Northern Mariana Islands — The U.S. Air Force is evaluating a proposal to conduct more than 6,000 military aircraft operations annually across four airfields in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI).
On October 28, 2026, the Department of the Air Force announced plans to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to assess the proposal's effects on local communities, the economy and the environment. The review covers Saipan International Airport, Tinian International Airport, Tinian North Field and Rota International Airport.
The islands are located less than 100 nautical miles north of major U.S. military installations on Guam. Their proximity would allow American forces to practise rapid aircraft and personnel movements between multiple locations, supporting the Agile Combat Employment (ACE) strategy. The approach aims to disperse forces across smaller airfields so operations can continue if a primary base is attacked.
Under the main proposal, each airfield could support up to 1,200 fixed-wing aircraft and drone operations and 320 helicopter operations annually, totalling 6,080 operations. An alternative would increase the total to 7,136 operations per year.
Exercises would take place several times annually, lasting several weeks each. Each location could accommodate up to 1,000 personnel and require up to 550,000 gallons of aviation fuel, alongside temporary facilities and support infrastructure. The proposal does not include permanent construction or changes to existing airspace.
Tinian North Field Restoration
Tinian North Field is a historic World War II airfield used by the 509th Composite Group. B-29 bombers departed from the airfield for the atomic bombing missions against Hiroshima and Nagasaki in August 1945.
Restoration began in late 2023, covering runway, pavement, road, port, fuel pipeline and utility improvements. A $409 million task order was awarded in early 2024 for airfield pavement and transportation upgrades. Military engineering units, including RED HORSE squadrons, have continued the work through 2026.
Public Consultation and Timeline
The Air Force will hold public meetings on Saipan on November 18, Tinian on November 19 and Rota on November 21, 2026. Written comments can be submitted through CATE EIS by November 29, 2026.
The environmental review will examine aircraft noise, environmental effects, civilian airport operations, public safety and cultural resources. A draft EIS is expected in fall 2027, followed by the final statement in mid-2028. The findings will help the Air Force decide whether to proceed with the proposal.
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