Largest Marine Corps Air Stations
The United States Marine Corps operates a network of air stations that provide critical support to its aviation operations. These air stations serve as bases for various types of aircraft, including fighter jets, helicopters, and transport planes. In this article, we will explore the five largest Marine Corps air stations, highlighting their locations, roles, and notable features.
1. Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California
Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, also known as MCAS Miramar, is the largest Marine Corps air station in the United States. Located in San Diego, California, it spans over 23,000 acres and is home to more than 10,000 Marines, sailors, and civilians. MCAS Miramar serves as the headquarters for the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing and hosts several squadrons of F/A-18 Hornets, F-35B Lightning IIs, and other aircraft.
Key Features:
- Runways: Three runways, including a 12,000-foot main runway
- Aircraft: F/A-18 Hornets, F-35B Lightning IIs, CH-53E Super Stallions, and others
- Personnel: Over 10,000 Marines, sailors, and civilians
2. Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina
Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, located in Havelock, North Carolina, is the second-largest Marine Corps air station. It covers an area of approximately 13,000 acres and supports the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing. MCAS Cherry Point is home to various squadrons of F/A-18 Hornets, F-35B Lightning IIs, and helicopters.
Key Features:
- Runways: Two runways, including a 10,000-foot main runway
- Aircraft: F/A-18 Hornets, F-35B Lightning IIs, CH-53E Super Stallions, and others
- Personnel: Over 7,000 Marines, sailors, and civilians
3. Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina
Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, located in Beaufort, South Carolina, is a significant air station that supports the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing. Covering an area of approximately 6,000 acres, MCAS Beaufort is home to several squadrons of F/A-18 Hornets and F-35B Lightning IIs.
Key Features:
- Runways: Two runways, including a 9,000-foot main runway
- Aircraft: F/A-18 Hornets, F-35B Lightning IIs, and others
- Personnel: Over 5,000 Marines, sailors, and civilians
4. Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona
Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, located in Yuma, Arizona, is a large air station that supports the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing. Covering an area of approximately 5,500 acres, MCAS Yuma is home to various squadrons of F/A-18 Hornets, F-35B Lightning IIs, and helicopters.
Key Features:
- Runways: Two runways, including a 9,000-foot main runway
- Aircraft: F/A-18 Hornets, F-35B Lightning IIs, CH-53E Super Stallions, and others
- Personnel: Over 4,000 Marines, sailors, and civilians
5. Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton, California
Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton, located in Oceanside, California, is a major air station that supports the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing. Covering an area of approximately 4,500 acres, MCAS Camp Pendleton is home to several squadrons of helicopters and tiltrotor aircraft.
Key Features:
- Runways: Two runways, including a 7,000-foot main runway
- Aircraft: CH-53E Super Stallions, UH-1Y Venom, and others
- Personnel: Over 3,000 Marines, sailors, and civilians
[🚨] Note: The personnel numbers and aircraft types are approximate and subject to change.
In summary, these five Marine Corps air stations play a vital role in supporting the Marine Corps’ aviation operations. They provide critical infrastructure, training facilities, and maintenance support for a wide range of aircraft, enabling the Marine Corps to accomplish its mission of defending the United States and its interests.
Notable Features and Statistics:
| Air Station | Location | Area (acres) | Runways | Aircraft | Personnel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MCAS Miramar | California | 23,000 | 3 | F/A-18, F-35B, CH-53E | 10,000+ |
| MCAS Cherry Point | North Carolina | 13,000 | 2 | F/A-18, F-35B, CH-53E | 7,000+ |
| MCAS Beaufort | South Carolina | 6,000 | 2 | F/A-18, F-35B | 5,000+ |
| MCAS Yuma | Arizona | 5,500 | 2 | F/A-18, F-35B, CH-53E | 4,000+ |
| MCAS Camp Pendleton | California | 4,500 | 2 | CH-53E, UH-1Y | 3,000+ |
What is the largest Marine Corps air station in the United States?
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Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, located in San Diego, California, is the largest Marine Corps air station in the United States, covering an area of approximately 23,000 acres.
Which air station is home to the most aircraft?
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Marine Corps Air Station Miramar is home to the most aircraft, with over 200 aircraft, including F/A-18 Hornets, F-35B Lightning IIs, and CH-53E Super Stallions.
Which air station has the longest runway?
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Marine Corps Air Station Miramar has the longest runway, with a 12,000-foot main runway.
