ESCAMBIA-COUNTY

For one day only, public granted access to NAS Pensacola, lighthouse and Aviation Museum

Pensacola News Journal/USA TODAY NETWORK

Naval Air Station Pensacola will allow one-day public access to the installation Saturday, June 4.

This one-time access was selected for June 4 to commemorate the anniversary of the Battle of Midway, a pivotal battle of World War II that occurred from June 4 to 7, 1942.

Since a terrorist attack in December 2019, access to base facilities and amenities such as the National Naval Aviation Museum, the Pensacola Lighthouse, Fort Barrancas and Blue Angels practices has been restricted to only Department of Defense cardholders and veterans who possess a Veterans Health Identification Card. All other U.S. citizens are still not allowed access. 

The public will have access to NAS Pensacola from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 4 through the West Gate only on Blue Angel Parkway.

However, after months of planning and coordination, the public will have access to NAS Pensacola from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 4 through the West Gate only on Blue Angel Parkway. All guests 18 and older must have a valid picture ID such as driver's license or passport. Access will be available dependent on available parking at the museum and lighthouse.

Working to reopen:New commander wants NAS Pensacola to host Blue Angels homecoming show, bring back visitors

Our view:Editorial: Cut the red tape and reopen NAS Pensacola

Once parking is full, public access will be halted until more parking becomes available. Temporary traffic control points will be located on base to prevent public access to other areas of the installation.

While on the installation, the public will be able to visit the Pensacola Lighthouse and the National Naval Aviation Museum. Fort Barrancas will not be accessible to the public. Access to Barrancas National Cemetery is always available to anyone with family in the cemetery through the Visitor Control Center at the Main Gate.

The following restrictions will apply:

  • No weapons (firearms/knives) allowed (to include concealed weapon permit holders)
  • No backpacks/coolers allowed (diaper bags or medically required bags are acceptable and subject to search)
  • No alcoholic beverages allowed
  • No drones allowed (countermeasures will be taken)
  • Persons with felony convictions are not authorized base access
  • All vehicles and personnel are subject to security searches and background checks