Fairchild AFB
Fairchild AFB PCS and Base Guide
Base History & Name
U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Justan Stanley, an in-flight refueling specialist assigned to the 92nd Air Refueling Squadron, dons an oxygen mask during a preflight inspection prior to takeoff at Fairchild Air Force Base, Washington, March 31, 2025. Mechanical and electrical systems checks are...
Fairchild Air Force Base began as Spokane Army Air Depot in 1942, supporting World War II aircraft maintenance and supply needs. The base’s original mission focused on logistics and depot-level repairs for the Army Air Forces.
During the war, the base served as a critical hub for the Pacific Northwest, ensuring aircraft were ready for combat. Its strategic location made it essential for wartime operations.
Postwar expansion in the late 1940s shifted the base’s focus to strategic air operations. In 1947, the installation was renamed Fairchild Air Force Base to honor General Muir S. Fairchild.
The base became home to the Strategic Air Command (SAC), hosting B-29 and later B-52 bomber units. These units played a vital role during the Cold War’s nuclear deterrence era.
Throughout the Cold War, Fairchild AFB was a key player in America’s strategic defense. The 92nd Bombardment Wing, later the 92nd Air Refueling Wing, operated from the base, providing both bomber and aerial refueling capabilities.
The base also supported tanker operations with KC-135 Stratotankers, extending the reach of U.S. airpower worldwide. This capability made Fairchild AFB indispensable to national security.
Today, Fairchild AFB remains a cornerstone of U.S. Air Force air mobility and refueling operations. The base’s primary mission is to support global reach and rapid mobility through aerial refueling.
The 92nd and 141st Air Refueling Wings are stationed at Fairchild AFB, ensuring continuous support for worldwide missions. Locally, the base is a major employer and community partner in the Spokane region.
The installation has maintained the name Fairchild AFB since its 1947 renaming, with no subsequent name changes. Its legacy continues to shape both military operations and the local community.
Namesake
Fairchild was a pioneering aviator and a key architect of modern Air Force doctrine. His leadership and vision helped shape the Air Force's strategic direction during the formative years after World War II, making him a fitting namesake for the installation.
Major Units & Training Programs
SrA Benjamin Coleman, a short-range wing scheduler assigned to the 92nd Operations Support Squadron, reviews the 92nd Air Refueling Wing flying schedule at Fairchild Air Force Base, Washington, March 5, 2025. Coleman and the 92nd OSS wing scheduling office, also known as current operations, work...
Major Units
92nd Air Refueling Wing
Provides global air refueling, airlift, and operational support for U.S. and allied forces. Operates the KC-135 Stratotanker, enabling worldwide reach for combat and support aircraft.
141st Air Refueling Wing (Washington Air National Guard)
Augments active duty forces with air refueling and mobility support. Also operates KC-135 Stratotankers and supports both federal and state missions.
336th Training Group (Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape - SERE)
Conducts SERE training for aircrew and other personnel to prepare them for survival scenarios in hostile environments.
Training Schools
USAF Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape (SERE) School
Overview
Provides training to aircrew and other personnel on survival skills, evasion techniques, resistance to interrogation, and escape from captivity in hostile environments.
Course Length
3 weeks (basic SERE course)
Who Attends
Aircrew members, select special operations personnel, and other at-risk military members
Arrival & In-Processing
Col. Chad Cisewski, 92nd Air Refueling Wing commander, drives through Fairchild Air Force Base’s newly renovated front gate after its grand re-opening ceremony at Fairchild AFB, Washington, Aug. 12, 2024. The front gate renovation began in April 2023 to enhance entry control capabilities and...
Welcome to Fairchild AFB! Arriving prepared makes your check-in process smoother and ensures you start your assignment on the right foot. Review each step below to help you and your family settle in quickly. For more details, visit the official Fairchild AFB website.
Fairchild AFB’s Main Gate is the primary entry point for all personnel and visitors. The Main Gate operates 24/7, providing round-the-clock access. All drivers and passengers must present a valid Military ID, CAC, or other approved identification. State-issued driver’s licenses must comply with the REAL ID Act—non-compliant IDs require a secondary form of identification. Expect 100% ID checks for all adults and random vehicle inspections to maintain base security. To sponsor a visitor or family member, stop at the gate or the Visitor Control Center for a temporary pass. Sponsors must be present or provide prior authorization. Always allow extra time for security procedures, especially during peak hours or heightened security postures.
-
PCS Orders (multiple copies)
-
Military ID/CAC
-
Marriage Certificate (if applicable)
-
Birth Certificates for dependents
-
Social Security Cards
-
Vehicle Registration & Insurance
-
Medical and Dental Records
-
Proof of Housing (if available)
Fairchild AFB offers a robust sponsor program to help you transition smoothly. Contact your gaining unit or the Military Personnel Flight to request a sponsor. You may also fill out the online sponsor request form provided by your unit or through the base newcomer resources. Your sponsor will guide you through arrival, in-processing, and settling in.
Report to the Welcome Center, Building 2040, for in-processing. The center is near the Main Gate for easy access. Operating hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Key steps include Personnel check-in, Finance, Housing, Medical, and Unit in-processing. Plan for 2–3 days to complete all requirements. Bring all required documents to avoid delays.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the Main Gate. Hours are Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and Saturday, 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The VCC issues visitor passes, registers guests in DBIDS, and assists with sponsoring non-military visitors. Bring a valid photo ID and be prepared for a background check.
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 Fairchild AFB starts with receiving your official orders. Contact the base Transportation Office as soon as possible to schedule your move. You can choose between a Household Goods (HHG) shipment managed by the government or a Personally Procured Move (PPM), also called a DITY move. Each move type has specific rules and entitlements. Use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) at move.mil to set up and track your shipment. This system is essential for managing your move and communicating with your transportation office.
You may qualify for Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) reimbursement for up to 10 days while you secure housing. Dislocation Allowance (DLA) helps offset relocation costs. Check the current rates before your move. Fairchild AFB has a busy inbound season—plan early to secure your preferred move dates. Review local arrival guides for base-specific check-in steps and contacts.
For questions about entitlements, weight allowances, or local procedures, reach out to the Fairchild AFB Transportation Office. Their staff can answer questions and guide you through the process. Always keep copies of your orders and important documents with you during the move.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor early for base-specific support.
- Schedule your HHG or PPM move as soon as you get orders.
- Keep hard copies of orders and key documents with you.
- Take photos of valuable items before packing.
- Check weight limits to avoid excess costs.
- Book TLF lodging early, especially during summer.
- Review the Fairchild AFB Newcomers Guide before arrival.
Important Forms & Links
Start, manage, and track your PCS move online.
Find current TLE, DLA, and per diem rates.
Guides and tools for every step of your move.
Official base arrival information and contacts.
Schools & Childcare
Image Unavailable
Childcare Options
Fairchild AFB Child Development Center (CDC)
Family Child Care (FCC) Program
Fairchild AFB Youth Center
Local Schools
Medical Lake School District
Cheney School District
St. Charles Catholic School
Space-A Travel & Passenger Terminal
Terminal Contact Information
Terminal Location
800 S. Hansell Ave., Bld. 2090 Fairchild AFB, WA 99011
Terminal Amenities
Waiting Area
Comfortable seating with TV and charging stations.
Snack Bar/Vending Machines
Light snacks, beverages, and vending machines available.
Wi-Fi Access
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the terminal.
Family Room
Designated area for families with children, including toys and seating.
Space-A Eligibility & Signup
For detailed Space-Available (Space-A) travel eligibility requirements and the most current sign-up procedures for flights from Fairchild AFB, WA, 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.
It's always recommended to confirm details well in advance of your intended travel dates.
Common Destinations
Travis AFB, California
Popular route; arrive early to secure a spot, especially during holidays.
Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington
Ideal for local travel; be flexible as flights can fill quickly.
Elmendorf AFB, Alaska
Prepare for varying weather conditions; pack accordingly.