diff --git a/game/settings/settings.py b/game/settings/settings.py
index 29030520..941e97e5 100644
--- a/game/settings/settings.py
+++ b/game/settings/settings.py
@@ -259,7 +259,8 @@ class Settings:
         default=False,
         detail=(
             "If set, squadrons will not be able to exceed a maximum number of aircraft "
-            "(configurable), and the campaign will begin with all squadrons at full strength."
+            "(configurable), and the campaign will begin with all squadrons at full strength "
+            "given enough room at the base."
         ),
     )
 
diff --git a/game/squadrons/squadron.py b/game/squadrons/squadron.py
index 8210439c..ee074382 100644
--- a/game/squadrons/squadron.py
+++ b/game/squadrons/squadron.py
@@ -167,7 +167,7 @@ class Squadron:
             raise ValueError("Squadrons can only be created with active pilots.")
         self._recruit_pilots(self.settings.squadron_pilot_limit)
         if squadrons_start_full:
-            self.owned_aircraft = self.max_size
+            self.owned_aircraft = min(self.max_size, self.location.unclaimed_parking())
 
     def end_turn(self) -> None:
         if self.destination is not None: