Action Line 80906 - TDY driving off base

  • Published
  • By Anonymous
  • 39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey --  Complaint:

I am on an extended TDY (over 180 days) here at Incirlik. Since my arrival I have been encouraged to get off base and see some the local culture and history this country has to offer. However, when I planned a trip for my team to go and see some of the more popular sites, I was informed we could not go, because only permanent party personnel were allowed to drive off base. One of my team members was previously stationed here and was able to drive. Since he is TDY status, he is no longer allowed to drive off base. I have an international driver's license, yet I am not allowed to drive off base.

This is one of the rare locations we deploy to that allows us the opportunity to go off base. There are young Airmen here that want to go off base and see these historical monuments and this rule prevents us from taking them. None of the newly arrived teams have even been able to go to the closest and most talked about places unless they can catch a ride with someone else and even then it's only one or two at a time. I've talked to ITT about some of their tours, but there are none scheduled for some of the historical places that we as a team would like to visit.

I understand there was a time and place for this rule. Nevertheless, I believe circumstances have changed and this issue should be re-addressed. Particularly for those individuals who are stationed here for longer than 120 days.

Response:

Thank you for bringing this issue to my attention; honestly, I did not know we were restricting TDY personnel from driving off base! News to me, but let me clear this up: TDY personnel can drive off base, with the appropriate licensing. We will fix our local instructions and let Pass and ID know to quit putting the "on-base" restrictions on licenses.

TDY personnel can obtain AF Form 181s (a translation of their stateside license) at Pass and Registration to operate vehicles off base. Or, they can use an International Driver's License, if they have one. Rental car agencies are located both on and off base. (Of course, you can't use a GOV for touring! For guidance on GOV usage, please review AFI 24-301 or contact the 39th LRS Vehicle Management at 676-3419.)

For a list of outdoor events/trips, check out the 39 FSS monthly publication, "The Happenings". If you don't see exactly what you are looking for you may contact Outdoor Recreation at 676-6044 or the Communities Center at 676-6966. With enough participants, these activities will often book private excursions. Costs vary depending on distance and shuttle size requirements. I suggest you work with management in advance to ensure availability. However, if you run into difficulties, please don't hesitate to contact the FSS at 676-3108 and we'll be glad to help.

Enjoy your stay in Turkey. I encourage you to explore the fantastic historical and cultural sites in our area. DRIVE SAFE!