Luke AFB
Luke AFB PCS Guide
Base History & Name
Retired U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Richard Earl Michaud, retired pilot, and squadron commander, poses for a photo on an F-86 E ‘Sabre’ during Top Gun training, 1951, at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada. The Sabre was the primary U.S. air-to-air fighter during the Korean War. (Courtesy photo)
Luke Air Force Base was established in 1941 as a key pilot training center for the U.S. Army Air Forces during World War II. Its original mission focused on training fighter pilots, and the base’s location west of Phoenix, Arizona, offered ideal flying conditions and ample space for rapid growth.
During World War II, Luke Field became the largest single-engine advanced flying training base in the world. Over 17,000 pilots earned their wings here, many flying the P-40 Warhawk and later the P-51 Mustang.
The base underwent several construction phases, adding runways, hangars, and support facilities to accommodate the influx of trainees and aircraft. This expansion allowed Luke Field to meet the surging demand for skilled aircrew during the war.
After the war, Luke Field was briefly inactivated but reopened in 1951 as the Cold War intensified. It was redesignated as Luke Air Force Base and became a hub for jet fighter training, especially for the F-84 Thunderjet and later the F-16 Fighting Falcon.
The base hosted several important units, including the 56th Fighter Wing, which remains its primary unit today. This continuity has helped maintain Luke AFB’s reputation as a premier training facility for advanced fighter pilots.
Today, Luke AFB is the largest fighter pilot training base in the world, specializing in training for the F-35A Lightning II and F-16. It plays a vital role in U.S. and allied airpower, supporting both national defense and the local economy.
The base has retained its original name since its establishment, honoring its namesake, 2nd Lt. Frank Luke Jr., a World War I flying ace. This legacy continues to inspire new generations of pilots who train at Luke Air Force Base.
Namesake
Luke scored 18 aerial victories in just 17 days, making him one of America's top aces of the war. He was killed in action on 29 September 1918 after a dramatic final mission behind enemy lines. His bravery and aggressive flying style made him a national hero and a fitting namesake for a premier fighter training base.
Major Units & Training Programs
A U.S. Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker, assigned to the 161st Air Refueling Wing prepares to refuel an F-35A Lightning II assigned to the 56th Fighter Wing, April 24, 2025, over the skies of Arizona. The F-35A Lightning II is the U.S. Air Force’s premier fifth-generation fighter, designed with...
Major Units
56th Fighter Wing
The 56th Fighter Wing is the host unit at Luke AFB and is responsible for training F-35A and F-16 fighter pilots for the United States Air Force and allied nations. The wing conducts advanced flight training and oversees operations, maintenance, and support activities.
944th Fighter Wing (AFRC)
The 944th Fighter Wing is an Air Force Reserve Command unit providing combat-ready airmen and pilots, supporting F-35 and F-16 training missions, and augmenting active-duty operations as needed.
372nd Training Squadron, Detachment 12
This unit delivers technical training for aircraft maintenance personnel, supporting the operational readiness of F-16 and F-35 fleets at Luke AFB.
Training Schools
F-35A Lightning II Pilot Training Program
Overview
Provides advanced flight and tactics training for pilots transitioning to the F-35A Lightning II, focusing on air-to-air and air-to-ground combat skills.
Course Length
9 months (varies by syllabus)
Who Attends
USAF pilots and allied nation pilots assigned to F-35A units
F-16 Fighting Falcon Pilot Training Program
Overview
Delivers comprehensive flight training for new and experienced pilots on the F-16 platform, covering basic to advanced combat maneuvers.
Course Length
Approximately 9 months
Who Attends
USAF and allied nation pilots selected for F-16 assignments
Arrival & In-Processing
U.S. Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Brian Williams, 56th Security Forces Squadron operations superintendent, guards the gate, Nov. 11, 2024, at Luke Air Force Base, Arizona. Williams was selected for the rank of chief master sergeant, the highest enlisted rank in the U.S. Air and Space Force....
Welcome to Luke AFB! Arriving at a new base is an exciting step, and being prepared will help ensure your check-in goes smoothly. Review all requirements before your travel to avoid delays and make your transition as seamless as possible. For the latest updates, visit the official Luke AFB website.
Luke AFB's main entrance is the South Gate, which is open 24/7 for all personnel and visitors. The North Gate operates Monday through Friday, 5:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., and is closed on weekends and holidays. All drivers and passengers must show a valid DoD ID, CAC, or dependent ID at the gate. State driver's licenses must comply with the REAL ID Act—non-compliant IDs will not grant access. Expect 100% ID checks and random vehicle inspections at all gates. Security posture is high; follow all posted instructions and be ready for possible delays. To obtain a visitor or family member pass, guests must be sponsored by an authorized ID cardholder and present valid government-issued identification at the Visitor Control Center.
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PCS Orders (multiple copies)
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Military ID/CAC
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Dependent/Family Member ID Cards
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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 and Dental Records
Luke AFB offers a robust sponsor program for incoming personnel. To request a sponsor, contact your gaining unit or the Military Personnel Flight (MPF) as soon as you receive your orders. Sponsors help with local information, check-in, and settling into your new community. If unsure, reach out to the MPF or your unit's administrative office for assistance.
Report to the Welcome Center, Building 1150, located near the South Gate. The Welcome Center operates 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 office schedules. Bring all required documents to avoid delays.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the South Gate. Operating hours are Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The VCC issues visitor passes, handles DBIDS registration, and assists with guest sponsorship. All visitors must be accompanied or sponsored by a DoD ID cardholder.
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 Luke AFB, act fast to start your relocation. Contact your current base’s Transportation Office to set up your move in the Defense Personal Property System (DPS). DPS lets you choose between a Household Goods (HHG) shipment handled by the government or a Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY), where you manage the move and may be reimbursed. Each option has pros and cons—review the details to pick what works best for your family. You are eligible for key entitlements, such as Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) to cover hotel costs while house-hunting, and Dislocation Allowance (DLA) to help with out-of-pocket expenses. Make sure you understand your weight allowances and keep receipts for reimbursement. Luke AFB has unique housing demand and Arizona heat—plan ahead for lodging and vehicle prep. Use DPS to track shipments, update contact info, and access help throughout your move. For local info, check the Luke AFB newcomer’s guide and contact your sponsor early for on-the-ground tips.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor as soon as you receive orders.
- Book temporary lodging at Luke AFB early—on-base options fill quickly.
- Keep all PCS documents, orders, and receipts in a safe, accessible place.
- Photograph and inventory your household goods before the movers arrive.
- Check Arizona vehicle requirements and register your car soon after arrival.
- Plan for extreme summer heat—avoid moving pets or sensitive items midday.
- Contact the Base Transportation Office if your move dates change.
Important Forms & Links
Access the Defense Personal Property System to schedule and track your move.
Official rates for TLE, DLA, and other PCS entitlements.
Guides, checklists, and support for every step of your PCS.
Base-specific info for inbound personnel and families.
Schools & Childcare
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The School Liaison Officer (SLO) at Luke AFB is your best resource for navigating school enrollment, district boundaries, and special education services. The SLO connects families with local school contacts and helps with school transitions. Contact the SLO through the Luke AFB Force Support Squadron for personalized guidance.