Providing Operationally Ready Air Squadrons and Aircraft Carriers
COMNAVAIRLANT was formed in Norfolk, VA, in January 1943 under the flag of Rear Adm. Alva D. Bernhard. The new command was to replace the three older organizations: Commander Carriers, Atlantic Fleet; Carrier Replacement Squadron, Atlantic Fleet; and Fleet Air Wings, Atlantic. A similar reorganization had produced AIRLANT's West Coast counterpart - Commander, Naval Air Force, Pacific Fleet, three months earlier.
COMNAVAIRLANT is a senior-type command (TYCOM) for all aviation assets used by the Atlantic Fleet. As the TYCOM, it has provided operationally ready air squadrons and aircraft carriers to the fleet for more than 50 years. COMNAVAIRLANT ensures that Atlantic Fleet squadrons and carrier crews are trained and their aircraft and ships are fit for action, backed up by a complex, relentless system of spare parts and maintenance that allows no compromise in safety or readiness.
On July 30, 1957, the command's title changed to Naval Air Force, Atlantic Fleet.
COMNAVAIRLANT is responsible for six nuclear-powered aircraft carriers, 54 aircraft squadrons, 1,200 aircraft and 43,000 officers, enlisted and civilian personnel based on the East Coast of the United States. It provides combat ready, sustainable naval air forces with the right personnel, properly trained and equipped, with a focus on readiness, operational excellence, interoperability, safety, and efficient resourcing.