Understanding the travel requirements and procedures at Kadena Air Base Passenger Terminal is crucial for a smooth journey, especially when utilizing AMC flights like the Patriot Express. This guide provides essential information for US military personnel, their families, and other eligible travelers departing from or arriving at Kadena Air Base.
Passport and Identification Requirements
For most travel scenarios from Kadena Air Base, a regular blue tourist passport is necessary, as per the foreign clearance guide updated on July 9, 2023. However, specific exceptions exist for US military personnel. If you are a service member on leave status traveling to Japan, a passport is mandatory. Conversely, military personnel in Japan returning to their duty station can travel using their military ID card and travel orders. Always consult the Foreign Clearance Guide (https://apacs.milcloud.mil/fcg/fcg.cfm) and DoDI 4515.13 for the most current regulations.
Generally, sponsors traveling via AMC flights need to present travel orders, a Uniformed Services Identification (USID) card, and potentially a passport, depending on their destination. Dependents aged 14 and above must possess a USID dependent identification and privilege card. Dependents under 14 need to travel with a sponsor or eligible parent and have a government-issued ID (Federal, State, local, or tribal).
Important Notes:
- Non-SOFA status individuals in Japan or non-Japanese passport holders require an entry/exit stamp from an off-base immigration office. Refer to “Advice for Passengers” for more details.
- For safety reasons on AMC flights (excluding Patriot Express), open-toed, open-heeled, or high-heeled shoes are prohibited for all travelers.
Specific Guidance for 100% Disabled Veterans
Disabled veterans (excluding retirees) without a “Retired” status DoD ID card have travel limitations according to DoDI 4515.13, Table 3. Their travel is restricted to CONUS-CONUS routes and will be denied for departures from Kadena AB.
Kadena Customs and Immigration Office Information
For any customs or immigration inquiries, the Kadena Customs/Immigration Office (18 SFS) is located within the Kadena Passenger Terminal (BLDG. 3409).
- Location: Kadena Passenger Terminal BLDG. 3409
- DSN: 315-634-2217
- E-Mail: [email protected]
Early Bird Check-in for Patriot Express Flights
To streamline the check-in process, Early Bird Check-in is available for Patriot Express flights the day before departure. Check the flight schedule remarks for specific times. This service is exclusive to pre-booked passengers assigned through their travel booking agency. Passengers utilizing Early Bird Check-in must bring:
- Two copies of travel orders
- USID Cards and/or passports
- All checked baggage
- Pets in kennels (if applicable)
- Carry-on items
Early Bird Check-In opens one day prior to the Estimated Time of Departure (ETD) and is highly recommended for all passengers. Remember, all baggage and pets (in carriers) must be present to complete check-in and receive boarding passes. Overnight storage for pets, carriers, and carry-on items is not available at the terminal.
Patriot Express Check-in Procedures
For Patriot Express flights, the check-in area opens no earlier than 6 hours before departure. Duty passengers must be in line no later than 3 hours prior to departure. All passengers should have two copies of their travel orders ready for check-in. Passengers arriving after the NLT time will need to visit the Passenger Service Counter for re-booking assistance or as per PCS order instructions. Refer to the 72-Hour Flight Schedule for specific report times and roll call times for both pre-booked and space-required passengers. Contact the Passenger Service Center for any inquiries.
Pet Travel Information
Pet check-in for Patriot Express flights occurs on the day of travel. It is essential to review the AMC Pet Travel Information website (AMC Pet Travel Information website) and the AMC Pet brochure (AMC Pet brochure) before traveling with pets. Pets must remain in their kennels while in public areas of the terminal. When outside for pet relief, pets must be leashed. The Kadena Passenger Terminal provides climate-controlled indoor pet areas and air-conditioned ground transportation for pet comfort.
Duty Standby and Space-Available Travel (Space-A)
Roll calls for Duty Standby and Space-Available passengers are conducted 3 hours before departure. Space-A travel is subject to seat availability, so flexibility in travel planning is key. Baggage allowance for all passengers is limited to 2 bags per person, with a maximum weight of 70 pounds per bag and dimensions not exceeding 62 linear inches. Passengers are allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item that must fit under the aircraft seat. Space-A passengers traveling to the US via Patriot Express will incur a head tax of $40.81, payable by card only.
Passenger Terminal Amenities
The Kadena Passenger Terminal is currently undergoing renovations, which may affect amenity availability. Currently, the terminal offers:
- Free WIFI
- Vending machines (Yen and US Dollar accepted in the Inbound Lounge only)
- Family Lounge
- Business Lounge
- USO Lounge
Please note that a DV Lounge facility is not currently available at the Kadena Passenger Terminal.
For further questions regarding AMC travel guidance, please utilize the quick links provided on the Passenger Terminal webpage. The Kadena Passenger Terminal team is dedicated to providing the best possible service and welcomes any questions or concerns during your travel.
