Air Travel and Arrival Guidance for Personnel Assigned to Korea

Personnel assigned to U.S. military components operating in Korea, along with their eligible dependents, must coordinate air travel through their losing installation’s Contract Travel Office (CTO). The Patriot Express is the preferred method of transportation for official travel to Korea. In specific circumstances, travelers may be approved to arrive via commercial airline through Incheon International Airport.

Primary Method of Arrival – Patriot Express

The Patriot Express is a U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM)-managed charter service operated by commercial airlines. It departs from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA-TAC) and arrives at Osan Air Base in Pyeongtaek, near Camp Humphreys.

Use of the Patriot Express is required for overseas travel unless an exemption is granted due to mission requirements or limited availability. Upon arrival, passengers receive a safety briefing and are guided through immigration, customs, and arrival processing. Families with young children are typically given priority. Designated reception staff will escort travelers and their luggage via bus to the installation.

Note for pet owners: Travelers accompanied by pets will be processed early to meet pet immigration requirements and avoid delays. Ensure all required pet documentation is complete and submitted prior to travel.

Alternative Method of Arrival – Commercial Air Travel

If the Patriot Express is not authorized or available, travelers may arrive through Incheon International Airport (ICN), located approximately 50 kilometers west of Seoul.

Upon arrival, travelers must report to the USFK Joint Reception Desk, located near Exit 1 in Terminal 1 or Exit 5 in Terminal 2.

Travel Authorization Types

Travel arrangements are determined by the type of orders issued:

Concurrent Travel

Concurrent travel allows a Service Member and their dependents to travel together. This option requires that dependents are command sponsored and possess valid no-fee passports. If these criteria are not met, dependents must travel separately within 60 days. If a longer delay is expected, the Service Member must request amended orders authorizing deferred travel.

Deferred Travel

Deferred travel applies when family members arrive 61 or more days after the Service Member. Common reasons include pending command sponsorship approval, passport processing delays, or allowing children to complete a school term before relocating. In all cases, family travel must be coordinated through the CTO.

Paying for Flights

To be eligible for reimbursement, airfare must be booked through the CTO using a U.S. Flag Carrier, as required by the Fly America Act. Travel orders must specify one of the following payment methods:

Individually Billed Account (IBA)

With an IBA, the traveler uses a Government Travel Charge Card (GTCC) to pay for airfare. Reimbursement is submitted through a travel voucher during in-processing.

Centrally Billed Account (CBA)

With a CBA, the CTO books the flight and charges the airfare to a central government account. No payment is required from the traveler, and the CTO submits reimbursement documentation.

Need Assistance?

For questions about booking air travel, reimbursement, passport requirements, or arrival processing, contact your installation’s Contract Travel Office (CTO), unit sponsor, or personnel and finance office. Early coordination is essential to ensuring a smooth and compliant transition to Korea.