Hanscom Air Force Base

Hanscom Field, situated 14 miles from Boston in Bedford, Massachusetts, is a public airport managed by the Massachusetts Port Authority. As New England’s largest general aviation airport, it supports defense research at Hanscom Air Force Base and accommodates jets, pilot training, and transient general aviation planes through three FBOs. Two flight schools also call Hanscom Field home.

Base Operator: 
(781)-225-2765

Address:
55 Grenier Street
Hanscom AFB, MA 01731

What Kind of Base is Hanscom AFB?

Operated by the U.S. Air Force, Hanscom Air Force Base specializes in developing and acquiring electronic command and control systems. These systems analyze information about potential threats, enabling commanders to make swift decisions and communicate with their forces effectively. Hanscom AFB accurately directs America’s air power and serves 125,000 individuals from various military branches in a seven-state region.

Hanscom AFB History

Established in 1941, Hanscom Field started as a training base for P-40 Warhawk pilots and later played a crucial role in Boston’s air defense. By the 1950s, the focus shifted to electronics and computer research in collaboration with the Army Air Force and MIT. Over time, the field became a significant general aviation airport, with Boston sports teams frequently using it for their charter flights.

Hanscom AFB Housing

Hunt Military Community manages Hanscom AFB Family housing. While there’s no dining facility on base, single airmen can use kitchen facilities in their dorm rooms, single occupancy with shared bathrooms. Airmen ranking E-1 to E-4 must live in these dorms unless given special permission.

How to Apply For Housing

Contact the Base Housing Office at 781-745-1800 to begin your housing application process. Given the area’s high cost of living, housing at Hanscom AFB is in high demand. Note that no lodging facilities are on base, so you may need to seek local accommodations while waiting.

PCS and TDY Lodging

Temporary Duty (TDY) and Permanent Change of Station (PCS) personnel have temporary lodging options at military bases. It’s advised to make reservations in advance and consult the base’s lodging office for up-to-date information.

What is the BAH for Hanscom AFB?

Check to see what the Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) is in Massachusetts.

For more information, look at BAH rates by state or calculate your exact BAH rate.

Hanscom AFB Surrounding Area

Hanscom AFB lies in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, adjacent to historic towns like Bedford, Concord, Lincoln, and Lexington. Boston is just a 30-minute drive away, with Nashua, New Hampshire being roughly 40 minutes away. Families can experience a mix of urban culture, art, history, and outdoor activities in the area. Historical landmarks from the American Revolutionary War and New England’s picturesque landscape provide a unique backdrop for activities.

Healthcare

Hanscom AFB’s Military Health Clinic, run by the 66th Medical Squadron, focuses on outpatient care. Nearby hospitals include Lahey Hospital and Medical Center, and Emerson Hospital. The clinic offers primary and preventive services, including dental, optometry, pediatrics, mental health, and radiology. For specialized care, patients need to find services at local medical establishments.

Childcare

Hanscom AFB houses two Child Development Centers. The primary center provides full-day care for various age groups, from infants to preschoolers. Meanwhile, the Hanscom AFB School Age Care facility offers school-year care and summer camp options for school-aged children.

Schooling

The base features two schools affiliated with Lincoln, MA’s public school system: Hanscom Primary School and Hanscom Middle School. High school students attend Bedford High School. More educational resources are available on the Hanscom School Liaison website.