About this Unit
Naval Air Station (NAS) North Island, commonly known as NAS Coronado, is a major naval aviation facility located on the Coronado Peninsula in San Diego, California. Established in 1917, it is regarded as the "Birthplace of Naval Aviation" and has played a pivotal role in training naval aviators and supporting Pacific Fleet operations during both World Wars and the Cold War. Over the decades, NAS North Island has hosted numerous aircraft carriers, squadrons, and specialized units, evolving into a cornerstone of U.S. Navy air operations. Today, the station continues to support advanced aviation training, maintenance, and operational deployments, serving as home to several major commands, including the headquarters of Naval Air Forces Pacific.
Historical Facts
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Historic Origins: Naval Air Station North Island (NASNI), commonly known as NAS Coronado, was established in 1917, making it one of the oldest naval air stations in the United States.
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Birthplace of Naval Aviation: NAS North Island is often referred to as the “Birthplace of Naval Aviation,” as it was here that the first aviation squadrons and aircraft carrier operations were developed.
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Home to the U.S. Navy SEALs: The adjacent Naval Amphibious Base Coronado, part of the same complex, is the main training center for the elite Navy SEALs and their famous Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL (BUD/S) training.
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Presidential Visits: NAS North Island has hosted several U.S. Presidents, including Franklin D. Roosevelt, who visited the base during World War II.
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First Aircraft Carrier Landing: The world’s first successful landing of an airplane on a ship took place nearby in San Diego Bay in 1911, laying the groundwork for the base’s future role in carrier aviation.
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World War II Significance: During World War II, NAS North Island was a critical training and operations center, with over 10,000 personnel stationed there and hundreds of aircraft operating daily.
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Hollywood Connection: The base and its surroundings have appeared in numerous films and television shows, most famously in "Top Gun" and its sequel "Top Gun: Maverick."
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Aircraft Carrier Homeport: NAS North Island is the homeport for several aircraft carriers, including the USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70), and serves as the West Coast’s primary base for carrier operations.
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Innovation in Aviation: Many aviation firsts happened at NAS North Island, such as the first takeoff of a seaplane from a catapult and the early development of torpedo planes.
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Island Transformation: Originally two separate islands, North Island and Coronado were joined through land reclamation projects in the early 20th century, creating today’s large military complex.
