Gulfport/Biloxi (Keesler AFB)

Gulfport/Biloxi Airport, designated by the code BIX, is not your typical passenger terminal with duty-free shops, but the legendary Keesler Air Force Base. This is a place where, instead of tourist liners, powerful "Hercules" aircraft take to the skies, and pilots prepare for the most complex missions, including flights into the very centre of hurricanes. For the traveller, this site is interesting primarily as a symbol of American aviation history and the home of the famous "Hurricane Hunters," whose work saves thousands of lives.

Features and Highlights:

The base's main pride is the 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron, known worldwide as the "Hurricane Hunters". This is the only unit in the world that flies specially equipped WC-130J Super Hercules aircraft directly into the "eye" of a storm to gather critical weather data.

Although the base is an active military facility with restricted access, it regularly becomes a major attraction for thousands of tourists during the "Thunder Over the Sound" air show. On these days, the sky over Biloxi transforms into a stage for breathtaking performances by aerobatic teams, and visitors get a rare opportunity to see military hardware up close.

Keesler also plays the role of a "city within a city": thousands of electronics and cybersecurity specialists are trained on its grounds. The base's location practically on the coast of the Gulf of Mexico makes it an integral part of the Biloxi landscape, reminding holidaymakers of the power and technology of modern aviation.

• Official Base Website: www.keesler.af.mil
• Information Desk Phone (Base Operator): +1 228-377-1110
• Address (Visitor Centre): 310 M Street, White Avenue Gate, Keesler AFB, MS 39534, USA
• Email (Public Affairs): 81trw.pamain@us.af.mil
• Base Social Media:
  • Facebook: Keesler Air Force Base
  • X (Twitter): @KeeslerAFB
  • Instagram: @keeslerafb
• Lost Luggage Information: Service unavailable (the facility does not serve commercial passenger flights). For items left on base grounds during public events (air shows), please contact the Visitor Centre.
• Visitor Contacts (Visitor Control Center): +1 228-377-3844 (questions regarding access to the territory and pass issuance).

Since Keesler Air Force Base (BIX) is a closed military facility, it does not accept regular commercial flights. Travellers wishing to visit this region or enter the base grounds (for example, during an air show or for official business) usually fly into neighbouring civilian airports and then reach the location via ground transport.

Below are the main flight options and ways to get to the base and the city of Biloxi.

Nearest Civilian Airports:

To plan your route, it is most convenient to use the following air hubs:

• Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport (GPT) — located just a 15–20 minute drive from the base. This is the most convenient option for tourists.
• Mobile Regional Airport (MOB) — located approximately one hour's drive to the east, in the state of Alabama.
• Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) — a major hub located approximately 1.5 hours' drive to the west. Most international flights arrive here.
• Pensacola International Airport (PNS) — an alternative option in Florida, about 2 hours away.

How to get from the civilian airport (GPT) to Keesler AFB and Biloxi city centre:

1. Taxi and Rideshare Services
This is the fastest and most common method. Taxis are always available in the arrivals area of Gulfport-Biloxi Airport. Uber and Lyft services also operate actively in the region.
Travel time: about 20–25 minutes.
Cost: a trip usually costs between 30–45 USD depending on the time of day and vehicle class.

2. Car Rental
For travelling along the Mississippi coast, personal transport is practically essential. The GPT terminal features counters for all major rental companies (Avis, Hertz, Enterprise, Budget). The route to the base runs along Interstate I-10 or the scenic US-90 highway along the beach.
Recommendation: If you plan to visit the air show, consider that traffic in the base area may be restricted or congested.

3. Public Transport
The region is served by the Coast Transit Authority (CTA) network.
Buses: There is no direct high-speed train or metro here. From GPT airport, you can reach Biloxi with transfers, but this can take a lot of time. However, within Biloxi itself and along the coast, the convenient Casino Hopper and Beachcomber routes operate.
Cost: A single trip ticket costs about 1.50–2 USD; day passes are available.

Parking and Base Access:

If you are driving directly to Keesler AFB in a rental car, remember the strict access rules:

• Visitor Control Center: Located at the White Avenue Gate. This is where passes for civilians are issued. There is visitor parking nearby.
• Documents: The driver must have a valid driving licence, vehicle rental agreement, and insurance. All passengers must hold identification documents.
• Inspection: Be prepared for your vehicle to be inspected by security forces upon entry.

Since Keesler Airfield (BIX) is an active military airbase, its structure differs fundamentally from typical civilian airports. You will not find an extensive network of terminals, colourful transit zone signs, or shopping galleries here. The entire infrastructure is subject to strict army logistics and national defence tasks.

Terminals and Their Purpose

In fact, the base operates one specialised terminal (Air Mobility Command Passenger Terminal), serving military cargo and transport flights.

• Functionality: This facility is designed for sending and receiving military personnel, their families (flying via the Space-A programme), and special cargo.
• Features: The interior is maximally ascetic and utilitarian. There is a small waiting room, a document processing counter, and a baggage claim area, but commercial services (cafes, shops, currency exchange) are absent.

Layout and Navigation

The airfield territory is strictly zoned. For a visitor entering the base (for example, for an air show or by invitation), navigation begins not at the aircraft steps, but at the entry gates (Checkpoints).

• Entry Groups (Checkpoints): The main "gates" for guests are White Avenue Gate (open 24/7) and Meadows Drive Gate. This is where the initial "scanning" of arrivals takes place.
• Airfield Zone: The flight line and technical hangars are separated from the living and training zones of the base. Access to them for unauthorised persons is strictly prohibited without an escort.
• Base Navigation: Streets within the base have names and markings, just like in a regular city. However, deviating from the route towards restricted facilities (Hurricane Hunters' hangars or the runway) may lead to detention by military police.

Departure and Arrival Zones

The concepts of "departure zone" and "arrival zone" are nominal here. Boarding and disembarking take place directly on the apron near military transport aircraft (most often C-130 Hercules or C-17 Globemaster).

• Transfers: There are no jet bridges. Passengers walk from the terminal to the aircraft across the concrete airfield surface under staff supervision.
• Transit: BIX airport is not used as a transit hub for civilians. Transfers between flights are not provided for here.

Check-in and Screening Procedures

If you are a participant in a military flight programme or an invited guest, procedures will differ significantly from civilian ones:

• Check-in: Takes place at the counter in the air transport terminal. Processing time depends on the mission type, but it is usually recommended to arrive 2–3 hours before departure.
• Screening: Conducted by base security. Baggage requirements may be even stricter than in civilian airports (total ban on any weapons, strict control of electronics).
• Documents: It is critically important to have a military ID (CAC) or a special pass arranged in advance at the Visitor Centre. A passport alone is insufficient for free movement.

Navigation Recommendations for Tourists

For the ordinary tourist, the "terminal" becomes the viewing area during public events.

• During Air Shows: Follow only the specially designated corridors cordoned off by tapes or barriers. Organisers create temporary screening zones at the entrance to the flight line.
• Parking: Never leave your car in zones marked as Reserved or Official Use Only. Use only guest parking lots indicated on the event map.

The history of Gulfport/Biloxi Airfield (Keesler) is a fascinating chronicle of transforming swampy terrain on the Mississippi coast into one of the world's most advanced centres for aviation training and technology. Over more than 80 years of existence, this facility has gone from a World War II tent camp to the headquarters of the legendary "Hurricane Hunters."

Foundation and War Years

The official history of the base began in June 1941, when the US Army Air Corps announced the construction of Technical School No. 2 in Biloxi. Local authorities in Gulfport and Biloxi actively lobbied for this project, understanding its importance to the region. The base was named in honour of a Mississippi native, Second Lieutenant Samuel Reeves Keesler Jr., an aerial observer killed in air combat in France during the First World War.

Construction proceeded at a rapid pace, and by August 1941, the base accepted its first recruits. During World War II, Keesler became a true "forge of personnel": more than 140,000 aviation mechanics and specialists for B-24 Liberator heavy bombers were trained here. The intensity of training was so high that the base population peaked at over 60,000 people.

The Electronics Era and the Cold War

After the war ended, unlike many other military facilities, Keesler was not closed. On the contrary, in the late 1940s, the base's profile changed: the focus shifted from mechanics to high technology. A radar and radio electronics school opened here. By the 1950s, the base earned the unofficial title of the "Electronics Center of the Air Force." It was here that specialists operating complex air defence and communications systems were trained at the height of the Cold War.

Arrival of the "Hurricane Hunters"

A major milestone in the airfield's modern history was 1993, when the 403rd Wing of the Air Force Reserve, which includes the famous 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron, was relocated to Keesler. From that moment, BIX airfield became home to the unique WC-130 aircraft, whose crews regularly fly into the epicentres of tropical cyclones, collecting data for the National Hurricane Center.

Trial by Elements: Hurricane Katrina

August 29, 2005, became a dark date in the airport's history. Hurricane Katrina, striking directly at the Mississippi coast, caused catastrophic damage to the base. About 95% of the territory was underwater, with the storm surge reaching nearly two metres. Runways, hangars, and residential buildings were destroyed or seriously damaged.

However, the recovery, codenamed "Operation Dragon Comeback," became an example of incredible resilience. Thanks to the round-the-clock work of engineers and volunteers, the airfield was able to accept the first aircraft with humanitarian aid just a few days after the storm, and the full reconstruction of the infrastructure took several years, making the base even more modern.

Interesting Historical Facts:

• Cinematic Fame: Keesler Base forever entered pop culture thanks to Neil Simon's play and film "Biloxi Blues". The plot tells the story of recruits undergoing basic training here in 1945. Although the film was shot in Arkansas, the story is inextricably linked to this very place.
• Record Pace: In 1942, the influx of recruits was so great that they were housed in tents right on the base stadium, and training ran in three shifts, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
• Space Connection: Many NASA astronauts underwent initial technical or flight training at Keesler Base before heading to space.
• Unique Architecture: During post-war modernisation, training buildings were constructed on the base specifically designed to house the massive vacuum tube computers of that time — the "great-grandfathers" of modern laptops.

It is important to understand that Keesler Airfield (BIX) is not a civilian airport, but an active military base. The level of service and availability of amenities here are strictly regulated. The base infrastructure represents an autonomous "city within a city," but only holders of military ID cards, their dependents, and civilians with special clearance or escort can use it.

For the ordinary tourist, these facilities are closed, but for those flying Space-A flights (a programme for available seats on military aircraft) or visiting the base officially, the following amenities are available.

Restaurants, Cafes, and Shopping

The heart of the base's commercial life is the Base Exchange (BX) — a large shopping complex resembling a standard American mall.

• Shopping: In the main BX building, one can purchase electronics, clothing, Air Force branded souvenirs, cosmetics, and household goods. Prices here are tax-free, making purchases advantageous for personnel. A Commissary supermarket also operates on the premises for grocery shopping.
• Dining: The food court area features popular American fast-food chains (e.g., Taco Bell, Subway, Burger King). Several dining facilities also operate on the base for cadets and staff, such as the Azalea Dining Facility, offering set meals.

Lounges and Terminal

The passenger terminal (AMC Passenger Terminal) is equipped modestly but functionally. There are no luxurious VIP lounges or airline business lounges here.

• Waiting Area: The general hall (Family Lounge) is equipped with televisions, comfortable seats, and vending machines with snacks and drinks.
• Children's Zone: The terminal often provides a small corner for passengers with children, where little ones can play while waiting to board.

Communication and Finance

• Wi-Fi: Wireless internet is available in major public areas of the base, including hotels, the library, and the BX food court. The passenger terminal also usually has an open network.
• Banking Services: A branch of Keesler Federal Credit Union — the base's main financial institution — operates on the premises. ATMs are located throughout: in the shopping centre, hospital, and residential buildings.

Medical Services

In this sphere, Keesler surpasses any civilian airport. Located here is the Keesler Medical Center — one of the largest and most modern medical facilities in the US Air Force. The centre provides a full range of medical care: from emergency surgery to dentistry. Pharmacies on the base dispense medicines via military doctor prescriptions.

Accommodation: Hotels on Base and Nearby

Since Keesler is a major training centre, the hotel infrastructure here is excellently developed.

• Keesler Inns: A system of hotels on the base territory (Lodging), which is the largest in the US Air Force. It offers comfortable rooms and suites for those on assignment and their families at prices significantly below market rates.
• Civilian Hotels: Immediately outside the base gates, in the city of Biloxi, there are numerous world-class resort hotels and casinos (such as Beau Rivage or Hard Rock Hotel). This is an excellent option for tourists arriving for the air show, as they are a 5–10 minute drive from the checkpoint.

Services for People with Disabilities

The base infrastructure fully complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). All buildings, including the BX, hospital, and terminal, are equipped with ramps, automatic doors, and specially fitted restrooms. When boarding military transport aircraft, assistance is provided to passengers with reduced mobility via special lifts or by the crew.

Business and Conferences

For official events, the base provides conference rooms in various buildings, including the Dragon Center and clubs for officers and enlisted personnel. These rooms are equipped with modern multimedia equipment for briefings and presentations.

When planning meals at Gulfport/Biloxi (BIX), it is important to remember the key difference of this place from civilian airports: you are on an active military base. There is no familiar division into a "sterile zone" with fine dining restaurants and a general zone with coffee shops. The dining infrastructure is subject to the military daily schedule, not the tourist flight timetable.

Passenger Terminal (AMC Terminal)

The terminal itself, from where Space-A flights depart, is equipped extremely ascetically. This is a zone that can be conditionally called "Airside" (although on a military base, this concept is blurred).

• Selection: There are no full-fledged cafes or restaurants inside the terminal building itself. Only vending machines are available with soda, water, chocolate bars, and crisps.
• Tip: If you are waiting for a flight, it is strongly recommended to eat a substantial meal beforehand at other establishments on the base or bring food with you (in accordance with screening rules).

Main Dining Area (Landside / Base Territory)

All main gastronomic spots are located on the base grounds, outside the terminal. To get here, you will need time (travel from the terminal can take 5–10 minutes by car), so plan lunch before checking in for your flight. The main centre of attraction is the Main Exchange (BX) Food Court.

1. Food Court at the Shopping Centre (BX)
This is a classic American food court featuring well-known chain brands.
Location: Inside the main base shopping complex (Base Exchange).
Options:

• Taco Bell: Mexican fast food (burritos, tacos).
• Subway: Sandwiches and salads (an excellent option for a "healthy" snack).
• Burger King: Classic burgers and chips (fries).
• Charleys Philly Steaks: Hearty sandwiches with hot meat.
• Starbucks: A popular coffee shop for those needing caffeine before a flight.

2. Bay Breeze Event Center
If you have an hour or so to spare, this is the best place for a proper lunch. The centre is located in a picturesque spot overlooking the Back Bay. It often features grill bars or social venues (venue names may change, e.g., Dragon's Lair), offering pizza, wings, and burgers in a more relaxed atmosphere.

Special Diets and Local Cuisine

• Local Flavour: It is difficult to find high-end Cajun cuisine, typical of Louisiana and Mississippi, on the base. However, dining facilities and clubs periodically serve Southern dishes: fried chicken, mac & cheese, and cornbread.
• Vegetarian and Health-Conscious: The best choice is Subway (vegetable sandwiches) or salads at the food court. Military dining halls run the "Go for Green" programme, labelling healthy and plant-based dishes, but access there for civilian passengers may be limited.
• Halal and Gluten-Free: Specialised certifications are usually not displayed at fast-food outlets. It is recommended to carefully check ingredients or stick to simple products (fruits, salads without dressing).

Prices and Opening Hours

A huge advantage of dining at Keesler Base is the absence of sales tax (Tax-free), making lunch here 7–10% cheaper than in the city of Biloxi.

• Average Bill: A quick snack will cost 6–10 USD, a full lunch — 12–18 USD.
• Opening Hours:
  • BX Food Court: Usually open from 10:30 to 18:00–19:00. Hours may be reduced on weekends.
  • Coffee Shops: Open early in the morning (around 06:00–07:00).
  • Vending in Terminal: 24 hours.

Recommendations for Passengers

• For a quick snack: Head to the BX Food Court. It is fast, predictable in quality, and inexpensive. A sandwich from Subway can (in most cases) be taken on board a military transport aircraft, as in-flight catering on such flights is often provided in the form of dry rations (MRE) or simple lunch boxes, so your own sandwich will be handy.
• For a full lunch: Visit the Bay Breeze Event Center. The water view and the opportunity to sit quietly at a table will help you prepare for a long flight.

Travelling through Keesler Airfield (BIX) is a unique experience that differs radically from flying through a standard civilian airport. Since this is an active Air Force base, strict military protocols apply here. Your expectations of comfort and service should be adjusted to account for the specifics of military transport aviation.

Arrival Time and Registration Process

The main rule of military flights (especially under the Space-A programme) is that punctuality borders on paranoia. The aircraft will not wait for late passengers, as the departure is tied to the execution of a combat or training mission.

• Roll Call: This is the most important stage. You must be present in the terminal by the time the passenger roll call is announced. It is recommended to arrive at least 2–3 hours before the scheduled departure time, or better yet, check the "Show Time" with terminal staff in advance.
• Document Readiness: Keep all documents (military ID, leave papers, passports for all family members) in one folder close at hand. Verifying eligibility to fly takes longer than standard check-in.

Security and Luggage Specifics

The base Security Forces operate under different standards than the civilian TSA.

• Screening: Be prepared for a full inspection of personal belongings. Any items resembling weapons, even toys or souvenirs, are strictly prohibited.
• Hand Luggage: Unlike civilian flights where suitcase dimensions matter, here the contents are more important. Take warm clothes and food into the cabin. On board military aircraft (C-130 or C-17), it can often be very cold, and catering may be limited to dry rations or non-existent.
• Prohibited Items: Rules for carrying liquids may be less strict than the "100 ml" rule, but consuming or transporting alcohol in open containers on board is strictly prohibited.

Tips on Seat Selection and In-Flight Comfort

Forget about choosing a window or aisle seat via an app. Boarding is conducted under the direction of a loadmaster.

• Seat Type: Most often, you will have to sit on side-facing folding seats made of mesh fabric (webbing seats) along the fuselage. They do not recline and have no soft padding.
• Noise: Military transport aircraft have minimal sound insulation. The noise level inside can be deafening. It is mandatory to bring high-quality earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones. Staff often provide disposable earplugs, but your own are more reliable.
• Temperature: Draughts in the cargo hold are common. Dress in layers. A fleece jacket, scarf, and even a light blanket are your best friends on this flight.

Recommendations for Transit Passengers

Keesler Airfield is not designed for connecting flights in the civilian sense.

• Planning Time Buffers: If you need to transfer to a commercial flight at the neighbouring Gulfport-Biloxi Airport (GPT) after arriving at the base, allow at least 4–5 hours for the connection. Military flights are often delayed or change arrival times.
• Transport: There are no shuttles between the base and the civilian airport. Install taxi apps (Uber/Lyft) in advance or arrange for friends to meet you at the checkpoint.

What to Do in Case of Flight Delay

In military aviation, priority is always given to cargo and the mission ("Mission Essential"). Space-A passengers are at the very bottom of the priority list.

• Patience: A flight can be postponed for 24 hours or cancelled altogether without explanation. This is normal.
• Plan B: Always have a financial reserve in case you urgently need to buy a ticket for a commercial flight or book a hotel in Biloxi for a few days. Never fly Space-A if it is critical for you to be at your destination by a specific date (e.g., for a wedding or funeral).

Tips for Saving Money

The main saving here is the cost of the flight itself, which is often zero or a small airport fee.

• Food: Food in the terminal (vending) is expensive and not particularly healthy. Buy sandwiches and water at the supermarket (Commissary) on base before heading to the terminal.
• Parking: There is an option to leave your car for a long period (Long Term Parking) on the base for free or for a nominal fee, but for this, you need to obtain a special permit from the Security Forces Squadron. Clarify this issue in advance.