Joint Base Andrews

Joint Base Andrews is not merely an airport, but a true aerial gateway for the leaders of the United States and their distinguished guests. Located in the town of Camp Springs, Maryland, it is known worldwide as the home base of the legendary "Air Force One" — the aircraft of the President of the United States. Although ordinary tourists cannot use its services for their travels, the significance of this facility in global politics and aviation is difficult to overestimate.

The main feature of Joint Base Andrews is its exclusive status. It is the primary point of arrival and departure for the President of the United States, the Vice President, cabinet members, and heads of foreign states visiting the nation's capital. The airport is managed by the United States Air Force and is home to the 89th Airlift Wing, known as "The Presidential Wing".

For travellers, it is important to understand that Joint Base Andrews is not a commercial airport and does not serve regular passenger flights. Access to its territory is strictly limited. Tourists heading to Washington should focus on the three main civil airports in the region: Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), and Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI).

You can contact representatives of Joint Base Andrews in several ways. It is important to remember that this is an active military facility, so some services familiar to civil airports may function differently or be absent.

• Official Website: www.jba.af.mil — here you will find the most up-to-date information, news, and official contacts.
• Information Desk Phone: The main base switchboard is available at +1 301-981-1110. For questions related to passenger flights, please contact the passenger terminal (AMC Terminal).
• Airport Address: Joint Base Andrews, Camp Springs, MD 20762, United States.
• Email: For public relations and most inquiries, it is recommended to use the contact forms available on the base's official website.
• Social Media: The base actively maintains pages on social networks where news and important announcements are published.
  • Facebook: facebook.com/jointbaseandrews
  • X (formerly Twitter): twitter.com/jbandrews
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of loss of luggage or personal items on board the aircraft or in the terminal building, it is necessary to contact the representatives of the airline (or unit) that operated the flight, or the administration of the passenger terminal directly.
• Passenger Support Contacts: Passenger support is provided by the Air Mobility Command (AMC) terminal staff. It is recommended to check contacts for your specific flight in advance.

Joint Base Andrews (ADW) is located in the town of Camp Springs, Maryland, near Washington, D.C., in the USA. It is important to remember that this is an active military base, and access to its territory is strictly controlled. Before travelling, ensure you have all necessary permissions. You can get to the airport in several ways, and the choice depends on your budget, time, and possession of entry permits.

Public Transport is the most budget-friendly option. The nearest metro station is Branch Avenue (Green Line of the Metrorail system). From the station to the base gates, you can take local buses (e.g., TheBus operator) or take a taxi. This method will require several transfers and may not be very convenient with luggage. The metro ride from central Washington will take about 25-35 minutes, plus time for additional transport to the base.

Taxi and Transfers are the most convenient and direct way to get to the base entry point. A taxi ride or using services like Uber and Lyft from central Washington will take approximately 30-50 minutes depending on traffic conditions. The cost of the trip will be approximately $40-60. You can also book a private transfer in advance, which guarantees a car at the time you need. The driver will take you to the Main Gate, from where you will need to arrange further movement within the base territory.

Car Rental provides maximum flexibility for travelling around the region, however, to drive onto the military base territory, you will need a special permit. If you do not have one, a rental car will only help you reach the entry checkpoint. Many car rental companies are located in neighbouring cities and at major civil airports, such as Ronald Reagan Airport or Washington Dulles International Airport.

Airport Parking is available but, like entry, is regulated by base rules. There are various parking zones, including short-term and long-term, however, they are primarily intended for base personnel and official visitors. If you plan to leave a car, it is strongly recommended to check the rules and availability with the relevant service at Joint Base Andrews in advance.

Recommendations:

• Always plan your route in advance, taking into account possible traffic jams on the roads around Washington.
• If you are arriving at one of the major civil airports, such as Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport, allow extra time for the transfer to Joint Base Andrews.
• Most importantly: before the trip, contact the hosting party at the base to clarify all details regarding access, entry, and parking.

Joint Base Andrews (ADW) is primarily a United States Air Force base, not a civil commercial airport. Its infrastructure and passenger facilities differ significantly from familiar international airports and mainly serve government, military, and VIP flights, including the US President's aircraft, Air Force One.

Structure and Terminals

The airbase operates one main passenger terminal, known as the AMC Passenger Terminal (Air Mobility Command) or the 89th Airlift Wing terminal. There is no division into multiple terminals here as in large civil hubs. All passenger service is concentrated in one building.

Purpose and Navigation

• Zones: The terminal building is functionally divided into a departure zone and an arrival zone. Inside, there are check-in counters, a waiting area, information desks, and a security checkpoint. Navigation is intuitive due to the compact size.
• Features: The terminal is equipped to serve military personnel and their families travelling under the Space-Available ("Space-A") programme, as well as to receive official delegations and high-ranking officials. Amenities here are more basic than in large commercial airports but include everything necessary: a waiting hall, restrooms, sometimes a small cafeteria or vending machines with snacks, as well as a USO lounge for the military.

Procedures and Time

The time for check-in and security screening depends heavily on the type of flight. For "Space-A" military flights, passengers are often required to arrive in advance and wait for seat confirmation. Screening procedures are conducted by military police and adhere to strict security standards. It is recommended to allow significantly more time than at a civil airport and to clarify requirements for a specific flight in advance.

Navigation Recommendations

Since there is only one terminal, it is practically impossible to get lost inside. The main difficulty for an unprepared traveller is gaining access to the airbase itself, as it is a closed military facility. If you have permission for entry and departure, navigation inside the terminal will be simple: follow the standard signs for "Departures" and "Arrivals".

The history of Joint Base Andrews, located in the town of Camp Springs, is closely intertwined with the history of aviation in the United States. Its foundation occurred at the height of World War II: the airfield was opened in 1942 under the name Camp Springs Army Air Field. Its main task was training fighter pilots for participation in combat operations.

After the war, the role of the facility changed. In 1947, the base was renamed in honour of Lieutenant General Frank Maxwell Andrews, one of the founders of the US Air Force, and became known as Andrews Air Force Base. Its modern history began from this period. Gradually, the base transformed into the main air transport hub for high-ranking officials of the American government and foreign delegations arriving in the nation's capital.

A key moment in the airport's history was its transformation into the "home" for the presidential aircraft. Since 1962, the 89th Airlift Wing has been based here, responsible for operating the aircraft known to the whole world by the call sign Air Force One when the President is on board. It is from this base that the head of state departs for working trips and international tours, and it is here that he returns. The airport has witnessed countless historical events, from meetings of world leaders to the return of astronauts.

Significant modernisation took place in 2009, when, as part of a nationwide reform of military facilities, Andrews Air Force Base was merged with Naval Air Facility Washington. Thus, Joint Base Andrews was formed. This reorganisation allowed for optimised management and increased resource efficiency. Throughout its history, the base has constantly expanded: new runways, hangars, and terminals were built to service the most modern aircraft.

Among interesting facts, it can be noted that Joint Base Andrews regularly hosts large-scale air shows attracting tens of thousands of spectators. These events demonstrate not only advanced aviation technology but also the highest skill of the pilots. Thus, the airport is not just a strategic facility, but an important cultural and historical centre symbolising the power and prestige of American state aviation.

The passenger terminal at Joint Base Andrews offers all necessary amenities for a comfortable wait for a flight, oriented primarily towards military personnel, civil servants, and their families. The terminal features a food court with several fast-food outlets where one can have a full lunch or a quick snack. There are also coffee shops for those who want to freshen up before a flight. For last-minute purchases, shops offering necessities, souvenirs, and press are available.

One of the key features of the airport is the presence of a spacious and welcoming USO Lounge. This is a special relaxation zone for military personnel and their families where one can relax in a cosy atmosphere, watch TV, read, or enjoy complimentary snacks and beverages. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and numerous charging stations for electronic devices allow you to stay connected while waiting for departure.

To handle financial matters, ATMs are located in the terminal, and branches of banks or credit unions may operate there. Although currency exchange services may be limited compared to major international airports, basic banking operations are available. In case of need, passengers can receive first aid. For travellers with small children, nursing rooms equipped with changing tables are provided.

The terminal is fully adapted for passengers with reduced mobility: ramps, specially equipped restrooms, and elevators are available. Airport staff are ready to provide assistance during boarding and disembarking. For those who need to stay overnight, accommodation options are available both directly on the base territory (lodging facilities such as Gateway Inn) and numerous hotels in the immediate vicinity. For business travellers, conference rooms and basic business services may be available for holding meetings or working with documents.

When planning a flight through Joint Base Andrews, it is important to remember that this is primarily a military facility, not a commercial airport. Therefore, the choice of dining establishments here differs from what can be found in large civil aviation hubs, and access to them is generally restricted to military personnel and authorised staff. Nevertheless, there are several options on the base territory for a snack or a full meal.

For quick and inexpensive meals, the establishments in the Base Exchange (BX) food court are best suited. Popular American fast-food chains such as Subway, Popeyes, Burger King, or Charleys Philly Steaks are usually represented here. This is an excellent choice if you are short on time. Prices here are generally moderate, and sometimes lower than outside the base. Most such points operate on a standard daytime schedule, closing in the evening.

If you are looking for a place for a quieter and more substantial meal, it is worth paying attention to the clubs or restaurants on the base territory. For example, the club at The Courses at Andrews golf course often has a full-service restaurant with a more varied menu. It is here that you are more likely to try local dishes of Maryland, for example, the famous crab cakes. Such establishments offer a more comfortable environment for lunch or dinner.

Regarding dietary preferences, vegetarian options can be found in places like Subway. However, specialised vegan, gluten-free, or Halal dishes may be limited. It is recommended to clarify the ingredients of dishes directly with the staff. The base is located in the town of Camp Springs, in the state of Maryland, USA, and the food culture reflects general American standards.

Thus, although the choice of establishments at Joint Base Andrews is not as wide as at civil airports, passengers will not go hungry. Food courts are ideal for a quick snack, while restaurants at the clubs on the base territory are suitable for a leisurely lunch.

Travelling through Joint Base Andrews differs significantly from flying through standard civil airports, as it is an active military base serving government flights and military personnel. If you are due to fly from here (for example, as part of the Space-A programme or a business trip), it is important to consider the specifics of the facility for a comfortable start to your journey.

Recommendations on arrival time are strict. Since the pass control regime for the base territory takes time, and checking procedures may be more thorough, it is recommended to arrive at the passenger terminal no later than 3 hours before the scheduled departure. Account for possible waiting times at checkpoints (gates) when entering the base itself.

Check-in and security features here have their nuances. The screening process complies with TSA standards but may include additional checks. Keep all necessary documents ready: identification (ID card or passport), boarding passes, and orders (for military personnel). Be prepared for electronics and liquids to be removed from bags for separate scanning.

Regarding seat selection on the plane, advice depends on the type of flight. If you are flying on a chartered flight ("Rotator"), the seating system is similar to commercial airlines — try to check in as early as possible to choose a comfortable seat. If the flight is on a military cargo aircraft, seats may be allocated by the crew, and comfort will be minimal; in such a case, take an inflatable pillow with you.

In cabin baggage, a standard set of items is allowed, however, pay attention to the strict ban on any items that can be considered weapons or dual-use items. Liquids must be in containers up to 100 ml. Always keep valuables, documents, and medication with you. If you are flying on a cargo aircraft, take a warm jumper or blanket, as it can be cool in the cabin.

For passengers with transfers, it is important to know that Joint Base Andrews is not a transit hub in the usual sense. If your connection involves changing airports (for example, moving to Washington's civil airports — Reagan or Dulles), allow at least 4–5 hours for the transfer, taking into account traffic in the capital region and time to exit the base.

Customs control features are relevant for those arriving from abroad. The procedure is standard but conducted with particular thoroughness. Strictly observe the rules for declaring imported goods, especially food products and plants, to avoid fines and delays.

The main money-saving tip concerns using the Space-A programme (flights subject to available seats), which allows travelling almost for free or for a nominal fee. However, this requires flexibility: do not book accommodation at your destination without the possibility of free cancellation. Saving money here is associated with the risk of uncertainty regarding timing.

In case of a flight delay, remain calm. On military bases, priority is always given to operational tasks ("mission first"), so the schedule may change suddenly. Have a supply of food, water, a book, or downloaded films with you, as the terminal infrastructure may be more modest than in large international airports.