Travel
Space-A travel: A way to see the world
Stripes Korea
October 23, 2024
(Space-A)
Space Available travel offers a way for Armed Services personnel, their dependents, retirees and others who support the mission to see the world on a budget… if the timing is right. Below is what you need to know about this great privilege:
What is Space-A?
It is a program that allows authorized passengers to occupy surplus seats after all cargo and space-required duty passengers have been accommodated.
Who can fly Space-A?
Uniformed services duty personnel, their dependents, Red Cross personnel, USO personnel who also support the mission, and veterans. Passengers may not use the flights for personal gain, in relationship to employment, to find a house or for other prohibited activities.
What do I need to qualify?
Qualified travelers must have completed the proper procedures and have the required documentation for travel.
Active duty must be on leave before they can register for Space-A.
Dependents of active duty flying unaccompanied need an Unaccompanied Command Sponsorship from his or her spouse’s commander. The letter is valid for one round trip travel via military aircraft, describes the reason for travel and the category of passenger travel.
Also mandatory for travel: military ID cards, passports, social security numbers and emergency contact information at the final destination.
How much does it cost?
Most flights offered through the Air Force’s Air Mobility Command (AMC) or the Navy and are usually free of charge.
Patriot Express flights are commercial, so a small tax (usually under $30) is charged per seat and per leg.
Where can I go on Space-A?
Common destinations include the Continental U.S. states, Hawaii, Alaska, Germany, England, Spain, Italy, Japan, South Korea and Guam. Flights may even go to South and Central America, Africa and Australia.
When is the best time to fly?
The best time to obtain seats is when DODEA schools are in session.
Because the program is a privilege, it is imperative to understand the circumstances may change due to mission mobility. Flying exactly where you want to go at the time or day you want to fly is not always possible. So, if you have a specific itinerary for your destination or your return, you may want to reconsider using Space-A for those travel plans. This program is designed for those who have enough available leave, time and flexibility to wait or change their schedule.
Where can I register?
There are many ways. In-person registration can be completed at the terminal’s helpdesk or self-help kiosks. You can also register via email, fax or online through www.takeahop.org. Registration is allowed for up to five departure airports and five countries of destination.
The website also offers a smartphone app where, for a couple of dollars, users can quickly sign up for the flights and destinations. Also, save time by monitoring terminal activity via the phone app.
What happens after I register?
Once registered, your information remains active for either 60 days, or for the duration of your leave orders or authorization of flight, whichever occurs first. Print a copy of your registration to keep on hand at the terminal. The time and date stamp of your registration determines your position and priority within your Space-A category.
On flight day, decide which terminal you think would be the best chance for Space-A departure and head out. It helps to phone the terminals that you requested for departure and to monitor recent schedules. Check online and on Facebook for your favorite Space-A terminals’ information. Available seats are now identified between two to five hours prior to departure but being at the terminal early will help you vie for seats. Be “travel-ready” with the proper luggage, any dependents and paperwork, your car parked or rental returned, etc. If your name is called and you are not physically present to hear the roll call, your name will be put at the bottom of your category list, and you may not make that flight.
What are the categories?
Each passenger is assigned a passenger category for travel. These categories designate the order by which you may be boarded on Space-A flights. The following list is generalized:
Emergency travel on a round-trip basis in connection with serious illness, death, or impending death of a member of the immediate family.
Environmental Morale Leave (EML) and dependents.
Active duty ordinary Leave and dependents; convalescent leave; permissive TDYs; Unaccompanied dependent of deployed servicemember for more than a year.
Unaccompanied dependent of deployed servicemember on EML status.
Unaccompanied military dependent of non-deployed servicemember.
Retirees, Reservists.
What baggage can I bring?
Two pieces of checked baggage; 70 lbs each; up to 62 linear inches in size. (families can pool baggage allowances)
Carry-ons must fit in overhead bins (if available) or under your seat
Travel light as baggage weight could be restricted for your flight.
What else should I know?
Wear appropriate footwear, bring jackets, blankets, snacks, bottled water and things to keep you busy, like books, games or electronic devices.
Available plugs for charging are along the walls.
Remember to stay flexible. Travel during off-peak seasons (stay away from summer break and major holidays).
Sometimes travelers attempt to catch a hop at neighboring base terminals to maximize chances of getting on a flight.
For your return flight, you could wait several days for available space. Or, you could even be dropped off in another country to wait for a flight.
Remaining calm, positive and being flexible will help.
When flying Space-A, be ready for anything.
Pacific Locations
KOREA
OSAN AB
Bldg. 648
Phone: 315-784-6883
KUNSAN AB
Bldg. 2858
Phone: 063-470-4666
Mainland Japan
MISAWA AB
Bldg. 943
Phone: 315-226-2370/2371
Commercial: 011-81-176-77-2370/2371
NAF ATSUGI
Bldg. 206
Phone: 0467-63-3118
MCAS IWAKUNI
Bldg. 727
Phone: 315-253-5509
YOKOTA AB
Bldg. 80
Phone: 315-225-5660/5661/5662
OKINAWA
KADENA AB
733 AMS, Unit 5145 Box 10
Phone: 634-5806/098-962-6487
GUAM
ANDERSEN AFB
Bldg. 17002 Unit 14008
Phone: 671-366-5165
Quick links to ease travel
Make reservations on the AMC Space-A Travel page
Travel site for military DOD & veterans
U.S. Airline Alliance travel packages
If you don’t feeling like using Space-A, you can always try U.S. Airline Alliance, the travel agency for official and leisure travel on all USFK installations. Check out their website for office locations, phone numbers and hours of operation.
American Airlines, Phone: 050-3323-8790
Asiana Airlines, Phone: 050-3323-8790
Delta Airlines Phone: 050-3323-854
Korean Air, Phone: 050-3323-8549
United Airlines, Phone: 050-3323-8790
Koridoor Tours, Location: USO Sentry Village, Building 375, Phone: 050-33-53-6249/6281