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.