Salerno North Field serves Khost, AF.
Traveler sentiment and experiences at Salerno North Field (AF-0014) in Khost, Afghanistan, reflect its nature as a former U.S. military Forward Operating Base (FOB) rather than a civilian airport. Overall satisfaction among military personnel often centered on the relatively good amenities available compared to other deployment conditions, despite the persistent and significant security challenges. The base was active from 2002 to 2013, when it was transferred to the Afghan National Army.
What Travelers Love (Military Personnel Experiences):
- Comprehensive Facilities: The base offered a range of facilities including comfortable barracks, a mess hall, laundry services, recreation facilities, university classes, offices, a hospital, a church, and a mosque.
- Quality Amenities: Personnel appreciated access to hot water, a "pretty good mess hall," and a "nice gym."
- Internet Access: Internet service was available and reportedly worked "85% of the time."
- Recreational Options: A 24-hour Green Bean coffee shop and a sprawling gymnasium with numerous exercise machines were popular amenities. Physical fitness was considered vital, and the gym was open around the clock.
- Improved Living Conditions: For those who had experienced earlier deployments in the region, FOB Salerno was considered a significant improvement in living conditions, offering better amenities than more austere locations.
Common Complaints
- Constant Security Threat: The most significant complaint and concern was the frequent insurgent attacks, which led to the base being nicknamed "Rocket City." Attacks involving rockets, mortars, and attempts to breach the perimeter with vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices and suicide bombers were documented.
- Supply Chain Vulnerability: The base's location near the Pakistan border and its connection to the rest of Afghanistan via the Khost-Gardez Pass made supply lines vulnerable to attacks, occasionally resulting in supply shortages that necessitated airlifts.
FOB Salerno provided a relatively well-equipped environment for military and civilian contractors in a high-threat area of Afghanistan. While it offered significant comforts compared to other deployment scenarios, the pervasive and constant security threats were an undeniable and defining aspect of the experience.
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Common questions about AF-0014
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Where is Salerno North Field located?
Salerno North Field is located in Khost, AF, at an elevation of 3757 ft. Its IATA code is — and ICAO code is AF-0014.