Eielson Air Force Base
Summary
| Operating Country | 🇺🇸 United States |
| Location | 🇺🇸 United States |
| Status | ◉ Active |
| Usage | Military only |
| Year built | 1943 |
| Operating Organization | US Air Force |
| Units |
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Location & Details
| Coordinates | 64.6656°N, -147.1014°E |
| Elevation | 167 m (548 ft) |
| IATA code | EIL |
| ICAO code | PAEI |
| Runways |
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| Website | www.eielson.af.mil/ |
Description
Eielson Air Force Base is located near Fairbanks and Moose Creek, Alaska. Established in 1943 as Mile 26 Satellite Field, it served as a satellite of Ladd Field. Construction began in August 1943, and the site was redesignated Eielson Air Force Base in 1948. The facility is named for polar pilot Carl Ben Eielson. During World War II, the airfield functioned as a stop for Lend-Lease aircraft. Following a closure at the end of the war, the base reopened in 1946. Operational units assigned after reopening included the 57th Fighter Group and the 97th Bombardment Wing, which deployed B-29 Superfortress bombers to the site in 1947.
The 5010th Wing acted as the host unit from 1949 until 1981, when it was replaced by the 343d Composite Wing. During the Cold War, the base supported strategic reconnaissance and tanker missions, hosting the 6th Strategic Wing from 1967 to 1992. The 354th Fighter Wing (354 FW) assumed host responsibilities in August 1993.
The base is operated by the United States Air Force under Pacific Air Forces and the Eleventh Air Force. The 354 FW serves as the host unit. The installation's mission includes supporting offensive counter-air, interdiction, and close-air support training within the Joint Pacific Alaskan Range Complex. Stationed units include the 18th Aggressor Squadron, which operates F-16 Fighting Falcons, and the 355th and 356th Fighter Squadrons, which operate F-35A Lightning II aircraft. The Alaska Air National Guard’s 168th Air Refueling Wing is also based at the facility, operating KC-135 Stratotankers. Other assigned units include a detachment of the 210th Rescue Squadron, which utilizes HH-60G Pave Hawks.
Infrastructure at the installation includes the Thunderdome hangar and Amber Hall. The base operates a central heat and power plant, which is serviced by an 11-mile rail system and GP40-2 locomotives for coal transport. The installation also houses the 336th Training Group’s Arctic Survival School and various maintenance, medical, and mission support groups.