Mayport (Naval Station)

Naval Station Mayport, also known as Admiral David L. McDonald Field, is a unique facility located at the mouth of the St. Johns River in Florida. It is not merely an airport, but a key strategic hub combining the capabilities of a major seaport and a first-class military airfield. As the third-largest naval base in the USA, Mayport serves as the home for the US Navy's Fourth Fleet and is capable of accommodating both combat ships and virtually any aircraft in the Department of Defense arsenal. Its location on the Atlantic coast makes it a vital centre for conducting maritime and air operations.

Features and Advantages

The key feature of Mayport airfield lies in its multifunctionality. Its runway, measuring 2,439 metres in length, is capable of receiving heavy military transport aircraft and other large vessels, providing superior logistical support for the naval fleet. The airfield is the base for several helicopter squadrons, including the Light Airborne Multi-Purpose System (LAMPS), which play an important role in anti-submarine warfare and other maritime operations. The combination of a deep-water port capable of berthing up to 34 ships and a modern airfield makes Mayport one of the most versatile and strategically important US Navy facilities on the Atlantic coast.

Since Mayport Airport (NRB) is part of an active US Naval Station (Naval Station Mayport), most of its contacts are intended for official use rather than for civilian passengers. Standard tourist services, such as an information desk or a lost and found counter, are not available here. Below is the publicly available contact information.

• Official Website: Current information about the base can be found on the official US Navy portal: Naval Station Mayport Official Site.
• Information Helpline: Base consolidated switchboard: +1 904-270-5011. Operators can connect you to the required department if your request complies with their regulations.
• Airport Address: Naval Station Mayport, Jacksonville, FL, USA. The base is located within the city of Jacksonville, in the Mayport area.
• Email: There is no general public email address. It is recommended to use forms on the official website or contacts of specific departments if known.
• Social Media: Official news and updates are published on the base's Facebook page: facebook.com/NavalStationMayport.
• Lost Luggage and Passenger Support: These services are not provided as the airfield exclusively serves military needs. Service members should contact their command or the Transportation Management Office (TMO) regarding travel and luggage issues.

When planning a trip to Naval Station Mayport, located in the town of Mayport, Florida, USA, it is important to plan your route in advance. Since this is an active military facility, access to the territory has specific requirements. Below are the main ways to get to the base from central Jacksonville and its surroundings.

Public Transport

The most budget-friendly way is to use the buses of the Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA). Several routes pass near the Mayport area, but a direct service to the base gates may not be available. A transfer will likely be required, and you may need to walk some distance from the nearest stop. A bus journey from downtown Jacksonville will take over an hour. Be sure to check current routes and schedules on the official JTA website before travelling.

Taxi and Transfer

A more convenient and faster option is to order a taxi or use ride-hailing apps such as Uber and Lyft. The trip from downtown Jacksonville to the base gates will take approximately 30-40 minutes depending on traffic. The cost will vary, but expect to pay around $30-50. Key point: taxi and ride-hailing drivers generally do not have permission to enter the military base. You will most likely be dropped off at the Main Gate, from where you will need to continue on your own.

Car Rental

Renting a car offers maximum flexibility and is the most popular choice for getting around Florida. You will be able to easily reach the base as well as explore the scenic coast. However, to enter the Naval Station in a rental car, you will require special permits. Ensure you have all necessary documents: a valid driving licence, insurance, and most importantly, confirmation of your visit and a vehicle pass, which must be arranged in advance with your host on the base.

Parking

Designated parking areas are usually provided for visitors near the visitor centre or the main entrance. Parking within the base territory itself is strictly regulated. It is highly recommended to familiarise yourself with guest parking rules on the official NS Mayport website or clarify information with your point of contact on the base beforehand.

Important Recommendations

Remember that NS Mayport is a restricted military facility. Free tourist access is not possible here. Before planning a visit, you must have a valid reason (e.g., meeting a service member, an official event) and obtain all necessary entry permits in advance. Always carry a government-issued photo ID.

First and foremost, it is important to understand that the Naval Station Mayport Airfield (NRB) is not a commercial civilian airport that tourists are accustomed to. It is a military facility designed to service US Navy aircraft and helicopters. Its primary mission is to support naval operations, not to operate regular passenger flights for the general public.

Due to its military status, Mayport does not have terminals in the traditional sense, as seen in major international airports. Instead, the base has specialised buildings and structures for processing military flights, cargo, and transporting service members and their families. Access to these zones is strictly limited and possible only for authorised personnel with appropriate permits. Therefore, there are no familiar departure and arrival zones for civilian passengers here.

Check-in and security screening procedures at a military airfield differ fundamentally from civilian ones. They adhere to strict military protocols and security standards. The time required to complete them depends on the specific mission or type of flight and is not standardised for a public schedule. Navigation across the airfield territory is also carried out in accordance with instructions from military personnel, rather than via public signage for passengers.

Thus, for travellers planning a trip to this region, Mayport Airfield (NRB) cannot be considered as an arrival or departure point. If you wish to visit the nearby city of Jacksonville or other areas of Northeast Florida, you should look for flights to Jacksonville International Airport (JAX), which is the main civilian aviation hub in the region.

The history of Naval Station Mayport is a chronicle of strategic development and an important part of American naval history. The base was officially commissioned in December 1942, at the height of World War II. Initially, its primary task was the defence of the St. Johns River entrance and coastal waters. At that time, it was a relatively small facility, but its location was already considered strategically advantageous.

A key stage in the base's development began after the war. In the 1950s, a decision was made to transform Mayport into a home port for aircraft carriers. This required massive reconstruction: the water area was expanded and deepened, creating one of the largest turning basins on the US East Coast. In 1952, the first aircraft carrier, the USS Franklin D. Roosevelt, arrived here, marking a new era for the base. Since then, Mayport has been home to many famous US Navy ships.

Throughout its history, the base has repeatedly played a significant role in key events. For example, during the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962, ships based at Mayport took an active part in the naval blockade of Cuba, demonstrating the base's strategic readiness. For decades, Mayport has served as a launching point for missions worldwide, supporting operations in the Atlantic, the Mediterranean, and beyond.

In recent decades, the base has undergone several stages of modernisation to meet the requirements of the modern fleet. Infrastructure has been improved to service the newest classes of ships, including Littoral Combat Ships (LCS). Today, Naval Station Mayport remains the third-largest naval centre on the East Coast of the USA, second only to Norfolk and Jacksonville.

One of the most interesting facts about the base is its unique structure. It combines a full-fledged seaport capable of receiving the largest ships with an airfield — Naval Station Mayport (Admiral David L. McDonald Field) with the IATA code (NRB). This combination allows for comprehensive support of both maritime and air operations, making Mayport a multifunctional and key element of the country's naval power.

It is important to understand that the airfield at Naval Station Mayport (NRB) is an active military facility, closed to civil aviation and the general public. Unlike commercial airports, there are no standard passenger terminals or related services here. You will not find publicly accessible restaurants, cafes, shops, or tourist lounges.

For all leisure and business trips to the region, the main civilian airport should be used — Jacksonville International Airport (JAX). It is this airport that serves all commercial flights and offers a full range of services for travellers, including various dining outlets, shops, car rental, currency exchange, and comfortable lounges.

All amenities within the territory of Naval Station Mayport, such as dining halls, Navy Exchange (NEX) stores, medical clinics, and banks, are intended exclusively for service members of the USA armed forces, authorised personnel, and their families. Access for civilians without a special permit is not possible.

Therefore, when planning your journey, including hotel bookings and transfer arrangements, it is strongly recommended to focus on the infrastructure associated with Jacksonville International Airport (JAX). Mayport Airfield (NRB) is not an option for civilian travellers.

It is important to realise that Mayport (NRB) is an active US Naval Station, not a commercial airport serving civilian flights. Consequently, access to its premises is strictly limited, and the infrastructure is oriented towards the needs of service members and base personnel, rather than tourists.

You will not find the terminals familiar to travellers with restaurants, cafes, and lounges in departure or arrival zones here. The dining system on the base is organised differently and includes:

• Galleys: The main dining facilities for service members, offering balanced meals on a schedule.
• Navy Exchange (NEX) Food Court: A food court usually operates on the base territory, where well-known fast-food chains may be represented. This is the main option for a quick bite. The assortment and availability of special dietary options (vegetarian, gluten-free) depend on specific establishments.
• Small Cafes and Shops: Small shops or cafes may be located in different parts of the base where one can buy sandwiches, snacks, and beverages.

Since this is a restricted military facility, information regarding specific opening hours, prices, and menus is not available to the general public. All establishments are located within the restricted area ("landside") and are accessible only to authorised personnel.

First and foremost, it is important to note that Naval Station Mayport is an active military facility that does not serve commercial passenger flights. Travellers heading to Mayport or other cities in the USA in this region typically use the nearest civilian airport — Jacksonville International Airport (JAX). The tips below will be relevant for flights via JAX and most other airports in the country.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 2 hours before departure, and for international flights — 3 hours. This will give you sufficient time for luggage check-in, security screening, and boarding without haste. To save time, use online check-in on your airline's website.

Security Screening. Prepare in advance: all liquids in hand luggage must be in containers of no more than 100 ml and packed in a single transparent bag. Laptops and other large electronics must be removed from bags for separate scanning. It is strictly prohibited to carry weapons, flammable substances, and other dangerous items in hand luggage.

Seat Selection. You can often select a seat when purchasing a ticket or checking in. Aisle seats are convenient for those who plan to get up during the flight, while window seats are ideal for those wishing to enjoy the views. If legroom is important, choose seats in the emergency exit row (age and physical restrictions may apply).

Connecting Passengers. If your itinerary involves a transfer, allow sufficient time between flights: at least 1.5 hours for domestic and 2-3 hours for international connections. This is especially important when entering the USA, as you will have to pass through border control, collect your luggage, and re-check it after customs inspection.

Customs Control. Upon arrival via an international flight, you will need to complete a customs declaration. Be prepared to answer the officer's questions about the purpose of your trip and the items you are bringing in. It is prohibited to bring in certain food products (especially fresh meat, fruits, vegetables), seeds, and plants.

Saving Money and Flight Delays. To save money, book tickets in advance and travel light to avoid baggage fees. In the event of a flight delay, immediately contact an airline representative at the counter or via the app. Find out about your rights: depending on the cause and duration of the delay, you may be provided with vouchers for meals or hotel accommodation.