At Loring AFB, the largest feature of the Alert Area is the parking apron, referred to as the "Christmas tree" or the "crow's foot" because of the distinctive configuration of five branching parking spaces. The main building in the area is the Alert Crew Readiness Building, which accommodates living, sleeping, working, and recreational space for the alert crews on duty. A large, sprawling structure, its distinctive exterior feature is a number of tunnels that project from the basement and ground levels to give clear access to bombers on the apron once the alert klaxon has been sounded. Security-related structures in the area include a surveillance tower, an entry control building, and a surrounding fence.
At Loring AFB, the decade of the 1970s was a period of uncertainty. On I 1 March 1976, Headquarters SAC announced that the 42nd BW would be inactivated; the decision was reversed in 1979. The strategic value of the location of Loring AFB reportedly played a major role in the reversal of the decision. During the 1980s, Loring AFB became a non-nuclear base and its bombers were equipped to carry conventional bombs. Increased funding during this period allowed the completion of a second fully capable runway and a number of major renovations.
With the disestablishment of SAC in 1992, Loring AFB was transferred to the ACC. On 16 November 1993 the last B-52 departed Loring AFB. Flying missions for the 42nd BW came to a close with ceremonies held on 4 February 1994 to commemorate the role of the refuelers in Loring AFB's history. KC-135s flew missions through 22 February 1994. The last tanker departed Loring AFB on 2 March 1994.
Loring AFB was closed in September 1994.