Keesler AFB  In-depth Overview

The major command at Keesler is the Air Education and Training Command. The 81st TRW's mission is to train, develop and deliver focused driven warriors. The 81st Training Group is responsible for nearly 500 training courses both locally and at detachments and satellite locations.

The 81 TRG Mission Statement: Advance Critical Mission Capabilities of the Air and Space Expeditionary Force... Warriors... Training Warriors... For Warriors!

Keesler is part of Air Education and Training Command, and our primary mission since 1941 has been training. The emphasis is on high-technology training in a number of fields, primarily in the electronics specialties. Technical resident courses include career fields such as personnel, information management, air traffic control, finance, manpower, communications-electronics maintenance, computer operation, maintenance and programming, weather, metrology, aircraft warning and control systems and radio operations. For a thorough history of the installation visit Keesler's homepage.

• Active Duty 4,008
• Civil Service 1,546
• Retirees 114,094
• Contractors 1,700 
• Family Members 3961

Biloxi - 50,529

Gulfport - 71,660

Ocean Springs - 18,627

D 'Iberville - 13,236

There are approximately 4,008 active duty military, 1,546 civil service employees, 114,094 retirees, 3,961 family members and 1,700 contractors on Keesler AFB.

Keesler AFB is located in Biloxi, Mississippi on the Gulf Coast. There are strong military ties throughout the area. Thirteen miles to the west is the Naval Construction Battalion "Seabee" Base. Additionally, there are large military contractors in the area. Keesler AFB is located approximately 1 hour east of New Orleans, LA; 1 hour west of Mobile, AL; and 3 hours south of Jackson, MS. The base operator's phone number is 228-377-1110, DSN 312-597-1110. For more information on the Biloxi area, visit the City of Biloxi webpage https://biloxi.ms.us/

From Regional Airports

There are no flights arriving or departing on Keesler AFB. The closest commercial airport is the Gulfport-Biloxi Regional Airport. Airlines servicing Gulfport-Biloxi Airport include: Airtran, Delta, Continental, and Northwest. Taxi Cabs do service Keesler from the airport and will cost an average of $30-$40.

There is also an airport in New Orleans approximately one hour west of Keesler AFB. New Orleans Airport (MSY) is served by most major carriers including American, United, and Southwest Airlines. Mobile, AL also hosts a regional airport and is approximately 1 hour east of Keesler AFB. There are no shuttle services from the New Orleans Airport; taxi fares are $200 or more.

Please contact your sponsor and advise them of your estimated arrival time and flight information if applicable prior to your arrival at Keesler AFB.

From the West

Travelers leaving from the Gulfport-Biloxi Airport, New Orleans Airport, and anywhere west of Keesler should take I-10 East. Proceed to I-110 South and follow signs to Keesler Air Force Base.

From the East

Travelers leaving the Mobile Airport and anywhere east of Keesler should take I-10 West and proceed to I-110 South. Signs on the Interstate will direct you to the I-110 connector that leads to Biloxi and Keesler. Exit I-110 at U.S. 90 West and take U.S. 90 West to the second traffic light, White Ave, then turn right. White Avenue directs you to Keesler's main gate. You will travel straight into the base on Larcher Blvd. Tyer House, where you check in for lodging, is the 24-hour arrival point. Tyer House can be located by driving straight on Larcher until you come to the Medical Center, turn left and Tyer House will be located on your right. Upon checking in, please remember to contact your sponsor for additional direction and information.

The Base Shuttle can transport you to most locations on base during duty hours Monday through Friday.

 There is a shuttle for TDY students who must billet off base. Please check with Billeting and/or Base Transportation for information on pick up times at your hotel in the morning and times it can return you to your hotel in the afternoon.

228-377-1110