Big Mountain Airport

Big Mountain Airport: A Gateway to the Alaskan Backcountry

Introduction

A key link in the Alaskan wilderness, Big Mountain Airport (IATA: BMX) is strategically located to fly locals in and out of some of the most off-the-beaten-path communities within Lake & Peninsula Borough. Situated at 59.36125, -155.25882, this midsized airport links the region with Alaska and beyond. Whether on an adventurous journey or just passing through, Big Mountain Airport brings with it a memorable travel experience unlike any other.

Airlines and Destinations

Records show that Big Mountain Airport and what was then a supportive ranch are still in use for private aviation, such as air taxi charters with no scheduled airlines. Nevertheless, the airport sees a range of aircraft, including small private planes and bush planes; others may use it to access flights using larger turboprop or jet aircraft. Additional airports in the area include Igiugig Airport (PAIG), Iliamna Airport (PAIL), and Wilder Runway Airport (PAKX), along with King Salmon International (AKN).

Passengers and Flights Carried

Big Mountain Airport is considered a regional airport due to its remoteness and lack of scheduled commercial service, but Alaska Airlines routinely operates charter flights along this route. The airport remains a vital lifeline for the neighboring villages, permitting essential cargo and medical transport flights, as well as private and charter operations. Because it is not one of the busier state airports, precise annual passenger or flight numbers were unavailable.

How to Get Here

As you might expect from the location of Big Mountain Airport, it can be tough to reach since it is in a very isolated and low-populated area of Alaska. The closest major airport is King Salmon Airport (PAKN), which is about 59 nm or 68 miles. The final leg into Big Mountain Airport can be by private charter aviation or land transportation from adjacent non-towered airports, and the trip is organized by travelers. Alternatively, those arriving from afar will want to take a flight into one of Alaska's primary airports, such as Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC), and then connect with smaller regional or charter flights bound for Big Mountain.

Parking

Big Mountain Airport has no dedicated parking area. Only a few parking areas are available for privately driven vehicles. Limited parking is available, with visitors directed to park in designated areas near the airport terminal or along its access road.

Transportation Prices

The location is a bit remote, so transportation costs may be higher than some other destinations. Chartering private jets from local airports can be anywhere between hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on the distance flown and the size of the plane. Taxi or shuttle service ground transport options may also be scarce and costly. This will allow travelers to budget properly and plan their transportation/rides well in advance.

Terminal Layout

The small, one-terminal structure of the Big Mountain Airport has a dual-purpose for both inbound and outbound passengers. The terminal itself is equipped with nothing more than a waiting area, restrooms, and a small snack bar. The terminal is simple and easy to navigate, given the airport's size and the lack of more than a few passengers being processed at a time.

Navigate the Airport

Though the terminal is small and easy to navigate through, Big Mountain Airport can sometimes be a bit hectic. Staff signs are clear and ready to assist passengers at the airport with any questions. As the airport is comparatively small and less complex, one can easily navigate through it right from checking in to boarding.

Getting Between Terminals

Big Mountain Airport has only 1 terminal, so all passengers can depart and arrive at the same place. Since all arrivals and departures take place in the same compact area, it is just a short walk to get from or onto an airplane.

Services and Amenities

The facilities present at Big Mountain Airport are quite basic in nature, but they do cater to their passengers and provide all the necessities. These include:

• Restrooms
• Local food and drink from a modest concession stand
• Limited seating/standing areas
• Ground transportation, including but not limited to taxi service or shuttle when available

Note: Big Mountain Airport offers only a small selection of services and facilities, with the focus geared toward private jets and charters as opposed to scheduled commercial airline operations.

Restaurants and Shops

Given the small and secluded nature of the airport, it does not have any standalone restaurants or shops within its terminal building. A small snack-and-beverage kiosk will be open to passengers with limited in-stock items, but there are no full-service dining or retail options.

Security and Customs

Big Mountain Airport has no customs, as it is a domestic airport within the United States. These passengers will need to go through customs at their first port of call in the U.S., such as Anchorage or any major Alaskan airport. Security screening at the airport is conducted in a manner similar to other small U.S. airports, as passengers go through standard TSA security checks before proceeding to their flights.

Accessibility

Big Mountain Airport is working to provide services, as always, for disabled and special needs travelers. The terminal building and means of access are designed to be accessible with wheelchairs, while the airport has a service that takes care of assisting passengers. Still, if you happen to have mobility issues or other disabilities that would make this a difficult journey under normal circumstances, the airport's isolated location and lack of ample resources could be problematic. Passengers with special needs are urged to call the airport in advance so that their unique requests and assistance can be met, ensuring they do not encounter any hindrance during their travel.

Travel Tips

If you are traveling from Big Mountain Airport, here are some helpful tips:

• Book your transport well in advance, as it can be incredibly limited and expensive in this area.
• Pack in small, easy-to-handle bags because storage and baggage area is limited.
• Arrive at the airport early, as check-in and security can be slower than at a larger airport.
• Prepare for the remote and rugged nature of Alaska, packing appropriate items to survive.
• Weather conditions can greatly affect flight operations in this area, so please check other information related to weather.
• Get to know the layout and amenities of the airport so you can make good use of your time there.

With these principles and some flexibility in practice, you can expect a seamless experience flying into Big Mountain Airport — the gateway to Alaska at its finest.