Dover AFB
Dover AFB PCS Guide
Military Base History
A C-119 #352 aircraft of the 314th Troop Carrier Group during a supply mission in Korea, 1950. During the Battle of Chosin Reservoir this specific aircraft delivered M2 Treadway bridge sections which U.S. troops used to evade enemy forces. The aircraft was dedicated during a ceremony Oct. 1,...
Dover Air Force Base was established in 1941 as a key airfield for the U.S. Army Air Forces during World War II. Its original mission focused on training and staging bomber and fighter units for overseas deployment.
The base's strategic location on the East Coast made it ideal for supporting operations and the war effort in Europe. This positioning helped Dover play a critical role in military logistics during the conflict.
During the Cold War, Dover AFB expanded significantly, becoming a major hub for Military Air Transport Service (MATS), later known as Military Airlift Command (MAC).
Large-scale construction projects in the 1950s and 1960s enabled the base to support heavy-lift aircraft, including the C-133 Cargomaster and later the C-5 Galaxy. These expansions allowed Dover to play a crucial role in global airlift missions, including support for Vietnam and later conflicts.
Throughout its history, Dover AFB has hosted several important units, most notably the 436th Airlift Wing and the 512th Airlift Wing (Air Force Reserve).
The base is home to the Air Force Mortuary Affairs Operations, responsible for the dignified transfer of fallen service members. This solemn mission has made Dover a focal point for national attention during periods of conflict.
Today, Dover AFB remains one of the largest and busiest airlift hubs in the world. It supports rapid global mobility, humanitarian missions, and contingency operations.
The base is a vital economic and social presence in Delaware, providing jobs and community partnerships. Notably, Dover AFB has retained its original name since its establishment, with no significant official name changes.
Major Units & Training Programs
Air Force Mortuary Affairs Operations Airmen lead Air Mobility Command and 436th Airlift Wing leadership on a tour of the Fisher House at Dover Air Force Base, Delaware, April 7, 2025. AFMAO leadership emphasized how Fisher House operations prioritize the care and readiness of families of the...
Major Units
436th Airlift Wing
The 436th Airlift Wing serves as the host wing at Dover AFB, providing worldwide strategic airlift capability, primarily operating the C-5M Super Galaxy and C-17 Globemaster III to transport personnel, cargo, and equipment globally.
512th Airlift Wing (Air Force Reserve Command)
The 512th Airlift Wing is an Air Force Reserve associate unit that works alongside the 436th Airlift Wing, providing additional airlift support and operational capability with C-5M and C-17 aircraft.
Mortuary Affairs Operations (Air Force Mortuary Affairs Operations Center)
The Air Force Mortuary Affairs Operations Center is responsible for the dignified return of fallen service members, providing mortuary services and support to families of the deceased.
Training Schools
Aerial Port Training (436th Aerial Port Squadron)
Overview
Provides specialized training in cargo handling, aircraft loading/unloading, and logistics operations to ensure safe and efficient airlift missions.
Course Length
Varies (short courses, typically 1-2 weeks)
Who Attends
Aerial port personnel and air transportation specialists
Arrival & In-Processing
Spectators enter the forward ramp of a C-5M Super Galaxy during the 2024 First State Airshow at Dover Air Force Base, Delaware, May 19, 2024. The base opened its gates to the public for a free, two-day event to showcase the Air Force and the base’s mission of providing rapid global airlift...
Welcome to Dover AFB! Arriving at a new installation can feel overwhelming, but being prepared with the right documents and information will make your check-in smooth and efficient. Review the steps below to ensure a hassle-free arrival and transition. For additional details, always refer to the official Dover AFB website.
Dover AFB's main entry point is the Main Gate, located at the primary access road to the installation. The Main Gate operates 24/7, ensuring round-the-clock access for authorized personnel. All drivers and passengers must present a valid Military ID, CAC, or other approved credentials. State driver’s licenses must comply with the REAL ID Act—non-compliant IDs require secondary identification. Expect 100% ID checks and random vehicle inspections as part of Dover AFB’s robust security posture. To sponsor visitors or family members, stop at the Visitor Control Center (VCC) just outside the Main Gate to obtain a temporary pass. Sponsors must be present or provide required information in advance.
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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 applicable)
Dover AFB offers a robust sponsor program for incoming personnel and families. To request a sponsor, contact your gaining unit directly or coordinate through your unit's administrative office. Many units also provide online request forms or will assign a sponsor automatically upon notification of your arrival.
Report to the Welcome Center (Bldg 520), conveniently located near the Main Gate. In-processing is available Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Key steps include Personnel check-in, Finance, Housing, Medical, and Unit introduction. Plan for the process to take 2–3 business days, depending on your situation and required appointments.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) sits just outside the Main Gate for easy access before entering Dover AFB. The VCC operates Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Services include issuing visitor passes, DBIDS registration, and assisting with guest sponsorship procedures.
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)
When you receive PCS orders to Dover AFB, your first step is to review your orders and contact the base Transportation Office. This office will guide you through move types, including Household Goods (HHG) shipments and Personally Procured Moves (PPM, also known as DITY). HHG is the standard, but PPM offers flexibility if you want more control of your move. Use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) at move.mil to schedule and track your shipment. DPS is essential for submitting move requests, uploading documents, and checking shipment status.
You're entitled to Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) reimbursement for short-term stays while house-hunting or waiting for housing, plus a Dislocation Allowance (DLA) to help offset relocation costs. At Dover AFB, expect standard CONUS entitlements unless otherwise noted. Early coordination with your sponsor and the housing office can help you secure lodging and streamline your arrival. Check base-specific guidance for any unique procedures or local resources.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor as soon as you receive orders.
- Contact the Dover AFB Housing Office early for availability and waitlists.
- Keep orders, IDs, and important documents with you during travel.
- Take photos of high-value items before packing.
- Understand your weight allowance to avoid excess charges.
- Plan pet travel and lodging in advance; some hotels have restrictions.
- Schedule your move in DPS as early as possible, especially during summer.
Important Forms & Links
Access the Defense Personal Property System to manage your move.
Find current TLE, DLA, and mileage rates.
Guidance and support for every stage of your move.
Base-specific arrival details and local contacts.
Schools & Childcare
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Dover AFB families do not have on-base DoDEA schools; instead, children attend local public or private schools in the Dover area. The Caesar Rodney School District is the primary public district serving the base and is known for its solid academics and community support. The School Liaison Officer (SLO) is your key resource for navigating enrollment, school transfers, and special education services. Contact the SLO early to get personalized guidance and help with local school connections.
Childcare Options
Dover AFB Child Development Center (CDC)
The CDC provides full-day and part-day care, including hourly care options. The program is NAEYC-accredited, ensuring high-quality early childhood education.
Dover AFB School Age Care Program
This program offers before and after-school care, homework help, and summer camps. It is nationally accredited and supports working families year-round.
Family Child Care (FCC) Program
The FCC program offers home-based care with flexible hours, including evenings and weekends. Providers are certified and monitored for quality and safety.
Local Schools
Caesar Rodney School District
The Caesar Rodney School District has a strong academic reputation and offers a range of Advanced Placement and STEM programs. Schools in this district generally score above average on state assessments, with ratings of 7/10 or higher on GreatSchools.org.
Dover High School
Dover High School is part of the Capital School District and is recognized for its diverse student body and robust extracurricular programs. The school offers AP courses and career pathways, earning a 6/10 rating on GreatSchools.org.
Holy Cross School
Holy Cross School is a private Catholic school serving PreK-8. The school is known for its close-knit community and strong academic and character development programs.
Campus Community School
Campus Community School is a K-8 charter with a focus on personalized learning and STEM. It consistently receives positive parent reviews for its supportive environment and academic growth.
Space-A Travel & Passenger Terminal
Terminal Contact Information
Terminal Location
436 APS Passenger Terminal
150 Airlift Ave
Dover, DE 19901
Terminal Amenities
Waiting Area
Spacious seating with charging stations and flight information screens.
USO Lounge
Offers snacks, beverages, Wi-Fi, and a comfortable place to relax.
Children’s Play Area
Kid-friendly space with toys and seating for families.
Wi-Fi Access
Free wireless internet throughout the terminal.
Space-A Eligibility & Signup
For detailed Space-Available (Space-A) travel eligibility requirements and the most current sign-up procedures for flights from Dover AFB, DE, 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: Dover AFB Passenger Terminal
It's always recommended to confirm details well in advance of your intended travel dates.
Common Destinations
Ramstein AB, Germany
Arrive early; flights fill quickly, especially in summer. Bring euro currency and pack for variable weather.
Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, NJ
Great option for East Coast travel. Be flexible with timing as flights can be added or changed.
Travis AFB, California
Long-haul flight; pack snacks and entertainment. Weather can vary—bring layers.