Prior to 1 April 2003, CONUS dependent travel was not authorized unless en-route on a mission to/from an overseas location. A one-year test was conducted between April 2003 and March 2004 which allowed dependents of active duty and retired uniformed service members to travel space available with their sponsors within the CONUS. The test produced excellent results and, as a result, Space-Available privileges are extended to the test audience (DEPENDENTS OF ACTIVE DUTY AND RETIRED UNIFORMED SERVICE MEMBERS ONLY) on a permanent basis. This privilege will be incorporated into the existing regulation through an interim policy change to Air Transportation Eligibility (DoDI 4515.13). Dependents can now travel with their sponsor in CONUS.
- Policy Memo for 2003 CONUS Dependent Travel Test
- Policy Memo permanently authorizing CONUS Dependent Travel Note: DoDI 4515.13 has not been updated (as of June 2011)
BOTTOM LINE: Depenents can accompany their Active Duty or Retired Sponsor Space-A anywhere within and between CONUS, OCONUS and Overseas wherever Space-A is allowed.