Quick Facts
- Location: 4 miles east-northeast of Altus, Oklahoma
- Branch: United States Air Force
- Size: 4,226 acres
- Population: Approximately 3,000 students trained annually, 9,500+ beneficiaries
- Major Units: 97th Air Mobility Wing (host unit)
- Primary Mission: C-17 Globemaster III, KC-135 Stratotanker, and KC-46 Pegasus aircrew training
Overview & History
Altus Air Force Base serves as the United States Air Force’s premier center for mobility airlift and air refueling training. Located in southwestern Oklahoma, the installation provides specialized training for pilots, navigators, and aircrew members who operate the Air Force’s critical transport and refueling aircraft.
The base’s history began in 1943 when it was established as Altus Army Airfield during World War II. Initially serving as a training facility for multi-engine aircraft pilots using Cessna AT-17 Bobcats and Curtiss-Wright AT-9 Jeeps, the airfield trained new pilots until May 1945, when it was placed on temporary inactive status. The facility briefly became an aircraft disposal point before sitting idle after the war.
The onset of the Korean War in June 1950 brought Altus back to life. The base underwent several organizational changes during the 1950s, transferring from Tactical Air Command to Strategic Air Command. In November 1953, the 96th Bombardment Wing arrived and began operations with B-47 Stratojets and KC-97 Stratofreighters. Throughout the following decades, the base supported various missions including Atlas F intercontinental ballistic missiles in the 1960s.
In 1967, the Air Force selected Altus for strategic airlift training, and Military Airlift Command assumed control. The base began training crews for C-141 Starlifters and C-5 Galaxies. On October 1, 1992, the 97th Air Mobility Wing arrived at Altus and assumed host wing responsibilities. The wing transferred to Air Education and Training Command on July 1, 1993, where it remains today.
Modern Altus AFB focuses exclusively on training mobility aircrews for three primary aircraft: the C-17 Globemaster III (since 1996), KC-135 Stratotanker, and KC-46 Pegasus. The base trains up to 3,000 students annually, including allied nation aircrews, making it essential to U.S. and international military airlift capabilities.
Units Stationed Here
The 97th Air Mobility Wing serves as the host unit at Altus AFB, assigned to the Nineteenth Air Force of Air Education and Training Command. The wing consists of several major groups providing training, maintenance, medical services, and mission support.
The 97th Operations Group executes all flight training for C-17, KC-135, and KC-46 aircraft. Multiple squadrons within this group provide formal school training, including initial and advanced specialty courses for flight crews and aircraft maintenance students. The group maintains active aircraft in all three platforms and operates sophisticated flight simulators that replicate real-world scenarios for student training.
The 97th Maintenance Group provides maintenance and support for all assigned training aircraft, transient aircraft, engines, and associated ground equipment. The group operates backshop facilities supporting all three aircraft types while managing maintenance resources effectively to ensure the wing completes its training mission.
The 97th Medical Group ensures maximum wartime readiness by promoting health, safety, and morale of active-duty personnel. The group staffs, trains, and mobilizes medical services supporting contingency operations worldwide while developing a prevention-oriented healthcare system for over 9,500 beneficiaries.
The 97th Mission Support Group provides mission, infrastructure, and community quality of life support for personnel and all assigned organizations on base. This group supports worldwide Air Force taskings with deployment-ready personnel and equipment, managing security forces, civil engineering, communications, contracting, and personnel services.
Housing Options
On-Base Housing
Balfour Beatty Communities manages approximately 670 military family housing units at Altus AFB. The privatized housing community offers homes ranging from two to five bedrooms with garages, yards, and modern amenities. Eight distinct neighborhoods provide various floor plans accommodating ranks from E-1 through O-4.
Wait times vary by rank, unit size, and season, typically ranging from 3 to 8 months. Larger units (four and five bedrooms) generally experience longer wait times. Priority placement goes to higher ranks, though all eligible service members may apply.
Housing features include updated kitchens, master suites, ample closet and storage space, central air conditioning, and landscaped yards. The community maintains pet-friendly policies allowing two pets per household, though breed and weight restrictions apply. Utilities are typically included, though residents may pay for electricity usage exceeding baseline allowances.
On-base neighborhoods sit within walking distance of Mendel Rivers Elementary School, parks, playgrounds, the Shoppette, Base Exchange, and Commissary. Balfour Beatty provides 24-hour emergency maintenance response and routine maintenance typically completes within 48-72 hours. Contact the Housing Management Office at 580-481-7235 for current availability and application procedures.
Off-Base Housing
Altus, Oklahoma (population approximately 19,000) serves as the primary community for off-base housing. The city offers affordable rental and purchase options compared to larger metropolitan areas. Two-bedroom apartments typically rent for $700-$1,100 monthly, while three to four-bedroom single-family homes rent for $900-$1,500 monthly.
Home prices in Altus average $140,000-$220,000, making homeownership accessible for military families. The local housing market provides good value with low property taxes and reasonable cost of living. Nearby communities including Blair and Eldorado offer additional housing options.
BAH Rates
2025 BAH rates for Altus AFB (military housing area OK235):
- E-5 with dependents: $1,248
- E-7 with dependents: $1,404
- O-3 with dependents: $1,524
- O-5 with dependents: $1,734
BAH rates at Altus rank 65th highest among Air Force bases. Service members with dependents receive approximately 25% more BAH than those without dependents. These rates adequately cover most local housing costs, often allowing families to save money or pay down debt.
Schools & Education
DoDEA Schools
Altus AFB does not operate Department of Defense Education Activity schools on the installation. Military children attend local public schools in either Altus or Navajo school districts.
Local School Districts
Altus Public Schools serves the majority of military families stationed at Altus AFB. The district operates seven schools enrolling approximately 3,527 students in grades Pre-K through 12. The student-teacher ratio averages 17:1, lower than the Oklahoma state average.
Schools in the district include multiple elementary schools, Altus Junior High School, and Altus High School. The district employs 491 staff members, with 100% of teachers holding proper licensure. Academic proficiency rates show 33% of students scoring at or above proficient in math and 31% in reading based on state assessments.
The district maintains close cooperative relationships with Altus AFB, understanding the unique needs of military families including frequent relocations and deployment stresses. Schools offer special education services, gifted programs, athletic teams, band programs, and various extracurricular activities.
Navajo Public Schools provides an alternative option for families preferring a smaller, more rural school environment. This district serves communities surrounding Altus including Navajo, Oklahoma.
Both districts work with military families to ease transitions during PCS moves, accepting enrollments quickly and working with parents to obtain necessary records and documentation.
Higher Education
Western Oklahoma State College in Altus provides associate degrees and certificate programs with convenient access from base (10-minute drive). The college accepts military tuition assistance and offers evening and weekend classes accommodating active-duty schedules. Programs include arts, sciences, business, and technical education.
Cameron University in Lawton (45 miles northeast) offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees in numerous fields. An on-base education office assists with registration and advising.
The Altus AFB Education Center provides academic counseling, testing services (CLEP, DSST), tuition assistance processing, and access to distance learning programs from accredited universities nationwide. Counselors assist service members in developing education plans aligned with career goals and help navigate GI Bill benefits.
Healthcare Facilities
The 97th Medical Group operates the U.S. Air Force Clinic Altus, providing comprehensive primary care and preventive medicine services. The clinic serves over 9,500 beneficiaries including active-duty members, retirees, and their families.
Available services include family practice, pediatrics, immunizations, laboratory testing, radiology, pharmacy services, physical therapy, and mental health counseling. The clinic employs physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and specialized healthcare providers.
Appointment availability varies by service type. Same-day appointments are available through the Acute Care Clinic for urgent but non-emergency medical needs. Routine appointments typically schedule within 5-7 business days. Active-duty members receive priority scheduling.
The on-site pharmacy dispenses most medications immediately or within 24-48 hours through mail order. Pharmacy hours accommodate work schedules, and the clinic uses TRICARE for insurance processing with no copayments for most active-duty services.
For specialty care unavailable on base, the clinic refers patients to civilian providers in Altus or to larger military treatment facilities at Tinker AFB in Oklahoma City or Sheppard AFB in Wichita Falls, Texas. Emergency medical services route to Jackson County Memorial Hospital in Altus (5 miles from base) or to advanced trauma centers in Oklahoma City or Dallas for critical cases.
The Dental Clinic provides comprehensive dental care for active-duty personnel including preventive cleanings, restorations, and emergency treatment. Family members access dental care through TRICARE Dental Program civilian providers in the local community.
Mental health services include individual counseling, group therapy, psychiatric care, and substance abuse treatment through the Mental Health Clinic. Military Family Life Counselors (MFLC) provide non-medical counseling services without requiring referrals or appointments.
Base Amenities
Shopping Facilities
The Altus AFB Commissary operates seven days weekly, providing groceries, fresh produce, meat, seafood, dairy products, frozen foods, and household items at prices typically 20-30% below civilian grocery stores. The commissary offers curbside pickup services and periodic case-lot sales providing additional savings. All forms of payment are accepted.
The Altus AFB Exchange complex includes a main store with clothing, electronics, outdoor gear, toys, household goods, and appliances. A separate Military Clothing Sales store provides uniforms and insignia for all services. The Exchange food court includes Subway, Robin Hood pizza, and other quick-service options.
The Exchange gas station typically offers fuel prices 5-15 cents below local civilian stations, providing significant savings over time. The Shoppette convenience store offers grab-and-go items, snacks, and basic necessities.
Fitness & Recreation
The Sijan Fitness Center operates two locations providing extensive fitness equipment and programs. Facilities include cardio machines (treadmills, ellipticals, stationary bikes), free weights, resistance machines, functional fitness areas, basketball courts, racquetball courts, group fitness studios, and locker rooms with showers and saunas.
Group fitness classes include yoga, kickboxing, spinning, Zumba, boot camps, and more. Certified personal trainers are available by appointment to develop customized workout plans. The fitness centers operate extended hours to accommodate various work schedules.
Outdoor Recreation rents camping gear, fishing equipment, boats, sports equipment, and outdoor supplies at nominal fees. The office organizes trips to regional attractions including Lake Altus-Lugert, Quartz Mountain State Park, and Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge. Equipment rentals make outdoor activities affordable and accessible.
The base features a seasonal outdoor pool operating from late May through early September. The pool offers lap swimming, family swim times, swimming lessons for children and adults, and special events throughout the summer.
The Altus AFB Golf Course provides nine challenging holes with a pro shop, practice areas, and cart rentals. Membership options and daily fees accommodate various budgets.
Altus Lanes bowling center features eight lanes, arcade games, billiards, and a snack bar. Leagues operate year-round for adults and youth.
The Auto Hobby Shop provides workspace, tools, and equipment for vehicle maintenance, repairs, and customization. Bay rentals allow service members to work on personal vehicles at affordable rates with access to professional-grade tools.
The Arts and Crafts Center offers workshops, classes, and studio space for various creative pursuits including woodworking, pottery, painting, and crafts.
Family Support
The Airman & Family Readiness Center serves as the primary resource for quality of life support. Services include employment assistance for spouses, financial counseling and education, deployment support for families, relocation assistance, transition services for separating or retiring members, and exceptional family member program coordination.
Financial counselors provide one-on-one advice on budgeting, debt management, savings strategies, and financial planning. The center hosts workshops on various topics throughout the year.
The Child Development Center offers full-day care for children ages 6 weeks through 5 years with age-appropriate curriculum emphasizing social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development. The center maintains low child-to-staff ratios ensuring quality care. Wait lists typically range from 2-4 months for infant care, shorter for toddler and preschool age groups.
School Age Care provides before-school and after-school programs for children kindergarten through age 12 during the school year, with full-day care available during summer and school breaks. Transportation is provided from on-base schools.
The Youth Center serves children and teens ages 6-18 with programs including sports leagues, homework assistance, leadership development, social activities, and special events. The center provides a safe, supervised environment for youth to develop skills and friendships.
Employment Opportunities
Civilian Positions
Altus AFB employs approximately 1,100 civilian workers in various positions supporting the training mission. Common career fields include aircraft maintenance, administrative support, medical services, security, education, logistics, and facilities management.
Current job openings are posted on USAJobs.gov, the official federal employment website. Military spouses and veterans receive hiring preferences for federal positions. Typical positions and salary ranges include:
- Aircraft mechanics and technicians: $45,000-$65,000
- Administrative assistants and specialists: $35,000-$48,000
- IT specialists and network administrators: $55,000-$75,000
- Medical technicians and healthcare providers: $38,000-$52,000
- Security forces personnel: $38,000-$50,000
Many positions require U.S. citizenship and may require background checks or security clearances depending on job responsibilities.
Spouse Employment
The Spouse Education and Career Opportunities (SECO) program through the Airman & Family Readiness Center provides comprehensive employment assistance including career counseling, resume development, interview preparation, job search strategies, skills assessments, and networking opportunities.
Military spouse preference applies to federal positions on base and at other federal installations, providing competitive hiring advantages. The base maintains partnerships with local employers who value military spouse employees and understand the challenges of frequent relocations.
Off-base employment opportunities in Altus exist primarily in healthcare, education, retail, and hospitality sectors. Major employers include Jackson County Memorial Hospital, Altus Public Schools, Western Oklahoma State College, and various retail establishments. The cost of living in Altus is low compared to national averages, making single-income households more feasible.
Remote work opportunities continue expanding for military spouses with portable careers in fields such as IT, customer service, education, writing, accounting, and various professional services. The base library and community center provide internet access and workspace for remote workers.
The installation hosts job fairs several times yearly, connecting military spouses with employers actively recruiting in the region.
Nearby Cities & Attractions
Altus AFB sits in southwestern Oklahoma, providing access to regional attractions while maintaining a rural, small-town atmosphere. The surrounding area features wide-open prairies, lakes, state parks, and close-knit communities.
Local Activities
Lake Altus-Lugert (30 miles northwest) offers year-round recreation including fishing for bass, catfish, and crappie, boating, water skiing, camping, and hiking. The lake features several public access points and a marina. Sunsets over the lake are particularly stunning, attracting photographers and nature enthusiasts.
Quartz Mountain State Park adjacent to Lake Altus-Lugert provides rock climbing, paddle boats, hiking trails, a resort lodge, golf course, and amphitheater hosting seasonal performances and events. The park’s unique rock formations create dramatic landscapes perfect for outdoor adventure and photography.
Museum of the Western Prairie in Altus showcases regional history, agriculture, pioneer life, and Native American heritage through exhibits, artifacts, and preserved buildings. The museum hosts special events and educational programs throughout the year.
Altus City Lake offers fishing, picnicking, and walking trails close to town, providing convenient outdoor recreation without long drives.
Regional Destinations
Lawton (45 miles northeast) provides more extensive shopping, dining, and entertainment options including a mall, movie theaters, restaurants, and Fort Sill attractions. The city serves as a gateway to the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge.
Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge near Lawton features stunning granite mountains, hiking trails, rock climbing, wildlife viewing including free-roaming bison, elk, and longhorn cattle, and scenic drives. The refuge offers excellent outdoor recreation within 90 minutes of base.
Oklahoma City (140 miles northeast) provides big-city amenities for weekend trips including professional sports (NBA Thunder), museums (National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, Oklahoma City National Memorial), entertainment districts (Bricktown), shopping malls, and diverse dining options.
Wichita Falls, Texas (120 miles south) offers additional shopping, dining, entertainment, and Sheppard AFB access. The city provides variety for weekend outings with shorter drive times than Oklahoma City.
Dallas-Fort Worth (approximately 200 miles southeast) is accessible for extended weekend trips, offering world-class attractions, professional sports, arts, dining, and entertainment.
Legal Services
The Staff Judge Advocate (SJA) office at Altus AFB provides free, confidential legal assistance to active-duty service members, retirees, and their family members. Appointments are scheduled through the legal office by calling the base directory.
Available Services
Legal assistance attorneys provide advice and document preparation for:
- Wills, living wills, and estate planning documents
- Powers of attorney (general, special, and medical)
- Advanced medical directives and healthcare proxies
- Notary services for official documents
- Landlord-tenant issues and lease review
- Consumer protection matters and contract disputes
- Family law consultations including divorce, child custody, child support, and adoption
- Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) protections and enforcement
- Deployment legal readiness preparation
The office provides extensive guidance on SCRA, which protects active-duty members from certain civil legal proceedings and financial obligations including interest rate caps (6% maximum on pre-service debts), lease termination rights, eviction protections, and court proceeding delays.
Area Defense Counsel provides representation for military justice matters including Article 15 non-judicial punishment proceedings, courts-martial (summary, special, and general), administrative separations, and other adverse administrative actions. Defense attorneys work independently from command, maintaining strict attorney-client confidentiality and providing zealous advocacy for their clients.
Legal assistance does NOT include representation in civilian court proceedings. However, attorneys provide limited advice and maintain referral lists of civilian attorneys practicing in Oklahoma for cases requiring court representation in divorce, custody, civil lawsuits, criminal defense, or other matters.
The Victim Witness Assistance Program (VWAP) supports victims of crimes, providing advocacy, resources, safety planning, accompaniment to interviews and proceedings, and guidance through investigation and military justice processes. VWAP coordinators maintain confidentiality and ensure victims understand their rights throughout the process.
For complex legal matters beyond legal assistance scope, attorneys provide referrals to appropriate civilian legal resources and bar association referral services.
PCSing to Altus AFB
In-Processing
Report to the 97th Force Support Squadron Military Personnel Section located in Building 200 within 24 hours of arrival (excluding weekends and holidays). Bring copies of PCS orders, medical records, training records, identification cards for all family members, and vehicle registration documents.
The in-processing typically requires 2-3 business days to complete all administrative requirements including medical records review, security clearance verification, personnel records update, and initial briefings. Schedule appointments early to avoid delays.
Medical in-processing must be completed for all family members within the first week. Contact the 97th Medical Group appointment line to schedule initial health assessments, immunization updates, and TRICARE enrollment verification. Bring previous medical and dental records to expedite processing.
Update DEERS (Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System) information and obtain new ID cards at the ID Card Section if needed. Appointments are recommended to minimize wait times.
First Week Essentials
Attend the Newcomers Orientation at the Airman & Family Readiness Center. This comprehensive briefing covers base services, local area information, resources, schools, housing options, employment assistance, and answers frequently asked questions. The orientation is highly recommended and occurs weekly.
Obtain base vehicle passes and parking decals from the Visitor Center. Registration requires current vehicle registration, insurance proof, and valid driver’s license. Temporary passes are issued immediately while permanent decals are processed.
If applying for on-base housing, contact Balfour Beatty Communities at 580-481-7235 immediately upon arrival to begin the application process. Provide orders and family information to determine eligibility and placement on the wait list. If housing is unavailable, arrange temporary lodging at the Altus Inn (on-base lodging) or off-base hotels. Reservations are strongly recommended as lodging fills quickly, especially during peak PCS seasons.
Register children for school immediately. Visit school registrar offices with PCS orders, immunization records, birth certificates, and previous school records. Schools typically accommodate new students within days, though gathering required documentation may take longer. The School Liaison Officer at the Airman & Family Readiness Center assists with registration processes and provides information about schools.
Establish utility services for off-base housing including electric, natural gas, water, trash, internet, and cable. Contact local providers as soon as housing is secured to minimize service delays.
Register vehicles with the Oklahoma Department of Motor Vehicles within 30 days if establishing Oklahoma residency. Military members may maintain home state vehicle registration under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act if preferred. Contact the legal office for guidance on residency decisions.
Local Tips
Weather: Southwestern Oklahoma experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly reaching 95-105°F from June through August. Evenings cool down considerably, making outdoor activities pleasant after sunset. Winters are mild with daytime temperatures typically ranging 40-55°F, though occasional cold fronts bring freezing temperatures and rare ice storms. Spring brings beautiful wildflowers but also severe weather including tornadoes, especially April through June. Familiarize yourself with base shelter procedures and download weather alert apps.
Cost of Living: Altus offers significantly lower cost of living compared to most military installations. Housing costs are affordable, allowing families to save money, pay down debt, or build emergency funds. Take advantage of commissary and exchange benefits to maximize savings. However, shopping variety is limited compared to larger cities, and some specialty items require trips to Oklahoma City or online ordering.
Community: The Altus community strongly supports the military, hosting events throughout the year and providing assistance to newcomers. Local businesses offer military discounts—always ask before purchasing. Churches, civic organizations, and community groups welcome military families. Join spouse groups, unit activities, and base organizations to build connections and ease transitions.
Traffic and Commutes: Traffic in Altus is minimal compared to larger cities. Most locations are reachable within 10-15 minutes. The base is easily accessible from all housing areas, and parking is rarely an issue. However, geographic isolation means longer drives for specialized shopping, entertainment, or major medical care requiring trips to Oklahoma City, Lawton, or Wichita Falls.
Spouse Employment: While employment opportunities exist on base and in Altus, job markets are limited compared to larger metropolitan areas. Remote work opportunities are increasingly important for military spouses with specialized skills. The SECO program provides valuable resources for job searching and career development.
Recreation: Embrace outdoor recreation opportunities. Lake Altus-Lugert, Quartz Mountain State Park, and Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge offer excellent camping, fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The region’s wide-open spaces and dark skies provide stargazing opportunities rarely found near urban areas.
Sources: Altus Air Force Base Official Website, 97th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs, Wikipedia (Altus Air Force Base article), Altus Public Schools, Defense.gov, Military Installations
Last Updated: January 2025