Palmer Buddy Woods Municipal Airport

Introduction

Palmer Buddy Woods Municipal Airport (PAQ) in the heart of Alaska's Matanuska-Susitna Valley is a critical transportation link for this 25,000-square-mile region. Talkeetna-based workers gathered to celebrate the dedication of Bud Woods in appreciation for everything he had done over the years here, increasing its usefulness as an airstrip that keeps Palmer hooked into the wonders of our neighboring wilderness.

Airlines and Destinations

Although it has no major scheduled airlines, Palmer Buddy Woods Municipal Airport is deemed a vital general aviation facility for the management of private and charter flights. The primary 16/34 runway is 6,006 feet long, and the airport has two others to support various aircraft from small private planes to larger turboprop or even jet-powered models.

How Many Passengers and Flights?

Because it is a general aviation airport, PAQ does not report full passenger and flight data. Despite this, the airport has a consistent trickle of private and charter flights going in and out year-round to service local enterprises as well as recreational pilots exploring more-than-10,000 square miles of natural beauty.

How to Get Here

The Palmer Buddy Woods Municipal Airport is about 47 miles north of Anchorage and can be reached by road. Visitors navigate to the airport by traveling on Glenn Highway (Alaska State Route 1) and following indications towards its partner. It is also very near Anchorage - about a one-hour trip depending on traffic and foul weather.

Parking

Visitors to the restaurant have access to hundreds of car parking spaces at both short-and long-term lots located near the airport. There is free parking, which makes it very convenient for those who are coming by car. The facilities also offer park, sleep, and stay with well-cared-for parking places located near the primary terminal facility of the airport.

Transportation Prices

Not having a robust public transportation system is not that unusual for a general aviation airport like PAQ. However, there are several private shuttle and taxi services that operate in the region where you can find airport transfers. While the cost for these services varies by provider and distance, it is usually an affordable option for individuals who do not have their own vehicle.

Terminal Layout

The terminal at Palmer Buddy Woods Municipal Airport is a small, one-story building that contains standard general aviation facilities. This will include a pilot's lounge area, small passenger waiting room, and flight school office spaces. While the terminal does not have quite the dramatic scale as some of its larger international counterparts, it is designed to make the best use of limited space so that primary users -- private and charter aircraft operators -- can move through expeditiously.

Navigate the Airport

The Palmer Buddy Woods Municipal Airport is not big and is easy to navigate. The home base of the facility is in the terminal building, guiding visitors seamlessly through different amenities and services by way-finding signage throughout. Information Desk Staff at the information desk are helpful in pointing you to your way when left stranded in a totally unknown airport.

Getting Between Terminals

PAQ is a single-terminal airport; you will not need to take a transit or change terminals. Passenger and aircraft movements are centered on the larger continent in one main terminal building, making PAQ an excellently designed airport.

Services and Amenities

It may not offer the extensive services and amenities as larger international hubs, but it provides essential facilities and resources that general aviation needs to conduct its operations. Some of these are a pilot lounge, small seating area for passengers, and offices for those to support the daily function of the airport.

Restaurants and Shops

No dedicated restaurants or shops since the terminal building is under construction. But the city of Palmer is close to Mat-Su and provides an abundance of food options and shopping opportunities within a short drive from the airport that serve both local residents and visitors.

Security and Customs

PAQ, as a general aviation airport, has no security or customs requirements in comparison to larger international airports. That is, however, subject to the security of all passengers, aircraft, and personnel within passing standards. Those inquiring about security measures and requirements should ask the airport assistants.

Accessibility

The Palmer Buddy Woods Municipal Airport has facilities and services made within reach of any needs. Features inside the terminal building and in various parts of the ramp are constructed to provide for passengers with disabilities — including parking spaces, ramps, and ADA-compliant restrooms. Airport employees can also be scheduled to assist passengers with special requirements.

Travel Tips

If you do pay a visit to the Palmer Buddy Woods Municipal Airport, just remember... everything in Alaska could be more difficult than usual to deal with. It can be accessed with suitable clothes for the frequently unpredictable weather, including any associated cold-weather garments, and visitors should also make themselves acquainted with the airport's functions as well. You are also advised to call the airport or visit their website for updated flight schedules, condition of the airport, and potential delays.