US Air Force Secretary Michael Donley announced 2 August 2012 that Luke AFB outside of Phoenix, Arizona, has been chosen as the location of the Air Force's F-35A Lightning II pilot training center. The base will receive seventy-two aircraft split among three squadrons. Deliveries are expected to begin in late 2013. Construction to support aircraft beddown is expected to begin by late 2012. In addition to training US pilots, Luke will also train F-35A pilots from international operators. The Record of Decision cited Luke’s ramp capacity, ranges, weather, and potential for future growth. The decision culminates a nearly three-year process that included an extensive Environmental Impact Statement that examined effects on air quality, noise, land use, and socioeconomic issues.
