Mojave Air and Space Port
A legendary hub for aircraft storage, flight testing, and spaceflight innovation in the California desert.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
More flight testing activity
Mojave Air and Space Port
Best Time
More flight testing activity
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A legendary hub for aircraft storage, flight testing, and spaceflight innovation in the California desert.
"It's a place where aviation history meets the future of flight."
Fly Over for Views
If flying, circle at 5400-5500 ft for great views of stored aircraft. :airplane_departure:
Check for Events
Look for special events or test flight announcements on their website. :calendar:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Aircraft Boneyard
Various locations across the port
See retired giants like 747s and DC-10s resting in the desert sun. A poignant sight for aviation enthusiasts.
Flight Testing Spectacles
Flight test areas
Witness cutting-edge aircraft, from F-35s to supersonic jets like the XB-1, pushing the boundaries of aviation.
+2
Stratolaunch 'Spirit of Mojave'
Stratolaunch hangar and flight paths
Marvel at the massive Stratolaunch aircraft, a unique sight for space and aviation fans.
Historic Aircraft Departures
Runways
Catch rare sightings of historic aircraft, like the L-1011 Tristar, on their final flights.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Aircraft Spotting
Understanding Access and Viewing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Fly Over for Views
If flying, circle at 5400-5500 ft for great views of stored aircraft. :airplane_departure:
Check for Events
Look for special events or test flight announcements on their website.
Respect Operational Areas
Remember it's an active airport. Stay clear of restricted zones.
Desert Climate Gear
Bring water and sun protection; it's the desert!
Tips
from all over the internet
Fly Over for Views
If flying, circle at 5400-5500 ft for great views of stored aircraft. :airplane_departure:
Check for Events
Look for special events or test flight announcements on their website.
Respect Operational Areas
Remember it's an active airport. Stay clear of restricted zones.
Desert Climate Gear
Bring water and sun protection; it's the desert!
Diner Delights
The on-site diner is surprisingly good, try the blueberry pancakes! [^review]
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise the Mojave Air and Space Port for its unique aviation sights, from the vast aircraft boneyard to active flight testing. The friendly staff and surprisingly good on-site diner are frequently highlighted positives. However, some find the viewing opportunities limited and the experience brief if not actively engaged with flight operations.
"On our way to Death Valley we made a quick stop to Mojave Air & Space Port. There's not much to see here. We looked at the outdoor display, and read the history plaque' and that's about it. We spent only about 20 minutes."
Izzy H
"Super friendly and accommodating staff. Our aircraft broke down and we were stuck overnight. Provided a spot to hang out in, water, and a free shuttle to a hotel and back, the diner was also pretty good!"
bradley geremia
"The best airport I've ever had the privilege to work a flight at. The restaurant is amazing, best blueberry pancakes, ever. Airport staff is so friendly, big thanks to Carrie, Nicole, and Arielle for all of the professionalism and hospitality!"
Keely Laugh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Mojave Air and Space Port (MHV) is located in Mojave, California. It's best accessed by car, situated off State Route 14. If you're flying in, you can land at the airport itself, but be aware of operational traffic.
Public transportation options directly to the port are very limited. Most visitors arrive by private vehicle. Consider ride-sharing services if available in the area, though coverage can be spotty. [^review]
For ground viewing, you can often see parts of the boneyard from designated areas. For a more comprehensive view, pilots can circle the airport at specific altitudes (around 5400-5500 ft) to observe the stored aircraft.
While official guided tours are not consistently advertised, keeping an eye on their website or local event listings might reveal opportunities. Some visitors have reported friendly staff offering assistance. [^review]
From Los Angeles, take CA-14 North for approximately 100 miles. The Mojave Air and Space Port will be on your right as you enter Mojave. The drive typically takes about 2 hours, depending on traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, no specific tickets are required for casual viewing of the exterior displays or the boneyard from accessible points. However, access to operational areas or specific events may require prior arrangement or tickets.
The airport is operational 24/7, but viewing opportunities are best during daylight hours. Specific areas may have restricted access outside of business hours.
There is typically no direct entrance fee for viewing the aircraft boneyard from public vantage points. However, if you are flying in, standard airport landing fees would apply.
Direct access to the stored aircraft is usually restricted for safety and security reasons. Viewing is generally from a distance or from the air.
While there isn't a formal museum, there are history plaques and outdoor displays that offer insights into the port's past. [^review]
🎫 ✈️ Onsite Experience
You can see a vast collection of stored and retired aircraft, witness active flight testing of new and experimental planes, and observe spaceflight operations.
Absolutely! It's a prime spot for plane spotting, especially during weekdays when flight testing is common. You might see anything from F-35s to supersonic demonstrators.
Expect to see a wide variety, including retired commercial airliners like Boeing 747s and DC-10s, military jets, and cutting-edge experimental aircraft.
Yes, photography and videography are generally permitted from public viewing areas. However, always be mindful of operational security and avoid photographing sensitive areas.
Dress for the desert climate: comfortable clothing, sturdy walking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential due to the sun and heat.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a diner on-site that is frequently praised for its food, particularly the blueberry pancakes. It's a convenient option for visitors. [^review]
The diner offers classic American comfort food. It's known for breakfast items like pancakes and also serves lunch and dinner options. [^review]
The town of Mojave has a few other local eateries, but the on-site diner is the most convenient option directly at the port. [^review]
Bringing your own snacks and water is always a good idea, especially given the remote desert location. There are no specific restrictions mentioned against it.
While hours can vary, the diner is generally open during typical operating hours, including weekends, to serve pilots and visitors. It's best to check their current schedule. [^review]
📸 📸 Photography
The perimeter fences offer good vantage points for the boneyard. For flight testing, you'll need to be aware of active zones and potential viewing areas near the runways.
Yes, but always maintain a safe distance and respect any restricted areas. The excitement of seeing jets like the F-35 or supersonic demonstrators is a photographer's dream.
A telephoto lens is highly recommended for capturing details of aircraft at a distance. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the vastness of the boneyard.
Avoid photographing sensitive operational areas, security checkpoints, or personnel without permission. Respect the active nature of the port.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Midday sun can be harsh in the desert.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Seeing planes take off and land, particularly the experimental ones, offers a thrilling visual experience. Pack plenty of water and sun protection, as the desert environment can be intense. Consider visiting on a weekend morning when it might be less busy. Pointing out different types of aircraft and discussing their functions can turn it into an educational adventure. The on-site diner offers a casual spot for a family meal. [^review] The novelty of seeing such massive machines up close, even if from a distance, is often a memorable experience for younger visitors.
✈️ Aviation Enthusiasts & Plane Spotters
+2 The 'boneyard' offers a unique opportunity to see retired airliners up close, a somber yet captivating sight. Bring your best lenses and be prepared for hours of observation. For pilots, flying into MHV offers a chance to be part of the action.
🚀 Spaceflight Aficionados
You might also see other experimental vehicles and technologies being tested that are precursors to space missions. Keep an eye on announcements from companies like Boom Supersonic, as their advancements in supersonic flight could pave the way for new aerospace ventures. Mojave represents the cutting edge of aerospace development, making it a compelling visit for those fascinated by the journey beyond Earth's atmosphere.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mojave 'Boneyard': A Farewell to Giants
Visitors often express a mix of awe and sadness seeing these iconic planes grounded. [^review]While direct access to the boneyard is restricted, its vastness can be appreciated from designated viewing areas or, for pilots, from the air. The dry desert climate of Mojave is ideal for preserving these aircraft, minimizing corrosion and extending their time on the ground. It's a unique testament to the lifecycle of aviation, where the end of one journey becomes a spectacle for enthusiasts.
Key Takeaway: The boneyard is a significant visual draw, offering a unique perspective on aviation history and the sheer number of aircraft that have graced the skies. It's a place that sparks reflection on the industry's evolution. [^review]
At the Forefront of Flight Testing and Spaceflight
+2 The port's infrastructure and experienced personnel make it a prime location for testing the next generation of aviation and space technology.The Stratolaunch 'Spirit of Mojave', the world's largest aircraft by wingspan, is a regular sight here, conducting its own flight tests.
This demonstrates Mojave's role in pushing the boundaries of what's possible in aerospace, from hypersonic flight to advanced launch systems. The port's strategic location and facilities attract major aerospace companies for their most critical testing phases.Why it matters: Mojave is a critical incubator for aerospace innovation. Witnessing these tests offers a glimpse into the future of flight and space exploration, making it an exciting destination for anyone interested in the cutting edge of technology.
+1A Pilot's Perspective: Flying into MHV
One tip for pilots is to utilize the airspace above 5400-5500 feet for observing the aircraft boneyard, providing an unparalleled aerial view of the stored fleet.
Pilot's Tip: Always check NOTAMs and be aware of active test flight schedules. The airport's operational tempo can be high, so maintaining good communication with air traffic control is crucial for a safe and enjoyable visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit