Space-A

I have thought of using Space-A travel before, that is, flying on military flights where there is space available for passengers, but was never quite able to figure out how to go about doing so. A few weeks ago at a BBQ, a Navy retiree filled me in on some useful information, and I found that getting signed up and learning more was a simple visit to my local Air Force Base. Thinking that the passenger terminal would be closed over the weekend and holidays, I went in the day after Labor Day to get myself signed up and learn more.

It was easy. Show them my military ID card and I go on the list for 60 days. The sooner I know I want to go somewhere and can sign up, the better my chances for going. I was then given a sheet with telephone numbers for bases all over the world and told to call ahead to get on their lists. With a dark week (read: no hours) coming up at work, I signed myself up and made a mental note to stop back by a couple of days before I wanted to fly out. I was told that if I came in person, I could get flight information for the next 72 hours.

On Monday I stopped by after work. The next flights that looked to get me close were headed to California, but I was told they would be a good bet because the base there acts as a hub. I had to work Tuesday, so I wrote down the info for Wednesday and went home, thinking that would be the earliest I would have a chance to get out.

Tuesday I stopped by again, just to see if there was anything new. There was. A direct flight, and if I wanted to make it, I would need to be back ready to go in 3 hours. Good thing I travel light, I was able to finish up work stuff, get packed, and go see my boyfriend before heading back to base to see if I would make the flight. Of course, it helps that the base is only 15 minutes away. About half an hour after getting there I was told I would fill the 5th and final spot available on the plane. When I was handed my ticket, I was told not to go anywhere, we were loading shortly. The plane was meant for take-off an hour after the seats had been assigned.

Now for the other part of Space-A: it is unlikely you will be on a plane meant to carry passengers. I rode on a C17. It was full of cargo. Hence the reason for only taking 5 additional people.

(not the plane I was on, but I pic I found online)

I arrived at Ft. Lewis (near Tacoma, WA) at about 5am local time. Made it to my Dad's house a few hours later, and now I'll be here for about a week visiting family and friends. I think next time I might see about traveling out of the country. That would be fun, but I probably need to save some cash first.