Aberdeen (Phillips AAF)

Phillips Army Airfield is not your typical tourist hub with duty-free shops, but rather an important strategic facility with a rich history. Located within the famous Aberdeen Proving Ground in Maryland, this airfield plays a key role in supporting the military and research missions of the US Army. For travellers, it is primarily of interest as part of the region's extensive military-historical complex, where the power of American aviation and artillery was forged.

Features and Highlights:

The main feature of Phillips Army Airfield is its restricted status and specialization in testing and transport tasks. Unlike civilian airports, you will not find the usual terminals and waiting areas here. The airfield services aircraft involved in testing new technologies and equipment at the proving ground.

Although the facility is closed to the general public, its proximity to the city of Aberdeen and the Chesapeake Bay makes it an important landmark. The history of the site is inextricably linked to the development of US military aviation, dating back to the first half of the 20th century, giving this location special historical weight.

• Official Website: home.army.mil/apg (general website of the Aberdeen Proving Ground, to which the airfield belongs)
• Information Service Phone: +1 410-278-5201 (base operator)
• Airport Address: Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD 21005, USA
• Email: Direct communication for civilians is available via the "Contact Us" form on the official website
• Social Media: Current news is published on the official Aberdeen Proving Ground Facebook page
• Lost Luggage Information: Service unavailable (the airfield does not serve commercial civilian flights)
• Passenger Support Contacts: Support for civilian tourists is not provided; the facility is military

Since Phillips Army Airfield is an active military facility with restricted access, it does not accept civilian flights. Tourists and visitors heading to Aberdeen or the Aberdeen Proving Ground (APG) base usually fly into neighbouring major civilian airports and then travel to the location by ground transport. Below are the main logistics options for this region.

Nearest Civilian Airports

For travel planning, it is most convenient to use the following air hubs:

• Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) — the most popular option, located just 54 km from Aberdeen. It is a major hub with a large number of domestic and international flights.
• Wilmington Airport (ILG) — located at roughly the same distance (53.6 km), but serves fewer flights.
• Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) — located 91.7 km away. An excellent option for transatlantic flights.
• For domestic flights, Lancaster Airport (73.7 km) or Harrisburg International Airport (95.6 km) may also be suitable.

How to get from Aberdeen Centre to the Airfield Checkpoint

The airfield itself is located within the base, so civilian transport can only reach the Visitor Control Centers of the Aberdeen Proving Ground. The journey from Aberdeen city centre takes very little time.

Car and Rental

A personal or rented car is the most reliable way to get around in this area.

• Route: From downtown Aberdeen, take MD-22 East (Aberdeen Boulevard). The drive to the main gate (Gate 715) will take about 10–15 minutes (approximately 4–6 km).
• Rental: Car rental agencies (Hertz, Enterprise, Avis) are widely represented at BWI and PHL airports, as well as in the city of Aberdeen itself. Economy class rental costs start from $40–50 per day.
• Parking: Parking directly near the runway is prohibited for civilians. You can leave your car at the parking lot near the Visitor Center when applying for a pass.

Public Transport (Trains and Buses)

There is no direct public transport route to the airfield itself, but you can get to the city of Aberdeen:

• Train: Aberdeen Station is served by Amtrak trains and the regional MARC line (Penn Line), connecting Baltimore and Perryville. The trip from Baltimore to Aberdeen takes about 30–40 minutes and costs from $6 to $15 depending on the train type.
• Bus: Local Harford Transit LINK buses run around the city, but their routes rarely enter military facilities. This is not the most convenient option for visiting the base.

Taxi and Transfer

Taxi and ridesharing services (Uber, Lyft) are active in the region.

• Cost: A trip from Aberdeen train station to the base gate will cost approximately $12–20.
• Special Features: Taxi drivers without a special military pass (ID card) cannot drive you onto the base territory. They will drop you off at the Visitor Center in front of the checkpoint. Further movement within the territory is possible only on official transport or with an escort.

Important Recommendations

The main thing to remember: Phillips Army Airfield is a restricted facility. It is impossible to go there "just to look". Access is permitted only to military personnel, civilian base staff, and official visitors who have received prior approval and a pass at the Visitor Control Center. Always have your identification (passport) and car documents with you if you plan to approach the checkpoint.

Since Phillips Army Airfield (APG) is an active military facility, its structure differs radically from familiar civilian airports. Here you will not find crowded terminals with boarding gates, shops, and cafes. All infrastructure is subordinated to strict tasks of logistics, testing, and transportation of military personnel.

Number of Terminals and Their Purpose

In the classical sense, there are no passenger terminals at Phillips Army Airfield. Their function is performed by the Base Operations building. This is a single compact complex where all tasks regarding the reception and dispatch of aircraft are handled.

• Base Operations Building: Crew briefings, processing of flight documents, and short-term waiting for officials take place here.
• Hangars: The main part of the territory is occupied by hangars for servicing machinery and storing equipment undergoing testing at the proving ground.

Airport Map and Navigation

Navigation at the facility is strictly regulated. Free movement of pedestrians on the airfield is categorically prohibited. The territory is compact, so the complex signage system characteristic of civilian hubs is absent here.

• Departure and Arrival Zones: This is one and the same zone on the apron (asphalt area in front of the hangars). Passengers (military personnel or specialists) are delivered directly to the aircraft or helicopter ramp by official transport.
• Transfers: The concept of "transfer between terminals" is irrelevant here. All movements between base buildings and the aircraft are carried out in an organized manner, often accompanied by a responsible officer.

Infrastructure Features

The atmosphere at the airfield is strictly business-like and utilitarian. There are no rest zones, Wi-Fi for passengers, or airline check-in counters.

• Waiting Rooms: For high-ranking guests and command staff, small rest rooms are provided in the administrative building, equipped with basic amenities.
• Service: Porter services, luggage wrapping, or catering are absent. All cargo is handled by the crew or the base ground support team.

Check-in and Screening Procedures

The "check-in" process here takes place differently than in civil aviation and takes less time, but requires strict discipline.

• Document Control: Instead of a boarding pass, military ID cards and flight orders are checked. Verification is carried out at the checkpoint upon entering the base and again before boarding.
• Screening: Standard metal detector frames, like in TSA, may not be present, but the base security service conducts thorough control of cargo and personal belongings according to military security protocols.
• Time: It is recommended to arrive by the appointed gathering time. The concept of "check-in closing 40 minutes prior" is replaced here by a clear order regarding the departure time. Lateness is unacceptable.

Navigation Recommendations for Visitors

If you are an official visitor arriving at Phillips Army Airfield, follow these simple rules:

1. Follow Instructions: Always wait for the meeting officer or transport service staff at the ramp. Do not attempt to find the exit from the airfield on your own.
2. Keep Documents Handy: You may be asked to present your passport or identity document at any moment.
3. Photography: Taking out a camera or phone for photography on the apron is strictly prohibited without special permission from the proving ground press service. This may lead to the confiscation of the device and detention.

The history of Phillips Army Airfield is inextricably linked with the chronicle of American military aviation and the development of the Aberdeen Proving Ground. Unlike civilian airports built to connect cities, this airfield was created with one goal — to test the limits of machinery and weapons.

Foundation and Early Years

The origins of the airfield go back to January 1917, when the USA entered the First World War. It was then that the Aberdeen Proving Ground was founded for testing artillery. Soon it became obvious that aviation would play a decisive role in future conflicts, and the proving ground required its own runway. The first planes landed here on simple dirt strips to test bomb drops and machine gun installations.

The airfield received its current name in 1923. It was named in honour of Lieutenant Wendell K. Phillips, a pilot of the US Army Air Service, who tragically died in a plane crash near this place a year earlier. This is a tribute to the risks faced by early test aviators.

The World War II Era and Flourishing

The real boom in development occurred during the years of World War II. During this period, Phillips Army Airfield turned into one of the busiest testing centres in the country. Critically important tests were conducted here:

• Verification of armaments for the legendary B-17 Flying Fortress and B-25 Mitchell bombers.
• Testing of aviation bombs and missiles, which were subsequently used on the fronts of Europe and the Pacific.
• Study of captured equipment: captured German and Japanese aircraft were delivered to the airfield for thorough analysis of their flight characteristics and vulnerabilities.

Modernization and the Jet Age

With the advent of the jet age and the Cold War, the airfield infrastructure required serious changes. In the 1950s and 60s, helicopters and weapon systems for them were actively tested here, which became particularly relevant during the Vietnam War. During this period, new hangars were built, and runways were lengthened to accommodate faster machines.

One of the most significant reconstructions was the modernization of the runway to accept heavy transport aircraft. Today, the runway, with a length of about 2400 metres, is capable of accepting giants like the C-5 Galaxy and C-17 Globemaster III, allowing for the delivery of oversized equipment and machinery to the proving ground from anywhere in the world.

Interesting Historical Facts

• Unique Status: Phillips Army Airfield is considered one of the oldest active military airfields in the USA, continuously functioning in the same location for over a hundred years.
• Connection with NASA: At different periods of history, the infrastructure of the proving ground and the airfield was used to support space research and tests of equipment related to high-speed aerodynamics.
• Visits by Dignitaries: Due to its proximity to Washington and its secrecy, the airfield has repeatedly been used for confidential arrivals of high-ranking government officials and US Presidents to inspect the latest military developments.

Services: What Passengers Can Expect

When planning a visit or official business trip via Phillips Army Airfield (APG), it is important to adjust expectations immediately: this is not a civilian tourist hub. The level of service and infrastructure here are completely subordinated to military protocols and operational necessity. The comfort familiar to tourists, with lounge zones, shops, and entertainment, is absent here, as the main task of the facility is supporting missions, not serving travellers.

Restaurants, Shops, and Duty-Free

There are no commercial food or retail outlets on the airfield territory itself.

• Dining: There are no cafes, fast-food restaurants, or coffee shops here. Military personnel and staff use dining facilities (DFAC) located in the residential zones of the Aberdeen base or bring food with them. Only vending machines with water and snacks may be available in the administrative building.
• Shops: There are no Duty-Free zones or souvenir shops on the airfield. The nearest large store (PX/Exchange) is located in the main part of the garrison, but access there is permitted only to holders of military ID cards.
• Halal Options: Please note that vending machines may not label ingredients clearly. It is advisable to check packaging if you have specific dietary requirements.

Waiting Rooms and VIP Service

The concept of a "business lounge" is implemented specifically here. There is a zone for receiving Distinguished Visitors, which is used for briefings and short rests for generals or government officials before departure. For regular personnel, simple rooms with basic seating in the Base Operations building are provided. Access to VIP zones is strictly regulated and cannot be purchased.

Communication and Finance

Communication infrastructure is oriented towards secure channels, not public access.

• Wi-Fi: There is no open public Wi-Fi for guests due to cybersecurity reasons. Only authorized staff devices have access to the network.
• Device Charging: There are no special "charging stations," but standard American power outlets (110V) can be found in waiting areas.
• Banks and ATMs: There are no bank branches or currency exchange points directly in the airfield building. ATMs (usually banks serving the military, such as Navy Federal or USAA) are located in other parts of the Aberdeen base. Tourists are recommended to have US dollars in cash or cards with them in advance.

Medical Services and Accessibility

Flight safety is at the highest level here, which includes medical provision.

• Medical: There is no first aid point for tourists in the usual sense, but military medics and emergency response crews are always on duty at the base. In case of serious problems, the patient will be taken to the Kirk U.S. Army Health Clinic on the base or to civilian hospitals in Aberdeen.
• Passengers with Disabilities: Base buildings comply with federal accessibility standards (ramps, wide doors). However, there are no specialized escort services providing wheelchairs from the ramp to the exit. Boarding military aircraft often requires physical activity, so such issues are resolved individually through the command.
• Children: Infrastructure for passengers with children (changing rooms, play areas) is completely absent, as the airfield is not intended for family travel.

Hotels and Accommodation

Spending the night right "in the terminal" is impossible; there are no capsule hotels here. Accommodation options depend on the visitor's status:

• On Base: For deployed military and officials, IHG Army Hotels operate. They offer a decent level of comfort but require prior booking and base access rights.
• In Aberdeen City: Civilian visitors usually stay in hotels along the I-95 highway, just a 10–15 minute drive from the checkpoint. Popular options include Holiday Inn Express, Hilton Garden Inn, and Comfort Inn.

Business Services

Phillips Army Airfield is a workspace. There are conference rooms and briefing rooms equipped with projectors and maps, but they are intended exclusively for operational planning and official meetings. It is impossible to rent such a room for civilian negotiations.

When it comes to dining at Phillips Army Airfield (APG), it is important to immediately adjust to the specifics of a military facility. Here you will not find the food courts, chain coffee shops, or fine dining restaurants with runway views typical of international airports. The catering system here is strictly functional and designed to provide for personnel, not to entertain tourists.

Dining on Airfield Territory (Airside / Operations)

In the flight operations building itself and in the hangars, opportunities to grab a bite are minimal. Since there are no commercial flights, "sterile zone" infrastructure is absent.

• Vending Machines: The only available option directly by the airfield is vending machines. They are located in crew rest zones and the administrative building.
  Assortment: Bottled water, soda, energy drinks, crisps, chocolate bars, and crackers.
  Payment: Cash (US dollars) and credit cards are accepted.
• Coffee Points: Coffee machines are often available for official use in briefing rooms, but they are not public cafes.

Options on Aberdeen Base Territory (Landside / Restricted Access)

If you have a pass to the garrison territory (APG), the choice expands significantly. Main dining spots are concentrated around the Post Exchange (PX) shopping centre and in residential zones, located a 5–10 minute drive from the airfield.

• Food Court at PX: Classic American fast-food brands are represented here, such as Burger King, Subway, Qdoba Mexican Eats, or Charleys Philly Steaks. This is a great option for a quick and substantial lunch.
  Opening Hours: Usually from 06:00 to 18:00–19:00.
• Dining Facilities (DFAC): Military canteens offer balanced meals on a schedule (breakfast, lunch, dinner). Access for civilians is generally limited unless accompanied by military personnel.
• Bowling Centre and Clubs: Small eateries often operate at entertainment centres on the base, where you can order pizza, burgers, and light snacks.

Gastronomy Outside the Checkpoint: Local Flavour

Since access to the base is restricted, most guests and travellers eat in the city of Aberdeen, located just outside the base gates. It is here that you can try authentic local delicacies of Maryland.

What to Try (Local Specialties):

• Maryland Blue Crabs: The Chesapeake Bay region is famous for its crabs. Be sure to order crabs steamed with a generous amount of Old Bay seasoning.
• Crab Cakes: Patties made from crab meat are the state's calling card. The best places for tasting are located along US-40 and in downtown Aberdeen.
• Pit Beef Sandwiches: Traditional for Baltimore and the surrounding areas, this is roast beef cooked over an open fire, thinly sliced and served with onions and horseradish sauce. (Note: Please verify Halal status with the vendor as preparation methods vary).

Recommendations by Dining Type (in Aberdeen City):

1. Quick Bite (Fast Food & Coffee):

Along the MD-22 highway leading to the base, there are many chain establishments.

• Options: Starbucks, Dunkin', Panera Bread, Chick-fil-A.
• Average Bill: $5–12.
• Time: Excellent for breakfast before visiting the base or coffee to go.

2. Full Lunch or Dinner:

For a relaxed meal, choose family restaurants and diners.

• Restaurants: Olive Tree (Italian cuisine), Mamie's Cafe with Love (home-style American cuisine and famous crab cakes), La Tolteca (Mexican cuisine).
• Average Bill: $15–35 per person.
• Atmosphere: Friendly, no dress code.

Dietary Preferences

• Vegetarians and Vegans: On the base, choices are limited to salads at Subway or side dishes. In Aberdeen city, restaurant menus (especially Panera Bread or Asian cuisine) offer far more meat-free options.
• Halal and Kosher: There are few specialized certified restaurants in the immediate vicinity of the airfield. It is recommended to clarify ingredients or choose vegetarian/seafood options.
• Gluten-Free: Most major chain restaurants in the city have allergen labelling on their menus.

Travelling through Phillips Army Airfield is a unique experience that differs radically from flying through a standard civilian airport. Since this is an active military facility, strict protocols apply here, violation of which can lead to serious consequences. Below are practical tips to help you (if you are an authorized passenger or official guest) go through all procedures as smoothly as possible.

Arrival Time Recommendations

Forget the rule of "arriving 2 hours before departure." At a military airfield, time is calculated based on the start of the briefing or formation time.

• For Departing Passengers (Military Flight): Check the Show Time with your mission commander. Usually, this is 1.5–2 hours before takeoff for safety briefings and equipment loading.
• For Greeters and Base Visitors: If you need to arrange a base pass, arrive at the Visitor Control Center (Gate 715) at least 45–60 minutes before the scheduled meeting time. Queues for pass processing can be unpredictable, especially during morning rush hours.
• Prayer Times: If your travel coincides with prayer times, please plan accordingly. While there are no dedicated prayer rooms in the airfield building, quiet spaces may be found in the administrative areas upon request.

Check-in and Security Features

There are no airline check-in counters or colourful boarding passes here. The admission process is based on identity verification and access rights.

• Documents: The main document is not a ticket, but your identification (CAC card for military, passport with valid visa and Orders for others). Ensure your documents meet REAL ID requirements.
• Screening: Be prepared for not only your bag but also your vehicle to be searched. Weapons, narcotics (including substances that may be legal in some states), and professional photography equipment without a permit are strictly prohibited from being brought onto the proving ground territory.

Tips on Seat Selection

If you are to fly on a military transport aircraft (e.g., C-130 or Black Hawk helicopter), the concept of a "comfortable seat" becomes relative.

• Seat Type: Most often, these are side bench seats (jump seats) made of canvas and mesh along the fuselage. There is no seat selection as such — boarding is carried out at the command of the Loadmaster.
• Temperature and Noise: Military transport aircraft are very noisy and often cold at altitude. It is strongly recommended to have earplugs (or active noise-cancelling headphones) and a warm jacket, even if it is summer on the ground.

Hand Luggage and Baggage: Do's and Don'ts

Baggage rules here are dictated by flight safety and facility secrecy.

• Electronics: The use of smartphones, tablets, and especially cameras on the flight line is categorically prohibited. Put them deep in your bag before exiting the aircraft. An accidental photo with a hangar in the background can lead to device confiscation by military police.
• Packing: Use soft, durable bags (duffel bags). Hard suitcases with wheels are inconvenient for loading into the cargo compartments of military equipment and may be damaged during transport.

Recommendations for Transfer Passengers

There are no direct connecting flights at Phillips Army Airfield. A "transfer" here usually means a change of transport mode.

• Logistics: Coordinate your transfer from the airfield to your final destination on the base or to a civilian airport (BWI/PHL) in advance. Taxis and Uber cannot pick you up directly at the aircraft ramp — you will have to get to the external checkpoint on official transport.

Customs Control Features

If you are arriving from abroad on a direct military flight, customs control may be carried out right on board or on a designated apron area. The procedure may be simplified, but this does not exempt you from complying with US laws. Declare everything necessary, following the officer's instructions.

How to Save Time and Money

Since the airfield is not commercial, you do not spend money on tickets or food, but you may lose time.

• Document Preparation: The biggest "time eater" is processing a base pass (Gate Pass). If possible, apply for a pass online via the Aberdeen garrison website in advance (several days before the visit).
• Food: Bring snacks and water with you. There is nowhere to buy food at the airfield itself, and a trip to the nearest canteen will take time.

What to Do in Case of Flight Delay

In military aviation, priority is given to mission accomplishment ("Mission First"), not the schedule. Delays due to technical reasons or weather are common occurrences.

• Patience: Be prepared to wait in spartan conditions. Bring a book or download movies to your phone (for viewing inside the waiting building, not outside).
• Flexibility: If the flight is cancelled, you will likely be offered accommodation in a hotel on the base or sent by ground transport. Always have a "Plan B" for logistics.