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Laughlin Air Force Base
Laughlin Air Force Base
Laughlin Air Force Base
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Laughlin Air Force Base (IATA: DLF, ICAO: KDLF, FAA LID: DLF) is a facility of the United States Air Force located east of Del Rio, Texas.

Key Information

Overview

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Laughlin AFB, the largest pilot training base in the US Air Force, is home to the 47th Flying Training Wing of the Air Education and Training Command and the 96th Flying Training Squadron of the Air Force Reserve Command. On weekdays, the airfield sees more takeoffs and landings than any other airport in the country.[citation needed]

History

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Laughlin Army Air Field

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Laughlin Army Air Field photo pictorial

Laughlin AFB was originally named Laughlin Army Air Field on March 3, 1943, after Jack T. Laughlin, a B-17E Flying Fortress pilot. He was trained as a pilot and was actually co-pilot of B-17E, tail number 41-2476. On the day of his first bombing mission, he was bumped by the Group Commander Major Stanley K. Robinson (Robinson was co-pilot next to pilot Capt. Walter W. Sparks). Major Robinson brought along his own combat-experienced navigator, Lt. Richard Cease. Laughlin had no assigned position on the plane for the mission. He became Del Rio's first World War II casualty when the plane he was flying in (most likely as a waist gunner for the mission) was lost at sea, having succumbed to damage received over the Makassar Strait on 29 (or 28) January 1942. The damage occurred during two bombing runs against Japanese warships and transports in the Makassar Strait off the coast of Balikpapan, Borneo. The field became simply Laughlin Field on November 11, 1943, and later an U.S. Army Air Forces Auxiliary Field. During World War II, Laughlin's primary mission was the training of B-26 Marauder pilots and aircrews. It was closed in October 1945.

Laughlin Air Force Base

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Laughlin Air Force Base reopened on May 1, 1952. In October 1952, ATC transferred the base to Crew Training Air Force (CREWTAF) and activated the 3645th Flying Training Wing (Fighter), as a combat crew replacement training facility for pilots headed for Korea. Training provided new pilots with basic bombing and gunnery combat skills in the F-80 Shooting Star, F-84 Thunderjet, and T-33 jet aircraft, but within short time crews used only the T-33. In September 1955, Laughlin came under the control of the Flying Training Air Force and switched missions with Williams Air Force Base, Arizona. Laughlin undertook single-engine pilot training, still using the T-33.

Strategic Air Command

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The U.S. Air Force transferred jurisdiction of the base to the Strategic Air Command on April 1, 1957, and the 4080th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing (Light) moved there from Turner Air Force Base, Georgia. Following the graduation of the last class in March 1957, ATC inactivated the 3645th FTW. The 4080th Wing provided high-altitude reconnaissance and air sampling using the Lockheed U-2A and the RB-57D Canberra. The 4080th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing was redesignated as the 4080th Strategic Wing on June 15, 1960, and the RB-57 mission was phased out.

Laughlin U-2s were among the first to provide photographic evidence of Soviet missile installations in Cuba in 1962 when 4080th U-2 pilot major Steve Heyser flew his U-2C over Cuba after taking off from Edwards AFB, California. Heyser landed at McCoy AFB, Florida, following the mission, with McCoy becoming a U-2 operating location for the duration of the Cuban Missile Crisis. The film from Major Heyser's mission was developed, analyzed and the photos were shown to the United Nations Security Council on October 22, 1962, proving to the world, that offensive missiles were on the island of Cuba.

Another 4080th pilot, Major Rudolf Anderson, Jr., perished when his U-2 was hit by shrapnel from a Soviet-made SA-2 surface-to-air missile on October 22, 1962, while overflying Cuba from McCoy AFB. While the U-2 did not suffer a direct hit, Anderson was struck by fragments from the proximity fused warhead's explosion which penetrated and compromised his pressure suit (at altitude, unconsciousness and death came very quickly). His body was returned to the U.S. following the crisis, still clad in its pressure suit. Major Anderson posthumously became the first recipient of the Air Force Cross. Laughlin's primary operations training complex, Anderson Hall, is named in his honor.

United States Air Force / Public domain
1972, Main Gate

Air Training Command

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In 1961, Headquarters U.S. Air Force notified Laughlin officials their mission would expand to again include an Air Training Command undergraduate pilot training program. Plans called to transfer in about half the student load from Laredo Air Force Base, Texas. ATC reactivated the 3645th Pilot Training Wing (later redesignated 3646th Pilot Training Wing) at Laughlin in October 1961 to prepare for the phase-in of students and T-37 and T-33 trainers. The 4080th SW continued at Laughlin as a tenant organization until 1963.

Today, aircraft flown at Laughlin include the T-6A Texan II, the T-38C Talon and T-1A Jayhawk. Fifteen classes of approximately 20–25 pilots graduate annually.

Based units

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Flying and notable non-flying units based at Laughlin Air Force Base:[2][3]

United States Air Force

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Air Education and Training Command (AETC)

Air Force Reserve Command

Geography

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According to the United States Census Bureau, the base has a total area of 5.9 square miles (15.3 km2), all land.

Demographics

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Historical population
CensusPop.Note%±
19703,458—
19802,994−13.4%
19902,556−14.6%
20002,225−12.9%
20101,569−29.5%
20201,6736.6%
U.S. Decennial Census[4]
1850–1900[5] 1910[6]
1920[7] 1930[8] 1940[9]
1950[10] 1960[11] 1970[12]
1980[13] 1990[14] 2000[15]
2010[16] 2020[17]

The U.S. Census Bureau counts the base as a census-designated place (Laughlin AFB CDP) with a population at the 2020 census of 1,673.[18] It first appeared as an unincorporated community in the 1970 U.S. census[12] and a census designated place in the 1980 United States census.[13]

Laughlin AFB CDP, Texas – Racial and ethnic composition
Note: the US Census treats Hispanic/Latino as an ethnic category. This table excludes Latinos from the racial categories and assigns them to a separate category. Hispanics/Latinos may be of any race.
Race / Ethnicity (NH = Non-Hispanic) Pop 1990[14] Pop 2000[19] Pop 2010[20] Pop 2020[17] % 1990 % 2000 % 2010 % 2020
White alone (NH) 1,790 1,581 1,178 1,183 70.03% 71.06% 75.08% 70.71%
Black or African American alone (NH) 286 236 112 107 11.19% 10.61% 7.14% 6.40%
Native American or Alaska Native alone (NH) 16 5 8 2 0.63% 0.22% 0.51% 0.12%
Asian alone (NH) 97 61 40 63 3.79% 2.74% 2.55% 3.77%
Pacific Islander alone (NH) x 1 5 5 x 0.04% 0.32% 0.30%
Other race alone (NH) 2 12 0 5 0.08% 0.54% 0.00% 0.30%
Mixed race or Multiracial (NH) x 55 54 55 x 2.47% 3.44% 3.29%
Hispanic or Latino (any race) 365 274 172 253 14.28% 12.31% 10.96% 15.12%
Total 2,556 2,225 1,569 1,673 100.00% 100.00% 100.00% 100.00%

Education

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Laughlin AFB is served by the San Felipe Del Rio Consolidated Independent School District. The school district operates an elementary school inside Laughlin AFB, the Roberto Barrera STEM Elementary Archived 2020-06-21 at the Wayback Machine school (K–5) (formerly known as Laughlin STEM elementary school).[21]

Park University[22] offers onsite and online classes on base. Its office is located at the Education Center and is open to military and civilian personnel.

See also

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References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Laughlin Air Force Base

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from Grokipedia

Laughlin Air Force Base is a United States Air Force installation situated near Del Rio, Texas, along the United States-Mexico border, serving as the primary site for specialized undergraduate pilot training under the Air Education and Training Command. The base houses the 47th Flying Training Wing, which equips pilots for the U.S. Air Force, Air Force Reserve, Air National Guard, and allied nations using T-6A Texan II, T-38C Talon, and T-1A Jayhawk aircraft, producing approximately 400 new pilots each year through rigorous flight and leadership development programs. Originally activated in 1943 as Laughlin Army Air Field during and named in honor of local aviator Jack T. Laughlin, the facility supported early pilot training efforts before closing postwar and reopening in 1952 for advanced fighter operations. The 47th Flying Training Wing assumed its current role on September 1, 1972, transitioning to undergraduate pilot training in 1993 with the introduction of specialized tracks, including airlifter-tanker variants in 1994. Over nearly five decades, the wing has trained more than 15,000 pilots, logging over 80,000 flying hours and 51,000 sorties annually while sustaining a community of over 4,300 personnel and generating significant economic impact exceeding $234 million yearly.

Overview

Location and Facilities

Laughlin Air Force Base is located in , approximately 7 miles east of Del Rio and near the United States-Mexico border along the . The base's coordinates place it at 29°21′57″N 100°46′39″W, facilitating its role in specialized undergraduate pilot training under clear skies and favorable weather conditions typical of the region. The installation spans roughly 5,500 acres and includes an airfield with three runways: the primary runway 13C/31C measuring 8,852 feet by 150 feet surfaced with porous European mix (PEM), runway 13L/31R at 8,316 feet by 150 feet also PEM, and a shorter runway 17/35 at approximately 6,250 feet. Facilities support joint specialized undergraduate pilot training for the U.S. Air Force, Navy, Marines, and international partners, featuring aircraft maintenance hangars, academic classrooms, flight simulators, and operational support buildings maintained by the 47th Mission Support Group. Additional infrastructure encompasses base housing for over 1,000 personnel, a medical clinic, , fitness centers, and auxiliary landing fields such as Laughlin AFB Auxiliary No. 1 () with a 6,001-foot used for training. The base's design emphasizes high-volume flight operations, exceeding 80,000 flying hours annually, with environmental and measures integrated into .

Primary Mission and Strategic Role

Laughlin Air Force Base, under the (AETC), hosts the 47th Flying Training Wing, whose primary mission is to conduct specialized undergraduate pilot training (SUPT) for U.S. Air Force, Air Force Reserve, , and allied nation pilots. The wing utilizes T-6A Texan II for primary training, T-38C Talon for advanced training, and T-1A Jayhawk for multi-engine qualification, delivering a 52-week curriculum that produces approximately 400 pilots annually. This training exceeds 80,000 flying hours and 51,000 sorties per year, standardizing skills for subsequent specialized tracks in fighters, bombers, or transports. Strategically, Laughlin contributes to AETC's overarching responsibility for developing combat-ready Airmen and leaders to deliver air power, supporting and command requirements amid persistent demands for pilot production. As one of AETC's key flying training installations, it bolsters U.S. air superiority by ensuring a steady of qualified aviators, with the 47th Operations Group overseeing standardization across squadrons like the 434th, 85th, and 86th Flying Training Squadrons. The base's focus on high-volume, rigorous training addresses operational needs, having graduated over 15,000 pilots since the wing's reactivation on September 1, 1972.

History

World War II Era as Laughlin Army Air Field

Laughlin Army Air Field was established by the U.S. Army east of , in 1942 to meet the urgent demand for trained pilots during . Construction of the airfield began in the summer and fall of 1942, with initial B-26 pilot transition training commencing in December 1942. The facility was officially activated on March 3, 1943, and named in honor of 2nd Lt. Jack T. Laughlin, a Del Rio native and B-17 pilot on January 29, 1942, when his aircraft crashed over in the South Pacific, marking the first combat loss from the local area. The primary mission of Laughlin Army Air Field was advanced pilot and bombardier training for the North American B-26 Marauder , serving as the inaugural school dedicated to B-26 bombardier instruction under the Army Air Forces Training Command. By , the field had initiated full pilot training operations, focusing on transitioning aviators to the demanding twin-engine B-26 platform, which required precise handling due to its high and speed. Crews trained at the field contributed to combat operations in multiple theaters, with the B-26 proving effective in low-level attacks despite its reputation for being difficult to fly. Operations continued through the war's duration, producing skilled aircrews until the airfield's inactivation in October 1945 following Japan's surrender, as surplus training needs diminished in the postwar . During its active WWII period, the base supported the rapid expansion of U.S. air power, training hundreds of personnel amid the Army Air Forces' goal to field over 2.4 million personnel by 1945.

Post-War Closure and Cold War Reactivation

Following the end of , Laughlin Army Air Field was inactivated and closed in October 1945, with its facilities downgraded from base to field and then auxiliary field status in the war's final years; the land was subsequently leased to local ranchers for sheep grazing. Amid rising tensions and the outbreak of the in 1950, which necessitated expanded U.S. Air Force pilot training capacity, Laughlin was reactivated as Laughlin Air Force Base on May 1, 1952, under . The reactivation focused on advanced jet pilot training, particularly transitioning combat crew to the fighter, with personnel returning to the site in April 1952 to prepare facilities. Initial operations emphasized proficiency in early jet aircraft, including the Lockheed F-80 Shooting Star, , and Lockheed T-33 Shooting Star trainer, supporting the Air Force's shift to air superiority roles in potential conflicts. By 1953, the training mission evolved to incorporate broader crew instruction, reflecting doctrinal adaptations to jet-era warfare demands. This period marked Laughlin's transition from wartime bomber training to Cold War-era fighter proficiency, bolstering U.S. aerial readiness against Soviet threats.

Strategic Air Command Operations

Laughlin Air Force Base transitioned to (SAC) control in 1957, shifting its focus from fighter pilot training to high-altitude strategic reconnaissance amid escalating tensions. The base hosted the 4080th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing, which relocated elements including U-2 and RB-57 aircraft from Turner Air Force Base, Georgia, beginning in 1957. This wing pioneered USAF operations with the "," conducting long-range photographic reconnaissance and meteorological data collection to monitor Soviet activities. The remote location in southwest provided ideal conditions for secretive overflights and testing, with the wing's RB-57s initially arriving on April 1, 1957, followed by U-2 transitions. The 4080th SRW played a critical role in SAC's intelligence-gathering mission, including support for global surveillance operations. During the Cuban Missile Crisis in October 1962, U-2 pilots from Laughlin flew missions over , capturing aerial imagery that confirmed Soviet medium- and deployments, aiding U.S. decision-making. These flights, conducted at altitudes exceeding 70,000 feet, underscored the wing's contributions to despite inherent risks, such as potential intercepts. President later recognized the unit's efforts with a commendation for its reconnaissance achievements. SAC operations at Laughlin concluded in 1962 when the command transferred base jurisdiction back to , prompting the 4080th SRW's relocation to Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, , by mid-1963. This five-year tenure represented a pivotal, albeit brief, chapter in the base's history, emphasizing SAC's emphasis on advanced capabilities over conventional training roles during the early .

Shift to Air Training Command

In June 1962, following the inactivation of the 4080th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing, Strategic Air Command transferred control of Laughlin Air Force Base to Air Training Command, shifting the installation's primary mission from high-altitude reconnaissance to undergraduate pilot training. This transition occurred after the wing's involvement in critical operations, including U-2 reconnaissance flights during the Cuban Missile Crisis in October 1962, during which a U-2 was shot down over Cuba, resulting in the death of Major Rudolf Anderson Jr. The 3646th Pilot Training Wing was established at Laughlin under to conduct the revived training mission, focusing on preparing pilots with aircraft such as the T-37 Tweet and T-38 Talon. This marked a return to the base's training roots from its era, adapting facilities previously used for strategic operations to support structured flight instruction programs. On September 1, 1972, the 47th Flying Training Wing was reactivated and redesignated, replacing the 3646th Pilot Training Wing and absorbing its resources to consolidate and enhance the pilot production pipeline at the base. This organizational change under solidified Laughlin's role as a key undergraduate pilot training hub, producing combat-ready aviators for the U.S. and allied nations.

Post-Cold War Developments and Modern Era

Following the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, Laughlin Air Force Base transitioned its focus entirely to undergraduate pilot training under Air Education and Training Command, emphasizing efficiency in producing combat-ready aviators amid reduced strategic bomber operations elsewhere in the Air Force. The base adopted the Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training (SUPT) program in November 1993, standardizing initial flight instruction across services with the T-37 Tweet for primary phases and introducing the T-1A Jayhawk in the mid-1990s for advanced multi-engine training; by January 17, 1995, the 86th Flying Training Squadron received its final T-1A, completing the fleet transition to support specialized tracks for jet, bomber, and tanker pilots. In the 2000s, Laughlin integrated the T-6A Texan II as its primary trainer, replacing the aging T-37 fleet to enhance simulation-integrated curricula and reduce maintenance costs, while retaining T-38C Talons for supersonic advanced training. The 47th Flying Training Wing, headquartered at the base, expanded to train approximately 400 pilots annually by the 2010s, including U.S. , , Marine Corps, and international partners, positioning Laughlin as the largest SUPT site. This growth addressed pilot shortages, with the 87th Flying Training Squadron marking 35 years of continuous operations by April 2025. Recent initiatives have prioritized data-driven optimizations, such as competency mapping implemented by the 19th Air Force in 2025 to tailor training pipelines and accelerate throughput, contributing to projections of 367 graduates from Laughlin in the fiscal year and supporting Air Education and Training Command's target of 1,500 pilots service-wide. Looking forward, the Department of the Air Force approved replacement of all T-38C aircraft with up to 79 T-7A Red Hawk trainers between 2030 and 2033, enabling advanced aerobatic and systems training in a next-generation platform designed for fifth-generation fighter transitions. These upgrades ensure sustained relevance in an era of evolving aerial threats and technological integration.

Operations and Units

Pilot Training Programs

The 47th Flying Training Wing at Laughlin Base conducts Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training (SUPT), the largest such program in the U.S. , producing approximately 400 military pilots annually from the and allied nations. SUPT spans 52 weeks and encompasses over 500 classroom hours, 60 simulator hours, and roughly 200 flight hours, preparing students for operational through a structured curriculum emphasizing fundamentals of flight, , formation, and instrument procedures. SUPT divides into three primary phases: academics and initial flight screening, primary flying training, and advanced flying training. The initial phase includes ground school, simulator familiarization, and prerequisite assessments to ensure readiness, with students assigned to admissions flights for foundational success training. Primary training occurs in the T-6A Texan II aircraft, managed by the 85th and 434th Flying Training Squadrons, covering contact, instrument, formation, low-level, , and night operations, collectively known as the "T-6 Nation." Advanced training follows in the T-38C Talon supersonic jet trainer, handled by the 87th Flying Training Squadron, focusing on fighter/bomber track skills such as high-performance , advanced formation, and tactical maneuvers. As of January 2025, the T-1A Jayhawk, previously used for /tanker track training, has been fully retired at Laughlin, shifting emphasis to T-6A and T-38C platforms pending introduction of the T-7A Red Hawk. The 96th Flying Training Squadron supports overall with reserve instructor pilots, while the 47th Student Training Squadron oversees academics and simulators, and the 47th Operations Support Squadron manages airfield operations. Recent enhancements include competency-based mapping to streamline the pipeline and data-driven optimizations for readiness, alongside support for instructor pilot through deployment of First Assignment Instructor Pilots (FAIPs) to other bases. Initial Pilot (IPT) supplements SUPT for select candidates via an FAA Part 141 prior to military-specific phases.

Assigned Aircraft and Squadrons

The 47th Flying Training Wing (47th FTW) at Laughlin Air Force Base assigns aircraft primarily for Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training (SUPT), utilizing the T-6A Texan II for primary training, the T-38C Talon for advanced supersonic training, and the T-1A Jayhawk for multi-engine jet familiarization. The 47th Operations Group oversees four flying training squadrons equipped with these aircraft, supporting the production of approximately 400 pilots annually. As of recent operations, the base maintains a fleet comprising 103 T-6A Texan IIs, 59 T-38C Talons, and 13 T-1A Jayhawks. The assigned squadrons and their primary aircraft are detailed as follows:
SquadronAircraftTraining Phase and Role
85th Flying Training SquadronPrimary , focusing on basic airmanship, contact, and instrument skills.
434th Flying Training SquadronPrimary , emphasizing , formation, and procedures.
87th Flying Training SquadronT-38C TalonAdvanced in high-performance jet operations, including formation and low-level tactics.
86th Flying Training SquadronPhase III for tanker and airlift track pilots, covering multi-engine handling and crew coordination.
These squadrons operate under the 47th Operations Group, which also includes an operations support squadron for airfield management and a for administrative oversight of trainees. The T-6A and T-38C aircraft have been in service since the wing's transition to modern training platforms in the 1990s and 2000s, with the T-1A introduced in 1994 for specialized tracks.

Infrastructure and Support Facilities

Laughlin Air Force Base maintains an airfield infrastructure supporting specialized undergraduate pilot training, featuring a primary (13C/31C) of 8,852 feet by 150 feet surfaced in porous European mix , alongside secondary runways 13L/31R at 8,315 feet and 13R/31L at 6,571 feet by 150 feet asphalt. The base encompasses 9.5 miles of runways and taxiways, with recent modernizations including airfield upgrades completed in August 2023 to enhance operational reliability for training sorties. The 47th Mission Support Group oversees base-wide infrastructure valued at $1.3 billion across 5,300 acres, including 808 facilities managed by the 47th Civil Engineer Squadron for maintenance, fire protection, and engineering services. Maintenance infrastructure features specialized hangars, such as the T-6 aircraft maintenance hangar, supporting repairs on up to 38 trainer aircraft and 504 pieces of support equipment across 60 dedicated facilities. Digital and communications systems, encompassing over 4,000 IT assets and 200 miles of cabling valued at $10 million, underwent a comprehensive upgrade completed in February 2024. Quality-of-life support facilities include privatized family housing with over 450 units in two- to four-bedroom homes managed by Hunt Military Communities, alongside two dormitories (Buildings 255 and 256) for unaccompanied personnel equipped with dayrooms and amenities. The 47th Medical Group operates a clinic at Building 375 providing , with the located at Building 352 offering grocery services to base personnel. Additional logistics readiness, contracting, and elements under the Mission Support Group ensure operational sustainment, including transportation and supply chain management.

Economic and Societal Impact

Contributions to Local Economy

Laughlin Air Force Base serves as the primary economic driver for Del Rio and , where it employs thousands directly and indirectly while generating substantial payroll and spending that sustains local businesses, housing, and services. In 2023, the base supported 3,043 direct jobs, including 1,251 active-duty personnel, 941 full-time appropriated civilians, 465 full-time and part-time non-appropriated civilians, and 404 contractors, alongside an average daily student load of 467 pilot trainees. These operations extended to 7,533 total jobs when accounting for indirect employment in supply chains and services. The base's and activities contribute significantly to regional , with its affiliated —including 607 dependents—driving on retail, dining, and real estate in Del Rio, a community of approximately 35,000 residents. Economic analyses attribute $1.7 billion in total output to the base's activities in 2023, including $1.03 billion to and $439 million in disposable , predominantly benefiting the local area due to the limited commuting options and geographic isolation of Val Verde County. Additionally, the 47th Flying Training Wing's operations yield an annual economic impact exceeding $234 million through direct expenditures and multiplier effects on , , and sectors. As the largest single employer in Del Rio, Val Verde County, and surrounding Southwest , Laughlin AFB mitigates economic volatility in a prone to fluctuations in cross-border commerce and by providing stable federal funding and fostering contracts with local firms for maintenance, logistics, and construction. This infusion supports improvements and educational partnerships, ensuring long-term viability for the area's workforce amid broader military contributions totaling $151.2 billion statewide in recent assessments.

Demographic Profile of Base Population

The population of Laughlin Air Force Base primarily comprises active-duty , employees, contractors, and dependents, reflecting its as a specialized pilot training installation under . As of 2023, the base supports 1,251 active-duty members and 58 reservists, alongside 941 full-time appropriated employees, 465 full- and part-time non-appropriated civilians, and 404 contractors, yielding a total direct workforce of 3,043 individuals. Dependents total 607, contributing to an overall base community estimated at over 4,300 people when accounting for broader affiliations. Demographic characteristics align with those of a young, transient military training population. The Laughlin AFB (CDP), encompassing base housing areas, recorded a resident population of 1,888 in 2023, with a age of 24 years—indicative of the predominance of junior officers, trainees, and their immediate families. Racial and ethnic composition includes 62.1% , 13.3% or African American, 11.0% or Latino, and smaller proportions of Asian (approximately 4-5%) and other groups, drawn from data that captures the diverse recruitment pool of the U.S. . Gender distribution skews male, consistent with Air Force-wide trends and the male-intensive nature of pilot training programs; historical base data from the 1990s-2000s reported about 57% male residents, though contemporary figures remain dominated by where males constitute roughly 80% of active-duty aviators. Household structures emphasize military families, with varying in estimates from $32,491 to $73,045 annually, influenced by transient assignments and base-specific allowances.

Community Relations and Education Support

Laughlin Air Force Base maintains active partnerships with the local Del Rio community, including collaborations with the Del Rio Career and Technical Education (CTE) program to provide on-the-job training opportunities for high school students, such as those from Del Rio High School, fostering workforce development and youth engagement as of May 2023. The base hosts community events, such as gate openings for public fun, live music, and recognition ceremonies honoring civic leaders, exemplified by an awards event on July 29, 2024, that emphasized bridging communication between the installation and surrounding areas. The non-profit Military Affairs Association supports goodwill and integration efforts between the base and Del Rio residents. In education support, the base's School Liaison Officer (SLO), reachable at 830-298-4788, assists military families with enrollment, transitions, and coordination in the (CISD), where most base children attend public schools, and identifies resources for military-connected students. The Laughlin Education Center offers tuition assistance, , and programs including Air Force COOL (Credentialing Opportunities On-Line), the Community College of the Air Force (CCAF), and CLEP exams to support Airmen and families' professional development. Initiatives like the Grow Your Own program enable local high school students to gain hands-on experience with the 47th Maintenance Directorate, while tours for Del Rio educators, such as those in July and August 2023, highlight base missions and educational partnerships to strengthen ties with CISD. These efforts reflect a sustained collaboration between Laughlin AFB and local schools to address military family needs and promote mutual benefits.

Challenges and Controversies

Internal Leadership and Misconduct Incidents

In October 2018, Lt. Gen. Steven Kwast relieved three leaders at the 47th Flying Training Wing— Col. Charles Velino, 47th Operations Group Col. Robert Pekarek, and 434th Flying Training Squadron Lt. Col. Monica Schmidt—due to chronic leadership failures in addressing officer misconduct, including dangerous behaviors and a threatening environment. The reliefs followed investigations prompted by incidents such as a unit drinking ritual in which a female student pilot received a vulgar , "Clam Digger," highlighting poor oversight of alcohol-fueled events and a permissive "booze culture." A subsequent command-directed investigation released in December 2018 identified contributing factors including absentee , unsafe supervision during , excessive pressure to accelerate pilot production, and inadequate accountability for off-duty alcohol consumption, which fostered an environment conducive to . These issues were linked to broader wing-level deficiencies in standards enforcement, with the report emphasizing that rapid training demands did not excuse lapses in professional conduct. Earlier, in 2015, multiple cases emerged at the base, including the of a 47th Flying Training Wing for an unprofessional sexual relationship with a subordinate, resulting in a guilty and . Another instructor pilot faced conviction for similar conduct, amid allegations of drug use, unprofessional relationships, and obstruction of justice investigated under Article 15 proceedings. These incidents underscored ongoing challenges in maintaining instructor-student boundaries in a high-stakes training environment, with final rulings confirming punitive actions but no broader leadership overhaul at the time.

Safety, Environmental, and Operational Issues

Laughlin Air Force Base has experienced several aircraft mishaps involving T-38C Talon trainers, primarily during training operations. On November 19, 2021, two T-38C aircraft collided on the runway during a formation approach to landing, resulting in the death of one pilot and critical injuries to two others; an investigation attributed the incident to poor communication and delayed reactions by instructor pilots. This crash prompted the Air Force to revise T-38 formation landing procedures to mitigate similar risks. Earlier incidents include a fatal T-38 crash on November 20, 2017, which killed instructor pilot Capt. Paul Barbour, and another in 2018 that destroyed the aircraft and fatally injured the pilot approximately 12 miles northwest of the base. Bird strikes pose a persistent safety hazard at the base due to its location along migratory paths and proximity to the , leading to dedicated Bird/Wildlife Aircraft Strike Hazard (BASH) programs that include habitat management and radar monitoring to reduce risks. A 2022 incident involved a T-38 pilot ejecting after a bird strike damaged the canopy and engines, rendering the aircraft inoperable. Security vulnerabilities have also surfaced, such as a vehicle breaching the perimeter near the west gate on May 31, 2024, prompting a base-wide response. Environmental concerns center on groundwater contamination from per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), with testing in 2018 detecting 27,300 parts per trillion (ppt) of combined PFOA and PFOS, exceeding federal advisory levels and linked to use. Historical records indicate potential legacy contamination from past operations, though a 1985 review found no widespread issues at the time. The base's 2024 drinking water report affirmed compliance with federal standards post-remediation efforts, but veterans stationed there have reported toxic exposure claims related to these chemicals. Operationally, events have disrupted activities, including a February 22, 2016, hailstorm that damaged , , and facilities, requiring extensive recovery efforts. from low-level flights has generated complaints, particularly with the planned introduction of T-7A trainers, though base responses attribute some supersonic booms to external . Administrative challenges, such as enrollment errors for transitioning pilots due to coding issues between retirement systems, have affected personnel but were resolved through inter-agency coordination.

References

  1. https://www.laughlin.af.mil/About-Us/
  2. https://www.aetc.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/558878/laughlin-air-force-base/
  3. https://www.texasalmanac.com/places/laughlin-air-force-base
  4. https://www.laughlin.af.mil/
  5. https://www.compatiblelands.org/laughlin-air-force-base/
  6. https://adip.faa.gov/agis/public/#/airportData/DLF
  7. https://www.laughlin.af.mil/Units/
  8. https://www.aopa.org/destinations/airports/T70/details
  9. https://installations.militaryonesource.mil/in-depth-overview/laughlin-afb
  10. https://www.laughlin.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/354528/47th-operations-group/
  11. https://www.laughlin.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/354526/47th-flying-training-wing-history/
  12. https://www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=156214
  13. https://www.laughlin.af.mil/News/News/Display/Article/2433624/laughlin-heritage-corner-december/
  14. https://www.tshaonline.org/handbook/entries/laughlin-air-force-base
  15. https://atlas.thc.state.tx.us/Details/5465003372
  16. https://www.laughlin.af.mil/News/Article/2088520/the-laughlin-heritage-corner-with-the-47-ftw-historian/
  17. https://veteran.com/bases/laughlin-air-force-base/
  18. https://fortwiki.com/Laughlin_Air_Force_Base
  19. https://www.laughlinhousing.com/history
  20. https://www.laughlin.af.mil/News/News/Article/2178217/the-laughlin-heritage-corner-may/
  21. https://apps.dtic.mil/sti/tr/pdf/ADA634279.pdf
  22. https://www.laughlin.af.mil/Portals/11/AFD-111019-005.pdf
  23. https://www.laughlin.af.mil/News/News/Display/Article/354644/memories-of-the-4080th-strategic-reconnaissance-wing-at-laughlin/
  24. https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2223728/laughlin-heritage-corner-june/
  25. https://www.laughlin.af.mil/News/News/Article/1331184/the-4080th-strategic-reconnaissance-wing-reunites-at-laughlin/
  26. https://www.exploredelrio.com/2023/04/26/laughlin-air-force-base/
  27. https://votesmart.org/public-statement/931718/laughlin-afb-the-cuban-missile-crisis
  28. https://www.dvidshub.net/image/8691153/laughlins-history-photos
  29. https://www.laughlin.af.mil/News/News/Display/Article/2462361/laughlin-heritage-corner-january/
  30. https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2837434/laughlin-and-aetc-a-legacy-of-air-power/
  31. https://flightlineinsignia.com/product/specialized-undergraduate-pilot-training-class-2025-11-black-2/
  32. https://www.laughlin.af.mil/News/News/Article/2462361/laughlin-heritage-corner-january/
  33. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dVFzCzN4hds
  34. https://www.facebook.com/LaughlinAirForceBase/posts/laughlins-own-87th-flying-training-squadron-just-clocked-35-years-of-nonstop-pil/1089034709919614/
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  36. https://www.jbsa.mil/News/News/Article/4205995/boosting-readiness-aetcs-plan-to-train-1500-pilots-annually/
  37. https://www.laughlin.af.mil/News/News/Display/Article/4000265/record-of-decision/
  38. https://laughlin.t-7anepadocuments.com/about
  39. https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2024-12-20/pdf/2024-30383.pdf
  40. https://www.laughlin.af.mil/Units/47th-Operations-Group/
  41. https://www.laughlin.af.mil/Portals/11/documents/Welcome%2520to%2520UPT.pdf?ver=3nq1b5VChdYs-I87WmDlgg%253D%253D
  42. https://www.laughlin.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/354523/434th-flying-training-squadron/
  43. https://www.facebook.com/LaughlinAirForceBase/posts/check-out-a-few-t-6-nation-highlights-on-the-flightline-laughlin-is-home-to-the-/837795345043553/
  44. https://www.airforcetimes.com/air/2025/01/06/laughlin-says-goodbye-to-last-t-1-as-jayhawk-retirement-continues/
  45. https://www.laughlin.af.mil/News/News/Display/Article/3879116/laughlin-enhances-air-force-instructor-pilot-training-nationwide/
  46. https://www.laughlin.af.mil/News/News/Display/Article/4206191/boosting-readiness-aetcs-plan-to-train-1500-pilots-annually/
  47. https://www.laughlin.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/354527/47th-maintenance-directorate/
  48. https://www.laughlin.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/354544/87th-flying-training-squadron/
  49. https://www.laughlin.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/354545/86th-flying-training-squadron/
  50. https://www.key.aero/article/look-inside-usafs-47th-flying-training-wing
  51. https://www.globalair.com/airport/apt.runway.aspx?aptcode=dlf
  52. https://www.airnav.com/airport/KDLF
  53. https://www.laughlin.af.mil/News/News/Display/Article/3502072/laughlin-airfield-lighting-modernization-complete/
  54. https://www.laughlin.af.mil/Units/47th-Mission-Support-Group/
  55. https://www.laughlin.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/354525/47th-mission-support-group/
  56. https://www.laughlin.af.mil/News/Photos/igphoto/2001739644/
  57. https://www.laughlin.af.mil/News/News/Display/Article/3676033/laughlin-upgrades-digital-infrastructure/
  58. https://www.laughlinfamilyhousing.com/
  59. https://www.housing.af.mil/Home/Installations/Laughlin-AFB/
  60. https://laughlin.tricare.mil/
  61. https://www.military.com/base-guide/laughlin-air-force-base/base-directory
  62. https://comptroller.texas.gov/economy/economic-data/military/2023/laughlin-afb.php
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  64. https://www.brownwoodnews.com/2024/06/18/governor-abbott-announces-151-2-billion-economic-impact-of-military-installations-in-texas/
  65. https://datacommons.org/place/geoId/4841704
  66. https://www.texas-demographics.com/laughlin-afb-demographics
  67. http://www.idcide.com/citydata/tx/laughlin-afb.htm
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