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Ellsworth Air Force Base is a U.S. Air Force installation located approximately 10 miles east of Rapid City, South Dakota. Originally established during World War II as Rapid City Army Air Base, it currently serves as home to the 28th Bomb Wing operating B-1B Lancer bombers. The base also accommodates limited civilian and charter traffic and provides convenient access to the Black Hills region and Mount Rushmore.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ellsworth AFB open to civilian flights?
A: Limited civilian access is available, but travelers should coordinate in advance with base operations for permissions and procedures.
Q: What military aircraft are based here?
A: Ellsworth is the primary home of the B-1B Lancer supersonic variable-sweep heavy bomber.
Q: How far is the base from Rapid City?
A: The base sits roughly 10 miles east of downtown Rapid City.
Q: Who was the base
AI-generated content · Generated Jun 29, 2026 · MiniMax-M3