Lawton/Fort Sill (Henry Post AAF)

• Official Website: home.army.mil/sill (Fort Sill Military Base Website)
• Information Service Phone: +1 580-442-3217 (Fort Sill Visitor Control Center)
• Address: Fort Sill, OK 73503, USA (Military Base Territory)
• Email: usarmy.sill.fcoe.mbx.pao@army.mil (Public Affairs Office)
• Social Media: Official U.S. Army Fort Sill pages on Facebook and X (Twitter)
• Lost Luggage Information: Service not provided (the airfield does not serve civilian commercial flights)
• Passenger Support Contacts: None. The airfield is a restricted military facility used exclusively for US Army needs.

Since Henry Post Army Airfield is located within the active Fort Sill military base, it can only be reached by ground transport. It is important to understand: civilian commercial flights do not land here. If you plan to visit the historical sites of the base or museums near the airfield, your journey will begin from the city of Lawton.

Below are the main ways to reach the location from the city centre and information on the nearest civilian airports for arrival.

By Car and Taxi

The most convenient way to travel in Oklahoma is by personal or rented car. The drive from downtown Lawton to the Fort Sill Visitor Control Center, through which entry is granted, takes just 10–15 minutes. The main routes are via I-44 and US-62.

Taxi and ridesharing services (Uber, Lyft) operate actively in Lawton. The cost of a trip from the city centre to the base gates is usually 10–15 US Dollars. Please note that most taxi drivers can only take you as far as the checkpoint (Visitor Center). To enter the base territory itself, where the airfield is located, the driver and passengers may require special passes.

Public Transport

The city operates the LATS (Lawton Area Transit System) bus network. This is a budget-friendly option for travellers:

• The Orange Route connects the city with key points on the military base.
• The fare is approximately 1.50–2.00 US Dollars per trip (it is recommended to check current fares and schedules on the LATS website).
• Travel time can range from 30 to 45 minutes depending on the departure point.

Parking and Access Rules

Visitors without a military ID must stop at the Visitor Control Center (usually at Bentley Gate or Key Gate) to obtain a temporary pass. This requires a valid identification document (passport) and a background check. Parking at museums and historical sites within the base is generally free.

How to Arrive by Air: Nearest Civilian Airports

Since Henry Post is closed to civil aviation, tourists use neighbouring airports. The nearest one accepting scheduled flights is Lawton–Fort Sill Regional Airport (LAW). It is located just 9 km from the historical airfield and is the ideal entry point.

If you cannot find a suitable flight to Lawton, you can consider larger transport hubs located in neighbouring cities and states. From there, you will need to travel by rental car or intercity transfer:

• Wichita Falls Municipal Airport (SPS) — located approximately 75 km south, in the state of Texas. A convenient backup option for regional flights.
• Will Rogers World Airport (OKC) — the largest airport in Oklahoma, located 110 km away. It offers significantly more flight options and car rental services.
• Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) — a major international hub 230 km away. Flights from all over the world arrive here; the drive to Lawton takes about 2.5–3 hours by car.
• Dallas Love Field (DAL) — another option in the Dallas area, often used by low-cost carriers; the distance is approximately 245 km.

It is important to note a key feature immediately: Henry Post (FSI) does not have the classic terminal structure typical of civilian aviation hubs. Since the airfield serves exclusively military tasks and special flights, there are no familiar passenger terminals with waiting areas, shops, and boarding gates in the tourist sense. The facility's infrastructure is subject to strict functionality and historical context.

Structure and Zoning

Instead of a single passenger building, the airfield complex consists of several functional zones distributed across the Fort Sill territory:

• Base Operations Zone: This is the administrative heart of the airfield. It houses flight control services, mission planning, and the meteorological service. For military crews, this building performs functions similar to a terminal: briefings and flight preparations take place here.
• Historical Zone (Hangars): The most notable "terminal" of the past is the famous Balloon Hangar. Although it is not used for flight services today, this massive structure serves as a major landmark and architectural dominant. Hangars for helicopter and aircraft maintenance are located nearby.
• Deployment Zone: Specialized areas and ramps (Railhead/Airhead) designed for the rapid loading of military equipment and personnel. This is a restricted area with enhanced access control, where entry is prohibited for civilians.

Navigation and Transfers

Movement between airfield objects is carried out via the internal road network of the military base. "Transfers" here represent vehicular drives regulated by military police. For tourists, access to operational zones (runways, equipment parking) is strictly prohibited. Navigation for visitors is limited to routes towards historical sites and museums located within the base perimeter, but not on the airfield itself.

Registration and Control Procedures

Since there are no commercial flights, concepts like "flight check-in" and "baggage drop" do not apply here. However, if you plan to visit the historical part of the airfield as a tourist, you must undergo the base access procedure:

• Entry Point: All visitors without a military ID must proceed to the Visitor Control Center (VCC), located at the main gates (Key Gate or Bentley Gate).
• Processing Time: The procedure for obtaining a temporary pass (document check and background check) usually takes from 15 to 30 minutes. On days of major army events (e.g., graduation ceremonies), the wait may increase to an hour.
• Inspection Zones: There is no classic pre-flight screening, but upon entering the base, your vehicle may be inspected by security services.

Orientation Recommendations

If your goal is to see the historical Henry Post airfield, follow the signs to the Fort Sill National Historic Landmark. Do not attempt to drive onto service roads leading directly to the runway, even if your navigation system suggests this route as the shortest. The airfield zone is actively patrolled, and adherence to access boundaries is monitored extremely strictly.

The history of Henry Post Army Airfield is a chronicle of the formation of American military aviation. While many airfields from the First World War era have disappeared from maps or turned into civilian facilities, this airfield has retained its original purpose, becoming a living monument to aviation history.

Birth of a Legend: The Biplane Era

The airfield was officially founded in August 1917, just a few months after the US entered World War I. Initially, it was a simple dirt strip surrounded by wooden structures. The location was not chosen by chance: the plateau at the foot of the Wichita Mountains created ideal conditions for training pilot-observers who were to correct the fire of Fort Sill's field artillery.

The airfield was named in honour of 2nd Lieutenant Henry Post, an aviation pioneer who died in 1914 while attempting to set a world altitude record. The airfield has proudly borne this name for over a hundred years, commemorating the courage of the first aviators.

The Balloon Era and Unique Architecture

In the 1930s, the airfield underwent massive reconstruction. The most significant event of that period was the construction of the famous Balloon Hangar in 1934. At that time, the army actively used airships and tethered balloons for reconnaissance.

This structure is unique because it was originally designed specifically to house "flying giants." Later, when the era of airships ended, the huge hangar became home to aeroplanes and helicopters, but its historical appearance has been preserved to this day, making it one of the base's main attractions.

Cradle of Army Aviation

After the creation of the US Air Force as a separate branch of the military in 1947, Henry Post remained under Army (ground forces) control. It was here in Oklahoma, in the mid-20th century, that the concept of modern army aviation was formed. The airfield became a centre where pilots learned to fly light "Bird Dog" planes and the first helicopters, practising interaction with artillery. For a long time, the Army Aviation School was located here until it was moved to Alabama (Fort Rucker).

Modernisation for Global Tasks

Despite its respectable age, Henry Post has been constantly modernised. A crucial stage in recent history was the lengthening and strengthening of the runway. This was done so that the airfield could receive heavy military transport aircraft like the C-17 Globemaster III and the gigantic C-5 Galaxy. This reconstruction transformed the historical airfield into a modern platform for the rapid deployment of Fort Sill artillery brigades to any point in the world.

Interesting Facts and Achievements

• Oldest in Service: Henry Post is officially recognised as the oldest US Army airfield continuously operated since its founding.
• Wooden Heritage: The first hangars of 1917 were wooden and temporary, but construction speeds were record-breaking—infrastructure was erected in just a few weeks to prepare pilots for the fronts of World War I.
• Home to "Geronimo": Although the famous Apache chief Geronimo died at Fort Sill before the advent of aviation (in 1909), the spirit of the frontier permeates this place. From the air, airfield pilots often see historical sites associated with his legacy.
• Unique "Resident": At various times, the most unusual flying machines were tested in the Balloon Hangar, including experimental autogyros and early helicopter models.

Since Henry Post Army Airfield (FSI) is an active military facility and does not serve commercial passenger flights, the range of services here differs radically from typical civilian airports. You will not find Duty-Free zones, airline alliance business lounges, or food courts here. All infrastructure is oriented towards meeting the needs of military personnel and fulfilling service tasks.

However, as the airfield is located within the vast Fort Sill base, visitors with access rights (such as relatives of military personnel or museum guests) can utilise the military town's infrastructure located in the immediate vicinity of the airfield.

Restaurants, Cafés, and Shops

There are no catering outlets directly inside the hangars and operational buildings of the airfield. However, the Fort Sill base infrastructure offers excellent opportunities:

• Main Post Exchange (PX): A large shopping centre on the base territory featuring an extensive food court with popular American fast-food chains (burger joints, pizzerias, coffee shops).
• Shops: At the PX, one can purchase electronics, clothing, souvenirs with US Army symbols, and essential goods. Please note: a military ID may be required to make purchases in some departments, but the food court is usually accessible to all visitors with a base pass.
• Restaurants in Lawton: For tourists without access to base services, the nearest restaurants and cafés are located in the city of Lawton, just a 10–15 minute drive from the airfield.

Hotels and Accommodation

Accommodation is handled uniquely here. Travellers can choose between atmospheric stays on the base or comfortable city hotels:

• IHG Army Hotels: A network of army hotels operates within Fort Sill. Guests can stay in historical buildings converted into guest houses. This is a unique experience of immersion in army life with the comfort of a civilian hotel. Booking is available for military personnel, their families, and official guests.
• Hotels in Lawton: Civilian tourists usually choose hotels in the city of Lawton. Along the I-44 highway and in the city centre, there is a wide selection of chain hotels (Hilton, Marriott, Best Western) offering transfers to the base gates.

Connectivity and Finance

• Wi-Fi: Public Wi-Fi may be absent or limited on the airfield and base territory due to cybersecurity reasons. Stable internet access is usually available in guest zones, the base library (Nye Library), and IHG hotels.
• Banks and ATMs: The Fort Sill National Bank (FSNB) operates within Fort Sill. ATMs are located at key points on the base, including the PX shopping centre and the Visitor Center. Currency exchange is not available; US Dollars and cards are accepted for payment.

Medical Services and Accessibility

The level of medical support on the base is very high but has its specifics:

• Medicine: The main medical facility is the Reynolds Army Health Clinic. It serves the assigned personnel. In an emergency, tourists will be given first aid, but for full treatment, civilians will be directed to civilian hospitals in Lawton (e.g., Comanche County Memorial Hospital).
• For Passengers with Reduced Mobility: Base infrastructure, including museums and shopping centres, is equipped with ramps and parking spaces in accordance with American accessibility standards (ADA). However, historical buildings and airfield hangars may have limitations regarding barrier-free access.
• Families with Children: There are no specialised mother-and-child rooms at the airfield itself. They are available in the PX shopping centre and base museums.

Conference Rooms and VIP Services

The concept of a "VIP Lounge" does not exist at a military airfield. High-ranking officials (generals, government officials) are served through base protocol services. For business meetings and events within Fort Sill, there is the Patriot Club — a conference centre with banquet halls available for rent for official events and celebrations.

Since Henry Post (FSI) is an active military airfield without commercial passenger terminals, you will not find the customary restaurants, coffee shops, and lounges with runway views typical of civilian airports. Catering infrastructure here is organised differently and is tied to the Fort Sill garrison facilities.

For base visitors (tourists with a pass, museum guests, or relatives of military personnel) and staff, establishments are available in the immediate vicinity of the airfield on the base territory (Landside), as well as in the city of Lawton.

Main Dining Area: Main Post Exchange (PX) Food Court

The most popular place for a snack on the base territory is the food court in the garrison's main shopping centre (Main PX). It functions as the primary dining zone for everyone at Fort Sill.

• Type of Establishments: Well-known American fast-food chain brands are represented here. The selection usually includes a burger joint (e.g., Burger King), a sandwich bar (Subway or Charleys Philly Steaks), Mexican cuisine (Qdoba or Taco Bell), and a pizzeria.
• Coffee and Drinks: Inside the shopping centre, a Starbucks coffee shop often operates, where you can get familiar coffee and pastries.
• Location: Garrison zone, a few minutes' drive from the historical airfield hangars.
• Opening Hours: Usually from 09:00 to 19:00 (working hours may be reduced on Sundays).

For a Full Lunch: The Patriot Club

If you are looking for a place for a calmer meal at a table rather than quick fast food, it is worth paying attention to the Patriot Club. This is a historical establishment on the base where official events are held, but lunch is also available during specific hours.

• Cuisine: Traditional American (barbecue, steaks, salads) and a buffet during lunch.
• Atmosphere: More formal and quiet compared to the food court. Here you can feel the atmosphere of an officer's club.

Local Cuisine and Specialities

There are no unique culinary delights at the airfield itself, but the region is famous for its meat dishes. If you have the opportunity to go outside the checkpoint, it is highly recommended to try:

• Meersburger: A legendary Longhorn beef burger served at the historic Meers Store restaurant (located in the Wichita Mountains, north of the base). This dish is considered the gastronomic calling card of the Fort Sill area.
• Oklahoma Barbecue: The city of Lawton has many family restaurants offering smoked ribs and brisket.

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

On the base territory, the choice of specialised food is limited to chain fast-food standards:

• For Vegetarians: Options are available in sandwich bars (vegetable subs) and Mexican outlets (bean burritos without meat).
• Vegan and Gluten-Free: Finding a full hot meal may be difficult. It is recommended to bring snacks or look for specialised salads in the supermarket at the PX (Commissary), although access there may be restricted to military ID holders only.
• Halal: Specialised Halal certificates are generally not found in fast-food outlets on the base. It is advisable to opt for vegetarian or seafood options if strict Halal compliance is required.

Average Price Range

Dining on the base territory is reasonably priced:

• Quick Snack (coffee + pastry): $5–8.
• Lunch at the Food Court (combo meal): $10–15.
• Full Lunch (Patriot Club or restaurants in the city): $15–25 per person.

Recommendations for Travellers

Please note that FSI airfield does not have an "Airside" zone with shops for passengers in the civilian sense. If you have arrived for a tour or are attending an event:

• For a Quick Snack: Head to the Main PX Food Court. It is fast, inexpensive, and predictable in quality.
• Water and Snacks: It is better to buy these in advance in the city or from vending machines, which can be found in museum buildings within Fort Sill.
• Important Nuance: Always have your passport (or other ID) with you, as a repeat document check may be required to enter the shopping zones of the base.

Since Henry Post (FSI) is an active military airfield and does not serve commercial flights, classic advice for air travellers takes on a specific character here. Tourists heading to Lawton to visit the historical sites of Fort Sill actually fly into the neighbouring Lawton–Fort Sill Regional Airport (LAW). Below are recommendations combining the nuances of flying to this region and rules for accessing the historical airfield territory.

Arrival Time Recommendations

• For Departure (from civilian airport LAW): Despite the compactness of the regional airport, it is recommended to arrive at least 90 minutes before departure. This is because airline check-in counters (mainly American Airlines) may close strictly 30–45 minutes before departure, and TSA screening, although quick, may delay you during peak hours.
• For Visiting Henry Post (on the military base): Allow an additional 30–45 minutes for procedures at the Visitor Control Center. There can be queues during morning hours and enlistment days.

Registration and Security Features

Security procedures in this region are stricter than usual due to the proximity to the artillery school:

• At the Base (FSI): Upon entering Fort Sill, be prepared for your vehicle to be inspected. The driver and all adult passengers are required to present a passport.
• At the Airport (LAW): Standard TSA control operates here. However, due to the large number of military personnel travelling with tactical gear, baggage screening may be more thorough.

Seat Selection Tips (for flights to Lawton)

Flights to Lawton are usually operated by regional jet aircraft (such as CRJ-700 or CRJ-900):

• Size Matters: The cabins of these aircraft are narrow. If you are tall, try to choose seats by the emergency exit or in the front rows (Main Cabin Extra).
• Views: When approaching Lawton, choose a window seat. From the air, there is a stunning view of the Wichita Mountains and the geometrically aligned ranges of Fort Sill.

Hand Luggage: What is Allowed and Prohibited

Two sets of rules apply here, which are important not to confuse:

• Valet Check: On flights to Lawton, overhead bins for hand luggage are very small. Full-sized carry-on suitcases (even standard 55x40x20 cm) often do not fit. Be prepared to hand them over at the aircraft steps (you will receive a special tag) and collect them at the same place immediately after landing.
• Base Rules (for visiting FSI): If you are going on a tour of the airfield immediately after arrival, ensure your luggage contains no items prohibited on military sites: any firearms (even with a license from another state), knives with long blades, drones (quadcopters), and marijuana (it is prohibited at the federal level, regardless of state laws).

Recommendations for Passengers with Connections

Almost all civilian routes to Lawton pass through the hub in Dallas (DFW). This is a huge airport where changing terminals can take up to 30 minutes on the Skylink train. When planning your trip, try to choose connections lasting at least 1 hour 15 minutes to avoid stress when transferring to a regional flight.

Tips for Saving Time and Money

• Transfer: Renting a car in Lawton is often cheaper than taking a taxi if you plan active trips between the city, the base, and nature parks.
• Dining: At Lawton civilian airport, food choices are limited to vending machines and a small café. It is more cost-effective and tastier to eat in advance in the city or bring snacks with you, especially if the flight is delayed.

What to Do in Case of Flight Delay

Weather in Oklahoma is changeable (strong winds, thunderstorms), which often affects regional flight schedules. If your departure from Lawton is delayed:

• Do not leave the "clean zone" (airside) immediately, as the schedule may change quickly.
• Use the airport's free Wi-Fi to check the status of your connecting flight in Dallas. If the connection is at risk, it is better to rebook the ticket through the airline's app without waiting in line for the sole agent at the gate.