The World's Largest Aircraft Graveyard: Desert of Legends

#desert of Legends The term “Desert of Legends” is often used to describe the 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group (AMARG), located at Davis–Monthan Air Force Base in Tucson, Arizona. This facility is renowned as the world’s largest aircraft boneyard, housing over 3,000 retired military aircraft across approximately 2,600 acres .   Why Tucson? The site’s location in the Arizona desert was strategically chosen for its arid climate, low humidity, and hard soil. These conditions are ideal for preserving aircraft, as they minimize corrosion and prevent the heavy planes from sinking into the ground .   Operations at AMARG Established in 1946 after World War II, AMARG serves multiple purposes:  • Storage: Aircraft from various branches of the U.S. military, including the Air Force, Navy, Army, and Marines, are stored here.  • Maintenance and Regeneration: Approximately 800 mechanics work on-site, with an average of 100 aircraft restored to flying condition each year .  • Parts Reclamation: Retired aircraft are often dismantled for parts, which can be reused in active service or sold. • Preservation for Museums: Some aircraft are maintained for display in museums or for historical preservation.  The facility’s inventory includes a diverse range of aircraft, from fighter jets to cargo planes, and even ballistic missiles . Public Access and Tours While AMARG is a controlled-access site, public tours are occasionally offered through the nearby Pima Air & Space Museum. These tours provide a unique opportunity to view the vast array of stored aircraft and learn about their histories. Getting There - Attractions - Hotels - Food & Restaurants - Shopping -