Disabled Veterans Can Now Fly Space-A
The 2019 National Defense Authorization Act included legislation that gave disabled veterans with a VA rating at 100% the option to fly on military aircraft using Space-A travel. Space-A is an option for authorized military members and their families, who are offered seats on military flying missions. VA.gov describes the program as a way for the military to manage “surplus capacity and seating on DOD aircraft.”
Space-A Travel Now Available to Disabled Veterans
The veterans must have a service-related disability, rated at 100%. VA.gov notes, “To be eligible for Space-A flights, Veterans must have a permanent and total service-connected disability rating. These Vets must also obtain a DD Form 2765, Department of Defense/Uniformed Services Identification and Privilege Card ” and travel with it.
What Space-A Flights are Available to Disabled Veterans?
These veterans can sign up for scheduled or unscheduled military flights operated by Air Mobility Command. According to official sources, Air Mobility Command has options within the United States, Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam and American Samoa.
>> Frustrated with your VA disability rating? Get help with increasing your rating to get the compensation you deserve. Please go here.
What Priority Group Are Disabled Veterans In?
These veterans are placed in the lowest priority group, Category 6. This group includes retirees and their dependents as well as disabled veterans. If you travel in Category 6, active service members on emergency leave, those returning from deployments, and other categories have priority above you.
Are Dependents of Disabled Veterans Eligible to Use the Service?
Dependents of veterans with a total disability rating cannot fly Space-A under this option.
Is there a Cost for Space-A Travel for Disabled Veterans?
Participants have to pay a small tax or inspection fee.
What Else Should I Know About Space-A Travel?
Space-A travel is, as the name implies, offered on a “space available” basis and requires a lot of flexibility. There is always potential to get “bumped” off a Space-A flight due to mission requirements. When using this service remember to save extra money available to use for alternate travel arrangements is needed. Flying Space-A is not recommended if you have tight travel schedules to meet.
>> Frustrated with your VA disability rating? Get help with increasing your rating to get the compensation you deserve. Please go here.
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About the author
Lori Waddell serves as Co-director of an emergency response COAD in Montana, a freelance writer, and an Air Force Key Spouse. She is passionate about empowering communities and individuals through knowledge and resources. She currently lives in Montana with her husband and two children.
