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Naval Air Station Key West/Boca Chica Field (NQX) is a U.S. Navy installation located on Boca Chica Key, approximately 3 miles east of downtown Key West, Florida. Originally established in the 1940s during World War II, it served as a strategic training and patrol base in the Caribbean. Today it supports Navy flight training, helicopter operations, and provides limited civilian charter and air taxi services, while remaining an active military facility.
💡 Local Tip
If you have base access, the elevated viewing areas near the flight line on the western side of the airfield are excellent spots to watch Navy helicopter and training operations—bring binoculars for the best experience, and check the local flight schedule as activity peaks during weekday mornings.
🚖 Getting There
Travelers flying into NQX typically need to arrange ground transportation in advance since on-site rental car counters are limited; many visitors pre-book rentals from Key West International (EYW) or arrange taxi and shuttle services. The drive from Boca Chica to Key West's Duval Street area takes about 15-20 minutes via US-1 and S. Roosevelt Boulevard. Parking arrangements should be confirmed ahead of time for those being dropped off or picked up, as the base follows military security protocols.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is NQX open to civilian passengers?
A: NQX is primarily a military installation, but it does accommodate some civilian charter, air taxi, and private flights through prior arrangement. There are no scheduled commercial airline services.
Q: Where is Boca Chica Field located exactly?
A: The airfield is situated on Boca Chica Key, the easternmost of the main inhabited keys in the lower Florida Keys, about 5 miles from the southernmost point of the continental United States.
Q: How long is the runway at Key West NAS?
A: The main runway (Runway 8/26) is approximately 10,000 feet long, making it one of the longer runways in the Florida Keys and capable of handling large military and civilian aircraft.
Q: Can visitors tour the naval air station?
A: Access to NAS Key West is generally restricted to authorized military personnel and those with valid ID. Public access to the base is limited, but the surrounding Boca Chica area offers views of military flight operations.
AI-generated content · Generated Jun 26, 2026 · MiniMax-M3