space a travel benefits

Space A Travel: Everything You Need To Know

Julie Provost

What is Space-A Travel?

Table of Contents

Space-A is being able to travel on DOD aircraft for free or at a limited cost. The flights you take are on a space-available basis, and the number of passengers they take will depend on the flight. Space-A can get you to many different places worldwide, but some locations are more challenging to fly to than others.

When you fly Space-A, you have to do some planning and research. You must know which Space-A category you fall into and what that will mean for flights. You will need to make sure you are eligible and have all the right paperwork. You can travel with children, but you do need to be prepared for the whole trip, and that might be more difficult than flying commercially.

What Are the Different Categories for Space-A Travel?

Those who are eligible for Space-A typically fit into one of six different categories. These categories help determine how likely it is that you can fly.

Category I : Emergency Leave Unfunded Travel- For emergency situations only.

Category II: EML (Environmental Morale Leave) for Active Duty and dependents.

Category III: Active Duty Ordinary Leave- This category also includes those on Terminal Leave as well as their accompanied dependents, those on House Hunting Permissive TDY, Medal of Honor Holders, and dependents of deployed service members as long as they are deployed for 365 consecutive days or more. It is important to note that these dependents will be selected behind active duty members no matter when they sign up.

Category IV: Unaccompanied Dependents on EML or dependents whose sponsor is deployed between and including 30-364 days as well as DODDS teachers on EML during the summer.

Category V: Unaccompanied command-sponsored and non-command-sponsored dependents of active duty, permissive TDY (non-house hunting), and students.

Category VI: 100% disabled veterans. Retirees as well as their accompanied Dependents, reserve, ROTC, NUPOC, and CEC. The DoD adds, “Surviving Spouses of service members who died while on active duty, inactive duty training, or annual training status. as well as retired military members, and their accompanying dependents.”

Can Retirees Fly Space-A?

Retired military members who are issued DD Form 2 and eligible to receive retired or retainer pay may use Space-A travel according to the Air Mobility Command Space-A official site.

RELATED : Disabled Veterans Can Now Fly Space-A

Are You Able to Travel Without Your Service Member?

Only eligible dependents whose service member is stationed overseas can travel unaccompanied and would do so as CAT-V, with some CONUS restrictions. Those whose service member is deployed for 30 days or more may travel unaccompanied anywhere that Space-A is allowed at a CAT-III, after active duty, or CAT-IV, based on how long they are deployed, as mentioned above. If your spouse is not deployed and stationed in CONUS, you can not use Space-A unless you are with your service member.

What About National Guard or Reserve Members?

At press time, Space-A travel is authorized for National Guard/Reserve components/members of the Ready Reserve and members of the Standby Reserve who are on the Active Status List.

What Do You Have to Do to Get On A Flight?

The first step is get authorized to travel on Space-A. This means starting leave if you are on active duty or getting a travel letter if you are an unaccompanied dependent. If you are a retiree, you should be authorized when you are ready to start the process.

Sign up and register at the locations you plan to travel to and from. You can do this at some terminals through an online form, in person, by email, or by fax. This signing up doesn’t mean you are on a flight or have an exact flight time. What you will be doing is getting assigned a date and time. This will put you in front of anyone in your category who has a later date and/or time than you do.
Sign up as soon as possible for as many places as you think you might go. If you are unsure where you will be flying from, sign-up for all potential places. You don’t want to sign-up too far in advance so that your sign-up expires before the date you want to fly. For active duty, you should sign-up as soon as your leave starts, and that sign-up should last until your leave is over. For non-active duty, sign-ups are valid for 60 days.
Each sign-up location is independent. Call to verify that you are signed up and carry a printed copy of your emails verifying you have done so. That way, you can show that you should be on any list you need to use to travel.

Showing Up for a Flight

Show up before any potential flight you want to take. Flights will get posted, and you can make your plan from there. You need to mark yourself “Present” for the flight you want to go on. This tells the terminal that you are there and will be ready to fly when the time comes.
When exactly you are marked “Present” doesn’t matter as far as where you are in line; the date and time of when you signed up does, but you would need to be marked present within 24 hours of flight time.
It is a good idea to get to the terminal, ready to fly with all of your bags and paperwork, about an hour before what is called “Show Time.” You would then mark yourself “Present” by checking in at the desk and wait until “Show Time.” At this point, you do not want to leave the area, even to grab a bite to eat. Times can change, and you want to be ready if that happens.

Show Time and Roll Call

“Show Time” is when “Roll Call” can begin, and it is about 2-3 hours before it would be time to fly. You need to be aware of when “Show Time” is supposed to start, as well as what time you would fly if you make it on the flight. Always give yourself extra time.
“Roll Call” is going to be when the date and time you “signed up” for that location and the category you are in come into play. With “Roll Call,” they start with CAT-I and go through all the way until CAT-VI or until they fill all the seats. For example, someone in CAT-IV, who signed up on June 1st at 10:30 am will be ahead of someone who signed up for CAT-IV, on June 1st, at 11:30 am. All of CAT-IV would be ahead of all of CAT-5. They might just have 10 seats, or they might have 50 seats, it depends on the flight, aircraft, and how much space they actually have on the flight.
You will need to be right there during “Roll Call.” If you are somewhere else, and they call your name, and you don’t check-in, you will not make it on the flight. You will need to be travel-ready when this happens.
Being “Manifested” means you are selected for a flight, and you will be going on this flight unless the flight itself is canceled or you get bumped for cargo. This is where you want to be.
You can also be “Manifested Through,” which means you won’t have to compete for a seat on your second flight. However, you need to make sure you are “Manifested Through” to your end location. This, however, does not mean you have your round trip covered. You will have to compete for seats on your return trip.

How Much Does Space-A Travel Cost?

Many Space-A flights are free; however, if you take a Patriot Express flight, you may be charged a head tax and inspection fees. Bring cash for this flight, you may not be permitted to pay using a credit card.

You may also need to have extra money for possible stays in hotels, extra food, or even money for transportation. Because some flights get canceled, or it can be hard to get on right away, you might have to wait near the terminal for a few nights.

How Many Bags Can You Bring?

For Space-A, the nature of the mission determines how much baggage can be loaded. On some flights, you may be allowed to bring two pieces of luggage each, not to exceed 70 lbs. For others, there may be a requirement for the bags to be under 30 lbs.

Where Can You Go For Extra Help?

The Air Mobility Command website – This is where you can read information about how Space-A works, sign up for flights, and more.
SpaceA.net – An informational site about the ins and outs of Space-A travel.

Other Tips For Flying Space-A?

The main thing you need to remember is that Space-A is going to require some planning. You will need to spend some time researching where you will go, how many flights they have, and how easy it might be for you to get on a flight. Certain times of the year are busier than others, and you must bring your patience.

Flights can get delayed for days. You might go through the entire process and end up on a flight, only to have to get off and start all over again because there is something going on with the plane. You need to plan for if your first idea doesn’t work out.

There are a lot of benefits to flying Space-A. You can see the world and can do so without having to spend a lot of money, but you have to understand that you will have to work for it. Some flights will be easier than others, and you just never really know what you will find when you attempt to fly Space-A.

If you need to reach your destination by a certain date, Space-A might not be the best way to get there. Unlike a commercial airline, you are not guaranteed a time and a place to fly. Being flexible and understanding is a must. If you can go into Space-A with that mindset, you can enjoy everything Space-A has to offer.

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Space-A Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know to Take a Flight on a Military Hop

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What Are Space-A Flights (AKA, Military Hops)?

Are you eligible for a space-a flight, how does space-a travel work.

1. Identify Your Destination and Possible Routes

2. Follow the Space-A Flight Schedules of the Passenger Terminals You May Use

3. sign up to travel from all possible starting locations, 4. mark yourself present within 24 hours of roll call, 5. listen for your name during roll call, 6. check your luggage and obtain your boarding pass, 7. board the aircraft and pick your seat, what to expect on a space-a flight, pros and cons of flying space-a, the pros: what are the advantages of flying space-a, the cons: what are the disadvantages of space-a, when should you use space-a, what would a seasoned space-a traveler recommend.

Update: On April 22, 2022, the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense lifted all restrictions on Space-A travel. These restrictions were put in place in March 2020 to limit the spread of Covid-19. Mask mandates and medical screening protocols may still apply.

Looking for a way to save money on travel ? Flying space-available (Space-A) on a military flight can be a fun and inexpensive way to see the world, as airfare to and from U.S. military bases can cost you next to nothing.

Flying Space-A on military aircraft is very different from using commercial air travel, and you can’t just call a military passenger terminal and book your flight. It’s worth learning how Space-A travel works so you can take advantage of this incredible privilege available to eligible members of the military community.

After military flights accommodate all required passengers and cargo, they often release extra seats to service members, retirees and their families. These eligible passengers can “hop” on the flights on a space-available (Space-A) basis. This is where the term “military hop” comes from.

Because these are military, not commercial, flights, the military mission is always the priority. You may fly on a commercial plane, but you could also be in a cargo plane or fuel tanker.

See What You Qualify For

Select an option to continue:

There are six categories, or “cats,” of eligible Space-A travelers, depending on their duty status and the reason they are traveling.

Those in lower-numbered categories receive higher priority for available seats.

Here is a summary of the Space-A travel categories, according to the Military OneSource website :

Cat 1: Emergency leave unfunded travel

Cat 2: Accompanied environmental and morale leave (EML)

Cat 3: Ordinary leave, service members’ relatives, house-hunting permissive temporary duty (TDY), Medal of Honor holders , and foreign military; also includes unaccompanied dependents of service members deployed for more than 365 consecutive days.

Cat 4: Unaccompanied EML; also includes dependents of service members deployed between 30 and 364 consecutive days

Cat 5: Permissive TDY (non-house-hunting), student travel, and post-deployment/mobilization respite absence; also includes unaccompanied dependents of service members stationed outside the continental U.S. (OCONUS)

Cat 6: Military retirees, their dependents, military reserve, Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) members and veterans who are 100% disabled

It is important to know your category when planning your Space-A travel because your category determines when you can sign up, what paperwork you need, and where you are eligible to fly. Table 3 in Section 4.11 of Department of Defense Instruction 4515.13 has more details on eligibility by category and approved geographical travel segments.

Eligibility Note for Veterans with a 100% Disability Rating :

According to the AF.mil website , “veterans with a service-connected, permanent disability rating of 100 percent will be able to travel in the Continental United States or directly between the CONUS and Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, and American Samoa (Guam and American Samoa travelers may transit Hawaii or Alaska); or traveling within Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands on flights operated by Air Mobility Command.”

Disabled veterans must have a DD Form 2765, Defense Department ID Card (Tan), to fly Space-A.

The better you understand how to fly Space-A, the greater your chances of having a successful trip.

The first step is to learn which bases have regular flights to where you want to travel. This list of worldwide destinations where Space-A travel may be available includes profiles of some of the terminals and information about typical flight destinations. You’ll want to begin following some of their Space-A flight schedules, which we’ll discuss in the next step.

You may find several possible routes to your desired destination. For example, if you are on the East Coast and want to fly to one of the common destinations, including Spain or Germany, you will likely be able to travel from several nearby bases. Travelers from other parts of the U.S. may need to take two or more hops to get there.

The Space-A Travelers Facebook group can help you put together a flight plan to your destination. You can ask questions and find information about flying to and from specific locations.

You may have to combine Space-A travel with other transportation. For example, you may need to fly or drive to a base with regular Space-A flights to your desired destination. Or you may need to take a train or flight from an overseas base to your final destination.

The Air Mobility Command website maintains a list of all the military passenger terminals , as well as their contact info and links to their websites and Facebook pages.

You’ll find a 72-hour flight schedule for most terminals on their Facebook pages or the AMC website. The schedules include trip destinations, the number of Space-A seats and the “roll call” time. The roll call time is when terminal staff announces who has been selected for the flight.

You may also find information about recently departed flights, including how the number of Space-A seats and how many passengers competed for those seats.

Click here for more details on how to read the Space-A schedules on Facebook .

When you monitor the flights that depart from your target passenger over several weeks or months, you’ll notice patterns in the location and frequency of their missions.

Determine all the terminals you could depart from to reach your desired destination. You’ll increase your chances of success by signing up to fly from all of them. Signing up is free and takes only a few minutes.

The AMC website details the sign-up options, including the required information. You can sign up through their website, by email or in person at the terminal. You can also use the Take-A-Hop app (which costs $6.99). If you’re signing up for several terminals, email and the Take-A-Hop app are the easiest ways to do so.

The sooner you can sign up, the better, as priority within each category is based on the sign-up date and time. So sign up as early as possible. At most terminals, your sign-up is valid for up to 60 days.

Keep in mind that your category may affect how early you can sign up for Space-A travel. For example, active-duty service members (Cat 3) must be on leave before they can sign up. Those in Cat 3, however, have precedence over those in Cats 4 through 6, regardless of when they signed up.

You must mark yourself present at the terminal before roll call to let the staff know that you are competing for the flight. You can do so anytime within 24 hours of the scheduled roll call. Note: roll call times can change unexpectedly, so continually monitor the terminal’s 72-hour flight schedule to ensure you get there in time or, better yet, call the terminal to confirm.

Bring your military ID and any necessary documents, such as your passport, your leave form or your EML orders. If you are an unaccompanied dependent, you’ll need a memo from your sponsor’s command. Also bring a copy of your sign-up email as a backup to prove your sign-up date and time.

At roll call, terminal staff will announce how many Space-A seats are available for the flight and then the names of the selected passengers, beginning with those in the highest-priority category.

If they call your name, go to the desk and confirm that you and any dependents traveling with you are present. You’ll need to show your military ID and any required paperwork, as well as ID cards for passengers older than 10 years old. For younger passengers, bring their passports or MilConnect printouts that show the Department of Defense ID numbers.

If they don’t call your name, don’t leave the terminal just yet. Sometimes last-minute Space-A seats become available, so stay at the terminal until boarding time.

Once you and all members of your traveling party, along with all your luggage, must be present when the baggage check begins. This may be right after roll call, or it may be several hours later. You will need to stay in the terminal, as boarding times, like roll call times, can change without notice.

The AMC website’s FAQ page includes detailed information on baggage allowances. Because smaller aircraft may have different weight limits for luggage, it’s best to check ahead of time.

You will generally be allowed to check two pieces of luggage weighing up to 70 lbs each. Similar to many commercial flights, you can also bring one piece of carry-on luggage that fits under your seat or in the overhead compartment. You can usually check car seats and strollers, and they won’t count toward your baggage allowance.

AMC terminals follow the Transportation Security Administration’s baggage screening guidelines , so check their website ahead of time to see what you can bring in your carry-on bag, and what you must put in checked luggage.

Check if meals are available on the flight, as you’ll pay for these when you check your luggage. Some locations offer simple box lunches for a nominal cost.

If you are flying Space-A on a Patriot Express flight , your boarding pass will list your assigned seat.

When terminal staff announces boarding, you’ll go through security and wait in a secure area. With most flights, a bus will take you to the aircraft, and you’ll board from the tarmac.

On most Space-A flights, you’ll choose your seat when you board. On Patriot Express flights, your boarding pass will list your assigned seat.

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Patriot Express flights offer amenities, including meals and in-flight movies.

Other Space-A flights do not. Snacks and water may be available, but it’s best to be prepared and bring your own.

Seating depends on the type of aircraft. Some have seats that are comparable to commercial airlines. Others have web seating along the sides of the plane. If this is the case, you can stretch out if there’s room.

Patriot Express flights are climate-controlled, but other military aircraft are not. They are often cold or hot, so dress in layers. They can also be loud. The crew usually provides foam earplugs, but it’s a good idea to bring your own.

There are advantages and disadvantages to Space-A travel.

Space-A flights can save you hundreds or thousands of dollars over commercial airlines, which is a clear advantage. The only costs you might incur are a low per-passenger fee on Patriot Express flights, and you may be able to purchase low-cost meals at some terminals that offer meals for purchase.

When you land, you’ll be able to access base resources, including overnight base lodging and the commissary. You may even be able to purchase discount tickets to local events and attractions through the base’s Information, Tickets and Travel office (ITT).

Being able to stretch out on some aircraft can be another advantage over flying economy in a commercial plane.

If you’re traveling with small children, you may also find that other passengers are more supportive than with a commercial airline.

And, of course, there may be a greater sense of adventure with Space-A travel.

Free or low-cost air travel
Access to base amenities (Base Exchange, Commissary, MWR, ITT, etc.)
Possibly more space to spread out compared to commercial airlines
It’s an adventure!

Space-A travel is less predictable than flying commercially. Passenger terminals post flight schedules only 72 hours in advance, and you won’t know if you got a seat until the last minute.

Peak travel times, including summer, winter holidays, and even spring break, are even more competitive. You may need to be more flexible about when you travel and even where you’ll go.

You may incur other costs with Space-A travel, such as transportation to the base you’ll be flying from. You may need to wait for a flight home–possibly for days–and the costs of lodging and meals can quickly add up.

Finally, Space-A travel, unless you’re on a Patriot Express flight, is bare bones. You may find it cold, loud, and uncomfortable.

Travel and schedules can vary.
Seats aren’t guaranteed — you must have flexible travel plans!
Travel can be difficult during busy times (summer PCS season, holidays, etc.).
Lodging, meals and transportation costs can add up.
Military aircraft can be cold and uncomfortable.

If you have the time, flexibility, and patience to wait for a flight, Space-A travel can offer you an adventure while saving you a lot of money. If you’re traveling for an event, such as a wedding, and must arrive by a specific time, Space-A is not the best way to travel, especially if it’s during the peak seasons of summer, winter holidays, and spring break.

Flying Space-A requires planning, patience, and flexibility. Learn as much as you can about the process, and also research desired destinations and passenger terminals so that you can put together a successful flight plan.

When you are ready to leave, make sure you always have a backup plan and ensure you have enough money to pay for commercial transportation if Space-A doesn’t work out. Also, be prepared for a multi-legged journey–several shorter hops that bring you closer to your destination rather than one long direct flight.

About Post Author

Stephanie Montague

Stephanie Montague is the founder of Poppin’ Smoke , a website designed to encourage members of the military community to use their military benefits for travel. Stephanie and her husband have been traveling the world since he retired from the Army in 2015. Through Poppin’ Smoke, Stephanie shares everything they learn about Space-A travel and using military benefits while abroad.

See author's posts

Posted In: Military & Veterans Benefits

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ray maring says

December 29, 2023 at 9:17 am

Thank you for hosting this information. I am a guardsman, retired and are interested in traveling now.

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Military Space-A travel is back after 2-year COVID-19 pause

After more than two years of a COVID-19 pandemic-induced pause on Space Available travel, Defense officials have brought back the benefit.

Space-A allows eligible travelers to fly on military or military-contracted aircraft at little or no cost — if space allows.

Defense officials issued a memo to the services and to U.S. Transportation Command on Friday, lifting all restrictions. The limitations were placed on Space-A travel on March 21, 2020, to help limit the spread of COVID-19.

This reopening allows Space-A travel on military and DoD-contracted aircraft for uniformed service members, retirees, dependents and reservists to travel within the continental U.S. and outside the continental U.S.

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The delivery fee for commissary groceries will generally be less than $4, in addition to cost of groceries, plus 5% surcharge and any driver tip..

Travel and COVID-19 requirements change frequently and depend on the country of travel. Medical screening protocols may still apply for travelers going overseas. Those traveling to a foreign country should check for any testing requirements within the Electronic Foreign Clearance Guide .

Although a federal judge has struck down the mask mandate for airplane travel, TRANSCOM has directed that the mask requirement will continue, until a policy change is received from defense officials, according to the Air Mobility Command website.

AMC-operated air terminals, units and passenger terminals were to start accepting eligible Space-A travelers effective Friday, and units should continue to train and take other actions to build capability, according to a memo from Air Mobility Command officials.

Units and passenger terminals are directed to take necessary actions based on assessment of capabilities, to restore full servicing by May 13.

Travelers always should be flexible, as there is no guarantee a seat will be available going to or from a destination. DoD regulations set the requirements for which passengers have priority.

For more information, including locations of Space-A terminals, visit https://www.amc.af.mil/AMC-Travel-Site/ . Information is also available at militaryonesource.mil .

In related news, temporary Patriot Express flights will begin operating out of Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Washington to Kadena Air Base, Okinawa, Japan, from May 16 to Sept. 30, AMC officials have announced.

These additional government contracted flights are in response to increased airlift requirements to support U.S. Forces Japan and U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, officials said.

Karen has covered military families, quality of life and consumer issues for Military Times for more than 30 years, and is co-author of a chapter on media coverage of military families in the book "A Battle Plan for Supporting Military Families." She previously worked for newspapers in Guam, Norfolk, Jacksonville, Fla., and Athens, Ga.

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Space-A Basics

The Space-Available travel program is a travel benefit that allows authorized passengers to occupy DoD aircraft seats that are surplus after all space-required passengers and cargo have been accommodated. Space-A travel is allowed on a non-mission interference basis only. Space-available travel is a privilege (not an entitlement) available to Uniformed Services members and their dependents. The majority of Space-A flights are offered by the Air Force's Air Mobility Command (AMC) or the Navy and Space-A seats are normally free (there is a tax charged for AMC's Patriot Express flights). The most common destinations are in many parts of the USA (including Hawaii and Alaska), Germany, England, Spain, Italy, Japan, and South Korea. Less frequent destinations (some very rare) could include South and Central America, Africa, and Australia. Usually, the best time to obtain a seat(s) is when dependent children are in school. For more details, read on!

Basically, your travel status "category" is your priority. There are six categories (CAT-I thru CAT-VI). CAT-I is highest priority (first to get offered a Space-A seat) and CAT VI is the lowest Category (last to get offered a Space-A seat after CAT I thru CAT V). A GENERIC explanation of each category is:

CAT I: Emergency Leave Unfunded Travel

NOTE: Any Space-a passenger (including retirees) "may be" (no guarantees) upgraded by the local installation Commander (often delegated to the Chief of the Passenger Service) to no higher than the bottom of CAT-I for leave under emergency conditions (unfunded) or extreme humanitarian reasons when validated by competent and formal authority such as American Red Cross notification, unit Commander’s memo, doctor’s letter, or other evidence. Emergency upgrade period for initial departure is usually limited to one week. Passengers will maintain the origin station upgrade until they reach the emergency destination; on return, passengers will return to their original Category.

CAT II: EML (Active Duty and their accompanied dependents)
CAT III: Active Duty Ordinary Leave (including Terminal Leave) and accompanied dependents,, House Hunting Permissive TDY, Medal of Honor Holders, dependents of deployed service members whose sponsor is deployed 365 consecutive days or more (selected behind active duty members regardless of date/time of sign up)
CAT IV: Unaccompanied Dependents on EML or dependents whose sponsor is deployed between (and including) 30 to 364 consecutive days and DoDDS Teachers on EML During Summer
CAT V: Unaccompanied Command Sponsored and Non-Command Sponsored Dependents of Active Duty, Permissive TDY (Non house Hunting), Students
CAT VI: Retired and their accompanied Dependents, Reserve, ROTC, NUPOC, and CEC

If you are a dependent (sponsor stationed in CONUS and not deployed) then you are not eligible for UNACCOMPANIED Space-A Travel (except overseas for emeregncy) and therefore no Space-A Category). If you're not clear what category you are in you can find a more complete explanation of each category in DoDI 4515.13 , Section 4, Table 3 .

According to the regs, you can mark yourself "Present?" at anytime "within" 24 hours (some terminals that offer Virtual Roll Calls are 20 hours) prior to a Space-A Roll Call. The time you get marked "Present" is not a factor in the Space-A selection process so around an hour prior to Roll Call is usually sufficient time to get settled before a Roll Call. To mark yourself "Present" you need to arrive at the terminal with all travel documents (including your passengers) and proceed to the Passenger Service Desk and they will mark you "present." Once marked "Present" you'll be added to the Present List and then can compete for seats at the Space-A Roll Call for flights heading to your desired destination. If unsuccessful and your name falls off the "Present" List you'll need to get marked "present" again. Some locations purge their "Present" List at midnight so make sure you inquire about their local policy.

NOTE: November 2016: AMC no longer allows passengers to mark themselves "Present" remotely The test locations were Kadena, Charleston, McGuire, Spangdahlem, and Ramstein. Virtual Roll Call is still available at certain locations.

CONUS = The 48 CONtiguous States and the District of Columbia or "the lower 48, as they're affectionately known to the Alaskans."
OCONUS = Outside Continental United States
Overseas = Any country or place beyond the CONUS. Alaska, Hawaii and the U.S. territories are considered overseas under the Space-A Regulation.

Some folks use the terms OCONUS and Overseas interchangeably but the above are the official definitions.

A COMMAND-SPONSORED Dependent is a Dependent residing with a member at an OCONUS location at which an accompanied-by-dependents tour is authorized, the member is authorized to serve that tour, and who is authorized by the appropriate authority to be at the member's Permanent Duty Station. If you are stationed in the CONUS with your sponsor then you are NOT a command sponsored dependent. If your sponsor gets "deployed" OCONUS then that does NOT make you a command sponsored dependent. Here is a sample Command Sponsor Letter . A Non-COMMAND-SPONSORED Dependent is a dependent prohibited from traveling to overseas commands at Government expense. In other words, you are not on your sponsor's PCS orders to an OCONUS location (e.g. Korea). Here is a sample Non-Command Sponsor Letter .

EML is Environmental Morale Leave. In certain OVERSEAS locations, living conditions are such that leave must be taken in a more suitable geographic and cultural environment to accomplish its stated purpose. EML provides a means of expeditious travel for members (and Command-Sponsored Dependents) from an EML location to a suitable EML destination. Designation of an EML location cannot be based on adverse economic or cultural conditions alone. EML is not intended to compensate sponsors and their families for the high cost of living overseas, language barrier, or cultural differences. DODI 1327.06 is the DoD reg the governs EML.
The Pacific Command EML Program Document contains a list of authorized locations and here is the Pacific Command EML form used: USPACOM FORM 505/3 EF (07-10) .
The European Command EML Program Document contains a list of authorized locations and here is the European Command EML form used: EU FORM 1501.01 . As of 2017, CONUS may no longer be an approved destination for Unfunded EML. See this announcement and check the current EUCOM regulations or your assigned command to verify EML eligibility.
Unfunded EML qualifies the sponsor (and accompanied dependents) for Space-A Cat-II (sponsor) or Cat-IV (unaccompanied dependents) and is only valid to and from the first authorized EML destination (e.g. CONUS) actually reached. Space-A travel beyond the first authorized EML destination (e.g. from western CONUS to eastern CONUS) to subsequent destinations would be as a Cat-III (Active Duty alone or with dependents). Unaccompanied dependents traveling as CAT-IV cannot travel within CONUS (unless manifested on continuing missions within CONUS as outlined under the FAQ "Eligibility" section). Return to the original EML location from the authorized EML destination is in the original EML Category (CAT-II or CAT-IV). The traveler can signup for Space-A on or after the EML start/effective date (listed on their EML form).
Government Civilians (e.g. DoD Teachers) and their dependents stationed at certain overseas locations might be authorized EML and travel Space-A to authorized EML destinations as outlined in the documents above.
WARNING: Some locations (e.g. Osan) may require a Command Sponsored Space-A Letter IN ADDITION to the EML Form for unaccompanied dependents so it behooves you to have both.

That's Air Mobility Command's name for its commercial charter flights. Other nicknames/Acronyms for the Patriot Express are Pat-eX, PE, rotator or "Freedonm Bird" (to some old-timers). AMC contracts a certain number of seats on charters with commercial carriers because it is an economical, efficient way of moving large numbers of personnel where they need to go. Charter seats not filled by official fliers are assigned for a small fee ( Head Tax and Inspection Fees ) to Space-Available travelers. The process for signing up for Space-A travel is the same as other military flights. Patriot Express flights have the usual commercial airline amenities. The flights are at least equal to the commercial economy class and, in some cases, a bit better. For instance, travelers on some flights can expect hot towels, free movies and headsets, and more leg room than found on most commercial airlines. West coast Patriot Express flights depart and arrive via Seattle-Tacoma International (SeaTac) Airport to Kadena, Yokota, Iwakuni and Misawa (also Yokota-Singapore).

East coast Patriot Express departures depart and arrive via Baltimore-Washington International (BWI) Airport and Norfolk NAS to Europe (Germany, Italy, Azores, Greece and Spain). For further information on the Patriot Express, read through the AMC Patriot Express Brochure . Note: The Patriot Express was reduced several years ago and as a result Atlanta IAP, Los Angeles, Rhein-Main AB, and RAF Mildenhall are no longer used as Patriot Express departure points. See the Patriot Express News Articles for more info on the history. Don't despair fellow Space-A travelers, even though Patriot Express flights have been reduced opportunities for space-A travel still exist on military aircraft to/from the usual military bases.

Some Passenger Terminals (the good ones) publish, post and keep current a fact sheet called an "AMCGRAM." The AMCGRAM provides helpful info about that particular location such terminal hours, long-term parking instructions, contact numbers for local lodging, rental cars and other amenities

"Show Time" is the time prior to scheduled aircraft departure that the terminal Passenger Service reps may start the roll call for manifesting (assigning Space-A seats). "Show Time" is usually 2 to 3 hours prior to departure. At, or sometime after the "Show Time", the Pax reps will do a "Roll Call" for the flight. "Show Times" can, and often do, change and may occur earlier than advertised so arrive early at the terminal!! NOTE 1: You must declare yourself "Present" (in person) to the passenger service reps at the terminal "within" 24 hours prior to the roll call of the flight you'd like to be manifested on. This is also a good time to verify your signup date/time is properly entered into the system. Declaring yourself "Present" lets the Pax reps know the number of people "actively" seeking a flight. When you declare yourself "Present" you are merely telling the Pax Reps that you have physically arrived at the terminal and you would like your name included in all the roll calls for your destination in the next 24 hours. Shortly before the show time, the Pax reps will post a list of those "Present" showing you exactly where you stand in the pecking order for that flight. If you fail to mark yourself "Present" and you physically show up for a roll call then you'll have to wait until all other Space-Available passengers marked present at the beginning of the roll call have been afforded the opportunity to compete for the open seats. If seats remain, the Pax reps will begin a new roll call starting with Category-I and then you will have a shot at remaining seats. NOTE 2: The above process may or may not be followed at ALL terminals. According to the reg, all space-available passengers competing for a seat must be ""marked present"" (in the computer system) at the beginning of roll call. Therefore, you need to check-in with the Passenger Service Reps at upon arrival at the terminal to declare yourself "Present" prior to a roll call on the day on the day of travel. Best advice is to show up an hour or two before a flight's show time and ensure you are "marked present."

The phrases "Roll Call" and "Show Time" are often used interchangeably because "Roll Call" can occur at "Show Time." A "Roll Call" for a flight can occur at, or sometime after, "Show Time." "Roll Call" is a phrase used to signify the beginning of the process in which eligible passengers in each category are selected by date and time of sign-up. ALL Space-Available passengers competing for a seat must be listed on the "Present List" and, expect for a Virtual Roll Call (VRC) be physically present at the beginning of the "Roll Call." The standard goal for AMC flights is to have the Roll Call no earlier than 2 hours and 20 minutes prior to scheduled departure time. Category-I, Space-Available passengers will be considered for any flight currently being processed even if the Space-Available roll call has already begun (roll call time passed) regardless of the current category being selected.
To start the "Roll Call", the PSA starts "calling" each Space-A category on the "Present List" beginning with Category I (Cat-I) and works down the list to CAT-VI until all available seats are filled. All Cat-1 personnel present will be manifested, then all Cat-2, then all Cat-3 and so on through Cat-6. Within each Category the seats are filled based on your date/time signup priority. If you are not present when your name is called, you will be passed over and seats offered to next on the list.
Space-A passengers shall not be removed for other Space-A passengers.
If the category/date/time of a Space-Available passenger has been passed, that passenger must wait until all other Space-Available passengers present at the beginning of the roll call have been afforded the opportunity to compete for the open seats. If seats remain and time permits, the PSA will begin a new Roll Call.
If a mission changes destination, the roll call will be started over.
If additional seats are released for a mission after the "Roll Call" is finished, the Space-Available call will continue where it previously ended. However, if the PSA had to pass over a family due to insufficient seat release to accommodate them and additional seats become available, then families that were passed over will have an opportunity to take these seats and then the Space-Available "Roll Call" will resume where it previously left off.
Category I, Space-A passengers shall be considered for any flight currently being processed even if the Space-A roll call has already begun (roll call start time passed) regardless of the current category being selected.
If anytime during the Space-A roll call, Space-R walk-in travelers present themselves to the PSC counter and seats are available, they must be given a seat ahead of any Space-A category (1-6) traveler(s).
Passengers must be travel ready at the time of "Roll Call"
"Virtual" Roll Call" (VRC): "Virtual" Roll Call means you go on a list and do not have to be present for the physical roll call (you still need to physically go to the terminal to mark yourself "Present." See http://www.spacea.net/faq/vrc for more details.

A VRC is just a process developed that allows you to be considered for seats virtually (e.g. at home, lodging, BX, Burger King....) without physically attending the traditional Roll Call in the terminal. It may not be offered at all locations or on all missions. If VRC is offered then it will be listed as such on the schedule. The basic steps (slight variations may be implemented at different locations) are:

1. "Within" (not exactly "at") 20 hours before a Roll Call you need to go by the terminal and mark yourself "Present" to compete for any upcoming VRCs.

2. Go home, take a nap, pack, jog or whatever and wait for the "Roll Call Notification" email. You should receive that email approximately 45-60 minutes prior to Roll Call. If you don't receive the email then either the terminal does not have your correct email address or there's a network problem (on their end or your end). The terminal is not responsible for network problems on either end - that's a risk you accept by using VRC. If you don't respond (typically within 30 minutes) then you're eliminated from the VRC.

3. If you make the cut then you'll receive a "Flight Selection Notification" including instructions to "Check-in" and make a bee line for the terminal (needless to say you should already be "travel ready" (bags packed and a plan to get to the terminal in time)). If you don't make the cut then you won't receive this email!

4. If you don't make the cut then you should receive a "Non-Selection Notification" email. Try again just like a normal Roll Call.

5. NOTE: AMC is not be responsible for personal Email or Internet connectivity issues. Failure to respond to the VRC email notification will result in a non-selection for the VRC Roll Call. If you have not received a VRC notification Email 45 minutes prior to your desired VRC Roll Call then you need to call or stop by the Passenger Terminal to ensure you are competing for your desired flight's Roll Call.

The following locations offer VRC (as of October 2016):
CONUS: Charleston. Mcguire no longer offers VRC.
Overseas: Hickam, Kadena, Osan, Spangdahlem, Yokota

Here is the AMC Virtual Roll Call Brochure

If you're selected for a flight, you're "manifested" on that flight - in other words, you made the cut and have a seat (pending being bumped for cargo if needed) to the flight's destination. You cannot be manifested round-trip back to your originating location.

"Manifested through" an en route location means that you would not have to compete for seats with other passengers at an en route location. For example, consider a mission traveling from Jackson, MS though Andrews AFB (where it will RON) and then continue on to Ramstein AB the following day. If you are only manifested as far as Andrews AFB then you would have to re-compete for seats to get manifested on that same mission/plane for travel onward to Ramstein AB. However, if the folks at Jackson "manifest you "through" Andrews to Ramstein AB then your seat on that mission is reserved (subject to bumping of course) through to Ramstein and you would NOT have to re-compete with passengers desiring to join that mission at Andrews. You cannot be "manifested through" round-trip back to your originating location. Finally, don't make the mistake of thinking that declaring your "Final Destination" means that you'll be "manifested through" to your "Final Destination."

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Space-A Travel: Amazing Benefit, Facts & Eligibility

What is space-a travel.

Space Available Travel, most often called Space-A Travel, or even military hops, is part of the Space-A program that fills remaining seats on Department of Defense flights at low or no cost to the veteran flying! The program is run by the Air Mobility Command (AMC). The network includes flights through:

Continental U.S.
Puerto Rico
U.S. Virgin Islands
American Samoa

There are also a few Naval Aviation and Air National Guard Units that offer flights in this program.

*Resource: Save this list of participating terminals.

Things to Know About Space-A Travel & Flights

There are several important things to remember when utilizing Space-A travel:

Patience is a must. Last minute changes may occur, which can mean a sudden schedule change or a seat becoming unavailable. If this occurs, the veteran should be prepared with a backup plan. This can mean flying commercially and paying for the airfare, in order to make it to the destination on time.
There are categories for Space-A flights. The categories (see the next section for these) are a priority list of who will get available seats first. It’s a first-come, first-served based on categories when seats on these DOD flights are open.
Flights can be reviewed at AMC terminals. The flights don’t offer much advance notice, as leftover capacity is determined as time draws closer to the flight. A 72 hour window is the most likely timeframe.
Some AMC terminals on military bases or commercial airports have a Facebook or other social media page with the schedule. It’s worth looking for that to see information on seats available.
You must complete a Space-A travel form. You can access the form here . Print this form and bring it with you to the terminal, even if you email or fax it.

Who Qualifies?

As a veteran, category 6 is where you’ll find out if eligible for Space-A travel and flights. See the full list of categories on the AMC page .

Category 1: Emergency Leave Travel

Family members of these employees who need to get overseas for the emergency
Military family members needing to travel for an emergency that exists overseas
Paid, full-time American Red Cross personnel who serve overseas with the US Military

Category 2: Accompanied Environmental & Morale Leave (EML)

Sponsors (a military member or civilian employee with dependents) and family members who are on EML
DOD Dependent School teachers and family members in EML status during school year holiday or vacation periods

Category 3: Ordinary Leave, House Hunting

Military personnel who are on ordinary leave; military patients who are on convalescent leave
Military personnel who are on permissive temporary duty (TDY) orders for house hunting that accompanies permanent change of station (PCS) orders; can be accompanied by one family member
The dependents of a military personnel who has been deployed for 365+ consecutive days
Family members (up to age 23 w/ID card) of a military member when accompanied by their sponsor who is in an ordinary leave status between overseas and CONUS

Category 4: Unaccompanied Dependents on EML

The dependents of a military personnel who has been deployed for 120+ consecutive days
If under 18 years of age, must be accompanied by an adult family member who is traveling EML
DoDDS teachers/family members in EML status during summer break

Category 5: Permissive TDY, Students, Dependents, Post-Deployment/Mobilization Respite Absence

Unaccompanied command-sponsored dependents
Students with a sponsor who is stationed in Alaska or Hawaii
Students enrolled in school INCONUS and sponsor is stationed overseas
Military personnel traveling on permissive TDY orders other than house hunting

Category 6: Retirees, Dependents, Reservists & Disabled Veterans

Family members are eligible if they have an ID card and travel with retired service member
Dependents must be accompanied by the veteran and travel must be in CONUS or directly between the CONUS and Alaska, Hawaii or U.S. territories
National Guard, Reserve components, members of the Ready Reserve and members of the Standby Reserve who are active status
Dependents can travel with the surviving spouse

Frequently Asked Questions for Space-A Travel

pexels victor freitas 1381415 Space-A Travel: Amazing Benefit, Facts & Eligibility

Additional Resources

You can download the Military Space-A Travel Sign-up Take-a-Hop app through the App Store or Google Play
Read Military.com’s post on Tips for Space-A Travel
Space-A Travel is just one of many benefits you may have access to as a veteran! Learn more about benefits on our Understand Your Service-Connected Benefits blog post.

While the extra benefits and perks are great, what’s most important is making sure you are accurately rated by the VA. The vast majority of veterans we work with are NOT accurately rated. Use the button below to contact an amazing member of our team. The free consultation will help us quickly identify if you’re eligible for our services. If you are not eligible, we will suggest other methods that may help.

Humans in Space

Earth & climate, the solar system, the universe, aeronautics, learning resources, news & events.

NASA’s Fermi Mission Sees No Gamma Rays from Nearby Supernova

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The Ocean Touches Everything: Celebrate Earth Day with NASA

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NASA’s Space Sustainability Strategy

NASA is a proactive leader for responsible and sustainable space operations, marked by the development of widely adopted best practices, analytic studies, models, technologies, and operations for the benefit of all.

Introduction

A Burgeoning Space Environment

The space operating environment is undergoing rapid changes with the emergence of new commercial capabilities that NASA has championed, including increased satellite activity and novel space capabilities such as satellite constellations, autonomous spacecraft, and commercial space destinations. Understanding the associated risks and benefits of new and existing capabilities is crucial for space sustainability.

Under the leadership of a cross-agency advisory board, NASA has committed to develop an integrated agencywide strategy to measure and assess space sustainability for Earth, Earth orbit, the cislunar space, and deep space. NASA will identify the most cost-effective ways to meet our sustainability targets, incentivize adoption of sustainable practices through technology and policy development, and increase our efforts to share and receive information with the rest of the global space community.

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New NASA Strategy Envisions Sustainable Future for Space Operations

To address a rapidly changing space operating environment and ensure its preservation for generations to come, NASA released the first part of its integrated Space Sustainability Strategy, on Tuesday advancing the agency’s role as a global leader on this crucial issue.

Responsible Exploration: Preserving the Cosmos

The aerospace ecosystem is undergoing rapid changes with the emergence of new capabilities, many of which NASA has championed. Today, NASA is unveiling the agency’s unified and comprehensive strategy to support the long-term sustainability of the space environment and continue its longstanding proactive leadership of preserving the cosmos.

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18 Companies With Travel Benefits (Vacation Stipends)

In this report, you’ll find 18 companies that pay you to travel. More specifically, these companies offer travel benefits to their employees through programs like “paid-paid vacations,” “travel stipends,” or “vacation bonuses.” Not only do these companies offer traditional or unlimited paid time off programs, they also pay for your vacations as well.

If that list doesn’t fit what you’re looking for, we have two other lists here, too: companies with unlimited PTO and companies with paid sabbaticals . Those are other ways that companies offer travel benefits.

Table of Contents

Companies that stopped their programs
The decline of the vacation stipend trend
Companies with unlimited PTO
Companies with paid sabbaticals
View our recommended flexible job board

Companies That Pay You To Travel

Here are 18 companies that pay you to go on vacation through a unique employee benefit program.

Companies That Removed Travel Benefits & Stipends

As we researched this report, we came across several outdated lists highlighting companies that have removed their paid-paid vacation programs . Here are a few examples to show you the proof:

Acceleration Partners – $750/year program canceled: AC had a round of news articles in 2019 about their $750 annual travel stipend, but no longer mentions it on their job posts or careers page.
Balsamiq – $3,000/year stipend canceled: Balsamiq wrote about its $3,000/year multi-purpose stipend in 2015 and was mentioned in numerous blogs until 2013. There is no longer a mention of the benefit on their careers page.
Basecamp – $5,000/year vacation stiped canceled: Basecamp got a lot of press in 2017 for its vacation stipend. It is no longer listed in their real-time employee handbook .
Buffer – $1,000/year program removed: Buffer wrote about this new vacation stipend in 2015, but no longer lists it as an employee benefit.
Clyde Group – $5,000 “make us jealous” stipend removed: Clyde Group’s unique benefit was written about in 2017, but no longer is mentioned on the site.
Motley Fool – $1,500 “Fool’s Errand” program canceled: Travel & Leisure wrote about this program in 2016, but the article no longer exists. It is not mentioned anywhere on the site now.
Tsheets – $1,500 program ended due to acquisition: Intuit acquired this company which does not offer the employee benefit .
Yesware $5,000 five-year vacation stipend ended: Yesware offered a $5,000 travel stipend to people who had been with the company for five years. This benefit was mentioned through 2020 but is no longer available.

Most companies still offer unique and great employee benefits around time off. I mentioned these examples to highlight how most vacation stipends are being canceled for one reason or another. That takes us to the next section.

The Decline Of Paid Paid Vacations

If you’re looking for companies that offer travel stipends and paid-paid vacations, you won’t find as many as you would have a few years ago.

From my research, these programs are in decline. Here’s why I think that is happening:

It is hard to maintain the cost of these programs. It’s likely one of the first programs to get cut during tough times.
Companies rolled these out to stand out in a competitive job market or retain talent that is leaving . When employers get the upper hand on the job market, these benefits frequently get cut.
It’s easier to give people more time off than it is to send out cash for time off.
Most of the companies that continue to offer travel stipends are in the travel industry.

Bottom line: These programs typically do not stick. I would not recommend choosing a company specifically because it pays you to travel. There’s a good chance the program won’t exist in a few years.

Companies With Unlimited PTO

In this section, you’ll find five notable companies that offer unlimited PTO. If you’d like to download a list of 100+ companies with unlimited PTO, fill out the form below.

Microsoft employees are getting unlimited time off. Microsoft will no longer require US employees to formally record vacation later this month, and they’re getting a payout for any unused days.

Search for Microsoft jobs.

General Electric

General Electric’s PTO and Vacation policy typically gives unlimited days off a year. Paid Time Off is General Electric’s 3rd most important benefit besides Healthcare when ranked by employees, with 18% of employees saying it is the most important benefit. General Electric’s benefits and PTO Package averages to represent a $1000 -$1500 cash value per month.

Search for General Electric jobs.

In addition to a company-wide week off in July, HubSpot has unlimited vacation. You decide when and for how long to take time off.

Search for Hubspot jobs.

Pioneered by nimble, forward-thinking companies like Google, Netflix and LinkedIn, unlimited PTO plans provide employees with unlimited time off, which can be used at their discretion.

Search for LinkedIn jobs.

Oracle’s PTO and Vacation policy typically gives unlimited days off a year. Paid Time Off is Oracle’s 3rd most important benefit besides Healthcare when ranked by employees, with 25% of employees saying it is the most important benefit. Oracle’s benefits and PTO Package averages to represent a $2500+ cash value per month.

Search for Oracle jobs.

Companies With Paid Sabbaticals

In this section, you’ll find five notable companies that paid sabbaticals. If you’d like to download the full list of companies with sabbaticals, fill out the form below.

Sabbatical length: “4 weeks after 5 years 5 weeks after 10 years”

Sabbatical policy description, per Office Simplify :

Offers up to 4 weeks of Sabbatical to employees who have been employed for more than 5 years and 5 weeks of Sabbatical to employees who have been working for 10+ years.

Search for Adobe jobs.

Bank of America

Sabbatical policy description, per Bloomberg :

Bank of America Corp. is starting a paid sabbatical program to reward its long-term employees, starting with four weeks off for those who have spent 15 years with the company.

Search for Bank of America jobs.

Sabbatical policy description, per Business Insider :

After every seven years of service, employees become eligible for a six-to-eight-week paid sabbatical, which they can use to spend time with their families, travel, and accomplish longstanding personal goals — no strings attached.

Search for Clif Bar jobs.

General Mills

Sabbatical policy description, per LinkedIn :

General Mills offers employees two kinds of sabbaticals — one paid and one unpaid — at the end of seven years. The sabbaticals at AARP, Intel, Kimpton Hotels and Resorts, and Clif Bars are also triggered every seven years. But this is a malleable concept that companies have shaped to their particular needs. Autodesk requires only four years of service before tendering a six-week sabbatical.

Search for General Mills jobs.

Sabbatical length: “8 weeks after 7 years 4 weeks after 4 years”

Sabbatical policy description, per Stories Incorporated :

Intel offers a sabbatical program to its US-based employees who can choose to take 8 weeks off after every 7 years of service, or 4 weeks off after every four years of service. This is on top of your regular vacation.

Search for Intel jobs.

Looking for a flexible job at a company that thinks differently ?

I always recommend Flexjobs .

FlexJobs is the leading job board for remote, part-time, flexible job listings. You’ll see many of the companies on the list below hire on FlexJobs, too. >> Find a flexible position now.

34 Best Tech Companies To Work For: 2023 Awards

We analyzed 3,920 companies to find the absolute best tech companies to work for on the planet. After all the research, we picked just 34 award winners (less than 1% of our company database). In this report, you’ll find… The 21 best big tech companies to work for (1,000+ employees) The 10 best medium-sized tech companies (101 – 1,000) The 3 best small tech companies…

82 Companies Going Remote Permanently: 2020-2024

This post was originally written in October of 2020. Since then, we update it monthly as notable companies announce their new remote work policies. As COVID-19 spread around the world in early 2020, offices were forced to close. Anyone who could work fro home started to right away. Companies were forced to quickly figure out how to communicate, collaborate, share documents, and manage teams…

609 Fully Remote Companies: The Database

This is an exhaustively researched list of fully remote companies (ones with no physical office locations). Read – and download – the 2023 report for free. At Buildremote, we maintain the biggest list of fully remote companies in the world (it’s just below). Right now, we have 609 fully remote companies spread across 42 countries, 85 industries, and eight employee headcount brackets. Here’s a quick…

Every Major Company Reducing Office Space: 2020-2024

At Buildremote, we’ve reported a staggering amount of well-known companies that have implemented some form of permanent remote work. Next, we analyzed in-depth the true plans for the Fortune 100’s return to office. At one point in March of 2022, only 3 of the Fortune 100 had declared a full return to the office for all employees. The others planned to never come back in full,…

28 Companies That Offer Relocation Assistance

If you’re interested in relocating for work, I’ve compiled a list of large US companies that offer relocation assistance. Next to each company, you’ll see a link to its career page where you can explore open positions and perhaps, find a new home. See Also: 28 Places That Pay You To Move The Best Relocation Assistance Companies Start your search for jobs with companies…

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Disabled Veterans Can Fly Space-A

Space-available passengers board a C-17 at Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii, bound for Andersen AFB, Guam. (U.S. Air Force/Cohen A. Young)

Many disabled veterans are eligible to fly Space-A on military aircraft.

The 2019 National Defense Authorization Act allows veterans who are rated as permanently and totally disabled by the Department of Veterans Affairs to travel space available on military aircraft.

Veterans will be assigned a travel priority of Category 6, the lowest priority available, along with retirees and their dependents.

The dependents of eligible disabled veterans may also accompany the veteran on flights in the U.S. or its territories.

Related: 4 Tips for Flying Space-A

Authorized disabled veterans can travel in the continental United States (CONUS) or directly between CONUS and Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam and American Samoa.

Disabled veterans must have a DD Form 2765, Defense Department ID Card (Tan), in order to fly Space-A.

The Space Available Program

Space available flights, better known as Space-A or military hops, allow eligible passengers to fill unused seats on DoD-owned or -controlled aircraft. Space-A passengers can fly only after all the space-required passengers and cargo have been accommodated. Space-A passengers are then loaded in priority groups, with emergency leave being the top priority and retirees and disabled veterans rating the lowest priority.

See a full breakdown of all the categories here.

Space-A passengers can take up to two pieces of luggage at 70 pounds each; pets are not allowed.

Not all Space-A flights originate from military bases. Commercial airports such as Baltimore-Washington Marshall International and Seattle-Tacoma International also offer Space-A flights.

Long gone are the days of having to show up in person at the passenger terminal to register for a flight. Now, Air Mobility Command, which runs the Space-A program, lets you register for flights via email, and all Space-A terminals have Facebook pages where you can see what flights are coming up and how many seats are available.

Check out AMC's page for details on how to find your local Space-A terminal and instructions on how to register for a flight.

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Politics latest: Nicola Sturgeon speaks after husband charged; Rishi Sunak accused of 'full-on assault on disabled people'

Nicola Sturgeon says the situation has been "incredibly difficult" after her husband Peter Murrell was charged by police; Rishi Sunak is criticised after promising "significant" welfare reforms. Listen to the latest episode of Electoral Dysfunction as you scroll.

Friday 19 April 2024 15:40, UK

Sturgeon: 'Incredibly difficult' time after husband charged
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Sunak sets out 'moral mission' to end UK's 'sick note culture'
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Former first minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon has just spoken to Sky's Scotland correspondent Connor Gillies and the gathered media outside her Glasgow home.

It is the first time she has been seen in public since her husband, ex-SNP chief executive Peter Murrell, was charged in connection with the embezzlement of funds from the party

She said: "This is a difficult time. I don't think I'm revealing any secrets in saying that.

"But there's absolutely nothing I can say given the circumstances.

"So I'm now going to go out for a walk... There's nothing going to be happening here."

Asked by Connor Gillies how difficult this is for her personally, the MSP for Glasgow Southside replied: "It's incredibly difficult, but that's not the main issue here."

She said she can't and won't say any more due to the ongoing police investigation.

Rishi Sunak today announced he wanted to tackle what he calls "sick note culture" which he says is costing the taxpayer £69bn and rising.

In effect, he said that if his party wins a general election and he is still the prime minister, he plans to strip GPs of their power to sign of people off work.

Instead, unspecified "specialist work and health professionals" would be given the job of issuing sick notes in England to combat what he called a "worrying" number of 2.8 million younger people who were out of work as of this year.

General election posturing aside, is the prime minister's diagnosis of the problem the right one?

From OBR figures, the number of sick notes have stayed relatively stagnant over the past four years - essentially flat with the exception of lockdowns - and that it's difficult to determine why sick notes are issued, for mental health or otherwise.

Where increases do arise are on the levels of worklessness generally.

"Economic inactivity" is now higher than in the pandemic and the biggest driver behind this seems to be long-term ill health - people out of work for more than three years.

The director of the Institute for Employment Studies, Tony Wilson, says these figures suggest the problem isn't higher flows of people out of work, but rather lower flows into work.

He says sick notes are important, but not the whole picture as the priority shul be to help those already out of work.

One of the rationales behind the government's announcement was that Britain simply "can’t afford" the current levels of sickness benefit and that it was "not fair on taxpayers".

Mr Sunak made a point of stating that those who are anxious or depressed should be expected to work, saying that while "we should see it as a sign of progress that people can talk openly about mental health conditions in a way that only a few years ago would've been unthinkable", he was also concerned that 53% of people inactive due to long term sickness reported they had depression, bad nerves or anxiety.

But Louise Murphy from the Resolution Foundation says most PIP claims among young people do relate to "psychiatric disorders" but these tend to be long term conditions such as ADHD and autism rather than anxiety and depression.

Critics have also pointed out something missing from the speech was NHS mental health capacity, after NHS bosses warned "overwhelmed" services had been unable to cope with a big post-COVID increase in people needing help.

As these plans are promised for the next parliament and a consultation will be the next steps, it is likely there will be more detail in the coming months from the government on how these plans can be legislated for.

By Adam Parsons , Europe correspondent, and Tim Baker , political reporter

Young people could be able to move more easily between the UK and Europe and stay longer to work, study and train under proposed plans by the European Union

Under the proposal, which has been put forward by the European Commission , new rules would be drawn up to allow for greater movement between the UK and EU countries for people aged between 18 and 30.

Formal negotiations have not yet begun, and a UK source told Sky News no formal proposal had been put forward by Brussels to begin negotiating on.

The proposal will be further discussed by the European Council, which represents all the nations, before negotiations start in earnest.

The plans proposed by the EU would allow young people to stay in Europe for periods of four years, with the same rules extended to EU citizens coming to Britain.

It would also mean EU students paying the same fees as British ones. Since Brexit, UK universities have charged much higher fees to European students.

Announcing the move, the European Commission said it wanted to take an "innovative" approach to tackling the barriers experienced by young people looking to travel from the EU to the UK and vice versa for longer periods.

IMAGES

Space A Travel: Everything You Need To Know
Benefits Of Moon Exploration
Advantages and Disadvantages of Space Tourism
Let's Discover the World! Military Travel & Recreation Benefits
The Benefits of Space Exploration
Space-A Travel FAQ

COMMENTS

Space-A Travel for Military Families
Benefit overview. Service members and their families can use Space-A flights - formally known as Military Airlift Command or MAC flights - to travel around the country and world at a reduced cost or for free. Though sometimes unpredictable, military flights are perfect for families with flexible plans and limited travel budgets.
Space A Travel: Everything You Need To Know
Space-A is being able to travel on DOD aircraft for free or at a limited cost. The flights you take are on a space-available basis, and the number of passengers they take will depend on the flight. Space-A can get you to many different places worldwide, but some locations are more challenging to fly to than others.
Space-A Travel Guide
These eligible passengers can "hop" on the flights on a space-available (Space-A) basis. This is where the term "military hop" comes from. Because these are military, not commercial, flights, the military mission is always the priority. You may fly on a commercial plane, but you could also be in a cargo plane or fuel tanker.
Space-Available Travel (Space-A Travel)
Active duty Service members and dependents are eligible for Space Available (Space-A) travel when they meet the following conditions: Service members must be in a leave or pass status when registering; Service members must remain in a leave or pass status while awaiting travel; and Service members must be in a leave or pass status the entire period of travel.
Space-Available Travel For Soldiers
Summary. Space Available (Space-A) travel allows authorized passengers to occupy Department of Defense (DoD) aircraft seats that are surplus after all Space Required (Space-R) passengers have been accommodated. Space-A travel costs nothing but is allowed only on a non-mission interference basis.
Who Is Eligible for Space-A Flights?
In Space A terms, your "category" of travel is your priority. The numerical order of space-available categories indicates who gets to board the plane first. Travelers in lower numbered categories ...
Space-A Flights: Tips & Tricks for Military Travel
The space-available travel program, or Space-A, is a great transportation option for service members and immediate family that allows them to fly free or at a reduced cost across the country or world. Even if you've taken advantage of this benefit before, here are seven tips — gleaned from the experiences of other military travelers — to ...
Space Available Flight: An Overview
Military.com. Published January 21, 2017. Space Available Flight, better known as Space A or military hops, is a unique privilege provided to servicemembers, retirees and their families. Under the ...
Space-A Travel FAQ
Space-A Travel FAQ. Space-A travellers are loaded into a C-17 headed for Dover Air Force Base, Del., April 21, 2008. (Photo: U.S. Air Force) Military.com | By Jim Absher. Published February 10 ...
Space-Available Travel (Space-A Travel)
Space Available (Space-A) travel allows authorized passengers to occupy Department of Defense (DoD) aircraft seats that are surplus after all Space Required (Space-R) passengers have been accommodated. Space-A travel costs nothing but is allowed only on a non-mission interference basis. Regular Air Force: Active Duty. Regular Air Force: Retired.
Disabled Veterans can fly Space Available Flights for free
To be eligible for Space-A flights, Veterans must have a permanent and total service connected disability rating.
Space-Available Travel For Soldiers
Retired National Guard Service members are eligible for Space-A travel. When not on active duty, authorized Reserve component members and authorized Reserve component members entitled to retired pay at age 60 (gray area retirees) and their dependents (when accompanied by their sponsor) may travel in the CONUS or directly between the CONUS and Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin ...
Military Space-A travel is back after 2-year COVID-19 pause
After more than two years of a COVID-19 pandemic-induced pause on Space Available travel, Defense officials have brought back the benefit. Space-A allows eligible travelers to fly on military or ...
PDF Fact Sheet
Also known as "Military Hops," Space-A travel is a benefit available to Uniformed Services members (active duty and retired) and their dependents. It allows authorized persons to occupy unused seats on Department of Defense (DoD) aircrafts after duty-related (space-required) passengers and cargo have been accommodated. Space-A flights are
Space-A Basics
The Space-Available travel program is a travel benefit that allows authorized passengers to occupy DoD aircraft seats that are surplus after all space-required passengers and cargo have been accommodated. Space-A travel is allowed on a non-mission interference basis only. Space-available travel is a privilege (not an entitlement) available to ...
Space-Available Travel For Service Members
Benefit Highlights. Space-A Travel is a privilege (not an entitlement) that is afforded to Uniformed Services members, retirees and dependents as an avenue of respite from the rigors of Uniformed Services duty and may offer substantial savings for your leisure travel plans. Remember there is no guaranteed space for any traveler.
Space-A Travel: Amazing Benefit, Facts & Eligibility
Space-A Travel is just one of many benefits you may have access to as a veteran! Learn more about benefits on our Understand Your Service-Connected Benefits blog post. While the extra benefits and perks are great, what's most important is making sure you are accurately rated by the VA. The vast majority of veterans we work with are NOT ...
Disabled veterans now eligible for Space-A travel
JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas (AFNS) -- The 2019 National Defense Authorization Act was recently signed, which included a measure that will allow fully-disabled veterans the ability to utilize Space-Available travel. Under the Disabled Veterans Access to Space-A Travel Act, veterans with a service-connected, permanent disability rating of 100 percent will be able to travel in the ...
Space-A Travel Is Back for All After COVID Hiatus
Published April 25, 2022. Jim Absher is a Military.com benefits columnist. The Air Mobility Command has announced that Space Available (Space-A) travel on military aircraft has returned for ...
Disabled veterans now eligible for Space-A travel
JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas - The 2019 National Defense Authorization Act was recently signed, which included a measure that will allow fully-disabled veterans the ability to utilize Space-Available travel. Under the Disabled Veterans Access to Space-A Travel Act, veterans with a service-connected, permanent disability rating of 100 percent will be able to travel in the ...
NASA's Space Sustainability Strategy
Understanding the associated risks and benefits of new and existing capabilities is crucial for space sustainability. Under the leadership of a cross-agency advisory board, NASA has committed to develop an integrated agencywide strategy to measure and assess space sustainability for Earth, Earth orbit, the cislunar space, and deep space.
Space-Available Travel For Soldiers
Space Available (Space-A) travel allows authorized passengers to occupy Department of Defense (DoD) aircraft seats that are surplus after all Space Required (Space-R) passengers have been accommodated. ... provides up to 36 months of education benefits to eligible Service members and Veterans for programs such as: college, business, technical ...
18 Companies With Travel Benefits (Vacation Stipends)
Image Credit: Bahamas Air Tours Inc. In this report, you'll find 18 companies that pay you to travel. More specifically, these companies offer travel benefits to their employees through programs like "paid-paid vacations," "travel stipends," or "vacation bonuses."Not only do these companies offer traditional or unlimited paid time off programs, they also pay for your vacations as ...
American Airlines
American Airlines - Airline tickets and low fares at aa.com
Disabled Veterans Can Fly Space-A
The 2019 National Defense Authorization Act allows veterans who are rated as permanently and totally disabled by the Department of Veterans Affairs to travel space available on military aircraft ...
Space-Available Travel For Soldiers
Benefit Highlights. Space-A Travel is a privilege (not an entitlement) that is afforded to Uniformed Services members, retirees and dependents as an avenue of respite from the rigors of Uniformed Services duty and may offer substantial savings for your leisure travel plans. Remember there is no guaranteed space for any traveler.
Politics latest: 'Moral mission' to end 'sick note culture', Rishi
At this point, around half a million people have been on unemployment benefits for six months, and a quarter of a million for 12 months, when there are around a million job vacancies, the PM says.
What's the cheapest way to reach near-space? Ride a balloon
The pressurized capsule - designed by the legendary Frank Stephenson, the automobile designer for Ferrari, Alpha Romeo and more - measures 5 meters (16.5 feet) wide and 3.5 meters (11.5 feet ...