Introduction: what is the Mojave airplane graveyard
The "Mojave airplane graveyard" usually refers to a large aircraft storage and retirement area in the high desert of Kern County, California, near the town of Mojave and adjacent to Mojave Air and Space Port. This landscape of grounded jets, stored commercial airliners, and test aircraft is part of the desert aviation ecosystem that supports long-term storage, maintenance, and eventual resale or recycling of aircraft. While the site is not a public museum, it remains a powerful draw for aviation enthusiasts, photographers, and curious travelers who wonder whether these metal giants can be visited up close.
Understanding the Mojave aircraft storage area
Location and scale
The main concentration of parked aircraft sits on the dry lakebed and adjacent leased areas near Mojave, taking advantage of the region’s dry climate and expansive flat terrain, which are ideal for long-term outdoor aircraft storage. The area is linked to Mojave Air and Space Port, a major center for aerospace testing, flight training, and commercial operations. Because many of the stored aircraft belong to airlines lessors, maintenance providers, and government programs, the site functions as both a temporary holding yard and a long-term retirement yard.
What you can typically see
From public vantage points and along certain routes visible from nearby roads, visitors can see rows of wide-body jets, including commercial airliners such as Boeing 747s, Boeing 757s, Boeing 767s, and Airbus wide-bodies parked in organized grids. Smaller business aircraft, cargo planes, and experimental test vehicles associated with nearby research projects also appear in the layout. Because storage is dynamic, the specific models and conditions change over time as aircraft are flown to new owners, scrapped, or ferried to other desert storage yards.
Can you visit the Mojave airplane graveyard in person
Public access rules and practical access points
The Mojave aircraft storage area is not a ticketed public attraction, and most active storage zones are on private or restricted airport property. Routine public walk‑ups onto the storage ramps are generally not permitted due to security, safety, and liability concerns. However, dedicated aviation fans can experience the graveyard legally and safely through organized tours run by local aviation groups, air‑port open house events, or arrangements made through licensed guides who coordinate access with property owners and airport management. Independent wandering onto active storage areas is discouraged and can lead to ejection from the premises or involvement with law enforcement.
- Organized tours: Look for airport open days, aviation festivals, or nonprofit events that advertise guided walks or bus tours with preapproved routes.
- Photography from public vantage points: Certain public roads and scenic overlooks around the airport perimeter provide distant views without entering restricted zones.
- Observation areas: Some fixed viewpoints along well marked routes allow visitors to photograph and observe aircraft at a legal distance.
- Coordinated visits: In some cases, photographers and researchers may request access through Mojave Air and Space Port authorities or partner maintenance providers, subject to approval and safety briefings.
What to expect if you gain access
When access is granted, expect security checks, briefings on safety rules, and strict instructions to stay on designated paths or tour routes. Photography is usually allowed, but tripods, long lenses, and intrusive lighting may be restricted in sensitive areas. Noise levels are generally low, because most stored aircraft are parked and not running, though occasional engine runs or taxi tests can happen during maintenance windows. Respect for property, adherence to staff instructions, and awareness of restricted zones are essential to maintaining visitor privileges.
Nearby alternatives for aviation enthusiasts
Because direct access to the stored aircraft is limited, many travelers combine a Mojare visit with trips to nearby aviation attractions that offer more hands on experiences. These include flight museums, airshows, and restoration facilities where visitors can walk through historic aircraft, talk with volunteers, and sometimes even sit in cockpits during special events. Planning ahead and checking event calendars increases the chances of a rewarding day around aviation in the Mojave region.
Suggested regional stops
| Site | What to see | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Air Force Flight Test Museum at Edwards AFB | Historic test aircraft, experimental platforms, curated exhibits | Aviation history and test‑flight heritage |
| Estrella Warbirds Museum, Paso Robles | Restored military and civilian aircraft, rotating displays | Closeup views and aviation nostalgia |
| Pima Air & Space Museum, Tucson, AZ | Large outdoor boneyard plus extensive indoor collections | Comprehensive aviation and space exploration exhibits |
| Plan of Action Airshow, Mojave | Live flying demonstrations, static displays, vendor exhibits | Dynamic viewing of active aircraft in flight |
| Mojave Air and Space Port public days | Controlled access zones, vendor booths, educational talks | Airport operations insight and official viewpoints |
Practical tips for a safe and respectful visit
Prepare in advance
Check airport and event websites for open house dates, security instructions, and photography policies. Contact local visitor centers or aviation clubs to confirm tour availability and any reservation requirements. Bring photo identification, arrive early for security screening, and follow all guidance from staff and volunteers.
On site behavior
Stay with your tour group or designated viewpoint, avoid climbing on aircraft or fences, and never attempt to open access panels or compartments. Keep noise to a reasonable level, dispose of trash properly, and be mindful that nearby operations may affect parking and road access. If you are planning to photograph aircraft, ask about preferred locations and times to minimize disruption.
Preservation and the future of Mojave storage
The long term role of Mojave as a storage and preservation hub depends on a mix of commercial demand, regulation, and community support. Airlines and lessors rotate fleets based on market conditions, while preservation groups advocate for saving historically significant aircraft. Public engagement, including responsible visitation and support for local aviation museums, helps ensure that this unique landscape of grounded aircraft remains accessible and well maintained for years to come.
Summary: planning your Mojave aircraft graveyard visit
Access to the Mojare aircraft graveyard is possible but limited, typically through organized events, airport open days, or arranged tours rather than spontaneous walk‑ups. Viewing areas around the perimeter and participation in scheduled events offer rewarding perspectives on one of the world’s largest concentrations of stored commercial and experimental aircraft. By coordinating with local authorities, following safety and security guidance, and combining the trip with nearby aviation attractions, you can experience the scale and history of the Mojave storage yards responsibly.