Cheyenne (F.E. Warren AFB H/P)

The F.E. Warren Air Force Base Heliport (FEW) is a unique facility that differs significantly from standard passenger airports. Located in the state of Wyoming, this airfield is part of one of the oldest continuously operating US Air Force bases and serves exclusively strategic defense purposes. Instead of Duty-Free terminals and departure lounges, you will find helipads ensuring the mobility of the 90th Missile Wing. For a tourist, this "air port" is interesting primarily as a restricted but legendary location, reminding us of the important role of aviation in the history and security of the region.

Features and Facility Status

It is important to understand that F.E. Warren Air Force Base and its heliport are a restricted military facility. It is impossible to buy a ticket here or arrive by private jet without special government permission. The base is closed to all types of civil aviation (Fixed Wing) and services only military helicopters performing patrol tasks and security for Minuteman III missile complexes.

Nevertheless, this facility plays a huge role in the life of the city of Cheyenne. Historically, the base began as Fort D.A. Russell in 1867 to protect railroad builders, and today it is a National Historic Landmark. Although you cannot use this airfield for travel, there is a museum on the base territory, access to which is possible subject to strict Pass & ID procedures, allowing you to touch the rich history of American military aviation.

• Official Air Base Website: www.warren.af.mil
• Base Switchboard Phone: +1 307-773-1110
• Address: F. E. Warren AFB, Cheyenne, WY 82005, USA
• Email (for general inquiries): 90MW.PA@us.af.mil (Public Affairs Office)
• Social Media: Official F. E. Warren Air Force Base pages on Facebook and Instagram
• Lost Luggage Information: Service not provided (the heliport does not serve civilian commercial flights)
• Visitor Contacts: For questions regarding museum visits or official visits, please contact the Visitor Control Center at Gate 1

Since the F.E. Warren Air Force Base Heliport is located on the grounds of an active military facility with restricted access, civilian passenger flights do not arrive here. Tourists wishing to visit the base museum or the city itself usually arrive in the region via neighboring civilian air hubs and then reach the base checkpoint by ground transport.

Below are methods to reach the main entrance (Gate 1) and the Visitor Control Center from downtown Cheyenne, as well as information on the nearest civilian airports for flight planning.

By Car and Taxi

A car is the most convenient and common way to travel in Wyoming. The drive from the historic city center to the main base gate takes only 10–15 minutes.

• Route: From the center, head west on West Lincolnway (US-30) or Randall Avenue directly to Gate 1. The base is located in immediate proximity to the I-25 interstate highway.
• Taxi and Ridesharing: Popular ride-hailing services (Uber, Lyft) operate in the city, as well as local carriers. The cost of a trip from the center to the gate will be approximately 15–25 USD.
• Car Rental: Rental points are available in the city center and at the civilian airport. This is the best option if you plan to explore the surrounding state.

Parking

Entry onto the base territory in a personal vehicle is possible only with a pass. However, parking is provided for tourists at the Visitor Control Center, located directly in front of Gate 1. You can leave your car here for free while processing documents for a museum visit.

Public Transport

The city bus system (Cheyenne Transit Program) has limited coverage. There are no direct routes entering the base territory for tourists. The nearest stops are on adjacent streets, but walking from them to the checkpoint may be inconvenient, especially with luggage. Therefore, the bus is not recommended as the primary method to reach the facility.

Nearest Civilian Airports

Tourists use civilian airports to travel to this region. The most convenient option is the local regional airport, located just 4.2 km from the base. It receives flights from major hubs.

List of alternative airports nearby:

• Cheyenne (CYS) — the nearest civilian airport. Located practically within the city limits. Travel time by taxi to F.E. Warren AFB is less than 10 minutes.
• Denver International Airport (DEN) — a major international hub located approximately 144 km to the south. Most international flights arrive here. From Denver to Cheyenne, you can get there by rental car or shuttle (Groome Transportation) in about 1.5–2 hours.
• Yampa Valley Airport (HDN) — located 212 km away, more often used for access to ski resorts, but can serve as an alternative.
• Casper/Natrona County International Airport (CPR) — located 236 km to the north.
• Eagle County Airport (EGE) — 241 km away, serving the Vail region.

Since the F.E. Warren Air Force Base Heliport (FEW) is a strictly military facility, its structure differs radically from what travelers are accustomed to seeing at civilian airports. Here, passenger terminals are absent in the classical sense — there are no departure halls, baggage claim areas, shops, or airline check-in counters.

The entire infrastructure of the facility is subject to strict military protocols and the missions of the US Air Force 90th Missile Wing. However, for a tourist wishing to visit the historical part of the base (the museum), the checkpoint performs the functions of a "terminal".

Structure and Access Zones

The territory can be roughly divided into two parts: the strictly guarded operational zone (where helipads and military equipment are located) and the restricted access zone, where civilians can enter with a pass.

• Operational Zone (Flight Line): Hangars, takeoff and landing pads for UH-1N Huey helicopters, and technical buildings are located here. Access here for tourists is categorically prohibited.
• Visitor Control Center: These are the "entry gates" of the base. The building is located at Gate 1. This is where the processing and screening take place, replacing the usual flight check-in.
• Historical Zone: The part of the base where the old brick buildings of Fort D.A. Russell and the museum are located. You can enter here after passing control.

Registration and Screening Procedures

Instead of scanning a boarding pass, a background check procedure takes place here. The "registration" process looks as follows:

• Processing Time: The procedure for obtaining a guest pass can take from 15 to 45 minutes, depending on staff workload and the number of visitors. It is recommended to arrive with time to spare.
• Documents: US citizens need an ID compliant with Real ID requirements. International tourists may require prior approval of the visit through the Public Affairs Office, as access for foreigners to military facilities is strictly regulated.
• Screening: Be prepared for your vehicle to be searched. Weapons, narcotics, and drones are strictly prohibited.

Navigation and Transit

Navigation within the base territory has its own specifics. There are no familiar flight schedule boards, but strict traffic rules apply.

Navigation Recommendations:

• After passing the checkpoint, follow the indicated route strictly to the museum or destination. Deviating from the route into restricted zones may result in detention by military police.
• Observe the speed limit. On military bases, it is monitored very strictly.
• Pay attention to "Restricted Area" signs. Approaching the airfield fences and photographing military infrastructure objects (hangars, checkpoints, communications equipment) is prohibited.

Thus, for the tourist, the "terminal" becomes the Visitor Center, and the "flight" is an immersion into the history of aviation and strategic forces in the base museum, located in historic barracks.

The history of the site where the F.E. Warren Air Force Base Heliport is located today goes back to the 19th century, when aviation did not yet exist. This is one of the few military bases in the USA that has functioned continuously from the era of settling the Wild West to the era of intercontinental ballistic missiles.

From Cavalry Fort to Air Base

The official founding date of the facility is considered to be 1867. Initially, it was Fort D.A. Russell, created to protect workers building the Union Pacific transcontinental railroad. In those days, there was no sign of "air forces" — the US Cavalry was stationed at the fort. Only in 1930, by decree of President Herbert Hoover, was the fort renamed in honor of Francis E. Warren — a Civil War hero and the first senator from the state of Wyoming.

A turning point in history occurred after World War II. In 1947, the facility was transferred from the Army to the newly created US Air Force. However, unlike many other bases, giant runways for heavy bombers were not built here. Historically, the aviation component here was always auxiliary, and with the development of technology, missile complexes became the base's main specialization.

The Era of Missiles and Helicopters

In 1958, F.E. Warren Air Force Base became the first in the country to be a fully operational Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) base. It was then that the modern role of the local airfield was formed. Since missile silos were scattered over a vast territory (covering three states: Wyoming, Nebraska, and Colorado), an acute need arose for mobile transport to deliver personnel and security. Thus, the heliport became a key logistics hub.

Key milestones in the development of the helipad and base:

• 1963 — The base became the first Air Force unit to be equipped with Minuteman I missiles. Helicopter squadrons began playing a critical role in servicing remote launch facilities.
• 1970s and 1980s — Modernization of heliport infrastructure to support more modern helicopters, such as the UH-1N Huey, which are still used today.
• 1986 — The base became the only deployment location for Peacekeeper (MX) missiles, which required increased security measures and expanded aerial patrolling.

Records and Unique Achievements

F.E. Warren Air Force Base holds a unique status — it is the oldest continuously active base in the US Air Force. In fact, it is older than the Air Force itself. Furthermore, in 1989, the base and its historic structures (brick buildings from the late 19th century) were included in the National Historic Landmarks list, which is uncharacteristic for active strategic facilities.

Interesting Facts

• No Runway: This is one of the rare Air Force bases without a runway for fixed-wing aircraft. All traffic here is exclusively helicopter-based.
• Legend of the Wedding Cakes: Some ancient barracks on the base territory are called "wedding cakes" due to their specific architecture remaining from the cavalry times.
• Historical Heritage: More than 200 buildings listed in the historic register have been preserved on the base territory. For tourists entering here, the contrast between the architecture of the 1890s and modern helicopters on the pads creates an amazing impression of time travel.

Since the F.E. Warren Air Force Base Heliport (FEW) is an active military facility, the range of services here is strictly regulated and oriented primarily towards service members, their families, and base personnel. Civilian flight passengers are not served here, so amenities familiar to tourists (Duty-Free, alliance business lounges, car rental counters) are absent. However, for visitors with access to the base (for example, museum guests or attendees of official events), a certain set of infrastructure is available.

Restaurants, Cafés, and Shops

Dining and retail infrastructure on the base is quite well-developed but is accessible only to pass holders (military ID or guest pass with escort).

• Base Exchange (BX) and Commissary: These are large shopping centers for the military where tax-free goods are sold. Here you can find electronics, clothing, food products, and souvenirs with Air Force symbols. Tourists without special status cannot make purchases here.
• Food Court and Cafés: Chain fast-food establishments (e.g., Burger King, Subway, Anthony's Pizza) as well as coffee shops operate on the base territory. They are located in the central part of the garrison, away from the helipads.
• Museum Shop: The only place where civilian tourists can freely purchase souvenirs is the small shop in the base museum. Commemorative coins, patches, books on aviation history, and missile models are sold here.

Lounges and Connectivity

There are no classic VIP lounges or Priority Pass zones at the heliport. Waiting for departure (for military personnel) takes place in specialized squadron rooms.

• Wi-Fi and Communication: Public open Wi-Fi networks on the base territory are generally absent for information security reasons. In residential zones and community centers (library, club), access may be provided via the Boingo provider or secure networks for personnel. Tourists are advised to rely on their own mobile data, though it is worth noting that in some zones of the base, the signal may be jammed or unstable.
• Charging Stations: There are no specialized gadget charging stands here like in civilian terminals. Outlets can be found in common areas (food court, library).

Financial and Medical Services

Autonomous infrastructure for garrison life support has been created on the base territory.

• Banks: Branches of banks oriented towards the military (e.g., Armed Forces Bank) and 24-hour ATMs operate here. Currency exchange is usually not performed on the base; international guests should arrange for US dollars in cash in advance or use banks in the city.
• Medical: Medical care is provided by the 90th Medical Group. The clinic provides a full range of services for the assigned contingent. For civilian visitors in emergencies, an ambulance is called to transport them to civilian hospitals in the city of Cheyenne.

Accommodation and Business Services

The issue of accommodation is relevant for those arriving at the base on an official visit.

• Hotels on Base: The main accommodation facility is the Crow Creek Inn. It is intended for temporary lodging of military and government employees. Rooms are simple but comfortable. Booking is available only to authorized persons.
• Hotels Nearby: Ordinary tourists stay in hotels in the city of Cheyenne. The nearest chain hotels (Holiday Inn, Fairfield Inn, and others) are just a 5–10 minute drive from the main base gates, along the I-25 highway.
• Conference Halls: The center of social life is the Trail's End club. It has banquet halls and rooms for conferences where official receptions, award ceremonies, and meetings are held. Use of the halls requires prior booking through the base administration.

Services for Special Categories of Passengers

• Passengers with Children: The base is oriented towards family values. There are many playgrounds, a child development center, and the Warren Lanes bowling center where you can spend time with family. The base museum is also adapted for visits with children and offers educational programs.
• Passengers with Disabilities: Being a US federal facility, the base complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements. Administrative buildings, the museum, and sidewalks are equipped with ramps and parking spaces for people with disabilities. If you require special assistance when visiting the museum, it is recommended to notify the Visitor Control Center staff in advance.

It is important to remember that the F.E. Warren Air Force Base Heliport (FEW) is not a commercial airport, so you will not find the usual terminals with a wide selection of fine dining restaurants or gastro-pubs here. The entire dining system on the base (Dining Services) is designed to meet the needs of military personnel, their families, and civilian employees. Access to these establishments is possible only with a base pass or when accompanied by a person holding such clearance.

For "passengers" — in this case, military travelers and official guests — dining is organized in several key zones that replace the usual "airside" and "landside".

Food Court at the Shopping Center (Base Exchange)

This is the main dining point for those looking for a quick snack. Located in the base's main shopping complex (BX), the food court resembles dining areas in regular malls but with more affordable prices and no sales tax.

• Available Establishments: Popular American chain brands are usually represented here, such as Burger King (burgers), Subway (sandwiches), Qdoba (Mexican cuisine), or Charleys Philly Steaks. The assortment may change depending on current contracts.
• Average Bill: Budget option. Lunch will cost 8–15 USD.
• Opening Hours: Usually from 10:30 to 18:00 or 19:00. On weekends, hours may be reduced.
• Location: Central zone of the base, near residential quarters.

Trail’s End Club (Wrangler Lounge)

If you are looking for a place for a full lunch or dinner in a quieter setting, the best choice would be the Trail’s End club. This is the center of the base's social life.

• Menu and Cuisine: Classic American dishes are served here: steaks, burgers, chicken wings, salads, and pizza. This is the only place on the base comparable to a full-service restaurant. On Fridays, themed evenings are often held here.
• Signature Offers: It is worth trying local steaks or burgers, often grilled in the "Wyoming BBQ" style.
• Average Bill: 15–25 USD for a full meal.
• Lounge: The club operates a lounge area serving various beverages (strictly 21+).

Cafés and Snacks

• Warren Lanes Bowling Center: The Spare Time Grill snack bar operates at the bowling alley. This is a great place for breakfast or a quick lunch. They make excellent cheeseburgers, French fries, and pizza here. Open from early morning until evening.
• Coffee Shops: There are coffee sales points on the base territory (often inside the BX or Express mini-markets) where you can get takeaway coffee and pastries.

Dietary Options (Vegetarian, Halal, Gluten-Free)

Since the base serves a diverse contingent of service members, dining establishments try to accommodate various dietary needs, although the selection may be limited compared to civilian restaurants.

• Vegetarians and Vegans: At Subway and Qdoba, there is always an option to assemble a sandwich or bowl without meat, with plenty of vegetables. At the Trail’s End club, salads and vegetable sides are usually available.
• Healthy Eating: As part of the military "Go for Green" program, dishes with high nutritional value and low fat content are marked in many outlets (especially in dining halls).
• Halal and Gluten-Free: Specialized certification may not be displayed at fast-food outlets; it is recommended to verify ingredients directly with staff.

Recommendations for Tourists and Museum Visitors

It is important to note: if you are visiting the base as a tourist solely for the museum (with a temporary pass), access to the food court or club may be restricted or logistically inconvenient for you. There is no café inside the museum itself.

We recommend:

• For a quick snack, bring water and light snacks with you, as shops may be far from the historical zone.
• For a gastronomic experience, head to the city of Cheyenne after the tour. Just a 10–15 minute drive from the base gates, in the city center, you will find authentic steakhouses serving bison meat and atmospheric venues reflecting the Wild West spirit, unavailable in the strict environment of a military facility.

Visiting a military airfield is not at all the same as traveling through a regular civilian hub. Since the F.E. Warren Air Force Base Heliport (FEW) is closed to commercial flights, a "journey" here implies a visit to the museum or an official event. To ensure your visit goes smoothly and without stress, we have prepared a number of specific recommendations considering the strict restricted status of the facility.

Optimal Arrival Time

The rule of "arriving 2 hours before departure" does not apply here, but punctuality is critically important.

• Allow Time for Screening: The pass processing procedure at the Visitor Control Center at Gate 1 can take from 15 to 45 minutes. If there is a queue ahead of you or questions arise regarding documents, the waiting time will increase.
• Opening Hours: Consider the Visitor Control Center schedule (usually from 07:00 to 16:00 on weekdays). Arriving 10 minutes before closing is not recommended — they simply won't have time to process your documents.

Registration and Security Control

Instead of an airline check-in counter, you will interact with Security Forces officers.

• Documents: Ensure your identification (ID or driver's license) meets Real ID Act requirements. If the document is of an old format and does not meet federal standards, you will be denied entry.
• Foreign Citizens: If you do not have US citizenship, you will not be able to obtain a pass "on the spot". The visit must be coordinated in advance (at least 30 days) through a sponsor on the base or the Public Affairs Office.
• Vehicle Inspection: Be prepared to open the trunk, hood, and doors of the vehicle for inspection. This is a standard procedure.

What Can and Cannot Be Brought (Carry-on Rules)

Rules on a military base are stricter than TSA in civilian airports. What is legal in the state may be a crime on federal land.

• Weapons: Bringing personal firearms is categorically prohibited, even if you have a concealed carry permit in the state of Wyoming.
• Marijuana: Despite legalization in many states, possession of any amount of cannabis on federal facilities (which the base belongs to) is a federal crime.
• Drones: Never bring quadcopters with you. Launching a drone over or near the base will lead to its confiscation and serious legal consequences.
• Photography Equipment: Cameras are permitted, but you can only take photos in public zones (museum, park). Photographing checkpoints, fences, antenna fields, and security forces personnel is strictly prohibited.

Tips on "Seat Selection" and Transfers

Since civilians do not fly on military helicopters, your main logistical decisions concern ground transport.

• Car Rental: This is an absolute necessity. Cheyenne public transport does not enter the base, and walking from the gates to the museum can be exhausting due to large distances. Rent a car at Denver airport or in the city of Cheyenne.
• Route Planning: If you arrived in Denver (DEN), allow about 2 hours for the drive to the base in a rental car. In winter, time may increase due to snowfall on the I-25 highway.

Saving Time and Money

• Free Museum: Visiting the air base museum and historic Fort D.A. Russell is free, making it an excellent budget leisure option.
• Observe Speed Limits: This is the best way to save money. On the base territory, police monitor speed with zero tolerance. A fine for exceeding even by 2-3 miles per hour will be issued instantly, and it can be quite substantial.
• Car Insurance: Ensure you have a valid rental contract or insurance for your personal vehicle on hand. Without presenting current insurance, a vehicle pass will not be issued.

Actions in Non-Standard Situations

There are no "flight delays" here, but restricted regime limitations do happen.

• Sudden Lockdown: In rare cases, the base may be closed for entry/exit due to exercises or security incidents. If you are inside, remain calm, stay in the building (for example, in the museum), and follow the instructions of uniformed personnel.
• Weather Conditions: Wyoming is known for strong winds and blizzards. If roads on the base are declared "Red Road Conditions", civilian transport movement is prohibited. Check the weather forecast before leaving your hotel.