MCAS Miramar
MCAS Miramar PCS Guide
Military Base History
Spectators view the Kratos XQ-58A Valkyrie unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) display at the innovation and tech expo during the 2023 Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Airshow in San Diego, Sept. 24, 2023. America's Airshow 2023 is a unique and incredible opportunity to witness Marine and...
Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Miramar began as a military airfield in 1940, built to support the U.S. Army’s growing aviation needs before World War II. Its original mission was to provide a training and operational base for military aircraft on the West Coast, capitalizing on its strategic location near San Diego.
During World War II, the base expanded rapidly, hosting Navy and Marine aviation units. It served as a key training site for pilots and aircrews preparing for combat in the Pacific Theater.
The installation’s facilities grew to include runways, hangars, and support infrastructure, reflecting its vital wartime role.
After the war, Miramar transitioned to a major U.S. Navy Master Jet Base, officially known as Naval Air Station (NAS) Miramar. From the 1950s through the Cold War, it became famous as the home of the Navy’s elite Fighter Weapons School, better known as "TOPGUN."
The base supported advanced fighter training and hosted squadrons flying the F-14 Tomcat and other front-line aircraft, cementing its reputation as a center of tactical aviation excellence.
In 1996, a major realignment under the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process transferred the installation from the Navy to the Marine Corps. The base was officially renamed Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, and its mission shifted to support Marine aviation units, including the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing.
Today, MCAS Miramar is a critical hub for Marine Corps aviation, supporting training, operational deployments, and humanitarian missions. It also plays a significant role in the local San Diego community, hosting the annual Miramar Air Show and contributing to regional economic activity.
Throughout its history, MCAS Miramar has adapted to changing military needs, evolving from an Army airfield to a Navy jet base, and now to a premier Marine Corps aviation installation.
Its legacy reflects the dynamic nature of U.S. military aviation and its enduring importance to national defense.
Major Units & Training Programs
U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Daniel Ertel, a pilot training officer with Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron (VMFAT) 502, Marine Aircraft Group 11, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, welcomes members of the Jewish Institute for National Security of America to the Marine Corps Air Station Miramar...
Major Units
3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (3rd MAW)
Serves as the aviation combat element for I Marine Expeditionary Force, providing air support, assault support, and aerial reconnaissance for Marine Corps operations.
Marine Aircraft Group 11 (MAG-11)
Provides combat-ready fixed-wing aviation assets, including F/A-18 Hornet and F-35 Lightning II squadrons, to support Marine Air-Ground Task Force operations.
Marine Aircraft Group 16 (MAG-16)
Operates heavy-lift helicopter squadrons, delivering assault support, logistics, and troop transport capabilities for Marine Corps missions.
Marine Aircraft Group 46 (MAG-46)
A reserve aviation group supporting training and operational requirements with a variety of aircraft and aircrew.
Training Schools
Aviation Survival Training Center (ASTC) Miramar
Overview
Provides aviation physiology and water survival training to aircrew, focusing on emergency procedures, hypoxia, and egress techniques.
Course Length
1 week
Who Attends
Marine and Navy aircrew personnel
Arrival & In-Processing
U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Jason Woodworth, the commanding general for Marine Corps Installations Command, attends a meeting for a biometric facial recognition system at MCAS Miramar, California, Jan. 29, 2025. MCAS Miramar will begin utilizing Idemia biometric facial recognition system at the...
Welcome to MCAS Miramar! Arriving at a new duty station is an exciting step, and being well-prepared will help you and your family settle in smoothly. Knowing what to expect at the gate and during check-in ensures a stress-free start. For more details, visit the official MCAS Miramar website.
MCAS Miramar's Main Gate is the East Gate, located off Miramar Way. The East Gate operates 24/7 for all incoming personnel and vehicles. The North and West Gates have limited hours; check with your sponsor or the base website for current schedules. All drivers and passengers must show a valid Military ID or CAC. State-issued driver’s licenses must comply with the REAL ID Act. Expect 100% ID checks at all gates and random vehicle inspections to maintain a high security posture. If you need a visitor or family member pass, stop at the Visitor Control Center just outside the Main Gate. Bring valid ID and be ready to provide your sponsor’s information.
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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 already arranged)
MCAS Miramar offers a robust sponsor program for incoming personnel and families. To request a sponsor, contact your gaining unit's administrative office or use the online request form linked on the base's official website. Your sponsor will help you with arrival logistics, local information, and in-processing support.
Formal in-processing takes place at the Welcome Center, Building 2258, near the Main Gate. The Welcome Center operates Monday through Friday, 0730–1630. Key steps include check-in with Personnel Administration, Finance, Housing Office, Medical/Dental, and your assigned unit. Plan for in-processing to take 2–3 business days, depending on your situation and required briefings.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the East (Main) Gate. The VCC is open Monday through Friday, 0600–1800, and Saturday, 0800–1200. Services include issuing visitor passes, DBIDS registration, and processing guest sponsorship requests. All visitors must be sponsored by a valid military ID holder and present a compliant photo ID.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
Workers from River City Movers conduct a direct delivery May 9 for Staff Sgt. Cornel Varnado Jr., 194th Military Police Company, 716th Military Police Battalion, at Fort Campbell whose belongings were transported overseas from his previous duty station in Germany during a government move. Pictured are Russell McClendon, driver and crew leader, left; Cory Hemmings, driver; and Craig Carter; driver and crew leader.
PCS to MCAS Miramar starts with receiving official orders. Next, contact your local Transportation Office to set up your move in the Defense Personal Property System (DPS). DPS lets you choose between a Household Goods (HHG) shipment or a Personally Procured Move (PPM, also known as DITY). Each move type has different steps and entitlements, so review your options carefully.
You may qualify for key benefits like Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) and Dislocation Allowance (DLA). TLE helps cover lodging and meals while you search for housing near MCAS Miramar. DLA offsets relocation costs not covered by other allowances. DPS is your hub for tracking shipments and managing move paperwork. For MCAS Miramar, pay close attention to base access procedures and local housing wait times.
Check in with your sponsor and unit as soon as you have arrival details. They can help with base-specific info, such as local traffic patterns and temporary lodging options. Early communication smooths your transition and helps avoid common relocation problems.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor as soon as you receive orders.
- Keep all PCS documents and orders in a secure, accessible folder.
- Book temporary lodging at Miramar early—availability fills fast, especially in summer.
- Label every box clearly with your name and destination address.
- Take photos of your household goods before packing for claims.
- Plan for San Diego traffic when scheduling your arrival and delivery dates.
- If moving with pets, research local regulations and book pet-friendly lodging in advance.
Important Forms & Links
Access the Defense Personal Property System to manage your move.
Check current rates and entitlements for your PCS move.
Get guidance, checklists, and support for your move.
Find base-specific arrival info, housing, and local resources.
Schools & Childcare
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Military families stationed at MCAS Miramar rely on the strong network of local public schools in the San Diego area, as there are no DoDEA schools on base. School-aged children typically attend schools in nearby districts, which offer a range of academic and extracurricular programs. The School Liaison Officer (SLO) is a key resource for families, helping them navigate enrollment, district boundaries, and special education services. Families can contact the SLO through the MCAS Miramar website or the installation’s Family Services office for personalized guidance.
Childcare Options
Child Development Center (CDC) – MCAS Miramar
The CDC offers full-day, part-day, and hourly care for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. The program is NAEYC-accredited and focuses on early childhood development in a secure, nurturing environment.
Family Child Care (FCC) Program – MCAS Miramar
FCC offers in-home care by certified providers on base, serving infants, preschoolers, and school-age children. Flexible schedules and small group settings support individual needs. Providers meet DoD standards and are regularly inspected.
Youth & Teen Center – MCAS Miramar
The Youth & Teen Center provides after-school care, homework help, sports, and enrichment clubs for school-age children and teens. The program is Boys & Girls Club-affiliated and offers summer camps and leadership activities.
Local Schools
San Diego Unified School District
San Diego Unified is California’s second largest district, known for diverse programs and strong academics. Many schools score above state averages on GreatSchools.org. The district offers magnet, STEM, and arts programs, and is praised for its support of military-connected students.
Scripps Ranch High School
Scripps Ranch High consistently ranks among top San Diego high schools, with high graduation rates and strong AP offerings. GreatSchools.org rates it 9/10, noting its robust academic and extracurricular choices.
Dingeman Elementary School
Dingeman Elementary, located near Miramar, is well-regarded for its active parent community and focus on academic achievement. It receives high marks (8/10 on GreatSchools.org) for student progress and test scores.