Frequently Asked Questions

My name is Colton Williams. I'm a disabled veteran and cyber warrant officer still serving in the National Guard with 18 years of service. My wife and I have used Space-A travel multiple times ourselves. We know firsthand the frustration of checking Facebook groups, terminal websites, and scattered posts across the internet trying to piece together flight information and hoping you haven't missed an opportunity. That's why I built FlySpaceA. I'm building this with security and OPSEC for active missions at the forefront, while engaging the process to actually be useful to my community. The folks who serve deserve better tools to navigate the benefits they've earned.

FlySpaceA is currently free and has been free for the past year to support military families in this economy. The costs are covered thanks to donations and family contributions. I am determined to deliver a professional product that is secure, transparent, and is useful to the community. In the future, FlySpaceA will transition to a paid model to ensure long-term sustainability. When that happens, it will be communicated clearly and well in advance. No surprises, no bait-and-switch. The goal is and always has been to serve the military community.

Space-Available (Space-A) travel is a privilege that allows authorized passengers to occupy unused seats on U.S. military aircraft. It's offered at no cost to eligible military members, retirees, and their families when mission requirements permit. The Space-A travel program may offer substantial savings for your leisure travel.

According to AMC regulations, eligibility includes:

• Active duty military members on leave (ordinary or emergency)
• Active duty members on Environmental & Morale Leave (EML)
• Military retirees and their accompanied dependents (including Grey Area Retirees with geographic restrictions)
• Reserve and National Guard members (when eligible)
• Dependents of active duty members (with specific criteria)
• 100% disabled veterans (as determined by the VA)
• DoD civilian employees (in certain circumstances)
• Medal of Honor recipients and their dependents

For complete eligibility requirements, consult the official AMC Space-A Travel page or contact your nearest AMC Passenger Terminal.

Worldwide Travel (CONUS, OCONUS, and U.S. Territories)

• Military retirees receiving retirement pay (ID card says "Retired") and their dependents
• Active duty members (all categories: emergency leave, EML, ordinary leave, house hunting, PTDY, PDMRA)
• Medal of Honor recipients and their dependents
• Foreign military members on official exchange

CONUS and U.S. Territories Only

• Grey Area Retirees (ID card says "Reserve Retired" — entitled to retirement pay at age 60 but not yet receiving it) and their accompanied dependents
• 100% disabled veterans (as determined by the VA)
• Guard/Reserve members (inactive/drilling status)
• ROTC cadets, service academy students, and officer candidates
• Note: If a veteran is BOTH 100% disabled AND a military retiree (20+ years), they may fly worldwide under their retiree eligibility

Special Cases

• DoD civilian employees (stationed overseas): Eligible for Space-A only during emergency leave or Environmental Morale Leave (EML)
• Dependents of DoD civilians (overseas): Same restrictions as sponsor (emergency/EML only)

Not sure about your eligibility? Try our eligibility calculator for personalized results.

Passengers are assigned to categories based on their status and travel purpose. Lower category numbers have higher boarding priority. Categories are based on DoD Instruction 4515.13:

• Category 1: Emergency/Official travel
• Category 2: Environmental & Morale Leave (EML)
• Category 3: Active duty on ordinary leave
• Category 4: EML dependents (accompanied)
• Category 5: Permissive TDY/House hunting
• Category 6: Retirees receiving pay (worldwide), Grey Area Retirees (CONUS/territories), inactive Guard/Reserve (CONUS/territories), 100% disabled veterans (CONUS/territories), and others

Within each category, priority is determined by your sign-up date and time.

You can sign up at the passenger terminal in person or via email/fax:

• Sign up up to 60 days before travel (90 days for EML travelers)
• Provide your name, DoD ID number, desired destinations, and contact information
• Include all travelers in your party
• You can list up to 5 countries/locations
• Many terminals now offer email sign-up - check the AMC website for specific terminal procedures

Important: Sign-up does not guarantee a seat. Present yourself at the terminal during roll call to compete for available seats.

The short answer: you have to work it out with your chain of command. Active duty service members must be on approved leave (ordinary, emergency, or EML) to fly Space-A. AMC terminals will verify your leave status and will not board you without valid leave orders.

The challenge is that Space-A flights are unpredictable. Schedules change, flights cancel, and seats fill up. AMC does not coordinate with your unit or adjust schedules around your leave window. That is between you and your command.

Here is what experienced Space-A travelers recommend:

• Request flexible leave dates when possible, giving yourself a buffer on both ends
• Have a backup plan for getting home if your return flight falls through, whether that means a commercial ticket or extending leave
• Talk to your supervisor early about the nature of Space-A travel so they understand you may need to adjust dates
• Keep your leave form accessible as the terminal will need to verify it before boarding
• Monitor flight schedules before your leave starts so you have a realistic picture of what is available

The reality is that Space-A requires flexibility from both you and your chain of command. The more your leadership understands how Space-A works, the easier it is to coordinate.

Required documentation varies by status:

• All travelers: Valid DoD ID card or dependent ID
• Active duty on leave: Leave orders/form
• Retirees: Retiree ID card (DD Form 2) — check the affiliation block for "Retired" (worldwide) vs "Reserve Retired" (CONUS/territories only)
• 100% disabled veterans: DD Form 2765 and VA letter
• Dependents: DD Form 1173 and sponsor's orders (if traveling alone)
• International travel: Passport (and visa if required)

Always check with your specific terminal for additional requirements.

A "Grey Area Retiree" is a Reserve or National Guard member who has earned retirement but is not yet receiving retirement pay (typically before age 60). Per DoDI 4515.13 (Table 3, Item 39), their ID card shows "Reserve Retired" in the affiliation block rather than "Retired."

Key differences from regular retirees:

• Same priority: Both are Category VI — no distinction in boarding order (per Section 4.1.b)
• Different travel area: Grey Area Retirees are restricted to CONUS and travel directly between CONUS and Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, USVI, Guam, and American Samoa
• Dependents authorized: Accompanied dependents may travel within the same geographic restrictions (their ID will show "Guard" or "Reserve" in the sponsor affiliation block)
• Transition: Once you begin receiving retirement pay and obtain the "Retired" ID card, you qualify for full worldwide travel under Table 3, Item 37

Note: Some third-party sites incorrectly state that Grey Area Retiree dependents are not authorized for Space-A. Per DoDI 4515.13 Section 4.8.e, accompanied dependents are authorized within the same geographic restriction.

Source: DoDI 4515.13 "Air Transportation Eligibility" (Section 4.8.e, Table 3 Items 37 & 39)

Standard Space-A baggage allowance per person:

• 2 checked bags, maximum 70 lbs each
• Bag dimensions: 62 linear inches (length + width + height)
• 1 carry-on bag and 1 personal item
• Family members may pool their baggage allowance

Note: Mobility assist equipment (wheelchairs, walkers, crutches, child restraint systems, strollers) does not count against baggage allowance and will not exceed 100 pounds per AMC policy.

FlySpaceA is an independent platform that aggregates and displays Space-A flight information from military terminals worldwide. We help military families track available flights, understand their eligibility, and plan their Space-A travel more effectively. Our mission is to make Space-A travel more accessible and understandable for the military community.

No, FlySpaceA is not an official U.S. Government or DoD website. We are an independent service that collects publicly available Space-A flight information to make it more accessible to the military community. We are actively seeking to partner with Air Mobility Command to better serve Space-A travelers. Always verify flight information with the official terminal before traveling.

We update flight information multiple times daily from terminal Facebook pages and other public sources. However, Space-A schedules can change rapidly due to mission requirements. Always call the terminal for the most current information before traveling.

Our Category Calculator helps you determine your Space-A boarding priority based on your military status and travel type. Answer three simple questions, and we'll tell you which category you fall into. This tool is based on official AMC regulations and DoD Instruction 4515.13, but should always be verified with terminal staff.

Yes, pets can travel on certain AMC flights, primarily the Patriot Express (PE) missions. Pet travel is subject to specific requirements:

• Pets must travel in an approved carrier that fits under the seat
• Maximum of 2 pets per family
• Health certificate required (within 10 days of travel)
• All required vaccinations must be current
• Pet fee applies (check current rates with terminal)
• Advance reservation required - pets cannot fly standby

Important: New CDC requirements for dogs entering the U.S. started August 1, 2024. Check the AMC Pet Travel page for current requirements.

Yes. We use enterprise-grade cloud infrastructure with industry-standard security practices. All connections are encrypted with SSL/TLS. We never store passwords in plain text and follow industry best practices for data protection. Your personal information is never shared with third parties.

For operational security (OPSEC) reasons, we do not display tail numbers, specific aircraft types, or other sensitive information. We only show information that is already publicly available and comply with all DoD guidelines regarding the display of military flight information. This helps protect our service members and their missions.

Currently, FlySpaceA is a web-based platform optimized for mobile browsers. You can add it to your home screen for quick access. We're evaluating the development of native mobile apps based on user feedback and demand.

Successful Space-A travel requires flexibility and preparation:

• Be flexible: Have multiple destination options and flexible dates
• Pack smart: Stay under 70 lbs per bag and bring essentials in carry-on
• Have funds available: Bring cash/cards for meals, lodging, and potential commercial return tickets
• Check documentation: Ensure IDs, passports, and visas are current with at least 6 months validity
• Research terminals: Know operating hours, parking, and lodging options at departure and arrival locations
• Join online communities: Facebook groups provide real-time updates from fellow travelers
• Have backup plans: Know commercial flight options in case Space-A doesn't work out

Space-A competition varies by season and location:

• Less competitive: January-February, September-November (excluding holidays)
• Most competitive: Summer months (June-August), holiday periods, spring break
• Best days: Mid-week travel (Tuesday-Thursday) typically has fewer competitors
• Consider school schedules: Avoid DoD school breaks for less competition
• Weather factors: Winter weather can cause delays but also means fewer travelers

Tip: Higher category travelers (1-3) have better success during peak times than Category 6 retirees.

Terminal procedures typically follow this process:

1. Check flight schedules: Call or check Facebook for latest updates
2. Mark yourself present: Usually 2-3 hours before scheduled departure
3. Roll call: Terminal announces available seats by category
4. Seat selection: Names called in category and sign-up date order
5. Check baggage: If selected, proceed to baggage check
6. Security screening: Go through security like commercial flights
7. Board aircraft: Follow terminal instructions for boarding

Important: Stay close to the terminal and listen for announcements. Missing roll call means losing your seat.

Military installations offer various lodging options:

• Base lodging: Reserve early; Space-A lodging rates available if occupancy permits
• Temporary Lodging Facility (TLF): Family-friendly with kitchenettes
• Navy Lodge: Available at Navy/Marine bases, often pet-friendly
• Air Force Inns: Standard lodging at Air Force bases
• Fisher Houses: Free lodging for medical appointments (if eligible)
• Off-base hotels: Many offer military discounts

Pro tip: Call lodging directly and mention you're flying Space-A. Some locations offer special rates or late checkout for Space-A travelers.

International Space-A requires additional preparation:

• Passport: Must have 6+ months validity from travel date
• Visas: Your responsibility to obtain; check requirements for all potential destinations
• Country clearance: Some countries require additional documentation
• SOFA stamp: Get stamped at military customs when entering/leaving overseas bases
• Return plans: Have funds for potential commercial return (one-way tickets can be expensive)
• Foreign currency: Have local currency for transportation and emergencies

Remember: You may be denied boarding if you don't have proper documentation for all possible destinations on a multi-leg flight.

Getting stuck is a real possibility with Space-A. Here's what to do:

• Stay on the sign-up list: Keep competing for seats daily
• Expand destinations: Add more locations to increase options
• Check other terminals: Nearby bases might have different flights
• Consider Patriot Express: Commercial contract flights with more reliable schedules
• Commercial backup: Be prepared to buy a ticket home if necessary
• Leave buffer time: Don't travel Space-A if you must be back by a specific date

Golden rule: Only fly Space-A one way if you can afford to fly commercial the other way.

Space-A with children requires extra planning:

• Bring entertainment: Tablets, books, games for potentially long waits
• Pack snacks: Terminal food options may be limited
• Car seats: Required for children under 2; counts toward baggage allowance
• Comfort items: Blankets, favorite toys for overnight flights
• Prepare for delays: Have backup activities and extra supplies
• Choose Patriot Express: More child-friendly than military cargo aircraft
• Terminal play areas: Some terminals have children's areas

Note: All family members must be present for roll call, including infants.

Medical considerations for Space-A travel:

• Medications: Bring enough for extended delays plus extras
• Medical equipment: CPAP, oxygen, wheelchairs usually allowed (call ahead)
• Fitness to fly: Some conditions may require medical clearance
• Pregnancy: Generally allowed until 34 weeks with provider's note
• Special needs: Notify terminal of any special requirements in advance
• Emergency care: Know medical facilities at destination

Important: Military aircraft may lack medical equipment found on commercial flights. Consider your needs carefully.

Each AMC terminal has its own contact information and procedures. You can find terminal directories and contact information on the official AMC website. Most terminals also maintain Facebook pages with current flight schedules and announcements.

For the most current terminal information, visit the AMC Passenger Terminal Directory .

Here are key resources for Space-A travel information:

• Official AMC Travel Site - Comprehensive official information
• AMC Space-A Travel Page - Detailed eligibility and procedures
• DoD Instruction 4515.13 - Official Space-A travel regulation
• Your local passenger terminal Facebook page
• FlySpaceA resources and guides