NAS North Island
NAS North Island PCS Guide
Military Base History
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Naval Air Station North Island (NAS North Island) was established in 1917 as a training and operations base for naval aviation. Its location on the northern tip of Coronado Island, next to San Diego Bay, offered ideal conditions for seaplane and aircraft operations.
Early construction at NAS North Island focused on basic hangars, runways, and support buildings. These facilities supported the Navy’s growing interest in aviation during World War I.
The base expanded significantly during World War II, becoming a hub for aircraft carrier operations, pilot training, and aircraft maintenance. At its peak, NAS North Island supported thousands of personnel and played a pivotal role in the Pacific Theater.
NAS North Island launched and repaired aircraft critical to the war effort. The base also hosted several historic squadrons, including the first aircraft carrier-based squadrons in U.S. Navy history.
During the Cold War, NAS North Island adapted to new technologies and missions. The base supported anti-submarine warfare, helicopter operations, and advanced carrier aviation.
Major commands such as the Commander, Naval Air Forces made NAS North Island their home. The base hosted a variety of squadrons, including those flying the F/A-18 Hornet and MH-60 Seahawk.
Today, NAS North Island remains a cornerstone of naval aviation. The base supports fleet readiness, aircraft maintenance, and the deployment of carrier strike groups.
NAS North Island is a major employer in the San Diego region and continues to evolve with modern naval missions. Notably, the installation has retained its original name, with no significant official name changes since its establishment.
Major Units & Training Programs
NAS NORTH ISLAND, Calif. (Feb. 15, 2023) – Lt. Reagan G. Stromback, native of Chandler, Arizona, takes a group of eight Navy ensigns on a tour of her 'office', the Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron SEVEN ONE (HSM 71) “Raptors”. As the squadron Public Affairs Officer, Stromback answered...
Major Units
Commander, Naval Air Forces (COMNAVAIRFOR)
Serves as the type commander for all U.S. Navy naval aviation units, responsible for manning, training, and equipping deployable carrier air wings and aviation squadrons worldwide.
Carrier Air Wing 9 (CVW-9)
A deployable carrier air wing composed of multiple fixed-wing and rotary-wing squadrons, supporting carrier strike group operations and naval aviation power projection.
Fleet Readiness Center Southwest (FRCSW)
Provides maintenance, repair, and overhaul services for Navy and Marine Corps aircraft, components, and support equipment, ensuring operational readiness of aviation assets.
Training Schools
Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training Unit (CNATTU) North Island
Overview
Provides technical training for aviation maintenance personnel, focusing on aircraft systems, avionics, and support equipment specific to naval aviation platforms.
Course Length
Varies by course (typically 2-12 weeks)
Who Attends
Enlisted aviation maintenance personnel and technicians
Arrival & In-Processing
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Welcome to NAS North Island! Arriving at a new base can be exciting and stressful, but being prepared with the right documents and information will make your check-in process much smoother. Review the steps below to ensure a seamless arrival. For more details, visit the official NAS North Island website.
The main entrance to NAS North Island is the Main Gate, located at the north end of Coronado. The Main Gate operates 24/7 for authorized personnel. All personnel must present a valid Military ID, CAC, or DoD-issued credential for entry. State driver's licenses must comply with the REAL ID Act—non-compliant IDs will not be accepted for unescorted access. Expect 100% ID checks and random vehicle inspections as part of the base's robust security posture. Family members and visitors must obtain a pass at the Visitor Control Center before entering the base. Sponsors must be present or submit pre-approval for guests. Arrive early to allow time for security procedures, especially during peak hours.
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PCS Orders (multiple copies)
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Military ID/CAC
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Dependent 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
NAS North Island offers a robust sponsor program to help new arrivals transition smoothly. Contact your gaining unit or command sponsor coordinator to request a sponsor. Many units also have online request forms or points of contact listed on the official base sponsorship page.
Formal in-processing is held at the Welcome Center, Building 678, located near the Main Gate. The center is open Monday through Friday, 0730 to 1600. Key steps include check-in at Personnel Support Detachment (PSD), Finance, Housing, Medical, and your gaining unit. Plan for the process to take 2–3 business days, depending on your specific requirements and arrival time.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the Main Gate to NAS North Island. The VCC operates Monday through Friday, 0600 to 1800, and Saturdays 0800 to 1200. Services include issuing visitor passes, DBIDS registration, and processing guest sponsorships. All visitors must check in here before accessing the installation.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
A moving truck is unloaded as a family moves into their new home. The "Making the Right Move" workshop assists service members and their families by informing them of what to expect at their next duty station and how to prepare for their travels.
When you receive PCS orders to NAS North Island, start by reviewing your orders and contacting the base Transportation Office. Use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) at move.mil to schedule your move and track your shipment. You can choose between a Household Goods (HHG) shipment, where movers pack and ship your items, or a Personally Procured Move (PPM), also known as a DITY move, where you handle the move yourself and may receive reimbursement. Both options require early coordination for smooth processing. Service members are entitled to Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) for up to 10 days to offset the cost of temporary housing while you secure permanent accommodations. You may also qualify for Dislocation Allowance (DLA) to help with relocation costs. Check your entitlements and submit claims promptly to avoid delays. NAS North Island’s proximity to San Diego means lodging fills quickly, so book early. The base offers newcomer briefings and support services to help with your transition. For detailed checklists and updates, visit official Navy and DoD relocation sites.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor as soon as you receive orders.
- Book temporary lodging early—San Diego hotels fill fast.
- Keep copies of orders and key documents with you, not in your shipment.
- Understand your weight allowance to avoid extra charges.
- Take photos of your belongings before the movers arrive.
- Label boxes clearly with your name and new address.
- Plan for pet boarding or transport well in advance.
Important Forms & Links
Access the Defense Personal Property System to manage your move.
Official site for PCS entitlements, rates, and allowances.
Guides, checklists, and support for every step of your PCS.
Estimate your Dislocation Allowance for your move.
Base-specific arrival and newcomer resources.
Schools & Childcare
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Military families stationed at NAS North Island do not have on-base schools, so children typically attend public schools in nearby districts, including Coronado Unified and San Diego Unified. School zoning depends on your address, so it's important to check boundaries before enrolling. The installation's School Liaison Officer (SLO) is your main contact for help navigating enrollment, transfers, and special education resources. The SLO connects families with local schools and supports military students during transitions. You can reach the SLO through the Fleet & Family Support Center or the base website.
Childcare Options
Child Development Center (CDC) – NAS North Island
The CDC provides full-day, part-day, and hourly care for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. The program is NAEYC-accredited and prioritizes military families.
School Age Care (SAC) Program – NAS North Island
SAC offers before- and after-school care, homework help, and summer camps for school-age children. It is accredited by the Council on Accreditation.
Family Child Care (FCC) Program
FCC connects families with certified providers offering care in their homes. Options include full-time, part-time, and evening care. All providers meet Navy training and safety standards.
Local Schools
Coronado Unified School District
Coronado Unified is well-regarded for its strong academics, small class sizes, and supportive programs for military families. The district consistently earns high marks in state assessments and offers robust arts and athletics.
Silver Strand Elementary School
Located near Silver Strand housing, Silver Strand Elementary serves many military children and is praised for its welcoming staff and community. GreatSchools.org rates it above average for test scores and equity.
San Diego Unified School District
San Diego Unified is one of California's largest districts and offers diverse magnet, STEM, and International Baccalaureate programs. It receives solid ratings for academic performance and supports military-connected students through specialized counselors.
Space-A Travel & Passenger Terminal
Terminal Contact Information
Terminal Location
NAS North Island (NASNI) Coronado, CA Passenger Terminal.
Please verify the exact building number, operating hours, and directions upon arrival or by contacting the terminal directly using the information provided.
Space-A Eligibility & Signup
For detailed Space-Available (Space-A) travel eligibility requirements and the most current sign-up procedures for flights from NAS North Island (NASNI) Coronado, CA, 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.