NAS Whiting Field
NAS Whiting Field PCS Guide
Military Base History
Image Unavailable
Naval Air Station (NAS) Whiting Field was established during World War II to address the urgent need for naval aviators. The U.S. Navy chose the site near Milton, Florida, for its favorable weather and open land, making it ideal for year-round flight training.
Construction began in 1943, and the base quickly became a hub for primary and intermediate flight instruction. The location’s climate and space allowed for efficient training operations throughout the war.
Throughout the 1940s and 1950s, NAS Whiting Field expanded its facilities to meet new aircraft and training demands. The base added multiple outlying fields and modernized its runways and support infrastructure.
It played a vital role in training thousands of Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard pilots during the Cold War. The base adapted to new technologies and aircraft types, ensuring its continued relevance.
Over the decades, the base has hosted several key units, including Training Air Wing FIVE. This unit remains one of the largest aviation training wings in the world.
Whiting Field’s mission has evolved to include advanced helicopter and fixed-wing training, supporting both U.S. and allied forces. The base continues to adapt to changing military needs.
Today, NAS Whiting Field is a cornerstone of naval aviation training. It produces a significant portion of the Navy’s pilots and aircrew, contributing to national defense and the local economy.
The base has retained its original name since its establishment, honoring its legacy and ongoing mission in naval aviation.
Major Units & Training Programs
Vice Adm. John Gumbleton, commander, Task Force 80 and deputy commander, U.S. Fleet Forces, completes a pre-flight brief in preparation for a TH-73A Thrasher familiarization flight with Lt. Cmdr. Ryan Ross, Helicopter Instructor Training Unit (HITU) Instructor Pilot onboard Naval Air Station...
Major Units
Training Air Wing FIVE (TW-5)
Training Air Wing FIVE is responsible for the primary and advanced flight training of Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and allied student aviators, primarily in rotary-wing and fixed-wing aircraft. It is one of the Navy's most active flight training wings.
Naval Air Station Whiting Field Command
The NAS Whiting Field Command provides operational support, infrastructure, and services for tenant commands, flight operations, and training activities, ensuring the safe and efficient execution of aviation training missions.
Training Schools
Naval Introductory Flight Evaluation (NIFE)
Overview
NIFE provides initial flight screening and academic instruction for prospective Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard aviators, ensuring students are prepared for subsequent flight training phases.
Course Length
6 weeks
Who Attends
Prospective naval aviators and flight officers
Primary Flight Training (VT-2, VT-3, VT-6)
Overview
Primary Flight Training introduces student aviators to basic flight maneuvers, navigation, and instrument flying using the T-6B Texan II aircraft. Successful completion qualifies students for advanced flight training tracks.
Course Length
22 weeks
Who Attends
Student naval aviators from the Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and select allied nations
Arrival & In-Processing
Image Unavailable
Welcome to NAS Whiting Field! Arriving at a new base is an exciting step, and being well-prepared will help ensure a smooth transition for you and your family. Review the following steps carefully to streamline your check-in and access procedures. For more details, visit the official NAS Whiting Field website.
NAS Whiting Field's main gate is the East Gate, serving as the primary access point for all personnel and visitors. The East Gate operates 24/7, ensuring round-the-clock entry for authorized individuals. All drivers and passengers must present a valid Military ID, CAC, or approved DoD credential at entry. State driver's licenses must comply with the REAL ID Act; non-compliant IDs require secondary documentation. Expect 100% ID checks and random vehicle inspections as part of the base's robust security posture. To obtain a visitor or family member pass, report to the Visitor Control Center (VCC) just outside the main gate. Sponsors must accompany guests and provide proper identification and justification for base access.
-
PCS Orders (multiple copies)
-
Military ID/CAC
-
Marriage Certificate (if applicable)
-
Birth Certificates (for dependents)
-
Social Security Cards
-
Vehicle Registration & Insurance
-
Medical/Dental Records
-
Proof of Housing (if arranged)
NAS Whiting Field offers a robust sponsor program to help new arrivals settle in. Request a sponsor by contacting your gaining unit or command directly. You may also reach out to the base's Fleet and Family Support Center for assistance with sponsor assignment.
Report to the Welcome Center, located in Building 1401 near the main gate, to begin your in-processing. The Welcome Center is open Monday through Friday, 0730 to 1600. Key steps include Personnel check-in, Finance, Housing, Medical and Dental registration, and unit-specific briefings. Most new arrivals complete in-processing within 2–3 business days, depending on individual requirements and appointment availability.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is situated just outside the East Gate. The VCC operates Monday through Friday, 0600 to 1800, and Saturdays from 0800 to 1200. Services include issuing visitor passes, DBIDS registration, and processing guest sponsorship requests. Ensure your sponsor is present and all required documents are available when requesting access for visitors.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
During the summer surge of Permanent-Change-of-Station moves for Army families, installations like Fort McCoy, Wisconsin, offer PCS Open House events where Soldiers and families can obtain information on programs and services. Army leadership is committed to improving Quality of Life for Soldiers in the areas of Housing, PCS Moves, Child and Youth Programs, and Spouse Employment. (U.S. Army Photo)
Use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) to manage your move online. DPS lets you schedule shipments, track status, and file claims if needed. You may be eligible for Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) for up to 10 days in temporary accommodations and a Dislocation Allowance (DLA) to help with extra costs. Make sure to keep copies of all receipts and orders for reimbursement. NAS Whiting Field’s location in Milton, Florida, makes it important to plan for local housing and transportation options early, especially during peak PCS season.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor early for local insights and support.
- Keep all important documents and orders with you, not in packed boxes.
- Understand your weight allowance to avoid extra fees.
- Take photos or videos of your items before pack-out for insurance claims.
- Label boxes clearly with room and contents for easier unpacking.
- Plan pet transportation and lodging in advance, as local kennels fill quickly.
- Avoid peak PCS season (May–August) if you want more flexible move dates.
Important Forms & Links
Access the Defense Personal Property System to manage your move.
Check current rates for TLE, DLA, and other travel allowances.
Guides and checklists for every PCS step.
Estimate your Dislocation Allowance.
Schools & Childcare
Image Unavailable