El Paso (Biggs AAF)

This airport is not a place where you will see queues for Duty Free or tourists with colourful luggage. Biggs Army Airfield is a stern steel giant where, instead of civilian liners, heavy transport aircraft and helicopters take to the skies. Located in the hot sands of Texas, this airfield serves as a vital artery for Fort Bliss and preserves the history of strategic aviation from the Cold War era in its hangars.

Features and Role of the Airfield

Although Biggs Army Airfield does not accept regular passenger flights, it is a landmark facility for US aviation. Its runway is one of the longest in the region (over 4 kilometres), allowing it to receive absolutely any type of aircraft, including the heaviest C-5 Galaxy cargo planes. Previously, the base belonged to the Strategic Air Command and was home to heavy bombers. Today, it provides logistical support to the army, serving as a key hub for the deployment of forces and humanitarian cargo. For tourists, this object is interesting primarily as part of a massive military complex, which can be seen when approaching for landing at the neighbouring civilian airport.

As Biggs Army Airfield is an active military facility and part of the Fort Bliss complex, there are no support services or airline call centres here that tourists are accustomed to. Contact information refers primarily to the general garrison administration.

• Official Website: home.army.mil/bliss (Fort Bliss garrison portal)
• Directory Assistance Phone: +1 (915) 568-2121 (General Fort Bliss operator)
• Airfield Address: Biggs Army Airfield, 12716 Biggs Street, Fort Bliss, TX 79916, USA
• Email: There is no direct public e-mail; for official inquiries, it is recommended to use the contact form on the website or the Public Affairs Office (PAO) phones.
• Social Media: Official U.S. Army Fort Bliss pages on Facebook and Instagram (publish news concerning the airfield as well).
• Lost & Found Information: There is no centralised civilian Lost & Found service. Service members should contact their flight commander or the Airfield Operations office.
• Support Contacts: Civilian support is not provided. For questions regarding base access or operations, call the main garrison operator.

It is important to understand that Biggs Army Airfield is a restricted facility with limited access. It is impossible to buy a standard airline ticket here. Most civilians and tourists arrive at the neighbouring El Paso International Airport, which is located literally behind the fence of the military base, and then travel to the required Checkpoint (Gate) by ground transport.

Taxi and Transfer

The most convenient way to get to the base or the Fort Bliss Visitor Control Center is to use a taxi or ridesharing services (Uber, Lyft). Drivers are well aware of the location of the main gates. However, note that civilian taxis usually do not have the right to enter the base territory itself without a special pass. You will only be taken to the Visitor Control Center at the Chaffee or Buffalo Soldier gates.

• Travel time from central El Paso: 15–20 minutes.
• Trip cost: Approximately 20–30 US dollars one way.

Car Rental

To move freely around the region, it is most convenient to rent a car. Rental offices are located in the civilian airport terminal and in the city centre. To get to the base, you need to drive along highway US-54 (Patriot Freeway) or I-10. To enter the base territory in a rental car, the driver will need to present a valid driving licence, the rental agreement, and go through the procedure of obtaining a temporary pass at the Visitor Control Center.

Public Transport

The Sun Metro city transport network serves the areas adjacent to Fort Bliss, but there are no direct routes entering deep into Biggs Airfield for civilians. Bus routes (for example, route No. 33 or No. 50) run along the main highways near the base (Dyer Street or Montana Avenue). You will have to walk from the stop to the checkpoint, which can be difficult due to long distances and the hot climate. The bus fare is about 1.50 dollars for a standard trip.

Parking

Near the main Visitor Control Centers (VCC), there are free car parks where you can leave your car while processing a pass. On the base territory itself, parking is allowed only in designated places. Violation of parking rules at a military facility is punishable by towing the vehicle and fines.

Nearest Civilian Airports

Since Biggs serves only military aviation, tourists should plan their arrival through civilian aviation hubs. The nearest and most convenient is the aforementioned El Paso Airport (ELP), located just 5 km from the base.

If you are considering alternative arrival options, you can use airports in neighbouring regions, although they are significantly further away:

• Grant County Airport (Silver City, New Mexico) — a small regional airport approximately 190 km to the northwest.
• Roswell International Air Center — located 237 km from the base, known for its connection to UFO history.

Also in the immediate vicinity, but across the state border, are Mexican airports. Using them for transit requires crossing the US-Mexico border, which may take additional time:

• Abraham Gonzalez International Airport (Ciudad Juarez) — located just 24 km away, but on the Mexican side.
• General Roberto Fierro Villalobos International Airport (Chihuahua) — a major hub 350 km to the south.

Recommendations Before Travel

If your goal is to visit the Fort Bliss museums or meet with service members at Biggs base, be sure to clarify the current access rules in advance. You will need identification (passport) for all passengers in the vehicle. When using a navigator, specify a specific Visitor Control Center (for example, Chaffee Gate VCC), and not just "Biggs Army Airfield", so as not to arrive at service gates closed to civilians.

The structure and organisation of space at Biggs Airfield (BIF) differ radically from what passengers of civilian airlines are used to. Here you will not find an extensive network of terminals, colourful navigation maps, or many gates with jet bridges. The entire complex is subject to strict military functionality and logistics.

Number of Terminals and Their Purpose

In fact, the airfield is served by one main building performing the functions of a passenger terminal — the Passenger Terminal (sometimes designated as Airfield Operations). It is a single complex designed for the centralised processing of arriving and departing military groups, as well as for servicing crews.

• Main Terminal: Used for registering personnel undergoing redeployment, as well as for receiving official delegations. There is no division into "international" and "domestic" sectors in the usual sense; the division is rather by flight type (cargo or passenger charters).
• Cargo Zones: A significant part of the infrastructure consists of hangars and open areas for loading equipment. They are located separately from the passenger zone, and access there for civilians (even with a base pass) is strictly prohibited.

Layout and Navigation

Navigation inside the terminal is extremely simple and intuitive, as movement routes are strictly regulated. It is difficult to get lost here: the flow of people is directed by base staff.

• Departure Zone: Represents a large holding area where service members await boarding. Boarding is most often carried out on foot across the airfield (apron) directly to the aircraft ramp.
• Arrival Zone: After landing, passengers are directed to the baggage claim area. Unlike civilian airports with conveyor belts, here baggage is often unloaded onto areas where it is collected independently under the supervision of coordinators.
• Transfers: Since there is only one terminal, there is no need for shuttles or complex transfers. All procedures take place within one building.

Terminal Features and Services

The interior of the terminal is ascetic. The main emphasis is placed on throughput capacity and the ability to quickly accommodate large groups of people.

• Facilities: Inside there are basic restrooms, vending machines with drinks and snacks. There are no full-fledged restaurants, Duty Free shops, or souvenir stalls within the terminal territory itself.
• Waiting Halls: Equipped with simple seating. Often there are televisions and zones for charging electronic devices, as waiting for departure can be prolonged.
• Information Support: There are few or no electronic flight schedule boards in public areas. All information is conveyed by group commanders or via the public address system.

Check-in and Screening

Procedures at Biggs follow military protocols, which can be either faster or significantly longer than civilian ones, depending on the mission.

• Processing Time: It is recommended (and often ordered) to arrive long before departure. The "Processing" process includes document checks (military IDs and orders), weighing personal gear, and safety briefings. This can take from 2 to 4 hours.
• Security: Screening is conducted thoroughly, but the focus is shifted to military aviation safety. Standard restrictions on liquids may not apply as strictly as in TSA, however, checking for prohibited items (weapons without orders, flammable substances) is very serious.

Navigation Recommendations

If you are planning a visit to the Biggs airfield terminal (for example, to meet a relative in the service):

1. Always have your identification with you.
2. Follow the signs for "Airfield Operations" or "Passenger Terminal" after passing through the base checkpoint.
3. Do not attempt to photograph the infrastructure, runway, or equipment inside the terminal without explicit permission from staff — this may lead to confiscation of the device.
4. Park only in marked visitor spaces in front of the terminal building.

The history of Biggs Army Airfield is a fascinating chronicle covering more than a century of aviation development: from the first reconnaissance biplanes to super-heavy strategic bombers and participation in space programmes. What is today a key logistical hub of the US Army began as a modest dirt strip in the Chihuahuan Desert.

Origins and a Hero's Name (1916–1925)

The aviation history of this place began in 1916, when a field camp was established here for the 1st Aero Squadron supporting General Pershing's expedition. In those years, the facility was known as Fort Bliss Aviation Field. The base received official status as a permanent military airfield in 1925. At the same time, it gained its current name in honour of Lieutenant James "Buster" Biggs — an El Paso native and World War I hero who died in the skies over France in 1918. This event forever inscribed the name of the local aviator in the region's history.

The Air Force Era and Strategic Aviation (1947–1966)

The airfield's golden age occurred during the Cold War. In 1947, after the creation of the US Air Force as a separate branch of the military, the facility was transferred under their control and renamed Biggs Air Force Base. In the 1950s, the Strategic Air Command was stationed here.

It was during this time that the most massive reconstruction in the base's history took place. To base the giant B-36 Peacemaker intercontinental bombers, and later the famous B-52 Stratofortress, a runway of incredible size was required. Engineers built a strip more than 4 kilometres long, capable of withstanding the colossal loads of aircraft with nuclear weapons on board.

Return to the Army and Modernity

By the mid-1960s, the strategic need for a separate Air Force base in this region had decreased. In 1966, the facility was returned under the wing of the US Army and received its modern name — Biggs Army Airfield. Since then, the airfield has changed its profile from nuclear deterrence to tactical support and logistics for the Fort Bliss garrison, becoming a major centre for helicopter unit training and transport aviation.

Interesting Facts and Achievements

• Space Harbour: Thanks to its giant runway, Biggs was used by NASA as a reserve and transit airfield for Shuttle Carrier Aircraft. Astronauts also frequently trained here on T-38 jet aircraft, utilising the proximity of the White Sands Missile Range.
• Record Scale: The airfield's runway (about 13,500 feet or 4,100 metres) remains one of the longest military strips in the United States to this day. It is capable of receiving any existing aircraft in the world, including the An-124 "Ruslan" and C-5 Galaxy.
• Unique Neighbourhood: The airfield is located directly adjacent to the civilian El Paso Airport. In the mid-20th century, this created striking contrasts: passengers on ordinary flights could watch the takeoff of secret strategic bombers, located literally behind the fence, from the terminal windows.

Since Biggs Army Airfield (BIF) is an active military facility, the range of services here differs significantly from typical civilian airports. The terminal infrastructure is utilitarian in nature: there are no entertainment centres or luxury boutiques here; everything is subject to the strict logistics of personnel movement. Nevertheless, a basic set of amenities for waiting for departure or transfer is provided.

Restaurants, Cafés and Shops

Inside the passenger terminal itself, the choice is extremely limited. Passengers should not count on full-service restaurants or chain coffee shops.

• Dining: Vending machines with sandwiches, snacks, soft drinks, and coffee are installed in the waiting halls. For a full meal, it is necessary to leave the terminal and head to the main part of the Fort Bliss garrison.
• Shopping: There are no shops on the airfield territory. However, just a few minutes' drive away on the base territory is the Freedom Crossing at Fort Bliss shopping centre — one of the best military shopping complexes in the world with a large supermarket (Commissary), electronics and clothing store (PX/Exchange), as well as a food court and cinema.

Lounges and VIP Services

Waiting zones are divided by rank and flight purpose.

• General Halls: Spacious rooms with rows of seats, televisions, and basic amenities. Intended for the main body of service members.
• DV Lounge (Distinguished Visitor Lounge): A specialised zone for senior officers and official delegations. The comfort level here is higher: soft furniture, work areas, and separate service, but access here is strictly regulated by protocol.

Communication and Technology

• Wi-Fi: A wireless network is usually available in the terminal territory, often provided by Boingo (popular on American military bases). Access may be paid or require special authorisation.
• Charging Stations: There is a limited number of US standard power outlets (110V) in the waiting halls. It is recommended to carry fully charged power banks, as access to outlets may be difficult with large crowds.

Financial Services

ATMs serving major American banks or credit unions working with the military may be located in the terminal building. There are no currency exchange points at the airfield. The nearest bank branches are located in the Fort Bliss garrison or in the city of El Paso.

Medical Services

As a military facility, Biggs possesses excellent medical support, but it is oriented towards emergency cases and service needs.

• First Aid: Medics are on duty at the airfield to provide emergency assistance to crews and passengers.
• Hospital: For serious treatment, the William Beaumont Army Medical Center, located nearby on the base territory, is used; it is one of the most modern hospitals in the Pentagon system.

Services for Passengers with Children and Special Needs

Although the main flow consists of soldiers, the base is also adapted for the movement of military families.

• For Children: There are no specialised playrooms in the terminal. Changing tables may be provided in the restrooms.
• Accessible Environment: The terminal complies with US federal standards (ADA). Entrances are equipped with ramps, there are wide doorways and specially equipped toilets for people with disabilities.

Hotels and Accommodation

The convenience of Biggs lies in its location: passengers can choose between accommodation directly on the base or in the city.

• On Base: The IHG Army Hotels chain offers accommodation in hotels right in the Fort Bliss garrison. This is the most convenient option for those who have base access rights (Military ID).
• Near the Base: Since the airfield borders the civilian El Paso Airport, literally outside the base gates (along Airway Boulevard) there are many civilian hotels of well-known chains (Marriott, Wyndham, Hilton, Radisson) offering transfers and a high level of comfort.

Business and Conferences

There are no business centres in the civilian sense (for negotiations, printing documents, co-working) in the passenger terminal. Existing conference rooms are intended exclusively for briefings, tactical planning, and command service meetings.

When it comes to dining at Biggs Army Airfield (BIF), it is important to adjust expectations immediately. Since this is an active military facility and not a commercial tourist hub, you will not find the usual food courts, panoramic lounges, or global brand coffee shops directly at the departure gate. Catering infrastructure here is strictly functional and subject to army regulations.

Nevertheless, passengers will not go hungry. Options range from quick snacks in the terminal to a full meal at the garrison's famous shopping centre, located just a few minutes' drive away.

Inside the Passenger Terminal (Airside/Landside)

In the terminal building itself (Passenger Terminal), where flight waiting and document processing take place, the choice is limited to a "grab and go" format.

• Vending Machines: The main source of food directly in the waiting area. Here you can buy water, soda, energy drinks, chocolate bars, crisps, and packaged long-life sandwiches. The machines operate 24/7 and accept both cash (US dollars) and cards.
• Mobile Kiosks (AAFES): During mass troop deployments or the arrival of large groups, temporary sales points (so-called Shoppettes) may be deployed in the terminal, where the assortment expands to hot dogs, fresh pastries, and hot coffee.
• Drinking Water: Drinking water fountains (hydra-stations) are installed in the terminal, available for free. It is recommended to carry an empty flask or bottle.

Main Gastronomic Spot: Freedom Crossing at Fort Bliss

If you have time before departure or have just arrived and completed all procedures, the best decision would be to head to Freedom Crossing. This is a unique open-air shopping and entertainment centre located on the territory of Fort Bliss, very close to the airfield. It is the first such centre of this scale on a military base in the USA, and the choice of food here is huge.

Restaurants and Cafés (Landside, general base area):

• Texas Roadhouse: An ideal place to get acquainted with local cuisine. This is a classic American steakhouse. It is worth trying their signature steaks, barbecue ribs, and freshly baked rolls with cinnamon butter. The atmosphere is lively and friendly.
• Buffalo Wild Wings: A popular sports restaurant where you can order chicken wings with dozens of types of sauces and watch sports broadcasts.
• Smashburger: An excellent option for lovers of quality fresh beef burgers.
• Sarku Japan and Thai Express: For those who prefer Asian cuisine (rice, noodles, teriyaki).
• Starbucks: A familiar coffee shop for those who cannot do without a quality latte or Frappuccino.

Opening Hours and Prices

Establishments in Freedom Crossing operate according to a standard civilian schedule, usually from 10:30–11:00 to 21:00–22:00. Some venues may stay open until midnight on weekends.

• Average Bill:
  • Quick snack (fast food): 10–15 $.
  • Full meal in a restaurant: 25–40 $ per person.

Special Dietary Requirements (Vegetarian, Halal, Gluten-Free)

Finding specialised diet food in the terminal vending machines is difficult. However, restaurants at Freedom Crossing offer a wide choice:

• Vegetarians and Vegans: At Chipotle Mexican Grill (also located in the Freedom Crossing zone), you can assemble a burrito bowl with soy meat (sofritas) or vegetables. Burger joints often have options with a plant-based patty available.
• Gluten-Free: Most chain restaurants (for example, Texas Roadhouse) are required to provide allergen information upon request and can adapt dishes (e.g., steak with vegetables without flour-based sauces).
• Halal and Kosher: Strictly certified Halal kitchens are harder to find, but many establishments offer chicken dishes or vegetarian options that meet basic requirements. Please verify specific preparation methods with staff.

Local Flavour: What to Try?

Since the base is located in El Paso, on the border with Mexico, the gastronomic calling card of the region is Tex-Mex (Texan-Mexican cuisine). If you have the opportunity to visit establishments on the base or just outside the gates (for example, on Airway Blvd), be sure to try:

• Burritos and Tacos: Local portions are distinguished by their impressive size and generous addition of cheese and chili peppers.
• Texas Barbecue: Smoked brisket, cooked slowly over low heat — this is the taste of real Texas.

Recommendations for Passengers

Considering the military specifics, plan your meals in advance. If you have a long flight on a military transport aircraft (where food is often limited to MRE dry rations or a simple lunch box), have a hearty meal in the Freedom Crossing zone before reporting to the terminal for processing. Inside the terminal, count only on snacks and water.

Travelling through Biggs military airfield is a unique experience that differs radically from flying through ordinary civilian hubs. There is no bustle of commercial airlines here, but strict army protocols apply. To ensure your departure or arrival goes smoothly, it is important to consider the specifics of the military facility.

Arrival Time and "Show Time"

Unlike civilian airports, where arriving 2 hours early is sufficient, time at Biggs Airfield is dictated by orders. Your boarding pass or itinerary will indicate not only the departure time but also the so-called Show Time.

• Do not be late: "Show Time" is usually set 3–5 hours before departure. This time is necessary for roll call, document checks, baggage weighing, and briefings.
• Consequences: Arriving even 15 minutes late for Show Time may result in being removed from the flight (No-Show), and your seat will be given to passengers from the waiting list (Space-A).

Check-in and Security Control

The screening procedure here resembles the civilian one but with a military emphasis. Be prepared for the process to be less automated and more thorough.

• Documents: Keep your military ID (CAC) or passport for family members ready, as well as copies of movement orders (PCS/TDY) or leave forms.
• Dress Code: This is a critically important point. Passengers in open shoes (flip-flops, sandals) or clothing with offensive slogans are not permitted on military flights. Wear closed comfortable shoes and long trousers.
• Screening: Safety protocols are strict regarding electronics and batteries. You may be asked to turn on your laptop or phone to prove they are functional.

Seat Selection and Onboard Comfort

Your comfort depends directly on the type of aircraft. Flights can be operated by chartered civilian liners (Rotator/Patriot Express) or military cargo planes (C-130, C-17, C-5).

• Charter Flights: These are ordinary planes with familiar seats. Seats are assigned at registration; there is no option to choose a seat online in advance.
• Cargo Aircraft: Here you will sit on side jump seats ("benches") along the fuselage or on pallets in the middle.
  • Tip: It is very noisy and often cold in cargo planes. Be sure to take earplugs (they are often issued, but it is better to have your own) and a warm jacket or fleece blanket, even if it is hot in Texas outside.

Hand Luggage and Baggage

Baggage rules on military flights are often more generous regarding weight (usually two pieces of luggage of 32 kg are allowed for military personnel on orders), but stricter regarding content.

• Prohibited: Any personal weapons without appropriate permit documents and notification of the flight commander, alcohol in open containers, and flammable substances.
• Hand Luggage: If you are flying on a cargo plane, space for hand luggage will be limited to the space under your feet. Use soft backpacks rather than hard "cabin size" suitcases, as they are easier to stow.

Tips for Transit Passengers

Biggs is not a transit hub in the usual sense. If you have a connection with a civilian flight, you will need to get to El Paso International Airport.

• Allow time: Although the airports are close, the procedure for exiting the base, calling a taxi, and going through screening at the civilian terminal will take time. The recommended buffer between arrival at Biggs and departure from El Paso is minimum 4 hours.
• Transport: There is no automatic "airside" shuttle between the Biggs airfield and the civilian terminal. You will have to leave the military terminal and travel on public roads.

Customs Control

If you are arriving from abroad (for example, from Europe or the Middle East), customs is cleared directly at Biggs Airfield.

• Cleanliness of Footwear: The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) checks footwear and camping gear very strictly for the presence of soil and seeds. Before flying to the US, thoroughly wash the soles of all boots to avoid delays and fines.
• Declarations: Declare all souvenirs and food products. Attempting to bring in prohibited fruit or meat products may cost you serious proceedings with the command.

What to Do in Case of Flight Delay

Military aviation is guided by the principle "Mission First". This means that a cargo flight may be delayed for hours or even days due to maintenance or shifting priorities.

• Be autonomous: There is not always access to chargers in the terminal. Carry a powerful power bank.
• Entertainment: Wi-Fi may be overloaded or unavailable. Download films, books, and music to your devices in advance.
• Food: During long delays, dry rations (MREs) may be the only food available. Have a supply of snacks and an empty water bottle.
• Patience: Remember the army saying "Hurry up and wait". Complaints to staff here will not speed up the process, as they follow orders from higher command.

Saving Time and Money

The best way to save money is to use the Space-A programme (flights subject to seat availability) for leave, if you are eligible. It is practically free but requires flexibility in dates. To save time upon arrival, keep all bags labelled (name, rank, unit) to quickly identify your luggage at the general unloading area.