USAF Academy Airfield

Welcome

USAF Academy Airfield, also known as Davis Airfield, is no ordinary airport. It functions as a training ground for cadets at the United States Air Force Academy, rather than serving commercial air traffic. Nestled at the base of the Rocky Mountains, this airfield is a vital cog in the USAFA's training operations for future aviators. With no commercial passenger facilities, the "airport experience" for most visitors is more about witnessing cadet flight activities amid stunning mountain backdrops than checking in for flights.

At a glance

This unique facility hosts zero commercial passengers annually, operating primarily as a training site for the 306th Flying Training Group. Located approximately 10 miles northwest of downtown Colorado Springs, AFF's position offers spectacular views of the Rockies—ideal for aviation enthusiasts keen on catching a glimpse of training operations against dramatic landscapes.

Terminals & layout

The airfield has a single Main Terminal. Expect the bare essentials here as it's not equipped for commercial passenger services. The terminal is more a hub for cadet operations and logistical coordination rather than a bustling center of travel amenities. Its layout reflects its purpose: functionality for military training over traveler comfort.

Getting to and from the city

Travel to USAF Academy Airfield requires prior coordination. The facility is not publicly accessible without a Department of Defense ID or a pre-arranged sponsor. For those visiting cadets or attending events, traveling first to Colorado Springs Airport (COS) or Denver (DEN) is necessary, followed by ground transport to the Academy. Plan your arrival into COS or DEN and then use taxis, airport shuttles, or rideshares like Uber or Lyft to reach the Academy since no public shuttle services are available directly to the academy grounds.

Traveller essentials

Being primarily a military training airfield, standard airport amenities are not available. There are no restaurants or eateries in the terminal and the climate's high altitude means visitors should carry their own provisions like water, sunscreen, and lip balm. Dehydration can occur rapidly due to the dry conditions, and there's no airside access to refreshments.

Dining & shopping highlights

While the airfield itself lacks dining options, a selection of shops in the Main Terminal might catch your interest. These include a Duty Free Shop and a Souvenir Shop, plus the charming Doolittle Hall Gift Shop offering Academy-branded merchandise. For those needing travel essentials or a last-minute gift, these outlets provide a modest selection to suit basic needs.

Lounges

Davis Airfield Lounge is the solitary lounge available for personnel at the Main Terminal. This lounge, presumably for cadet use and military personnel, reflects the airfield’s primary role as a military training location. Its existence emphasizes the non-commercial nature of AFF, further reinforcing the need for visitors to utilize traditional airports for travel.

Insider tips

• Insider: Treat AFF as a military training facility, not a commercial airport, with zero passenger traffic or conventional services. Flights and amenities align with military routines.
• Time: On In-processing day, the 6 a.m. show time is often flexible, with the actual time dependent on squadron notifications—reducing undue early travel stress.
• Avoid: Do not expect access to the base without a DoD ID or a pre-arranged sponsor; random visits are not permitted.
• Local: For USAFA memorabilia, the Doolittle Hall Gift Shop offers a quieter shopping experience away from the main visitor crowds.
• Quiet: A stop at Doolittle Hall yields both a peaceful experience and access to exclusive Air Force Academy merchandise.
• Money: Parents of cadets note that USAFA often covers one night of hotel up to $200 if arriving the day before reporting; keep receipts for transport reimbursements.
• Insider: Visit during weekday mornings during the academic year for the best chances to see training operations when activity levels are highest.