Mountain Home AFB
Mountain Home AFB PCS Guide
Military Base History
Image Unavailable
Mountain Home Air Force Base opened in 1943 as a training center for bomber crews during World War II. The base’s original mission focused on preparing B-24 Liberator and later B-29 Superfortress crews for combat, supporting the U.S. Army Air Forces’ strategic bombing campaigns.
Its remote Idaho location offered ample space for training and live-fire exercises, making it ideal for heavy bomber operations. This setting allowed crews to practice safely and efficiently, away from populated areas.
During the Cold War, Mountain Home AFB shifted to support Strategic Air Command operations, hosting B-47 Stratojets and KC-97 Stratofreighters. The base expanded significantly in the 1950s and 1960s, adding new runways, hangars, and support facilities.
In 1966, the base transitioned to Tactical Air Command, marking a shift from strategic bombing to tactical fighter operations. This change reflected evolving military priorities and the need for versatile airpower.
Over the decades, Mountain Home AFB has housed several key units, including the 366th Fighter Wing, known as the “Gunfighters.” The base played a critical role in training and deploying fighter squadrons for operations in Vietnam, the Gulf War, and more recent Middle East conflicts.
Its units have participated in numerous joint and coalition exercises, which enhance interoperability with allied air forces. These collaborations strengthen partnerships and improve mission readiness.
Today, Mountain Home AFB serves as a premier training and operational hub for F-15E Strike Eagle squadrons. The base supports both U.S. and allied aircrews, including a unique partnership with the Republic of Singapore Air Force.
Mountain Home AFB remains a vital part of the local community and the Air Force’s global mission. The installation has retained its original name since establishment, with no significant official name changes.
Major Units & Training Programs
A U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle assigned to the 366th Fighter Wing, Mountain Home Air Force Base (AFB), Idaho, takes off for a Bamboo Eagle 25-1 mission, at Nellis AFB, Nevada, Feb. 12, 2025. Bamboo Eagle’s flight training enhances aircrew readiness and lethality, ensuring they can project...
Major Units
366th Fighter Wing
The 366th Fighter Wing, known as the 'Gunfighters,' is the host unit at Mountain Home AFB. It provides combat-ready air power and support, operating advanced fighter aircraft like the F-15E Strike Eagle to execute precision strike and air superiority missions worldwide.
428th Fighter Squadron (Republic of Singapore Air Force)
The 428th Fighter Squadron is a unique tenant unit comprised of Republic of Singapore Air Force personnel and aircraft. It conducts joint training with the U.S. Air Force, focusing on advanced fighter tactics and interoperability.
Training Schools
Gunfighter Flag Exercise
Overview
Gunfighter Flag is a recurring large-scale training exercise hosted by the 366th Fighter Wing, designed to enhance combat readiness through realistic air combat scenarios and joint force integration.
Course Length
1-2 weeks (per exercise iteration)
Who Attends
Fighter pilots, aircrew, and support personnel from the 366th Fighter Wing and visiting units
Arrival & In-Processing
The group of eleven Airmen from Mountain Home Air Force Base, and their assisting wingmen stand in front of the Bruneau Dunes State Park, Idaho, March 13, 2020 after completing the 26.2 mile ruck march. The Airmen began the ruck at front gate of the base and arrived at the Bruneau Dunes ten...
Welcome to Mountain Home AFB! Arriving at a new installation is a major step, and being prepared will help you and your family settle in quickly. Review the steps below to ensure a smooth transition and efficient check-in. For additional resources, visit the official Mountain Home AFB website.
The main entrance to Mountain Home AFB is the Grand View Gate, located off Highway 51. This gate operates 24/7 and is the primary access point for all incoming personnel and visitors. To enter, all drivers and passengers must present a valid Military ID, CAC, or dependent ID. State driver's licenses must comply with the REAL ID Act; non-compliant IDs will not be accepted for unescorted access. Be prepared for 100% ID checks and random vehicle inspections as part of the base's robust security measures. If you have family members or guests arriving with you, they must be sponsored and obtain a visitor pass at the Visitor Control Center before entry. Plan ahead to avoid delays during peak hours.
-
PCS Orders (multiple copies)
-
Military ID/CAC
-
Dependent/Spouse ID Cards
-
Marriage Certificate (if applicable)
-
Birth Certificates (for dependents)
-
Social Security Cards
-
Vehicle Registration & Insurance
-
Medical/Dental Records
Mountain Home AFB offers a robust sponsor program to help incoming personnel and families transition smoothly. To request a sponsor, contact your gaining unit or the Military Personnel Flight (MPF) as soon as you receive orders. Your sponsor will provide essential information, answer questions, and assist with your arrival process.
Formal in-processing is conducted at the Welcome Center, Building 512, conveniently located near the main gate. Operating hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Key steps include check-in with Personnel, Finance, Housing, and Medical offices. Plan to complete initial in-processing within 2-3 business days, though some steps may require follow-up appointments. Arriving early in the day will help you maximize your time and avoid delays.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the Grand View Gate, making it the first stop for guests and new arrivals without base credentials. The VCC is open Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and closed on weekends and federal holidays. Services include issuing visitor passes, DBIDS registration, and processing guest sponsorship requests. All visitors must be sponsored by an authorized base member.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
James Thomason, civilian contractor, unloads boxes of home goods at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, Aug. 29, 2018. The Traffic Management Office facilitates government moves and is used by those who are moving to a different base, separating or retiring. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Kylee Thomas)
Start your PCS to Mountain Home AFB by reviewing your official orders and contacting the Base Transportation Office as soon as possible. This office will help you schedule your Household Goods (HHG) shipment or guide you through a Personally Procured Move (PPM), often called a DITY move. Use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) to manage your move, track shipments, and upload required documents.
You may be eligible for key entitlements such as Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) and Dislocation Allowance (DLA). TLE helps cover short-term lodging while you wait for housing. DLA assists with extra costs from relocating your household. Review your allowances and keep receipts for reimbursement.
Mountain Home AFB's rural setting means housing and services may differ from larger bases. Plan ahead for travel distances and local resources. Check the base newcomer's guide for area specifics and contact your sponsor for local insight.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor early for local insight and support.
- Contact TMO as soon as you receive orders to book your move dates.
- Keep all PCS documents, orders, and receipts in a secure folder.
- Understand your weight allowance to avoid excess charges.
- Label boxes with room and contents for easier unpacking.
- Plan ahead for rural travel—nearest major city is Boise, 50 miles away.
- Check pet policies and schedule vet visits before moving.
Important Forms & Links
Access the Defense Personal Property System to manage your move.
Check current rates for TLE, DLA, and other allowances.
Guidance and checklists for every step of your PCS.
Estimate your Dislocation Allowance based on rank and dependency status.
Base-specific arrival and community information.
Schools & Childcare
Image Unavailable
Military families stationed at Mountain Home AFB rely on local public schools, as there are no DoDEA schools on base. Most children attend schools in the Mountain Home School District, which serves the nearby city and surrounding communities. The School Liaison Officer (SLO) is a key resource for families, helping with school transitions, enrollment, and special education needs. Families can contact the SLO through the Airman & Family Readiness Center for personalized support and local education guidance.
Childcare Options
Child Development Center (CDC)
The CDC offers full-day, part-day, and hourly care for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. The program is NAEYC-accredited and supports early learning and school readiness.
School Age Care (SAC) Program
The SAC Program provides before- and after-school care, homework help, and summer camps for school-age children. Accredited by the Council on Accreditation (COA), it offers a safe and engaging environment.
Family Child Care (FCC) Program
FCC providers offer home-based care with flexible hours, including evenings and weekends. This option is ideal for families needing non-traditional care schedules, and all providers are certified and inspected regularly.
Local Schools
Mountain Home School District #193
Mountain Home School District is the primary district for families living on or near base. The district offers a range of academic and extracurricular programs and is known for its supportive staff. State report cards show average to above-average performance in core subjects.
Mountain Home High School
Mountain Home High School serves grades 9-12 and is recognized for its strong athletics and career-technical opportunities. GreatSchools.org gives it average ratings, with higher marks for college readiness and student engagement.
Hacker Middle School
Hacker Middle School serves grades 5-6 and is noted for its safe environment and caring teachers. The school offers STEM and enrichment activities, with state ratings showing steady academic progress.
Space-A Travel & Passenger Terminal
Terminal Contact Information
Terminal Location
Mountain Home AFB, ID 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.
Family Room
Dedicated space for families with children, including toys and TV.
Snack Bar
Light snacks and beverages available for purchase.
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 Mountain Home AFB, ID, 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
Flights fill up quickly; arrive early during PCS and holiday seasons.
Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington
Weather can be rainy; pack accordingly and check for last-minute schedule changes.
JB Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii
Seats are in high demand during school breaks; flexibility is key.