Richmond (RAAF Base)

RAAF Base Richmond is not merely a transport hub, but the true heart of Australia's air force history, situated at the foothills of the picturesque Blue Mountains. Unlike bustling passenger terminals, a strict atmosphere of discipline reigns here, broken only by the powerful roar of C-130 Hercules transport aircraft engines soaring into the sky above the Hawkesbury Valley. For the ordinary tourist, this airfield is closed as an arrival point, yet it serves as a magnet for aviation enthusiasts who come here for unique photographs and grand airshows. Richmond is the oldest base in New South Wales, standing as a symbol of the reliability and power of Australian aviation.

Features and Highlights:

• Historical Significance: This is the first Air Force base established in the state of New South Wales (operating since 1925) and the second oldest in Australia, making it an important monument of military history.
• Spotter's Paradise: Adjacent to the base is Ham Common park, considered one of the best spots in the country for observing the takeoff and landing of massive military transports and other aircraft.
• Airshows: The airfield regularly becomes a venue for spectacular aviation displays, attracting thousands of spectators with the opportunity to see rare aircraft up close.
• Scenic Location: The airfield is located in the beautiful Hawkesbury region, ideal for a day trip from Sydney that combines plane spotting with relaxation in nature.

• Official Website: www.airforce.gov.au (RAAF Base Richmond section)
• Inquiry Service Phone: +61 1300 333 362 (General Hotline of the Australian Department of Defence)
• Airport Address: Percival Street, Richmond NSW 2755, Australia
• Email: There is no direct public email; it is recommended to use the "Contact Us" web form on the website for inquiries
• Social Media: Official pages of the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) on Facebook, Instagram, and X (Twitter)
• Lost Luggage Information: Service not provided, as the base does not handle commercial passenger flights
• Passenger Support Contacts: Civilian support is unavailable; access to the territory is possible only for military personnel and authorised persons

Since RAAF Base Richmond is an active military facility and does not serve commercial passenger flights, those seeking to get here are primarily aviation enthusiasts, spotters, airshow attendees, or base personnel. The facility is located within the town of Richmond (New South Wales), approximately 60 kilometres northwest of Sydney's Central Business District. Transport accessibility here is excellent, thanks to a developed suburban network.

Public Transport: Trains and Buses

The most popular and convenient way to reach the air base area from Sydney is by train. You need to use the Sydney Trains network:

• Route: Take the T1 Western Line or T5 Cumberland Line to the terminus station, Richmond Station.
• Travel Time: The journey from Central Station in Sydney takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. It is a scenic route passing through the western suburbs.
• On Foot: Richmond railway station is in close proximity to the base. You can walk to the popular plane-watching spot (Ham Common park) in 10–15 minutes.

Bus services connect Richmond with neighbouring areas (such as Penrith), but for a tourist travelling from the metropolis centre, the train remains the optimal choice in terms of price and comfort.

By Car and Parking

A drive from central Sydney will take about 60–80 minutes depending on traffic. The main routes run via the M2 Hills Motorway or M4 Western Motorway, connecting to the Westlink M7 and Richmond Road.

Important regarding parking: As entry to the base territory itself is closed to civilians, it is impossible to park inside. However, convenient options are provided for visitors and spotters:

• Ham Common: A free public car park is located right by the park on Hawkesbury Valley Way. This is the best place to leave your car and observe the runway.
• Street Parking: In the town of Richmond itself, not far from the station, there are also available parking spaces.

Taxi and Transfers

Taxi and ridesharing services (Uber, DiDi) are available throughout Sydney. A trip from the city centre to Richmond will cost significantly more than public transport — estimated between 150 to 200 AUD one way. This option makes sense if you are travelling in a large group or carrying heavy photography equipment.

Nearest Civil Airports

If you plan to fly into the region to visit Richmond, you will have to use one of the civil airports, as the base itself does not accept commercial flights. The main hub is Sydney Airport (Kingsford Smith), located 53 km from Richmond. From there, you can take a direct train with a transfer at Central Station.

In the future, the transport situation will change with the opening of a new air harbour — Western Sydney International Airport is being built just 32 km from the base, which will make access to this area even easier.

For travellers exploring other parts of New South Wales, alternative entry points could be Wollongong Airport (about 106 km) or Newcastle Airport (132 km), although transfers from there will take over an hour and a half. Among internal regional hubs, Orange Airport can be noted, but it is significantly further away, at a distance of 155 km.

Since RAAF Base Richmond (XRH) is an active military facility of the Royal Australian Air Force, its structure differs radically from civil airports. There is no familiar division into international and domestic terminals, Duty Free zones, or comfortable lounges for tourists. The infrastructure of the base is strictly functional and tailored for logistical and defence tasks.

Number of Terminals and Their Purpose

On the territory of the base, there is one main logistics hub which can conditionally be called a terminal — this is the Air Movements Terminal (AMT). It is a specialised facility designed for:

• Processing military cargo and equipment.
• Embarkation and disembarkation of military personnel (including paratroopers).
• Servicing VIP flights (government delegations, high command).
• Receiving family members of service personnel under special programmes (Space Available Travel), although this occurs rarely.

For the ordinary tourist or civilian traveller, this terminal is completely closed. Access inside is possible only with a military ID or a special pass.

Airport Map and Navigation

The territory of the base represents a vast complex of hangars, technical buildings, and a runway stretching along the railway line. For the external observer (spotter), "navigation" comes down to choosing the right vantage point outside the perimeter:

• Central Zone: Here the main hangars of the 36th and 37th Squadrons are located, servicing C-130J Hercules and C-27J Spartan transports.
• Runway: Oriented north to south. The main activity is observed from Ham Common park, which is located at the northern end of the runway.

Departure and Arrival Zones

Unlike civil airports with a clear separation of flows, in Richmond, the concept of departure and arrival zones has its own specifics:

• Departure Zone (for personnel): Located inside the secured perimeter. It includes briefing rooms for crews and equipment zones.
• Arrival Zone (for cargo): Huge ramps and loading areas where aircraft taxi up closely for rapid unloading.
• "Waiting Area" for tourists: In reality, these are the lawns of Ham Common park behind the base fence. There are no flight information boards, so "flight status" is determined visually or via radio scanners (where permitted).

Processing Times and Regime Features

If you are an authorised passenger on a military flight (e.g., a service member), procedures here are stricter than in civil aviation:

• Check-in: Usually begins 2–3 hours before departure. Passenger lists are approved in advance; spontaneous ticket purchase is impossible.
• Screening: Conducted by military police with particular thoroughness. Prohibited items are confiscated without the option of storage.
• Waiting: Takes place in spartan conditions, often in briefing halls rather than soft chairs with Wi-Fi.

Navigation Recommendations for Visitors

Since you cannot enter the terminal, your actions should be aimed at a comfortable stay near the facility:

• Do not try to find an entrance: Any attempts to pass through checkpoints without a pass will lead to detention and fines. The main entrance is on Percival Street — stay away from it if you do not have an invitation.
• Amenities: There are no toilets or cafes available to the public on the base. The nearest amenities are in Ham Common park (public toilet) and in the town of Richmond (cafes and shops a 10–15 minute walk away).
• Observation: The best navigation strategy is to take a seat on a bench in the park or on elevated ground near the fence, offering a view of the taxiways leading from the hangars to the runway.

The history of RAAF Base Richmond is inextricably linked with the birth and development of aviation on the Australian continent. This place began attracting pilots long before the official appearance of military hangars. As early as 1912, aviation pioneer William Ewart Hart, the first Australian to receive a pilot's licence, used the public field of Richmond (Ham Common) for his daring flights. However, the official birth date of the base is considered to be 1925, when the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) finally established itself on this territory, making it the second operating air base in the country and the first in the state of New South Wales.

One of the most iconic events in the airport's history was the arrival of the famous aircraft "Southern Cross" in 1928. Legendary aviator Sir Charles Kingsford-Smith, along with his crew, chose Richmond as the final point of their historic first trans-Pacific flight from the USA to Australia. A huge crowd gathered on the field to meet the heroes, and this event forever inscribed the name of Richmond into world aviation history.

During World War II, the base underwent significant transformation and expansion. From a small airfield, it turned into a key defensive and training centre. Fighter and bomber squadrons were based here, pilot training was conducted, and infrastructure was significantly modernised: new paved runways and fortified hangars were built, many of which serve to this day.

After the war, Richmond's role changed: it became the main hub of military transport aviation in Australia. An important milestone was the late 1950s, when the first C-130 Hercules transport aircraft arrived at the base. Since then, Richmond has been the "home" for these giants. Servicing them required massive reconstruction, including runway extension and the construction of modern technical complexes. Today, the base continues to modernise, implementing infrastructure for the latest modifications of the C-130J and other equipment.

Interesting Facts and Achievements:

• Oldest in the State: Richmond holds the title of the oldest operating Air Force base in New South Wales. Unlike many other airfields of that era, which were closed or became civilian, it has retained its military purpose.
• Rescue Centre: The airfield plays a key role in humanitarian missions. It is from here that aircraft depart to extinguish massive bushfires, which have been a scourge for the region, and to deliver aid to flood victims.
• Connection with the City: The air base holds the honorary right of "Freedom of the City" from the City of Hawkesbury, symbolising the close bond between the military and the local community. This trust is expressed in joint parades and the openness of certain base zones during airshows.
• Cinematic Location: Thanks to its colourful appearance and historical hangars, the base has repeatedly become a filming location for Australian and international films, depicting military airfields of various eras.

Since RAAF Base Richmond (XRH) is an active military facility of a closed type, the range of services here differs radically from what passengers of civil airports are accustomed to. It is important to understand: the base is not designed for commercial tourism, so there is a complete absence of entertainment and service infrastructure for travellers (Duty Free zones, food courts, spas). All existing amenities are oriented exclusively towards supporting the life of the military garrison and fulfilling service tasks.

Restaurants, Cafes, and Shops

There are no restaurants available to the general public on the base territory. Meals for service members and personnel are provided in specialised dining halls (Mess Halls) and canteens of the AAFCANS system (Army & Air Force Canteen Service). Access there is strictly by pass.

Tourists and spotters coming to watch the planes are recommended to seek food outside the perimeter. In the town of Richmond, located literally a couple of minutes' drive from the checkpoint, there are many excellent dining venues, cafes, and supermarkets (along Windsor Street) where you can have a snack or buy takeaway food.

Waiting Halls and VIP Service

There are no familiar business lounges (Priority Pass, Lounge Key) here. Existing waiting areas in the Air Movements terminal are intended for:

• Military personnel awaiting deployment.
• Government delegations and VIPs (senior officers, politicians).

These premises are furnished functionally and modestly, without excesses, and are closed to outsiders.

Connectivity and Finance (Wi-Fi, Banks)

• Wi-Fi and Internet: Public Wi-Fi networks are absent on the base territory for reasons of information security. The use of mobile phones in certain zones may also be restricted.
• Charging Stations: Special stands for charging gadgets for passengers are not provided.
• Banks and Currency Exchange: There are no currency exchange points on the base. Banking services (ATMs) are available only for employees within the secured zone. The nearest bank branches and 24-hour ATMs are located in the centre of Richmond town.

Medical Services and Assistance for Citizens with Reduced Mobility

The base operates its own Health Centre, but it services only assigned personnel. In the event of an emergency involving civilians outside the base perimeter, assistance will be provided by civilian ambulance services (phone 000).

There is no specialised infrastructure for passengers with children (playrooms, mother and child rooms) or for people with disabilities in the generally accepted tourist sense, as the facility does not envisage the presence of such categories of citizens as transit passengers.

Accommodation: Hotels Near the Airport

There are no hotels for tourists on the air base itself (barracks are for military only). However, thanks to its location within the town limits, travellers can stay in immediate proximity to the facility. This is particularly convenient for those arriving for an airshow for several days.

Popular accommodation options within a 2–5 km radius:

• Motels in Richmond: In the town centre, there are several classic motels offering comfortable accommodation and parking (e.g., Colonial Motel Richmond).
• Historic Inns: Some historic establishments in the Hawkesbury region offer rooms for overnight stays, immersing guests in the atmosphere of the Australian countryside.
• Caravan Parks: For those travelling by motorhome, campsites are available in the vicinity of the Hawkesbury River.

Conference Rooms and Business Centres

The base has halls for briefings and meetings equipped with modern technology, but they are used exclusively for military planning and training. It is impossible to rent a room for a civilian business meeting here.

It is important to note the specifics immediately: RAAF Base Richmond (XRH) is an active military facility without commercial terminals. Here you will not find the zones with restaurants, coffee chains, or food courts familiar to international airports available to the general public. Food organisation here is strictly divided into "internal" (for service members and authorised passengers) and "external" (for tourists and spotters visiting the surroundings).

Dining Inside the Base (For Military Personnel and Special Flights)

If you are a service member or an authorised passenger on a military aircraft passing through the Air Movements terminal, your options are limited to internal infrastructure:

• AAFCANS (Army & Air Force Canteen Service): This is the main source of food on the base. Here you can buy hot coffee, sandwiches, hot pies, drinks, and basic snacks. It is not a restaurant, but rather a functional canteen-buffet.
• Officers' and Sergeants' Messes: Available only for assigned personnel. Full breakfasts, lunches, and dinners are served here according to a schedule.
• Vending Machines: Located in waiting areas and hangars, offering a standard set: chocolate, crisps, fizzy drinks.

Where to Eat for Tourists and Spotters (Richmond Town)

Since civilians do not have access to the base's internal kitchen, the "food court" for airport visitors is effectively the town of Richmond itself. The main gastronomic street — Windsor Street — is just 1–1.5 km from the runway (about 15–20 minutes on foot from the station or a couple of minutes by car).

Restaurants and Dining Venues (Full Lunch)

Richmond is famous for its historic buildings and cosy cafes that preserve the atmosphere of old Australia.

• Australian Hotels and Inns: These are often the best choice for a hearty lunch. Local establishments (e.g., The Richmond Inn or Royal Hotel) offer classic meals in a casual setting.
  • What to try: Definitely order a Chicken Parmigiana — breaded chicken fillet topped with tomato sauce and melted cheese, or a steak from local beef.
  • Average bill: 25–40 AUD for a main course with a drink.
• Cafes and Bistros: Along the main street, there are many establishments offering Modern Australian cuisine, where excellent breakfasts are served all day.

Quick Bites and Takeaway

For those who do not want to stray far from the observation point in Ham Common park:

• Bakeries: Australia is known for its meat pie culture. Visit a local bakery for a hot Meat Pie (beef with gravy) or a Sausage Roll. It is filling, inexpensive (5–8 AUD), and convenient to eat on the go.
• Fast Food: Popular international chains (McDonald's, KFC, Subway) are represented in the centre of Richmond and are open late.

Dietary Requirements (Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Halal)

Despite Richmond being a town with a historical bent, the gastronomic scene here is modern. In almost any cafe on Windsor Street, you will find:

• Vegetarian and Vegan Options: Avocado Smash on toast, quinoa bowls, salads made from fresh farm products of the Hawkesbury region.
• Gluten-Free (GF): Most menus have GF markings. Many cafes offer gluten-free bread or desserts upon request.
• Halal: Specialised halal restaurants may be few, but kebab shops often use halal meat (it is recommended to verify with staff to be sure).

Opening Hours

• Coffee Shops and Bakeries: Open early, often from 06:00 or 07:00 in the morning (ideal for morning spotters), but close by 15:00–16:00.
• Dining Venues: Kitchens usually operate from 11:30 to 14:30 (lunch) and from 17:30 to 21:00 (dinner). In the interim, only light snacks or drinks may be ordered.
• Supermarkets: Large stores (Coles, Woolworths) in the centre of Richmond are open until 22:00–24:00, where you can buy ready-made food and water.

Travelling through RAAF Base Richmond (XRH) differs radically from flying through a standard civil airport. Since this is an active military facility, strict protocols apply here, and the concept of comfort gives way to functionality and discipline. If you are a service member, a family member with permission to fly (Space-A), or a member of an official delegation, the following tips will help you prepare for this unique experience.

Arrival and Check-in: Punctuality is Law

Unlike civil flights, where lateness can sometimes be compensated by a quick run to the gate, this is unacceptable here. It is recommended to arrive at the Air Movements terminal (AMT) strictly at the time indicated in your orders or ticket — usually 2–3 hours before departure. Check-in closes rigidly according to schedule. Note that the document verification process (Military ID, passport, orders) takes longer due to strict reconciliation with access lists.

Screening and Security Features

Security procedures here are performed by military police and RAAF security personnel. Be prepared for screening to be more thorough than at a regular airport. Any jokes regarding security are absolutely inappropriate here and may lead to removal from the flight. Important: unauthorised photography and video recording are strictly prohibited on the base territory and the airfield. Keep cameras and phones in bags until you receive explicit permission.

Comfort on Board and Seat Selection

If you are flying on a military transport aircraft (e.g., C-130 Hercules or C-17 Globemaster), forget about the usual choice of a window seat.

• Clothing: It can be very cold and noisy in the cargo holds of military aircraft, or conversely, hot. Be sure to dress in layers and keep a warm jacket with you.
• Hearing Protection: Noise levels on such aircraft are significantly higher. You may be issued earplugs, but it is better to have your own high-quality noise-cancelling headphones.
• Seats: Seats often consist of canvas benches along the sides (webbing seats). For comfort, it is recommended to bring a small inflatable pillow for your neck or lower back.

Hand Luggage and Baggage

Rules for carrying liquids and dangerous items are similar to civil ones (IATA), but control over baggage weight is stricter here. You cannot pay for an extra kilogram — you will simply be asked to remove items. Try to pack luggage in soft, durable bags (duffel bags), as they are easier to stow in the cargo hold than rigid suitcases on wheels. Keep all necessary medicines and documents in your hand luggage, as access to checked baggage during the flight is impossible.

Tips for Transit Passengers

RAAF Base Richmond does not have a transit zone. If your route involves a transfer to a civil flight in Sydney, allow a minimum of 4–5 hours between flights. You will need time to leave the base, get to Richmond railway station, travel to Central Station in Sydney (about 1.5 hours), and transfer to the train to Kingsford Smith Airport.

Customs and Biosecurity

When returning from abroad on a military aircraft, you undergo the same customs and quarantine control as in a civil airport, but often right on the apron or in a hangar. Australian biosecurity rules are extremely strict. Ensure that all your footwear (especially trekking or military boots) and camping equipment are perfectly cleaned of soil and dirt before departure to avoid fines and delays.

Economy and Preparation

There are no Duty Free shops or expensive cafes on the base, so you won't spend extra money, but you also won't be able to buy forgotten items.

• Food: Bring a substantial snack and an empty water bottle (can be filled after screening). In-flight meals on military flights (box lunch) are not always issued and depend on the mission duration.
• Entertainment: There is no Wi-Fi or seatback screens on board. Download films, music, or e-books to your devices in advance and definitely bring a power bank, as power outlets may not be available.

In Case of Flight Delay

Military aviation is subject to operational tasks ("Mission first"). Flights may be delayed or rescheduled due to technical maintenance or changes in command priorities. Unlike commercial airlines, compensation, hotel vouchers, or free lunches during delays are not provided here. Be patient, have a backup financial plan in case an overnight stay in Richmond town at your own expense is necessary, and keep the contact details of your supervisor or commander at hand.