Columbus AFB
Columbus AFB PCS and Base Guide
Military Base History
A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor and a historic P-51 Mustang perform a heritage flight over Rickenbacker International Airport, June 18, 2023, as part of the Columbus Airshow, which returned after an almost 20-year absence. This year’s event featured more than 20 military and civilian planes,...
Columbus Air Force Base began operations in 1941 to address the urgent demand for aircrew during World War II. Its primary mission was to train aviation cadets for combat, making it a cornerstone of the Army Air Forces' rapid expansion.
The base quickly evolved into a hub for flight instruction, graduating thousands of pilots who served in multiple theaters of the war. This training effort significantly contributed to Allied air operations.
After World War II, the base was briefly inactivated, but reopened in 1951 due to the Korean War and Cold War pressures. It was then officially named Columbus Air Force Base and assigned to Air Training Command.
During this period, the base underwent significant expansion with new runways, hangars, and support facilities. These upgrades allowed for jet aircraft operations and supported increased pilot training demands.
Throughout the Cold War, Columbus AFB played a vital role in undergraduate pilot training for the U.S. Air Force and allied nations. The 14th Flying Training Wing, its primary tenant, helped cement the base's reputation as a premier training center.
Columbus AFB has consistently reinforced its importance by hosting key units and training thousands of pilots. Its contributions have had a lasting impact on both national defense and international partnerships.
Today, Columbus AFB remains one of the Air Force's top pilot training installations. The base supports the local economy and community through employment and outreach programs.
Since the early 1950s, the base has retained its official name as Columbus Air Force Base, reflecting its enduring mission and legacy in military aviation training.
Major Units & Training Programs
Lt. Col. Dustin K. Burleson, China Aerospace Studies Institute deputy director, at the LeMay Center at Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama, speaks to the City of Columbus Base Community Council (BCC) during a professional and educational development discussion March 13, 2024, in the Kaye Auditorium...
Major Units
14th Flying Training Wing
The 14th Flying Training Wing conducts specialized undergraduate pilot training for the United States Air Force and allied nations, producing over 400 pilots annually. The wing oversees all aspects of pilot training, from academics to flight operations.
14th Operations Group
The 14th Operations Group is responsible for executing pilot training missions, managing flying squadrons, and ensuring the safe and effective operation of training aircraft such as the T-6 Texan II, T-1A Jayhawk, and T-38C Talon.
Training Schools
Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training (SUPT)
Overview
SUPT is an intensive program that teaches student pilots the fundamentals of military flight, including academics, simulator training, and hands-on flying in various trainer aircraft.
Course Length
Approximately 52 weeks
Who Attends
Newly commissioned Air Force officers selected for pilot training and select international students
Arrival & In-Processing
Columbus Air Force Base, Mississippi opened the gates for a two day event, Wings over Columbus 2022 and STEM Show, with approximately 60,000 visitors. Various aircraft flew overhead during the two day event, with the grand finale being the USAF Thunderbirds.
Welcome to Columbus AFB! Arriving prepared ensures your check-in and transition go smoothly. Review these steps before arrival to help you and your family settle in quickly. For more details, visit the official Columbus AFB website.
Columbus AFB's main entrance is the Main Gate, located on the primary access road to the installation. The Main Gate operates 24/7 for authorized personnel and vehicles. All adults must present a valid Military ID, CAC, or DoD-issued credential. State-issued driver's licenses must comply with the REAL ID Act; non-compliant IDs require a secondary form. Expect 100% ID checks and random vehicle inspections to maintain tight security. For visitor or family member passes, stop at the Visitor Control Center outside the Main Gate. Sponsors must be present or provide prior authorization for guests.
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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 (lease, agreement, or on-base assignment)
Columbus AFB offers a sponsor program for incoming personnel and families. To request a sponsor, contact your gaining unit or the Military Personnel Flight. You can also use the online sponsor request form linked on the Columbus AFB Newcomers page. Your sponsor will help guide you through arrival, in-processing, and settling in.
Report to the Welcome Center in Building 926 for in-processing. The center is near the Main Gate for easy access upon arrival. Operating hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. In-processing includes stops at Personnel, Finance, Housing, Medical, and your gaining unit. Plan for the process to take 2–3 business days, depending on your needs and required appointments.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the Main Gate. The VCC operates Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Services include issuing visitor passes, DBIDS registration, and processing guest sponsorships. Arrive early and bring valid ID for all visitors.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
Being in the military can be stressful, especially when moving to a new base. The Travel Management Office is here to help when it comes to packing, shipping and delivering your personal property from one base to another. The TMO can be reached at (325) 696-2029. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Kylee Thomas)
When you receive PCS orders to Columbus AFB, start by reviewing your orders and contacting the Base Transportation Office as soon as possible. Use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) at move.mil to schedule your move and track your shipment. You can choose a Household Goods (HHG) shipment, where the government arranges your move, or a Personally Procured Move (PPM), sometimes called a DITY move, if you want to handle the move yourself and possibly earn reimbursement. Both options require timely coordination and careful documentation.
You are eligible for entitlements like Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) and Dislocation Allowance (DLA) to help offset relocation costs. TLE covers short-term lodging while you secure housing at Columbus AFB, and DLA helps with miscellaneous moving expenses. Make sure to keep all receipts and submit claims promptly. DPS is your main tool for managing shipments, communicating with movers, and accessing official move documents. For a smooth transition, check the Columbus AFB newcomer’s guide and reach out to your sponsor early.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor as soon as you receive orders.
- Book temporary lodging early, especially during summer months.
- Hand-carry orders, IDs, and important documents.
- Take photos of high-value items before packing.
- Label boxes with room and contents for easy unpacking.
- Check local pet policies before arrival if bringing animals.
- Confirm weight allowances to avoid excess charges.
Important Forms & Links
Access the Defense Personal Property System to schedule and track your move.
Find official rates for TLE, DLA, and other travel entitlements.
Guidance and checklists for every step of your move.
Base-specific arrival information and local resources.
Schools & Childcare
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Families stationed at Columbus AFB rely on local public schools, as there are no DoDEA schools on base. The area offers a mix of public and private educational options, with most military children attending schools in the Lowndes County or Columbus Municipal districts. The School Liaison Officer (SLO) is your go-to resource for help with enrollment, school transitions, and understanding local policies. Reach out to the SLO early to get personalized support and up-to-date information on school options and special programs.
Childcare Options
Child Development Center (CDC)
The CDC offers full-day, part-day, and hourly care for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. The program is DoD-certified and focuses on early childhood development.
School Age Care (SAC) Program
SAC provides before/after school care, holiday camps, and summer programs for school-age children. The program is accredited and supports homework help and recreation.
Family Child Care (FCC) Program
FCC offers flexible, home-based care options on base, including full-time, part-time, and hourly care. Providers are certified and meet DoD standards.
Local Schools
Lowndes County School District
Lowndes County School District is well-regarded for its safe campuses and supportive staff. The district offers strong academic and extracurricular programs, and several schools have earned above-average ratings on GreatSchools.org.
Columbus Municipal School District
Columbus Municipal School District serves many military families and offers a range of academic and arts programs. The district focuses on student achievement and has schools with solid state report card ratings.
Heritage Academy
Heritage Academy is a private, college-prep school known for small class sizes and a strong academic culture. The school offers advanced placement courses and a variety of extracurricular activities.