Military Airport
RestrictedThis is a U.S. military installation. Civil aircraft operations are generally prohibited without prior authorization.
Access Notes:
Most military airfields closed to civil traffic; some joint-use exceptions exist
Current Weather
Raw METAR
Weather Briefing
VFREllsworth Air Force Base is currently reporting visual flight rules (VFR) conditions with clear skies and 10 SM visibility. Note: This observation is 9.7 hours old and conditions may have changed.
Wind Analysis
Winds are from the north (350°) at 21 knots with gusts to 28 knots. Runway 31 is favored with a 16-knot headwind and 13-knot crosswind component (gusting to 18 knots crosswind). Student pilots and low-time aviators should exercise caution.
Visibility & Ceiling
Visibility is 10 SM. Skies are clear with unlimited ceiling.
Temperature & Moisture
Temperature is 22°C (72°F) with a dewpoint of 2°C, indicating very dry conditions. High temperatures at this elevation may result in significant density altitude effects. Pilots should calculate density altitude and adjust performance expectations accordingly.
Forecast Outlook
The TAF forecast covers the next 30 hours. Conditions are expected to remain VFR throughout the forecast period. Temporary VFR conditions are forecast between 05:00Z and 02:00Z.
Pilot Recommendations
Conditions are favorable for visual flight.
This briefing is generated from real-time METAR and TAF data. Always verify with official sources before flight.
Forecast (TAF)
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Airport Runway Layout
Runway Information
| Runway | Length | Width | Surface | Heading | Wind Component |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
✈️ 13/31
Active: 31
|
13,497 ft | 300 ft | CON | 138° |
↑ 16.1 kt
•
↔ 13.5 kt
40° angle
|
Weather Statistics - KRCA
9,151 observations | Sep 2025 - Jun 2026Flight Rules Distribution
Ellsworth Air Force Base typically experiences VFR conditions 70.6% of the time, though instrument-rated pilots will find IFR weather present approximately 16.7% of observations. Prevailing winds are from the N averaging 11.7 knots, with gusts recorded up to 58 knots. Temperature extremes range from -30°C to 37°C, reflecting significant seasonal variation. The best months for VFR flying are February, June, October.
Wind Analysis
Temperature Range
Visibility
Best Months for VFR
Runway Wind Analysis
Statistics computed from 9,151 METAR observations (Sep 2025 - Jun 2026). Data sourced from official aviation weather services. Updated daily.
Ellsworth Air Force Base - Airport Information
Airport Details
Location
Runway Information
Flight Planning Tools
Nearby Airports
About Ellsworth Air Force Base
Ellsworth Air Force Base is a military facility. Civilian access may be restricted or require Prior Permission (PPR). Pilots should consult the US AIP for current access procedures and restrictions.
Overview
Ellsworth Air Force Base is a medium-sized airport located near Rapid City, South Dakota, serving military aviation operations. Situated at an elevation of 3,276 feet MSL, the base provides critical infrastructure for Air Force missions in the central United States. Its strategic location and substantial 13,497-foot runway make it an important facility for military aircraft movements.
Flying Conditions
Weather conditions at Ellsworth AFB demonstrate significant variability, with Visual Flight Rules (VFR) conditions prevailing 69.5% of the time. Pilots should anticipate challenging conditions during the 19.5% of observations involving Marginal (MVFR) or Instrument (IFR/LIFR) flight rules. The prevailing northerly winds average 12.1 knots, with temperature ranges extending from -30°C to 37°C, requiring careful preflight planning and weather monitoring.
Notable Features
The airport's extensive runway (13/31) offers excellent wind alignment, with favorable wind conditions 100% of the time. The average crosswind is 6.6 knots, which is generally manageable for most aircraft. Terrain and elevation suggest potential density altitude considerations, particularly during summer months when temperatures approach the higher end of the recorded range.
Approach Considerations
October, January, and September historically provide the most consistent VFR conditions for arrivals and departures. Pilots should be prepared for potential wind variations, with recorded maximum wind speeds reaching 58 knots. The calm wind percentage of 8.3% indicates relatively stable conditions, but always check current METAR data before flight.
Data Sources & Accuracy: Airport information sourced from OurAirports.com, a collaborative database of worldwide airport data. Weather data from official aviation weather services including NOAA Aviation Weather Center and international METAR/TAF providers. Information is updated regularly but pilots should always verify current conditions and NOTAMs through official channels before flight operations.
Learn More
Recommended guides based on current conditions at KRCA
Official Data Sources
Disclaimer: Data is provided for informational purposes only. Pilots must verify all information through official sources before flight operations. Weather conditions change rapidly; always obtain a current briefing from approved weather services.