Dover Air Force Base

Dover Air Force Base is not the typical transport hub that tourists are accustomed to; rather, it is a legendary centre for aerial logistics and a home to the true giants of the sky. Instead of standard passenger airliners, colossal transport aircraft are based here, carrying out missions across the globe. Although this airfield is closed to commercial flights, it remains a point of attraction for travellers due to its rich history and the unique museum located directly on its grounds.

As Dover is an active military facility, it does not accept standard tourist flights; however, it possesses a range of features that make it an interesting destination to visit:

Air Mobility Command Museum. This is the location's main "gem," accessible to everyone. It is the only museum in the world dedicated entirely to the history of airlift and air refueling. Tourists can view over 30 historical aircraft for free, including rare bombers and massive transport planes, and even climb inside the cockpits of some exhibits.

Spectacular Plane Spotting. For aviation photography enthusiasts, the surroundings of the base offer a unique opportunity to observe the takeoff and landing of some of the world's largest aircraft — the C-5M Super Galaxy and the C-17 Globemaster III. The sheer scale of these machines flying overhead leaves an indelible impression.

Convenient Location. The airfield is located just a few minutes' drive from Dover city centre and close to the popular Dover Motor Speedway. This makes it an excellent point for a short but educational stop while travelling through the state of Delaware.

• Official Airport Website: www.dover.af.mil
• Inquiry Service Phone: +1 302-677-2854 (Space-A flight recording), +1 302-677-3000 (Base operator)
• Airport Address: 150 Airlift Ave, Dover AFB, DE 19902, USA (Passenger Terminal 436th APS)
• Email: 436aps.spacea@us.af.mil (for inquiries regarding military travel)
• Airport Social Media: Facebook, Instagram
• Lost Luggage Information: +1 302-677-4088 (contact the passenger service counter)
• Passenger Support Contacts: +1 302-677-4088 (Passenger Terminal Administration)

Since Dover Air Force Base is an active military facility and does not accept commercial flights, the classic ways to "get from the airport to the city" work differently here. Most often, tourists visit this place for the Air Mobility Command (AMC) Museum or arrive here on official duty. The main transport hubs for travellers are major civil airports in neighbouring cities, from where one must reach Dover by ground transport.

Here is detailed information on how to get to the air base and museum from Dover city centre and the nearest aviation hubs.

By Car and Taxi

A personal or rented car is the most convenient and common way to get around in Delaware. The base is located southeast of the city centre.

• Route: From downtown Dover, head south on US-13 S (South Dupont Highway) or via route DE-1. The exit to the AMC Museum is well marked with signs.
• Travel Time: The drive from the city centre (The Green or Legislative Hall areas) will take just 10–15 minutes (about 6–8 km).
• Taxi and Ridesharing: Uber and Lyft services are active in Dover. The cost of a trip from the city centre to the museum entrance is usually between 15–25 USD.
• Car Rental: Rental agencies (Enterprise, Hertz) are located in Dover city itself, but not on the military base territory. It is recommended to rent a car in advance if you plan to tour the region.

Public Transport

You can also reach the air base area by bus, although this will take more time than by car.

• DART First State Buses: This is the main public transport operator in the state. Routes passing through Dover (for example, route 104 or local city lines) connect the city centre with the base area. The stop is usually located on US-13, from where you will have to walk a short distance to the museum entrance.
• Cost: A single trip ticket costs about 2 USD, and a daily pass is about 4 USD.
• Trains: There is no Amtrak railway station in Dover itself. The nearest station is in Wilmington. From there, you can get to Dover by DART bus (route 301), which takes about an hour.

Parking

If you are heading to the AMC Museum, parking there is free and spacious, with enough room even for RVs. Entry to the museum is through separate gates that do not require passing through a military checkpoint. If you have access to the base itself (for military personnel and their families), parking is available at the terminal and residential quarters but requires an appropriate vehicle pass.

Getting There from Other Airports

Since Dover does not accept civil aircraft, tourists usually fly into neighbouring states and drive to Dover in a rented car or transfer. The nearest options are:

The most popular choice is Philadelphia International Airport (PHL). It is located approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes away by car, driving north on I-95 and DE-1. This is the largest hub in the region with a huge selection of flights.

Another convenient option for international flights is Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI). The journey from here will take about 1 hour and 45 minutes via the scenic Bay Bridge across the Chesapeake Bay.

If you are looking for less crowded terminals, you can consider Wilmington Airport, located just 45 minutes away, or Salisbury Regional Airport to the south of Dover (about 1 hour away).

Also within a one-and-a-half-hour drive is Atlantic City International Airport, which may be convenient if you are combining your trip with a visit to the New Jersey coast, although this would require using the Cape May-Lewes Ferry or making a detour via the Delaware Memorial Bridge.

Since Dover Air Force Base (DOV) is a military facility, its terminal infrastructure differs radically from civil airports. There are no familiar Terminals A, B, or C with endless rows of duty-free shops here. Instead, passenger service (for military personnel, their families, and those eligible for Space-A travel) is concentrated in one compact and functional building.

Structure: One Terminal for All Tasks

The airport features a single Passenger Terminal, managed by the 436th Aerial Port Squadron. This is a standalone building where all processes take place: from flight check-in to baggage claim upon arrival.

Layout features:

• Compactness: The building is small and single-story, making navigation intuitive. It is practically impossible to get lost here.
• Zoning: The terminal is nominally divided into a "dirty" zone (check-in counters, waiting area for greeters, vending machines) and a "clean" sterile zone (departure lounge after security screening).
• No Jet Bridges: Boarding the aircraft (usually a C-5 Galaxy or C-17 Globemaster III) is not done via an aerobridge, but by walking across the tarmac or transferring by bus from the terminal exit to the aircraft ramp.

Departure and Arrival Zones

Unlike major hubs where arriving and departing passenger flows are separated on different floors, everything happens on one level at Dover.

Departure Zone: Includes counters for document checks and baggage weighing. Information screens with the military flight schedule (which is fluid and mission-dependent) are located here. After check-in, passengers undergo security screening similar to TSA procedures in civil airports, but often faster due to the smaller flow of people.

Arrival Zone: The baggage belt is located in immediate proximity to the exit. Baggage delivery usually happens promptly, as unloading is handled by military specialists immediately after the aircraft stops.

Terminal Features and Amenities

Despite its utilitarian purpose, the terminal offers comfortable waiting conditions that may pleasantly surprise travellers accustomed to the hustle of civil airports:

• USO Lounge: As in many American hubs, a USO (United Service Organizations) zone operates here, where military personnel and their families can have a snack, drink coffee, watch TV, or use computers for free.
• Family Room: A special area equipped for passengers with small children (Nursery / Family Room).
• Wi-Fi and Charging: Free wireless internet and gadget charging stations are available throughout the terminal.
• Luggage Storage: Lockers are available for temporary storage of belongings, which is convenient during long waits for "Space-A" seats.

Check-in and Formalities

Procedures in a military terminal have their own specifics, especially for those flying under the Space-A program (subject to seat availability):

Arrival Time: It is recommended to arrive at the terminal no later than 2–3 hours before the scheduled departure. For Space-A flights, it is critically important to be present at the time of "Roll Call," the time of which is indicated in the flight schedule.

Security Screening: The screening process is standard: scanning of carry-on luggage and passing through a metal detector frame. Liquids and electronics are checked according to general US aviation security rules. Queues are generally non-existent or move very quickly.

Navigation Recommendations

If you are heading to the terminal by car, follow the signs for "Passenger Terminal" after entering through the Main Gate of the base. Parking for passengers is located directly in front of the terminal building. It is important to remember that entering the base territory requires appropriate identification (Military ID) or an arranged guest pass. Ordinary tourists without clearance will not be able to drive directly to the passenger terminal.

The history of Dover Air Force Base is a chronicle of the transformation of a small municipal airfield into one of the key logistics centres of global aviation. Over the decades of its existence, this facility has gone from a World War II training ground to a home for the largest transport aircraft in the US arsenal.

Birth and War Years

The airport's history began in 1941. Initially, it was a civil facility — the Municipal Airport of Dover. However, almost immediately after the attack on Pearl Harbor, in December of that same year, the facility was leased to the US Army Air Forces. During World War II, the base played a strategic role in the defence of the East Coast: patrol planes flew from here to search for German submarines in the Atlantic, and training for P-47 Thunderbolt fighter crews was conducted.

Temporary Lull and Revival

After the war ended, in 1946, the base was temporarily deactivated and returned to civil authorities. However, the onset of the Cold War required strengthening aerial logistics. In 1951, the facility was reactivated and transferred under the management of military command. From that moment, large-scale reconstruction began: runways were lengthened, and new hangars and terminals capable of accommodating heavy transport equipment were built.

Era of Giants: Home of the "Galaxy"

A key milestone in Dover's history was 1971, when the first strategic transport aircraft, the C-5 Galaxy, arrived at the base. These machines, capable of transporting tanks, helicopters, and huge volumes of humanitarian cargo, forever changed the face of the airfield. Dover became their "home base" on the East Coast.

Unique infrastructure was required to service such giants. During modernization, one of the largest air traffic control towers and massive repair docks, into which a C-5 can fit entirely, were built here. It was from here that the largest air bridges in history were coordinated, including operations to deliver cargo during conflicts in the Persian Gulf and humanitarian missions around the world.

Modernity and Modernization

In the 21st century, the base continued to develop. In the 2000s, a large-scale program for fleet and infrastructure modernization began. Aging models were replaced by upgraded C-5M Super Galaxy aircraft with new engines and avionics, as well as the more maneuverable C-17 Globemaster III. Today, Dover is the base for the 436th Airlift Wing, known as the "Eagle Wing," and ensures cargo delivery to any point on the planet within hours.

Interesting Facts and Achievements

• Historic Tower: The base's old control tower was not demolished after the construction of the new one. It was carefully preserved and became part of the exhibition at the Air Mobility Command Museum (AMC Museum), which is a unique case of musealization for such a large object.
• Space Connection: Dover's runway was used as an emergency landing site for the Space Shuttle orbiters, although in practice, the shuttles never landed here.
• Gates of Honour: Dover holds a special place in US history as the sole port in the continental part of the country where the remains of American service members who have fallen abroad are returned for a solemn transfer ceremony and identification.
• Record Cargoes: Crews from Dover have repeatedly set world records for flight distance without refueling and weight of cargo carried, delivering everything from humanitarian aid to earthquake victims to equipment for scientific stations in Antarctica.

Since the Dover Air Force Base passenger terminal serves military flights (AMC) and Space-A program participants, the range of services here differs from typical commercial airports. You will not find galleries with luxury brand boutiques or food courts with dozens of restaurants here. Instead, the focus is on functionality, basic comfort, and support for military personnel and their families.

Dining and Shopping

Inside the passenger terminal itself, opportunities for shopping and dining are limited but sufficient for a short wait:

• Vending Machines: Vending machines with soft drinks, coffee, and light snacks (crisps, chocolates, sandwiches) are installed in the waiting areas.
• Base Exchange (BX): If you have time before your flight and access to transport, you can visit the base's main shopping complex. It houses a food court with popular chain establishments (e.g., Burger King, Subway, Starbucks), as well as a large department store where goods are sold tax-free. Please note: a Military ID is required for purchases at the BX.

Lounges and Relaxation

The main place for rest in the terminal is the USO (United Service Organizations) centre. This is analogous to business lounges in civil airports but with a more homely and cosy atmosphere. Services are provided free of charge for military personnel and their families.

• USO Amenities: Soft armchairs and sofas, large-screen TVs, a library with books and magazines, free snacks, coffee, and tea. Organization volunteers are always ready to help with information or simply offer friendly conversation.

Connectivity and Work

Staying connected at Dover Base is easy. The terminal is equipped with everything necessary to solve urgent work issues before departure:

• Wi-Fi: A free Wi-Fi network operates throughout the passenger terminal.
• Charging Stations: Power outlets and USB ports are available in the general waiting hall and the USO zone.
• Business Services: Computers with internet access and printers are often available in the USO centre, which can be used to print documents. There are no full-fledged conference rooms for negotiations in the passenger terminal.

Financial Services

An ATM is installed in the terminal, usually serviced by Dover Federal Credit Union. It allows for the withdrawal of US dollars. There are no currency exchange points within the terminal, so if you are flying abroad, it is recommended to arrange for the destination currency in advance or use a card.

Services for Passengers with Children

Travelling with family on military aircraft is also catered for by the terminal's infrastructure:

• Mother and Child Room: A specially equipped room (Nursery) where you can feed an infant or change them in peace.
• Children's Zone: Inside the USO centre, there is often a corner with toys, colouring books, and board games to occupy children while waiting for a flight.

Accessible Environment and Medical Care

The terminal fully complies with American accessibility standards (ADA):

• For Passengers with Reduced Mobility: The building is single-story and equipped with ramps and wide doorways. Restrooms are adapted for wheelchair users. Since boarding C-5 or C-17 aircraft often occurs without a jet bridge, base personnel provide special equipment or assistance for boarding.
• Medical Assistance: First aid supplies are available in the terminal. In case of serious health issues, the 436th Medical Group clinic operates on the base (for attached personnel), while emergency cases are directed to civil hospitals in Dover city, such as Bayhealth Hospital.

Hotels and Accommodation

If your flight is delayed or you have arrived at the base for an overnight stay, there are several accommodation options:

• Eagle’s Rest Inn: The main hotel on the air base territory (Dover AFB Lodging). It offers comfortable rooms and suites at affordable prices for military personnel. Located near the terminal, it operates 24/7. Advance booking is recommended.
• Hotels in the City: Within a 10–15 minute drive from the base, along US-13, there are numerous civil hotels such as Microtel Inn & Suites, Fairfield Inn & Suites, and MainStay Suites. These are available to all categories of tourists, including visitors to the aviation museum.

The gastronomic map of Dover Air Force Base differs significantly from what travellers are used to seeing in major international airports. As this is a military facility with a single small passenger terminal, there are no familiar food courts, luxury lounges, or 24-hour cafes in the departure zone here. Dining options depend on exactly where you are: directly in the flight waiting terminal or on the general base territory (if you have time before check-in).

In the Passenger Terminal

Inside the terminal building itself, where check-in and boarding waiting take place (both in the general zone and the "sterile" zone after screening), dining opportunities are minimal. This space is designed for functionality, not leisure.

• Service Type: Self-service and light snacks only.
• Assortment: Numerous vending machines are installed in the waiting halls. Here you can buy carbonated drinks, water, juices, crisps, chocolate bars, biscuits, and sometimes packaged long-life sandwiches. Machines with hot coffee are also available.
• Recommendation: This is an option exclusively for a quick snack. If you face a long wait or a long flight (especially on C-5 or C-17 cargo planes where meals are not always provided as on commercial flights), it is strongly recommended to bring food with you in advance.
• Opening Hours: Round the clock (24/7).

On Base Territory (for passengers with access)

If you have arrived early or have several hours before departure, and you can leave the terminal (having access to transport), the main dining points are concentrated around the Base Exchange (BX) shopping centre and entertainment facilities. They are located a 5–10 minute drive from the terminal.

Food Court at Base Exchange (BX)

This is the main place where you can have a full lunch. Popular American chain establishments are represented here.

• Venues: Typically, Burger King (burgers and fries), Subway (sandwiches and salads), Anthony’s Pizza (pizzeria), and Charleys Philly Steaks (hot meat sandwiches) operate here.
• For Vegetarians and Healthy Eating: Subway offers the best options for vegans and vegetarians (vegetable salads, meat-free sandwiches). Gluten-free options are limited (mostly salads).
• Coffee Shop: A kiosk or full Starbucks cafe is often located nearby for coffee and pastry lovers.
• Average Bill: 10–15 USD for lunch.
• Opening Hours: Usually from 06:00–07:00 to 18:00–19:00. Hours may be reduced on weekends.

Other Places on Base

• Eagle Lanes Bowling Center: The Ten Pin Cafe grill bar operates in the base's bowling centre. This is a great place for lovers of hearty American classics: burgers, fried chicken, onion rings, and breakfasts (eggs, beef bacon). Prices are affordable ($8–12).
• Mulligan’s Sports Bar & Grill: Located at the Eagle Creek Golf Course. It offers a more relaxed atmosphere, salads, wraps, and beverages. Operates during daylight hours.

Local Cuisine and Venues Outside the Base

Since Dover is in the state of Delaware, known for its seafood, true gastronomic experiences await you outside the base gates. If you have the opportunity to go into the city (just 5–10 minutes by taxi or car along US-13):

Local Specialties to Try:

• Blue Crabs: The region's calling card. They are served boiled with Old Bay spices or as crab cakes.
• Fries with Vinegar (Thrasher’s style): A popular local side dish typical of the Delaware and Maryland coast.

In the immediate vicinity of the base, along the South Dupont Highway, there are dozens of restaurants: from 24-hour diners (e.g., Waffle House) to steakhouses and seafood restaurants, where one can find Halal menus or expanded vegan options unavailable on the military facility.

Summary for the Passenger:

In the airport (terminal) itself, count only on snacks and water. For a full hot meal, it is necessary to visit the BX food court on base before check-in or stop by city restaurants in Dover on the way to the airport.

Travelling through a military air base like Dover differs radically from flying through a standard civil airport. There is no familiar business-class comfort here, and the schedule is subject to military tasks, not passenger convenience. However, for those flying under the Space-A program (subject to available seats), it is an opportunity to see the world from a unique perspective and save significantly. Here are key tips to help make your experience as smooth as possible.

Arrival Time and Planning

The main rule of military flights is punctuality and flexibility. Planes do not wait for passengers.

• The 3-Hour Rule: Arrive at the passenger terminal at least 2–3 hours before departure. This is critically important for passing the Roll Call. If you are not present when your name is called, your seat will instantly be given to the next person on the list.
• Status Check: The flight schedule (72-hour forecast) changes often. Be sure to check the terminal's Facebook page or call the automated line before leaving home.
• Plan B: Never fly via Space-A if you need to be at your destination by a specific date (wedding, cruise, funeral). The flight can be cancelled or rescheduled at any moment. Always have a financial reserve to purchase a commercial ticket in an emergency.

Check-in and Security

Procedures here are strict but often proceed more calmly than in civil hubs.

• Documents: Keep your Military ID and passport ready. For active-duty personnel, a signed Leave Form valid at the time of the flight is mandatory.
• Luggage: Baggage allowances depend on the aircraft type. Usually, two pieces of luggage up to 32 kg (70 lbs) each are allowed. However, restrictions may be stricter on smaller cargo aircraft.
• Footwear: Unlike civil airports, passengers on cargo aircraft (C-5, C-17) are required to wear closed-toe shoes. No sandals, flip-flops, or high heels — you simply will not be allowed on board for safety reasons.

Seat Selection and Comfort In-Flight

If you are flying on a cargo plane (for example, a C-5M Super Galaxy or C-17 Globemaster III), forget about the usual choice of a window seat.

• Temperature: It is often very cold in the cargo holds of military aircraft. The air conditioning system works powerfully to cool the avionics. Even if you are flying in summer, be sure to take a jacket, hat, gloves, and, if possible, a blanket or sleeping bag with you.
• Noise: The noise level on board is deafening. You will be given simple earplugs, but experienced travellers bring high-quality noise-cancelling headphones.
• Seats: Seats may be fold-down benches made of red fabric along the sides (jump seats) or standard aviation seats installed on pallets in the middle of the cargo hold. The most comfortable seats are away from the engines and toilets.

Carry-on and Meals

Service on board is minimal or non-existent.

• Food with You: On most flights from Dover, a meal (Box Lunch) can be ordered in advance for a small fee, but it is better to rely on yourself. Bring hearty sandwiches, protein bars, and an empty water bottle (it can be filled after security screening).
• Electronics: There are usually no power outlets for passengers in cargo aircraft. Be sure to bring a powerful power bank to charge your phone or tablet during a long flight.

Tips for Transit Passengers

Dover is often just an intermediate point.

• Do not plan tight connections: If you are flying with a transfer at another military base (for example, Ramstein in Germany), allocate not hours but days for the connection. Military aviation does not guarantee connecting flights.
• Transport: If you arrive in Dover late at night, a taxi may be the only option to get to a hotel, as public transport does not operate around the clock. Save the numbers of local taxi services in advance.

Customs Control

Upon arrival from abroad (for example, from Europe or the Middle East), you will pass customs right at the base.

• Strictness: Customs officers at military bases are extremely attentive. Declare absolutely everything.
• Prohibitions: Special attention is paid to food products and souvenirs of natural origin. Do not attempt to bring in fruits, meat, sausages, or plants — this will lead to a large fine and a delay for the entire group of passengers.

What to Do in Case of Flight Delay

Delays for technical reasons ("Mission Maintenance") are common for complex military equipment.

• Patience: This is the main advice. Do not argue with terminal staff; they do not control the repair of the aircraft.
• Accommodation: If the flight is postponed for a day, check with agents at the counter for availability at the base hotel (Dover AFB Lodging). If there are no rooms, they will provide a list of hotels in the city that may offer military discounts, but you will have to get there and pay on your own.
• Entertainment: There is Wi-Fi in the terminal, but for a long delay, it is better to have downloaded films or a book.