Kirtland AFB
Kirtland AFB PCS Guide
Base History & Name
U.S. Air Force Senior Airman William Raybern, 71st Aircraft Maintenance Unit CV-22 Osprey crew chief, works on an Osprey at Kirtland Air Force Base, New Mexico, July 10, 2020. For the first time since December 2016, the 71st AMU met all 12 maintenance metrics during the month of May 2020,...
Kirtland Air Force Base began as Albuquerque Army Air Base in January 1941, established to train bomber crews for World War II. Its original mission focused on advanced flying and bombardier training, supporting the rapid expansion of the U.S. Army Air Forces.
The base was renamed Kirtland Field in February 1942 to honor Colonel Roy C. Kirtland, a pioneer in military aviation. This change reflected the growing importance of the base during the war effort.
During World War II, Kirtland Field became a major training hub for B-24 and B-17 crews. The base expanded rapidly, adding new runways, hangars, and support facilities to accommodate increased activity.
After the war, the installation shifted to research and development, especially in nuclear weapons and missile technology. This new focus reflected the dawn of the Cold War and the evolving needs of national defense.
In 1947, the base was officially renamed Kirtland Air Force Base as the U.S. Air Force became a separate branch. It played a central role in atomic weapons assembly and testing, hosting units like the Air Force Special Weapons Center and Sandia National Laboratories.
Over the decades, Kirtland AFB has supported a range of missions, including flight testing, space research, and special operations. Its diverse roles have made it a cornerstone of military innovation.
Today, Kirtland AFB is a key center for nuclear research, munitions, and special operations. It is home to the Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center, the 377th Air Base Wing, and several research labs.
The base remains a major employer in Albuquerque and a critical asset for national security. Its ongoing contributions ensure its continued relevance in the defense landscape.
Namesake
Kirtland was known for his leadership in developing aviation tactics and training programs. His legacy as an innovator and mentor in military aviation led to the base being named in his honor shortly after his death in 1941.
Major Units & Training Programs
An Airman embraces his loved one for the first time in 7.5 weeks after completing U.S. Air Force Basic Military Training. More than 600 Airmen assigned to Flights 599-613 march in the 737th Training Group’s graduation parade at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, September 26, 2024. The...
Major Units
58th Special Operations Wing
Provides advanced training for Air Force special operations, combat search and rescue, and nuclear surety operations. The wing operates a variety of aircraft for specialized aircrew training.
377th Air Base Wing
Serves as the host wing, responsible for base operations, security, and support for all units at Kirtland AFB, including nuclear storage and security missions.
Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center
Manages nuclear weapons systems, ensuring their safety, security, and effectiveness across the Air Force. The center supports acquisition, sustainment, and modernization of nuclear capabilities.
Air Force Research Laboratory Directed Energy Directorate
Conducts research and development in directed energy technologies, including high-energy lasers and high-power microwaves, supporting Air Force operational needs.
Training Schools
Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR) Training
Overview
Specialized training for aircrews in combat search and rescue operations, including survival, evasion, resistance, and escape (SERE) techniques.
Course Length
Several weeks to months, depending on specialty
Who Attends
Aircrew members and special operations personnel
Arrival & In-Processing
Airman 1st Class Sebastian Ruiz, 377th Security Forces Squadron installation access controller, verifies a driver’s ID card for authorized entry at one of the gates at Kirtland Air Force Base, New Mexico, May 25, 2021. Sebastian and his twin brother, Airman 1st Class Andre Ruiz, serve together...
Welcome to Kirtland Air Force Base! Arriving prepared helps ensure a smooth check-in and a positive start to your assignment. Review these steps carefully to make your transition seamless. For more details and updates, visit the official Kirtland AFB website.
Kirtland AFB's main entrance is the Gibson Gate, located on the south side of the base. The Gibson Gate operates 24/7 for authorized personnel. Other gates, such as the Wyoming and Truman Gates, have limited hours—check the base website for current schedules. All drivers and passengers must present a valid Military ID, CAC, or approved visitor pass. State-issued IDs must comply with the REAL ID Act. Expect 100% ID checks and possible random vehicle inspections. Security is strict; follow all posted instructions. To obtain a visitor or family member pass, report to the Visitor Control Center before attempting entry.
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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 or contract, if applicable)
Kirtland AFB offers a robust sponsor program. To request a sponsor, contact your gaining unit's orderly room or commander support staff. They will assign a sponsor to assist with your transition and answer arrival questions. If you have not been contacted by a sponsor, reach out directly to your unit's point of contact or use the Air Force's online sponsorship request form.
Formal in-processing takes place at the Welcome Center, Building 20245, near the main base area. The Welcome Center is typically open Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. During in-processing, you will visit key offices such as Military Personnel, Finance, Housing, and Medical. Some steps may require appointments. Most new arrivals complete in-processing within 2-3 business days.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the Gibson Main Gate. The VCC is open Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Services include issuing visitor passes, registering vehicles in DBIDS, and processing guest sponsorship requests. Arrive early to avoid delays, especially during peak hours.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Georgia – Personal Property manager Staff Sgt. Brent Rochette, noncommissioned officer in charge, 78th Logistics Readiness Squadron’s Traffic Management Office inspects the condition of shipped items at Robins Air Force Base, Georgia, Dec. 15, 2021.
Arriving at Kirtland AFB starts with receiving your official orders. Next, contact the Base Transportation Office to schedule your move and discuss your options. The two most common move types are Household Goods (HHG) shipment, where the government hires a mover, and Personally Procured Move (PPM), also called DITY, where you move your household yourself for possible reimbursement. Use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) at move.mil to manage your move, track shipments, and upload required documents. DPS is your central hub for all move-related tasks. You are eligible for entitlements like Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) to offset hotel costs and Dislocation Allowance (DLA) to help with relocation expenses. Kirtland AFB is a large installation, so check base-specific guidance for housing and in-processing. Be sure to coordinate with your sponsor and review local arrival instructions to avoid delays. For questions, the Kirtland AFB Transportation Office is your key contact throughout the process.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor early for local support and base guidance.
- Keep orders, IDs, and important documents with you during travel.
- Use DPS to track your shipment and upload all required forms.
- Understand your weight allowance to avoid excess costs.
- Take photos of valuable items before packing.
- Contact Kirtland AFB Housing early to check availability and waitlists.
- Plan ahead for Albuquerque’s high-desert climate and altitude.
Important Forms & Links
Access the Defense Personal Property System to manage your PCS move.
Check current rates for TLE, DLA, and other travel entitlements.
Guidance, checklists, and support for your move.
Official base information for new arrivals.
Estimate your Dislocation Allowance for your PCS move.
Schools & Childcare
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Kirtland AFB does not have DoDEA schools on base, so military families rely on the local Albuquerque Public Schools district for K-12 education. The area offers a mix of public, charter, and private schools, giving families several academic options. The School Liaison Officer (SLO) serves as your main contact for navigating enrollment, understanding district boundaries, and connecting with special programs or services for military children. Reach out to the SLO early to ease your transition and get tailored support for your family’s needs.
Childcare Options
Kirtland AFB Child Development Center (CDC)
The CDC provides full-day, part-day, and hourly care for young children. The program is NAEYC-accredited and focuses on early learning and development in a secure setting.
Kirtland AFB School Age Program (SAP)
SAP offers before- and after-school care, homework help, and summer camps for school-age children. The program is accredited by the Council on Accreditation.
Kirtland AFB Family Child Care (FCC) Program
FCC provides in-home care by certified providers for infants, toddlers, and school-age children. This flexible option includes full-time, part-time, and hourly care.
Local Schools
Albuquerque Public Schools (APS)
APS is New Mexico’s largest district and serves most Kirtland AFB families. It offers diverse academic and extracurricular programs, with several magnet and STEM schools. School ratings vary by campus, so research individual schools using GreatSchools.org or the APS website.
Sandia High School
Sandia High is well-regarded for its International Baccalaureate (IB) program and strong STEM offerings. It has above-average graduation rates and positive parent reviews on GreatSchools.org.
Manzano Day School
Manzano Day School is a respected private elementary school known for small class sizes and a focus on creativity and academics. It receives strong reviews from local families.
Space-A Travel & Passenger Terminal
Terminal Contact Information
Terminal Location
Kirtland AFB, NM 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 for electronics.
Wi-Fi Access
Free wireless internet throughout the terminal.
Family Room
Quiet play area for children and families.
Snack Bar/Vending
Vending machines with drinks and light snacks available 24/7.
Space-A Eligibility & Signup
For detailed Space-Available (Space-A) travel eligibility requirements and the most current sign-up procedures for flights from Kirtland AFB, NM, 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
Joint Base San Antonio (JBSA), Texas
JBSA is a major hub—arrive early for best seat selection; flights can fill quickly.
Travis AFB, California
Popular for connections to the West Coast and Pacific; check weather for delays.
Andrews AFB, Maryland
Ideal for East Coast travel; bring snacks for longer layovers.