Space-A travel offers a unique way for military personnel and their families to see the world on a budget.
It’s an exciting opportunity to hop on military flights with empty seats.
To sign up for Space-A travel, eligible travelers can use email, fax, or visit a passenger terminal in person to register for flights.
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The process is pretty straightforward, but it does require some planning and flexibility.
Different bases have their own rules for signing up, so it’s important to check with your departure location.
Active duty members, retirees, and dependents can all take advantage of this travel option, but the priority levels vary.
Before jumping into Space-A travel, it’s good to know that there’s no guarantee of getting a seat.
Travelers need to be ready with backup plans and enough funds for commercial travel if needed.
But for those with a sense of adventure, Space-A can be a fun and cost-effective way to explore new places.
Key Takeaways
- Eligible travelers can sign up for Space-A flights by email, fax, or in person at passenger terminals
- Space-A travel requires flexibility and backup plans due to the uncertain nature of seat availability
- Different categories of travelers have varying priorities for Space-A flights, with active duty on emergency leave getting top priority
Getting Started with Space-A Travel
Space-A travel lets eligible people fly on military planes when there’s room.
It’s a great way to save money, but it needs some planning.
Let’s look at who can use it, what to do before you go, and how to sign up.
Understanding Space-A Travel Eligibility
The Department of Defense sets the rules for Space-A travel in DODI 4515.13.
Active duty military, retirees, and some family members can use it.
Veterans with a permanent service-connected disability can also fly Space-A.
The John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act added more people to the list.
Now, veterans who are 100% disabled can travel too.
They need proof from the VA.
There are different travel categories.
Your group decides how likely you are to get a seat.
Active duty on leave usually gets priority.
Pre-Travel Checklist
Before you try Space-A, get your papers ready.
You’ll need:
- Military ID or proof of eligibility
- Passport (for international flights)
- Leave papers (for active duty)
- Vaccination records (if needed)
Pack light.
Most flights let you bring two bags up to 70 pounds each.
Don’t forget things like snacks and entertainment.
Flights can be long, and services are limited.
Be flexible with your plans.
Space-A flights can change or cancel without notice.
Have a backup plan and enough money for other travel if needed.
Signing Up for Space-A Travel
To sign up for Space-A, you need to register at the base you want to fly from.
There are a few ways to do this:
- In person at the passenger terminal
- By email
- By fax
- Online (at some bases)
The AMC Form 140 is often used to sign up.
Some bases have their own web forms for easy registration.
When you sign up, you’re not booking a specific flight.
You’re just getting on the list for that base.
You can sign up for more than one base at a time.
Active duty members can sign up when their leave starts.
They must stay on leave while signed up.
Others can sign up anytime.
Before You Fly
Getting ready for Space-A travel takes some planning.
You’ll need to prepare documents, learn about the flight process, and know what to do at the terminal.
Here’s what to keep in mind before your trip.
Document Preparation
Passports and visas are must-haves for Space-A travelers.
Make sure they’re up-to-date and valid for your entire trip.
Check the Foreign Clearance Guide for any special rules about your destination.
Gather these important papers:
- Military ID or dependent ID card
- Leave paperwork (for active duty)
- Proof of pass status (for retirees)
Don’t forget medical documents if needed.
Keep some cash or a credit card handy for unexpected expenses.
Understanding the Flight Process
Space-A flights work differently from regular ones.
Travelers are grouped into six categories based on their status and reason for travel.
Priority order:
- Emergency leave
- Environmental morale leave
- Ordinary leave
- Relatives of deployed service members
- Students
- Retirees and others
Flight schedules change often.
Be flexible with your travel dates.
You might not get on the first flight you try for.
Space-A is on a “non-interference basis.” This means military missions come first.
Your flight could be canceled if the plane is needed elsewhere.
At the AMC Passenger Terminal
Arrive early at the passenger terminal.
The “Space Available Show Time” is when you need to be there to check in.
This is usually a few hours before the flight.
Bring all your documents to the counter.
The staff will check your eligibility and sign-up status.
They’ll also make sure you have the right border clearance documents.
Be ready for security screening.
Pack smart and follow luggage rules.
Remember, you might have to wait a while.
Bring snacks, entertainment, and maybe a pillow to stay comfy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Space-A travel offers unique opportunities for eligible travelers.
Let’s look at some common questions about who can fly, how to sign up, costs, and where you can go.
Who can hop on a Space-A flight?
Active duty military members and their families can use Space-A travel.
Retirees and some other groups can also join in. Eligibility rules set by the Department of Defense decide who gets to fly.
What’s the drill for registering for Space-A travel with the Air Force?
Signing up for Space-A is pretty simple.
Travelers can use an online form to register.
They’ll need to pick their departure location and provide some basic info.
The form sends an email to the chosen passenger terminal.
It’s a handy way to get on the list for potential flights.
Is there a price tag for catching a ride with Space-A?
Good news – Space-A flights are usually free! Travelers don’t pay for the flight itself.
They might need to cover some small fees at the terminal, though.
It’s smart to bring some cash just in case.
Food and other extras aren’t included, so plan for those costs too.
Can retirees look forward to jetting off with Space-A travel?
Yes, retirees can use Space-A travel.
They’re welcome to hop on flights when space is available.
Retirees should know they have a lower priority than active duty members.
This means they might wait longer for a flight.
But with some flexibility, retirees can still enjoy this travel perk.
Where can I sneak a peek at the Space-A flight schedules?
Flight schedules change often, so it’s best to check close to travel time.
Many bases post their schedules online or on Facebook.
The AMC website is a good place to start looking.
Remember, these schedules can change quickly.
It’s a good idea to keep checking right up until the flight.
What’s the scoop on Space-A travel locations?
You can go to lots of places with Space-A. Flights go to military bases in the U.S. and around the world.
Popular spots include Germany, Japan, and Hawaii.
The exact locations depend on where military planes are flying.
Some trips might involve stops at several bases along the way.
