Boise’s Gowen Field under consideration for F-35 base

BOISE – The Idaho National Guard says its training center in Boise is one of five locations the U.S. Air Force is considering as a base for about 18 fighter jets.

The Idaho Statesman reported that the F-35s would replace 21 A-10 planes that are currently based at Gowen Field. The Idaho Guard says a lot of work must be done before the military makes a decision, including an Environmental Impact Study and a facility inspection.

If Gowen is selected, the new flight likely won’t arrive until 2021 or 2022.

People who live near the Boise Airport, however, have contacted officials to say the F-35 and other fighter jets are too noisy to take off and land in Idaho’s most densely populated area.