436th Aerial Port Squadron offers tips for a successful Space A

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Matthew Hubby
  • 436th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  As the winter months approach and the holidays arrive, the 436th Aerial Port Squadron offers the following advice on Space Available travel.

When planning a trip using Space A, it is a good idea to have a buffer of days off before and after the trip dates, as missions can change and flights can be canceled at the last minute, said Staff Sgt. Andrew Meyers, 436th Aerial Port Squadron passenger terminal day shift supervisor. The number of available seats is limited due to mission constraints, so it is always a good idea to plan an alternate way to get to the destination or back home, and plan to return early to avoid a possible unauthorized absence due to a canceled flight.

"Flight information is usually available two days in advance," said Sergeant Meyers. "Retirees can sign up whenever they want, but if you're active duty you will need to be on leave status."

Groups that can use Space A are broken up into six separate categories. Category one is emergency leave, category two is environmental morale leave, category three is ordinary leave, category four is permissive Temporary Duty Assignments, category five is command sponsored dependants and category six is retirees, reservists and cadets. Categories one through five are allowed to take dependants with them on Space A, but dependants can't fly without their sponsor.

"Space A is free, the only thing you have to pay for is a meal, and that is $4.25," said Sergeant Meyers. "We travel anywhere, but the most heavily traveled places are Rota, Spain; Ramstein, Germany; and Spangdahlem, Germany."

Even with all these locations of travel, it is best to keep in mind that there are other rules and regulations that govern the flights. Space A flights are subject to sudden mission changes and regardless of the flight destination pets are not allowed on board. It is best to pack light, as there is a weight limit on most flights, but flyers can pool their bag limit. The policy is two 70 pound checked baggage and two personal carry-ons per person.

"It's a really great service, the only thing about it is you need to make sure you plan ahead," said Airman 1st Class Anthony Bermudez, 436th APS passenger service attendant. "It's a really great way to go to Germany or Spain while on leave. You may lose a day or two waiting for the flight, but it is free. Provided you plan ahead, you save in the long run."