Mission
Our Mission:
We Train the World's Greatest Fighter Pilots and Combat Ready Airmen!
Our Vision:
The world’s premier fighter wing…advancing airpower to win tomorrow’s fight.
The 56th Fighter Wing, headquartered at Luke Air Force Base, Phoenix, Ariz., is the largest fighter wing in the U.S. Air Force. The wing is part of Air Education and Training Command. The wing also oversees the Gila Bend Air Force Auxiliary Field and is steward of the 1.7 million acre Barry M. Goldwater Military Training Range.
History
Luke Air Force Base is named for the Phoenix native and first aviator to be awarded the Medal of Honor - 2nd Lt Frank Luke Jr. Luke's 56th Fighter Wing was first activated on January 15, 1941, as the 56th Pursuit Group. The 56th left for England January 6, 1943. During the following two years, pilots of the 56th destroyed more enemy planes and listed more aces than any other Army Air Force group in the 8th Air Force, including the top two aces in Europe. The combat and support operations of the wing in Southeast Asia were numerous and varied. The 56th was reassigned to Luke Air Force Base on April 1, 1994. For further history visit Luke's homepage.
Population
Luke AFB is located in Glendale which has a population of 253,855 (2025). Phoenix metro area has over 4,834,000 residents. Other cities in the area:
Surprise, AZ - 158,285
Buckeye, AZ - 108,909
Goodyear, AZ - 111,805
Avondale, AZ 93,545
- Active Duty - 5,280
- Reservists - 2,365
- Civilians - 2,876
- Family Members - 6,700
- Retirees - 80,000 +
Location
Luke AFB is located in Glendale, Arizona. The local area is very supportive of the military. Located in the Valley of the Sun, individuals stationed at Luke Air Force Base enjoy a dry, moderate climate that is the envy of many, particularly in the winter.
The west valley area of Maricopa County where Luke Air Force Base is located is a fast growing area. If you were here just a few years ago, you will be surprised by the development. If you haven't been here previously, you will be surprised by the newness of almost everything. Luke AFB has fairly easy access to the I-10, Loop 303 and Loop 101 freeways.
Directions
Airports
If you are flying into Phoenix, you will fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport or Mesa Gateway Airport. (Mesa Gateway airport is further from the base).
Contact your sponsor to make arrangements for pick up. Commercial transportation is available, prices vary.
If you find yourself lost, contact the Base Command Post at 623-856-5600.
From I-10 Traveling East
Take the Litchfield Road Exit #128 and travel north for approximately 5 miles.
From I-10 Traveling West or from the Airport
Take the Litchfield Road Exit #128 and turn right (north). The base is approximately 5 miles north of the I-10 exit.
From I-17 Traveling South
Exit on to Loop 101 west towards Los Angeles and proceed to the Glendale Avenue, Exit 7B. Turn right (west) on Glendale Avenue. Proceed approximately 5 miles and turn left [south] to get to the South Gate and Visitor's Center.
OR
Continue south on I-17 to I-10 west, turn right (north) at Exit #128, Litchfield Road, travel 5 miles north to Luke AFB.
From I-17 Traveling North Exit 303 westbound to to Luke AFB.
From US 60 East Traveling Southeast through Wickenburg
From US 60, Turn right on Litchfield Road approximately,15 miles east of Wittman. Litchfield Rd provides access to all 3 gates for Luke AFB
OR
Turn right (south) on the Loop 303 freeway, exit off Northern Parkway to Litchfield Rd and continue 2 miles to Luke AFB.
Weigh Station for DITY moves:
Located at Bldg. 948. Hours are Monday - Friday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Enter in the south gate and the building will be where you can take your second right. Contact info is 623-856-7715/16/17
Base Transportation
The installation does not have a base shuttle. Contact your sponsor to make arrangements for pick up. If you need commercial transportation; ride share services, taxis, limousines and Super Shuttle vans are available, prices vary.
