Kingsley Field Is Getting the F-35 Pilot Training Program: What It Means for Klamath Falls
It’s official. The Secretary of the Air Force has signed the record of decision naming Kingsley Field, home of the Oregon Air National Guard in Klamath Falls, as the destination for the F-35A Lightning II pilot training program.
I’m Darlene Humphreys, a Klamath Falls real estate broker since 2006 and a local for over 20 years. If you own a home here, are thinking about selling, or are looking to buy in the Basin, here’s what this decision means for our community.
What’s Happening at Kingsley Field
The first jets are expected to arrive in summer 2027, with the base fully operational for the F-35 program by 2029. The plan brings 24 jets plus two backups, along with extensive renovations to the base.
Many aspects of Kinglsey Field built for the F-15 program do not carry over to the F-35, so some areas of the base will be demolished and completely rebuilt. The airport’s runway system will also go through extensive renovations.
A Boost for the Klamath Basin Economy
A strong local economy matters to everyone who owns lives here or is considering a move to Klamath Falls, and this is exciting news for the Basin’s economic stability.
Construction jobs come first. Renovating the base, updating runways, and building major infrastructure will bring a lot of construction work to the area.
Base jobs stay for the long term. My understanding is that about 300 positions will be added once Kingsley Field is fully operational for the F-35 in 2029.
The projected economic impact of the upgrade from the F-15 to the F-35 program is $10 to $15 million per year for the Basin.
An F15 taking off from Kingsley Field
A Long-Term Commitment to Klamath Falls
The Department of the Air Force doesn’t invest millions of dollars in a base without long-term plans for it. This decision signals that Kingsley Field is part of our future, and it strengthens the relationship between Klamath Falls and the military. We’re recognized as a place where pilots can train affordably to serve on the front line of our nation’s defense.
Jet Noise and the Environmental Impact Statement
The environmental impact statement was released last week, because this is Oregon and nothing happens without one. It says to expect increased decibel levels and a larger area affected by jet noise due to increased flights.
Some people are already complaining on social media. I’ll be honest: I couldn’t be more excited that the jets are coming back. The jets are part of life here, and if you’re a homeowner or thinking about buying or selling, you’ll want to understand how the noise may affect your part of town. That’s a conversation I’m happy to have, and you have about a year to get ready for it.
Thinking About Buying or Selling in Klamath Falls?
New jobs, major investment, and a deeper tie to the military make this an important moment for the Klamath Basin. If you have questions about how the F-35 could affect your neighborhood or your plans, reach out.
Contact Darlene Humphreys, Principal Broker at SCORE (South Central Oregon Real Estate), and visit livinginkfalls.com for more on living in Klamath Falls.
