What the heck is the “Patriot Express?
That’s Air Mobility Command’s name for its commercial charter flights. AMC contracts 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 (you pay nominal fees approximately $15-$27 per person) 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 and Yokota. East coast Patriot Express departures depart and arrive via Baltimore-Washington International (
