book temporary lodging at Altus AFB as early as possible; space is limited.
- Contact the school liaison officer for info on local schools if you have children.
- If moving pets, check local pet policies and make arrangements well in advance.
Important Forms & Links
Access the Defense Personal Property System to manage your move.
Check current rates for TLE, DLA, and other travel entitlements.
Get relocation support, counseling, and moving resources.
Find base-specific arrival information and local contacts.
Schools & Childcare
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Altus AFB families rely on nearby public schools in the Altus area, as there are no DoDEA schools on base. The local school district provides education from elementary through high school, with several schools known for supportive staff and community involvement. The School Liaison Officer (SLO) is your main contact for navigating enrollment, special programs, and school transitions. The SLO can connect you with resources, answer questions, and help with paperwork. Reach out to the Altus AFB SLO early to ensure a smooth move for your child.
Childcare Options
Altus AFB Child Development Center (CDC)
The CDC provides full-day care, part-day preschool, and hourly care options for young children. The program is DoD-certified and follows national accreditation standards for early learning.
Altus AFB Youth Center
The Youth Center offers before- and after-school care, summer camps, and enrichment programs for school-age children and teens. The center is affiliated with Boys & Girls Clubs of America and 4-H.
Family Child Care (FCC) Program
FCC providers offer in-home care with flexible hours, including evenings and weekends. This program is ideal for families needing non-traditional care or smaller group settings. All providers are certified and regularly inspected.
Local Schools
Altus Public Schools
Altus Public Schools serve most military families stationed at Altus AFB. The district is known for small class sizes, caring teachers, and a strong sense of community. State report cards show steady academic performance, and GreatSchools.org rates several campuses at or above state averages.
Altus High School
Altus High School offers a range of AP courses, competitive athletics, and career tech programs. The school is praised for its supportive environment and active parent involvement. GreatSchools.org gives the school solid marks for college readiness and graduation rates.
Altus Christian Academy
Altus Christian Academy is a private school option offering a faith-based curriculum from preschool through middle grades. Parents highlight its small classes and individualized attention. The school receives positive reviews for its nurturing environment and academic focus.
Space-A Travel & Passenger Terminal
Terminal Contact Information
Terminal Location
Altus AFB, OK Passenger Terminal.
Please verify the exact building number, operating hours, and directions upon arrival or by contacting the terminal directly using the information provided.
Terminal Amenities
Waiting Area
Comfortable seating with charging stations.
Wi-Fi Access
Free wireless internet available for passengers.
Family Lounge
Designated area for families with children.
Restrooms & Vending Machines
Clean restrooms and snack/beverage vending machines available.
Space-A Eligibility & Signup
For detailed Space-Available (Space-A) travel eligibility requirements and the most current sign-up procedures for flights from Altus AFB, OK, please refer to the official Air Mobility Command (AMC) website or contact the passenger terminal directly.
Information can typically be found regarding travel categories (DoD Categories I-VI), necessary documentation (e.g., CAC, leave forms, dependent IDs), and any specific local policies.
Official AMC information may be available here: Altus AFB
It's always recommended to confirm details well in advance of your intended travel dates.
Common Destinations
Joint Base San Antonio (JBSA), Texas
Arrive early; flights fill quickly due to training missions.
McChord Field (Joint Base Lewis-McChord), Washington
Check for seasonal weather changes; bring appropriate gear.
Scott AFB, Illinois
Bring snacks; limited food options upon arrival.