NAS Pensacola
NAS Pensacola PCS Guide
Military Base History
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Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola opened in 1914 as the first naval air station in the United States. Its founders chose the site for its excellent flying weather and close access to the Gulf of Mexico.
The base quickly became the heart of naval aviation training, earning the nickname "The Cradle of Naval Aviation." Early missions focused on preparing naval aviators for service.
During World War II, NAS Pensacola expanded rapidly to meet the urgent need for aviators. The base added new runways, hangars, and training facilities to support its growing mission.
Thousands of pilots and support personnel trained at NAS Pensacola during the war. The base continued to grow during the Cold War, adapting to new technologies such as jet aircraft and evolving training requirements.
Over the decades, NAS Pensacola has hosted several key units, including the Naval Air Technical Training Center. The Blue Angels, the Navy’s flight demonstration squadron, also call the base home.
The base supports advanced technical training for both enlisted personnel and officers. Training covers multiple aviation specialties, ensuring a skilled workforce for naval operations.
Today, NAS Pensacola remains a vital hub for naval aviation training and technical education. It provides initial flight training for Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard aviators.
The base is home to the National Naval Aviation Museum, a major attraction in the region. NAS Pensacola also plays a significant role in the local economy and maintains strong community ties.
Name Changes: NAS Pensacola has kept its original name since 1914. There have been no significant official name changes.
Major Units & Training Programs
PENSACOLA, Fla. -- A C-5M Super Galaxy with the U.S. Air Force's (USAF) 312th Airlift Squadron out of Travis Air Force Base, California, lands at Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola April 18. The Super Galaxy will transport an Operation Desert Storm combat F/A-18 Hornet to the USS Hornet Museum in...
Major Units
Naval Air Training Command (NATRACOM)
Oversees and coordinates the training of student naval aviators and flight officers, ensuring they receive the instruction necessary to operate naval aircraft safely and effectively.
Naval Aviation Schools Command (NASC)
Responsible for the indoctrination and foundational training of all prospective naval aviators, flight officers, and aircrew, focusing on academic, physical, and leadership development.
Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training (CNATT)
Provides advanced technical training for enlisted personnel and officers in aviation maintenance, electronics, and related specialties supporting naval aviation operations.
Training Schools
Naval Aircrew Candidate School (NACCS)
Overview
Prepares prospective naval aircrew for operational service through rigorous physical conditioning, water survival, and aviation fundamentals.
Course Length
4 weeks
Who Attends
Enlisted and officer candidates selected for naval aircrew positions
Aviation Preflight Indoctrination (API)
Overview
Delivers academic and practical instruction in aerodynamics, aviation physiology, navigation, and water survival as the first phase of flight training for aviators and flight officers.
Course Length
6 weeks
Who Attends
Student naval aviators and naval flight officers
Aviation Maintenance Technician Schools (CNATTU Pensacola)
Overview
Provides technical training in aviation maintenance, avionics, and related fields to support the operational readiness of naval aircraft.
Course Length
Varies (typically 5-24 weeks depending on specialty)
Who Attends
Enlisted sailors and Marines in aviation technical ratings
Arrival & In-Processing
Photo graphic highlighting some of the Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola Navy Security Forces (NSF) produced for Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, Jan. 9, 2025. NSF personnel at NAS Pensacola are responsible for protecting the service members, civilian employees, families and visitors who come...
Welcome to NAS Pensacola! Arriving at a new base is exciting, but preparation ensures your check-in goes smoothly. Review these steps carefully to make your transition as seamless as possible. For more details, visit the official NAS Pensacola website.
NAS Pensacola’s main access point is the Main Gate, located off Navy Boulevard. This gate operates 24/7 for authorized personnel. The West Gate typically opens weekdays for inbound morning traffic and outbound evening traffic; check the base website for current hours. All entrants must show a valid Military ID, CAC, or appropriate DoD credential. State driver’s licenses must comply with the REAL ID Act—non-compliant IDs require additional documentation. Expect 100% ID checks and random vehicle inspections at all gates. Security is strict; follow all posted instructions and directions from Security Forces. For family or visitors, you must obtain a pass at the Visitor Control Center before entry. Sponsors should accompany guests to streamline the process.
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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 arranged)
NAS Pensacola offers a robust sponsor program for incoming personnel and families. To request a sponsor, contact your gaining unit or command as soon as you receive orders. You may also reach out to the Command Sponsor Coordinator or use the online sponsor request form via the base website. A sponsor can help with orientation, housing, and local resources.
Report to the NAS Pensacola Welcome Center in Building 777, located near the main entrance. The Welcome Center is open Monday through Friday, 0730–1600. In-processing includes stops at Personnel Support Detachment, Finance, Housing, Medical, and your assigned unit. Plan for the process to take 2–3 business days, depending on your needs and office wait times. Bring all required documents to avoid delays.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the Main Gate on Navy Boulevard. The VCC operates Monday through Friday, 0600–1800, and Saturdays, 0800–1200. Services include issuing visitor passes, DBIDS registration, and processing guest sponsorship requests. All visitors must be vetted and accompanied by a sponsor for access to the installation.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
A Fort Bragg family prepares for their permanent change of station move, April 25. PCS season is in full swing and families across the installation are preparing to move to their new duty stations.
When you receive PCS orders to NAS Pensacola, start by reviewing your orders and contacting the base Transportation Office. Use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) to schedule your move, whether you choose a Household Goods (HHG) shipment or a Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY). HHG moves are handled by government-contracted movers, while PPM gives you more control and the chance to earn reimbursement if your costs are less than the government estimate.
You are entitled to Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) reimbursement for up to 10 days while you secure permanent housing, and Dislocation Allowance (DLA) to offset moving costs. Make sure you keep all receipts and documents for lodging and travel. DPS is your main portal for tracking shipments, uploading documents, and communicating with movers.
NAS Pensacola has high demand for housing, especially during summer. Contact the Housing Office early. Review base-specific check-in procedures and ensure your sponsor is in touch to help with local guidance.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor as soon as you receive orders.
- Contact the Housing Office early—on-base housing waitlists can be long.
- Keep all important documents, orders, and receipts with you during travel.
- Label boxes by room and contents for easier unpacking.
- Take photos or videos of your belongings before pack-out.
- Plan for pet transport and quarantine requirements in advance.
- Avoid scheduling your move during peak summer PCS season if possible.
Important Forms & Links
Access the Defense Personal Property System to manage your move.
Check per diem rates, DLA, and other travel entitlements.
Find checklists, planning tools, and expert support for your PCS.
Get information on base housing and local rental options.
Schools & Childcare
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Families stationed at NAS Pensacola rely on the strong public schools in Escambia County, as there are no DoDEA schools located on base. Most students living on or near the installation attend nearby off-base schools, with options ranging from neighborhood elementary schools to well-rated high schools. The School Liaison Officer (SLO) is your go-to contact for school registration, local district policies, and navigating special education needs. Reach out to the SLO for personalized guidance and help connecting with local resources.
Childcare Options
NAS Pensacola Child Development Center (CDC)
The CDC offers full-day, part-day, and hourly care for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. The center is NAEYC-accredited and prioritizes military families.
NAS Pensacola Youth Center
The Youth Center provides before- and after-school care, summer camps, and enrichment activities. Programs are designed for school-age children and focus on homework help, sports, and social development.
Family Child Care (FCC) Program
FCC offers in-home care by certified providers living on or near base. This flexible option includes full-time, part-time, and hourly care for a range of ages. Providers meet Navy standards for safety and quality.
Local Schools
Escambia County School District
Escambia County School District serves most military families near NAS Pensacola. The district offers a wide range of academic and extracurricular programs, including strong STEM and arts offerings. Some schools, like Blue Angels Elementary and Pensacola High, have above-average ratings on GreatSchools.org.
Blue Angels Elementary School
This elementary school is popular with military families for its supportive staff and active parent community. GreatSchools.org rates it above average for student progress and test scores.
Pensacola High School
Pensacola High is well known for its International Baccalaureate (IB) program and advanced coursework. The school draws students from across the region and has a strong academic reputation, especially in college prep.