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McConnell Air Force Base (IAB/KIAB) is an active U.S. Air Force installation on the southeast side of Wichita, Kansas. It is home to the 22nd Air Refueling Wing and is a major hub for aerial refueling, operating KC-135 Stratotankers and KC-46 Pegasus tankers. Although coded as a medium airport, it is a military field with restricted access and no scheduled commercial passenger service.
💡 Local Tip
A frequent visitor’s tip: the Kansas Aviation Museum, just north of McConnell, occupies the historic Wichita Municipal Airport terminal and is a worthwhile nearby stop; check it before or after base business, and remember perimeter photography may be restricted.
🚖 Getting There
McConnell AFB is a restricted military base, so there is no public terminal or commercial ground transportation inside the gates. Most visitors arrive via Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport (ICT), about 15–20 minutes away by car, where rental cars, taxis, and rideshares are available. If you have base access, confirm gate hours and escort procedures in advance, as entry requirements can change.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does McConnell Air Force Base offer commercial passenger flights?
A: No. McConnell AFB is an active military installation and does not have scheduled commercial airline service; the nearest commercial airport is Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport (ICT).
Q: What are the airport codes for McConnell Air Force Base?
A: Its IATA code is IAB and its ICAO code is KIAB. The FAA location identifier is also IAB.
Q: Can the public visit or transit through McConnell AFB?
A: Access is generally limited to military personnel, authorized contractors, and visitors with official business or a sponsor. Civilian visitors should contact the base visitor control center in advance for requirements.
Q: Which units and aircraft are based at McConnell AFB?
A: The 22nd Air Refueling Wing is the host unit, flying KC-135 Stratotankers and KC-46 Pegasus aerial refueling aircraft. The base also hosts reserve and Kansas Air National Guard units.
AI-generated content · Generated Sep 29, 2026 · deepseek-v4.1-flash