Space-A travel: Great way to see world for military community

(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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Pacific Locations

Mainland Japan

MISAWA AB