Del Rio (Laughlin AFB)

Del Rio Airport, known globally as Laughlin Air Force Base (Laughlin AFB), is not merely a place for take-offs and landings, but a true forge for the elite of American aviation. Located under the hot Texas sun, this facility serves as the home of the 47th Flying Training Wing and is the largest pilot training base in the US Air Force. Although you cannot buy a ticket for a regular passenger flight here, the roar of jet engines in the sky over Del Rio has become an integral part of the city's atmosphere, symbolizing power and discipline. For tourists, this airfield is primarily interesting as an important historical and aviation monument, reminding us of legendary pages of the past, including events of the Cold War.

Features and Facility Status

It is important to understand that Laughlin AFB is an active military facility with a strict access control regime. It is impossible to arrive here on a regular flight; civilian travellers usually use the neighbouring Del Rio International Airport (DRT) or arrive by car from San Antonio.

Historical Significance

The base has a rich history rooted in the Second World War era. It was from here, during the Cold War years, that U-2 reconnaissance flights were launched, playing a key role in resolving the Cuban Missile Crisis. This historical context attracts the attention of military history enthusiasts visiting the region.

Aviation Activity

Despite the lack of commercial passengers, Laughlin is one of the busiest airfields in the world in terms of take-offs and landings on weekdays. This is due to the intensive pilot training programme: hundreds of new pilots earn their "wings" here annually, honing their skills on T-6A Texan II, T-38C Talon, and T-1A Jayhawk training aircraft.

• Official Website: www.laughlin.af.mil
• Base Phone (Operator): +1 (830) 298-3511
• Address: 47th Flying Training Wing, Laughlin AFB, TX 78843, USA
• Email (for Media and General Inquiries): 47ftwpa.taskers@us.af.mil
• Social Media: Official page on Facebook
• Lost Luggage Information: Not provided (the airfield does not serve commercial passenger flights)
• Inquiry Contacts: Public Affairs Office — for official visits and press inquiries

Since Laughlin AFB is an active military facility, it is impossible to get here directly by a regular passenger flight. The specific nature of visiting the base (for example, to attend a pilot graduation ceremony or an official visit) implies that the main route for tourists lies through neighbouring major civilian transport hubs followed by a transfer to ground transport.

By Car and Taxi

A car is the most reliable and common way to reach the base. Del Rio is located in a fairly remote part of Texas, so personal or rented transport is practically essential here.

• From Del Rio City Centre: The journey will take just 10–15 minutes (about 10 km). Drive east on Highway US-90 E. The Main Gate of the base is clearly visible from the highway. The cost of a trip by local taxi will be approximately 15–20 US Dollars.
• Car Rental: Representatives of major rental companies (Hertz, Enterprise) operate in the city of Del Rio itself and at the terminal of the neighbouring civilian airport (DRT). It is recommended to book a car in advance, as the fleet may be limited.

Via Nearby Major Airports

As Laughlin does not accept civilian aircraft, travellers usually fly into one of the major cities in Texas, rent a car, and drive to Del Rio. Here are the main options:

• San Antonio: San Antonio International Airport (SAT) — the most popular choice. The distance is about 225 km, and the travel time by car is approximately 2.5–3 hours along the scenic US-90 West highway.
• Austin: Austin-Bergstrom Airport (AUS) is further away, at 315 km. The journey will take about 3.5–4 hours, but this option may be more cost-effective regarding airfares.
• Other Options: You can also consider San Angelo Airport (about 223 km) or Laredo International Airport (about 240 km), although there are usually fewer flights there.

Public Transport (Train and Bus)

Although public transport does not enter the base territory itself, you can get to the city of Del Rio without a car, and cover the final kilometres by taxi.

• Train (Amtrak): The route of the famous Sunset Limited train (Los Angeles — New Orleans) passes through Del Rio. The railway station is located in the city centre. This is a romantic, but not always fast way to travel.
• Bus: Greyhound operates services to the Del Rio bus station from San Antonio and other Texas cities.

Parking and Access Rules

For base visitors, parking is provided at the Visitor Control Center, located in front of the main gates. You can leave your car here free of charge while processing your pass.

Important Recommendation: To enter the territory in a rented or personal vehicle, you will need a valid driving licence, rental agreement (or vehicle registration), and proof of insurance. Be prepared for a vehicle inspection. Strictly observe the speed limit on the base territory — military police monitor order meticulously.

Structure and Territory Organisation

Since Laughlin AFB (DLF) is an active military base and not a civilian airport, there is no structure familiar to tourists with Terminals A, B, or C, Duty Free zones, or baggage claim belts. The entire base territory functions as a single secured complex, a "city within a city", where the role of the "terminal" for visitors is played by the checkpoint, and departure and arrival zones are replaced by operational hangars and runways, access to which is strictly limited.

"Entrance Terminal": Visitor Control Center

For a guest arriving at the base (for example, for a pilot graduation ceremony), the only point of entry is the Visitor Control Center (VCC). It is located directly at the Main Gate off Highway US-90.

• Purpose: This is the analogue of a check-in zone. Document checks, issuance of temporary passes, and initial screening take place here.
• Features: The building is equipped with processing counters, a waiting area, and restrooms. There are no shops or cafes here; it is strictly an administrative facility.

Territory Zoning

Instead of departure halls, the base is divided into functional zones, navigation between which requires attention:

1. Administrative and Residential Zone: Located immediately after the main gates. The wing headquarters, dormitories, hospital, and shops (Base Exchange) are located here, accessible mainly to personnel.
2. Ceremonial Event Zone: A key location for tourists. Usually, this is Anderson Hall or Club XL, where the "wings" presentation ceremonies for graduates take place.
3. Flight Line: The "inner sanctum" of the base. This is the zone of hangars and parking for T-6, T-38, and T-1 aircraft. For civilians, access here is possible only when accompanied by military personnel and only during special tours or static displays of aviation equipment.

Registration and Screening Procedures

The process of entering DLF differs significantly from passing through a metal detector at an airport. This is a restricted facility, so control here is stricter, but queues are usually shorter than in major hubs.

• Processing Time: It is recommended to allocate 30–45 minutes for processing a pass at the Visitor Control Center, especially on graduation days when the flow of guests is high.
• Transport Inspection: If you are entering by car, be prepared to open the boot, bonnet, and all doors. Military police may conduct a full inspection of the vehicle.
• Documents: Every adult passenger must have identification (passport). The driver is obliged to present a driving licence, insurance, and vehicle documents.

Navigation and Transfers

Movement around the base is carried out primarily by car. Walking between distant objects is not common here due to distances and the hot climate.

Navigation Recommendations:

• Main Artery: The main road leads from the Main Gate (Liberty Drive). Most signs are clear and easy to read.
• Compliance with Rules: Navigation is simple but requires discipline. Strictly observe "Stop" signs and speed limits (usually 20–30 mph). Exceeding the speed limit by even 5 mph can lead to the revocation of your pass.
• Parking: Every key building (Anderson Hall, Club XL) has its own large free car parks. You may park only in designated places.
• Photography Restrictions: Navigation is complicated by the fact that photographing checkpoints and the fence line is strictly prohibited. You may only take photos at ceremonies and static displays.

The history of this unique airfield is a mirror of the development of American military aviation: from piston-engine bombers of the Second World War to the supersonic training jets of modern times. Over the decades of its existence, the base has gone from a temporary training ground to the status of the main training centre of the US Air Force.

Birth of a Legend: The 1940s

The airport was officially founded in March 1943 as "Laughlin Army Air Field". The base received its name in honour of Jack T. Laughlin — a B-17 pilot and the first native of Del Rio to die in combat during World War II over Java. In those years, the main task of the airfield was the training of pilots and crews for B-26 Marauder medium bombers. However, after the end of the war, in 1945, the base was temporarily closed, like many other military facilities of that time.

The Jet Age and the Cold War

The airfield's second life began in connection with the Korean War. In 1952, the facility reopened, but this time as a base for training jet fighter pilots. Soon, control passed to the Strategic Air Command (SAC), marking the beginning of the most secret and dramatic chapter in Del Rio's history.

From 1957 to 1962, Laughlin was home to the 4080th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing, operating high-altitude U-2 reconnaissance aircraft. It was from here, from the scorching concrete of Del Rio, that planes took to the skies to perform critical missions over Cuba.

Historical Event: The Cuban Missile Crisis

Laughlin Airfield is forever inscribed in the history of world diplomacy and aviation due to the events of October 1962. It was here that Major Rudolf Anderson Jr. was based. His reconnaissance flight on a U-2, which confirmed the presence of missiles in Cuba, and his subsequent tragic death, became the culminating moment of the Cuban Missile Crisis. A U-2 memorial aircraft has been installed on the grounds in memory of these events and the base's role in preserving peace.

Modernisation and Present Day

In the 1970s, the base returned to its original vocation — education. Moving under the command of Air Training Command, Laughlin focused on Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training (SUPT). Over the past decades, the airport infrastructure has undergone large-scale modernisation:

• Runways were lengthened to accommodate modern high-speed aircraft.
• Digital flight simulators were introduced, allowing missions to be practised on the ground.
• A complete renewal of the fleet took place: the outdated T-37 Tweet was replaced by modern turboprop T-6A Texan II aircraft, which became the new "flying classroom" for cadets.

Records and Interesting Facts

Today, Laughlin AFB is not just an airfield, but a facility setting records for efficiency and flight intensity.

• Busiest Base: Laughlin holds the leadership among all US Air Force bases in terms of the number of training sorties. On weekdays, the intensity of take-offs and landings here exceeds the figures of many major international civilian airports.
• Perfect Weather: The site for construction in 1943 was not chosen by chance. Del Rio is famous for a large number of sunny days, which allows flights to be conducted almost all year round without cancellations due to weather conditions.
• Forge of Cadres: More military pilots graduate here annually than at any other base in the USA. It is considered that every third pilot of the American Air Force began their journey in the sky precisely over Del Rio.

Since Laughlin Air Force Base (DLF) is a restricted military facility, the range of services here differs significantly from standard civilian airports. There is no duty-free or airline business lounges, and all infrastructure is oriented primarily towards ensuring a comfortable life for service members and their families. Nevertheless, for guests arriving for graduation ceremonies or official visits, all necessary amenities are provided on the premises.

Restaurants, Cafes, and Shops

The centre of attraction for shopping and dining on the base is the Base Exchange (BX) complex. This is analogous to a shopping mall where visitors can find:

• Food Court: Popular American chain eateries (such as Subway or Burger King) are usually represented here, offering a quick snack.
• Shops: In the main BX building, you can purchase souvenirs with US Air Force insignia, clothing, electronics, and essentials. Note that some items may be sold only upon presentation of a military ID, but food and souvenirs are generally available to all guests with a pass.
• Club XL: The officers' club, which often becomes the venue for gala dinners and social events. It offers a more varied menu and a restaurant atmosphere.

Hotels and Accommodation

The issue of accommodation for base guests is solved in two ways:

• On Territory (Laughlin Manor): This is the official base hotel (Air Force Inn). It offers comfortable rooms at affordable prices, however, priority for check-in is given to military personnel arriving on duty. Booking places here must be done well in advance of the visit.
• In Del Rio City: Most tourists stay in hotels outside the base, located along Highway US-90 (just a 10–15 minute drive away). Well-known chains such as Ramada, Holiday Inn Express, and Motel 6 are represented there.

Financial Services and Connectivity

All conditions have been created on the base to solve everyday issues:

• Banks and ATMs: ATMs servicing cards of major payment systems are installed on the territory (mainly in the BX and Club zones). There is also a branch of a military credit union (usually USAA or a local bank) where you can withdraw cash dollars. Currency exchange is not performed here, so international guests are recommended to take care of this in advance.
• Wi-Fi and Charging: Free wireless internet access is usually available in the Laughlin Manor lobby, the base library, and Club XL. US standard sockets (Type A and B) are present in all public areas.

Medical Services

The 47th Medical Group (Laughlin Medical Group) operates on the base — a clinic providing assistance to flight crews and personnel. In case of an emergency, guests will be given first aid, however, for full treatment, civilians are directed to the Val Verde Regional Medical Center in the city of Del Rio.

Facilities for Special Categories of Passengers

• For People of Determination (Disabled): As a US federal facility, the base strictly adheres to barrier-free environment standards. All key buildings, including ceremony venues (Anderson Hall), are equipped with ramps, wide doorways, and special restrooms.
• For Passengers with Children: Playgrounds are equipped in the Base Exchange zone and near residential quarters. Shops and public buildings have mother and child rooms or changing tables. The atmosphere on the base is family-friendly, as many young officers' families live here.

Business and Events

There are no customary business lounges with soft armchairs for waiting for flights here. Their role is played by functional rooms for briefings and meetings. For conferences and celebrations, Anderson Hall is used — a spacious hall equipped with modern audiovisual technology, where the most important events in the life of the base take place, including the presentation of "wings" to new pilots.

Since Laughlin Air Force Base (DLF) is not a standard civilian airport, you will not find the usual terminals with endless rows of cafes and fine dining restaurants here. Catering organisation here is subject to a strict military schedule and is aimed at quick and filling service for personnel and base guests. Nevertheless, visitors arriving for ceremonial events will not go hungry.

Main Dining Zones: Where to Find Food

Instead of dividing into "airside" and "landside" zones, catering on the base is concentrated in the so-called "Community Support Area", accessible to all pass holders. The main locations are within walking distance or a couple of minutes' drive from each other.

1. Food Court at Base Exchange (BX)

This is the analogue of the main dining zone in a shopping centre. Located inside the base's main store.

• Type of Establishment: Chain fast food.
• What is Offered: Classic American sandwich bars (e.g., Subway) and burger joints are usually represented here. This is the best option for a quick snack if you have little time between a tour and a ceremony.
• Opening Hours: Usually coincide with shop hours, from 09:00 to 18:00–19:00 (hours may be reduced on weekends).
• Average Bill: 8–12 USD.

2. Club XL (Officers' and Staff Club)

The main social establishment of the base, which functions as a full-service restaurant and lounge. This is a place with a more relaxed atmosphere where you can sit with a group.

• Cuisine: American classics with a Texan accent. It is worth trying the local Buffalo wings, steaks, and hearty burgers. Themed evenings are often held (e.g., Taco Tuesdays or Steak Nights).
• Atmosphere: Friendly and informal, the interior is decorated with aviation symbols of the 47th Wing.
• For Whom: Open to all base guests (club membership is usually not required to buy food, but it is better to check at the entrance).
• Average Bill: 15–25 USD for a full lunch.

3. Snack Bar at the Bowling Alley (Cactus Lanes Bowling Center)

If the main establishments are closed or overcrowded, take a look at the bowling centre.

• Menu: Typical "comfort food" — pizza, chips (fries), nachos with cheese, and sodas.
• Features: Food is prepared quickly and inexpensively here. An excellent option for families with children.
• Opening Hours: Often works longer than the food court, covering evening hours.

Dietary Requirements and Special Requests

Given the specifics of a military facility, the choice of specialised food may be limited. It is recommended to plan your diet in advance if you have strict dietary requirements.

• Vegetarians and Vegans: The best choice would be the sandwich bar in the BX zone (where you can assemble a salad or vegetable sandwich) or side dishes at Club XL. Specialised vegan dishes may not be on the menu.
• Gluten-Free: Menus rarely contain special "Gluten Free" markings. The safest option is salads without croutons or a steak without sauce at the Club.
• Halal and Kosher: Finding certified dishes at the food court is difficult. In this case, it is better to bring food with you or dine in the city of Del Rio.

Recommendations for Guests

It is important to remember that the opening hours of establishments may change depending on exercises or weekends. If you plan a visit on a Sunday, be prepared for the fact that most food outlets on the base may be closed, and you will have to use restaurants outside the base gates along Highway US-90.

When planning a visit to Del Rio Airport (Laughlin AFB), it is important to remember the main rule: this is an active military base, not a civilian transport hub. The usual algorithms of tourist behaviour characteristic of Heathrow or JFK do not apply here. To ensure your trip to the graduation ceremony or air show runs smoothly, we have prepared a number of specific recommendations considering the facility's strict security status.

Arrival Time and Planning

Unlike civilian flights, where it is advised to arrive 2–3 hours early, here time is calculated based on the operation of the pass office.

• Allocate Time for the VCC: The procedure for issuing a temporary pass at the Visitor Control Center can take from 30 minutes to an hour, especially on days of mass events (graduations). If the ceremony starts at 09:00, be at the base gates no later than 07:30.
• Consider Traffic at the Entrance: Morning rush hours (from 06:30 to 08:00) are the time when base personnel arrive for duty. Queues of cars may form at the checkpoint.

"Check-in" and Security Features

There are no airline check-in counters here; their role is played by the checkpoint. The screening procedure is stricter than in civilian airports.

• Documents Always at Hand: Driving licence (or passport) and vehicle documents must be in your hands even before you drive up to the sentry. Searching for documents in the glove compartment holds up the queue and arouses the suspicion of security.
• "Clean Car" Rule: Before travelling to the base, tidy up the interior and boot of your car. Excess items complicate the inspection. Be prepared to open all doors and the bonnet upon first request.
• Foreign Citizens: If there are non-US citizens in your group, the verification procedure takes longer. In most cases, it is required to submit data for a background check several weeks before the visit through the host party (your sponsor on the base).

What Can and Cannot Be Brought In (Analogue of "Hand Luggage")

Rules for bringing items onto the territory of Laughlin AFB are regulated by federal legislation, which may differ from the laws of the state of Texas.

• Weapons: Strictest prohibition. Even if you have a concealed carry licence (CCW) valid in Texas, bringing personal weapons onto a federal military facility is categorically prohibited. Leave them at home or in the hotel safe.
• Photographic Equipment: Cameras are permitted, but with restrictions. It is forbidden to bring long-focus lenses without special media accreditation. You may not photograph checkpoints, fences, security systems, or security personnel.
• Prohibited Substances: US Federal law is severe regarding narcotic substances. Even substances legalised in some states are completely banned on the territory of the military base.

Tips on "Choosing a Seat"

Since there are no civilian passenger flights from Laughlin AFB, advice on choosing a seat on the plane transforms into advice on choosing a viewing point.

• At Ceremonies: If you have arrived for a graduation (Drop Night or Graduation), try to take seats in Anderson Hall closer to the central aisle — this way you can take the best shots of your graduate.
• At Air Shows: The best views of the runway open up from the car park at Club XL, but remember hearing protection — T-38 training aircraft are very noisy.
• For Those Flying into the Region: If you are arriving via the neighbouring Del Rio civil airport (DRT), remember that small regional aircraft (CRJ) fly there. The overhead bins for hand luggage are small, so it is better to check large bags (Valet Check) at the steps immediately.

Recommendations for Passengers with Transfers

As there is no direct air connection to the base, your "transfer" is a car journey from the nearest major airport.

• From San Antonio (SAT): The journey will take about 2.5 hours. Plan your arrival in San Antonio no later than 16:00 to reach Del Rio before dark. Night driving on the US-90 highway requires caution due to the large number of deer crossing the road.
• Car Rental: This is the only reliable way to get to the base and move around it. Taxi services (Uber/Lyft) can take you to the gates, but do not have the right to enter the base territory without a special driver's pass.

Saving Time and Money

• Dine on Base: Prices in establishments on the territory (Club XL, BX food court) are often lower than in the city, and portions are large. In addition, this saves time on exiting and re-entering through the checkpoint.
• Free Entertainment: Visiting the park of static aircraft (Static Display) on the base territory is a free excursion into aviation history.
• Refuelling: If you have the right to use the petrol station on the base (for military and veterans), petrol there is usually cheaper than at Del Rio city petrol stations.

In Case of Delay or Change of Plans

In the context of a military base, a "flight delay" means a change in the schedule of events.

• Weather: Strong wind or thunderstorms may cause the cancellation of demonstration flights or the relocation of a ceremony indoors. Follow updates on the official base page on Facebook.
• Connectivity: Bear in mind that in some hangars and base buildings, mobile reception may work intermittently. Agree on a meeting point with those meeting you in advance (for example, "by the U-2 plane on the pedestal").