Tyndall AFB
Tyndall AFB PCS Guide
Base History & Name
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Tyndall Air Force Base opened in 1941 near Panama City, Florida, to help the U.S. Army Air Forces expand during World War II. Its first mission centered on flexible gunnery training for aircrews, a skill vital for bomber defense.
The base quickly grew into a major training center, graduating thousands of airmen who served in both the European and Pacific theaters. Graduates from Tyndall played key roles in Allied air operations.
During the Cold War, Tyndall shifted focus to air defense missions, hosting units such as the Air Defense Command and later the Air Combat Command. The base featured advanced interceptor aircraft and radar systems, highlighting its strategic value in continental defense.
Tyndall expanded its facilities over the decades to support new technologies and missions. Facility upgrades allowed the base to adapt to changing defense needs.
Key units at Tyndall have included the 325th Fighter Wing, which has trained many F-15 and F-22 pilots. The base also supported NORAD operations and once hosted the First Air Force headquarters.
Tyndall played a vital role in training and readiness during the Vietnam War and after 9/11. Its contributions have shaped U.S. air power across multiple eras.
Today, Tyndall AFB serves as a hub for advanced fighter training, including the F-22 Raptor and, soon, the F-35 Lightning II. The base is undergoing major reconstruction after Hurricane Michael caused severe damage in 2018.
Tyndall continues to support national defense and acts as a major economic driver for the Florida Panhandle. The installation has kept its original name since 1941, honoring a World War I aviator.
Namesake
After the war, Tyndall continued his career as a test pilot and instructor, contributing to the development of military aviation tactics and technology. He died in a plane crash in 1930 while testing an aircraft in Missouri. The base honors his legacy as a leader and innovator in American military aviation.
Major Units & Training Programs
U.S. Airmen assigned to the 11th Air Task Force disconnect an aircraft arresting system from an F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, Jan. 27, 2025. The Airmen responded to an emergency aircraft landing following a simulated severe weather event. (U.S. Air Force photo...
Major Units
325th Fighter Wing
The 325th Fighter Wing is the host unit at Tyndall AFB, responsible for training and projecting combat-ready F-22 Raptor pilots and support personnel. The wing ensures air dominance capability for the Air Force.
1st Air Force (Air Forces Northern)
1st Air Force is responsible for the air defense of the continental United States, providing command and control for air sovereignty and homeland defense missions. It also oversees Air National Guard air defense units nationwide.
53rd Weapons Evaluation Group
The 53rd Weapons Evaluation Group conducts air-to-air and air-to-ground weapons system evaluations, ensuring the effectiveness and readiness of Air Force combat capabilities. The group manages live-fire exercises and tests munitions and aircraft systems.
Training Schools
F-22 Raptor Formal Training Unit (FTU)
Overview
Provides initial and advanced flight training for pilots transitioning to the F-22 Raptor, focusing on air combat tactics, weapons employment, and aircraft systems.
Course Length
Approximately 8 months
Who Attends
Fighter pilots selected for the F-22 platform
Arrival & In-Processing
Construction on the new Airey Gate at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, is nearly 80 percent complete. The entrance is one of three new entry control points under construction at the base designed to meet Florida’s strictest construction standards. The gates will be elevated to avoid storm...
Welcome to Tyndall AFB! Arriving at a new base is an exciting step, and being prepared will help you and your family settle in quickly. Review these steps to ensure a smooth check-in and access process. For more details and updates, visit the official Tyndall AFB website.
Tyndall AFB’s main entrance is the Sabre Gate, which is open 24/7 for all inbound and outbound traffic. The Louisiana Gate is open weekdays during peak hours for additional access. All drivers and passengers must show a valid Military ID, CAC, or dependent ID at the gate. Civilian visitors must present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or passport. Security forces conduct 100% ID checks and may perform random vehicle inspections. Expect a secure, alert posture at all times. To sponsor visitors or family members, stop at the Visitor Control Center (VCC) outside the main gate and bring valid identification for all guests.
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PCS Orders (multiple copies)
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Military ID/CAC
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Dependent/Family Member 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/Dental Records
Tyndall AFB offers a robust sponsor program for incoming personnel. To request a sponsor, contact your gaining unit or the Military Personnel Flight (MPF) as soon as you receive orders. Your sponsor will assist with arrival logistics, in-processing, and local information.
Report to the Welcome Center (Building 662), located near the main gate, for in-processing. The Welcome Center operates Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. You will check in with Personnel, Finance, Housing, and Medical offices. Plan to complete in-processing in 2–3 days, depending on your schedule and required briefings. Your sponsor or unit representative can help guide you through each step.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is just outside the Sabre Gate (main entrance). The VCC is open Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and Saturday, 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Services include issuing visitor passes, DBIDS registration, and assisting with guest sponsorship. All visitors must be vetted and present valid identification.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Clifford Roberts, 325th Contracting Squadron contracting officer, and his family, pose for a photo at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, July 21, 2022. Roberts and his family recently moved into base housing after a permanent change of station to Tyndall. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Anabel Del Valle)
Begin your PCS to Tyndall AFB by reviewing your official orders and contacting the base Transportation Office. Early coordination helps you choose the best move type—either a Household Goods (HHG) shipment managed by the government or a Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY), where you handle the move and may be reimbursed. Use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) at move.mil to schedule and track your shipment. This system is required for most moves and lets you manage documents and communicate with your moving company.
You are eligible for key entitlements. Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) helps cover short-term lodging costs at your new duty station. Dislocation Allowance (DLA) offsets PCS-related expenses not otherwise reimbursed. Make sure to keep receipts and submit claims promptly. Tyndall AFB’s proximity to Panama City means local hotels can fill quickly, so book lodging as soon as you have dates. For local rules and updates, check the Tyndall AFB newcomer’s guide and base website.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor through your gaining unit as soon as you receive orders.
- Book temporary lodging early—Panama City is a popular tourist area.
- Keep personal documents and important records with you during travel.
- Inventory and photograph high-value items before packing.
- Double-check your weight allowance to avoid excess costs.
- Contact the Transportation Office if your move-in date changes.
- Review hurricane season preparedness if arriving between June and November.
Important Forms & Links
Schedule and manage your PCS move online.
Check current travel and lodging rates for your PCS.
Guides, checklists, and support for every step of your move.
Estimate your DLA entitlement before your move.
Base-specific arrival info, contacts, and local resources.
Schools & Childcare
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Families stationed at Tyndall AFB will find that there are no DoDEA schools on base. Instead, children attend schools in the surrounding Bay District Schools system, which offers a range of public education options. The School Liaison Officer (SLO) is your go-to resource for navigating enrollment, understanding local school choices, and connecting with special programs. Reach out to the SLO early to get personalized support tailored to your family's needs.
Childcare Options
Tyndall AFB Child Development Center (CDC)
The CDC provides full-day, part-day, and hourly care for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. The center is NAEYC accredited and offers age-appropriate learning.
Tyndall AFB School Age Program (SAP)
SAP offers before and after school care, homework help, and summer camps for school-age children. The program is accredited by the Council on Accreditation.
Family Child Care (FCC) Program
FCC providers offer flexible, in-home care options with small group sizes. The program is inspected and certified by the Air Force, ensuring quality and safety.
Local Schools
Bay District Schools
Bay District Schools serves Tyndall AFB and is known for diverse academic offerings, including STEM and arts programs. Many schools in the district receive solid ratings for student achievement and safety (GreatSchools ratings range from 5 to 8).
Patronis Elementary School
Patronis Elementary is a highly-rated school in Panama City Beach, praised for strong academics, dedicated staff, and high parent satisfaction. GreatSchools.org rates it 8/10.
J.R. Arnold High School
J.R. Arnold High offers robust AP and career/technical programs, with a reputation for academic excellence and active student life. It holds a 7/10 rating on GreatSchools.org.