Moody Air Force Base (VAD): The Flying Tigers' South Georgia Home
Moody Air Force Base (ICAO: KVAD), located near Valdosta, Georgia, is home to the Air Force's 23rd Wing—the legendary 'Flying Tigers,' whose lineage traces directly to the American Volunteer Group that achieved fame fighting Japanese aircraft in China during World War II. The 23rd Wing operates the A-10C Thunderbolt II 'Warthog,' training pilots in close air support—the direct battlefield support of ground troops that remains one of the most demanding and critical combat aviation missions. Moody's location in south Georgia provides expansive, low-congestion airspace ideal for the demanding flight profiles required in A-10 training.
Moody AFB's operations generate significant airspace activity across south Georgia, with training sorties conducted in designated Military Operations Areas (MOAs) visible on sectional aeronautical charts. The base's annual economic impact exceeds $600 million for the Valdosta-Lowndes County area, making it one of south Georgia's largest employers and economic generators. The Georgia DOT Aeronautics Program coordinates with Moody to ensure civilian airport planning—particularly at Valdosta Regional (VLD)—accounts for the base's airspace requirements. Georgia's other major military airfields include Hunter AAF (Savannah), Wright AAF (Hinesville), Lawson AAF (Fort Moore), and Naval Air Station Atlanta (Marietta).
What aircraft does the 23rd Wing fly at Moody AFB?
The 23rd Wing primarily flies the A-10C Thunderbolt II, with the aircraft's distinctive twin turbofan engines and 30mm Gatling gun designed for close air support of ground forces.
Why is the 23rd Wing called the Flying Tigers?
The 23rd Wing traces its heritage to the 23rd Fighter Group, which succeeded the American Volunteer Group (AVG) Flying Tigers who flew against Japanese forces in China 1941-1942.
Can civilian pilots land at Moody AFB?
Moody AFB is a restricted military installation and is not open to civilian aircraft without prior authorization.
What is the ICAO code for Moody Air Force Base?
The ICAO code is KVAD. The base is located near Valdosta in Lowndes County, Georgia.
How do Moody's MOAs affect civilian pilots in south Georgia?
Moody's designated MOAs cover significant south Georgia airspace. Pilots should check sectional charts and NOTAMs for active MOA status before flying south of Valdosta.
Moody Air Force Airport - VAD Contact Information
Address, Phone Number, and Hours for an Airports in Moody Afb, Florida.
| Name | Moody Air Force Airport - VAD |
| Address | 3280 Mitchell Boulevard, Moody AFB GA 31699 Map |
| Phone | (229) 247-5865 |
| Website | |
| Hours |
Map of Moody Air Force Airport - VAD
Military Aviation and Community Partnership at Moody AFB, Valdosta
Moody Air Force Base and the Valdosta community have cultivated a strong partnership built on decades of shared history and mutual economic benefit. The base's annual air show—typically featuring the A-10's distinctive ground-attack demonstration—draws tens of thousands of visitors from across south Georgia and north Florida. The Valdosta-Lowndes County area's quality of life initiatives, school systems, and support services have been developed with the military community in mind.
For civilian pilots operating in south Georgia, Valdosta Regional Airport (VLD) serves as the primary civilian aviation gateway, with commercial airline service and general aviation facilities. The Savannah sectional chart and current NOTAMs provide essential information on Moody's MOAs and any temporary flight restrictions. The FAA Southern Region actively coordinates between Moody's high-tempo military training and the civilian aviation community throughout south Georgia.