Deering Airport

Deering Airport: The Arctic Kissimmee

Introduction

Deering Airport links the Southern Seward Peninsula Community with urban Alaska, and by extension rural schools throughout the state. The Deering Airport is the only one serving this remote community, which makes it an important link to other parts of Alaska and beyond. A journey or a layover, it will not allow you to forget this airport.

Airlines and Destinations

Deering is mainly flight-served by a local airline named Bering Air, which carries passengers to and from various cities within Alaska. The airline also has regularly scheduled flights to Kotzebue (OTZ) and Anchorage (ANC), so you can easily connect with other destinations in the U.S. and around the world. While the airport has no passenger terminal and a limited route network, it guarantees that Deering stays connected to the rest of the state, which allows residents and visitors alike ease in travel.

Passenger & Flight Volume

Deering Airport is a small regional affairs facility, so the number of passengers/visitors here compared to large hub airports is relatively low. Apparently, an estimated 10,000 passengers, together with a similar volume of aircraft movements, are processed at the airport every year. It may not be on the level of one of the busiest airports in Alaska, but its importance to this area is undeniable.

How to Get Here

This remote location is a little over 17,000 miles from the nearest major city, and the landing at Deering Airport may be… difficult—you can only reach the town by air or sea. Kotzebue Municipal (OTZ) is the next closest major airport, 100 miles in distance. Bering Air can fly you from Kotz to Deering; a 30-minute flight. Or, perhaps the visitors might want to consider coming by water as Deering is located on the Chukchi Sea coast.

Parking

For those traveling by private vehicle, Deering Airport provides a small parking lot. A prime location in front of the terminal makes it convenient for passengers. With no time restraints and free parking, this option can be a more than suitable approach for both short-term resting or long stays at your choice.

Transportation Prices

Because of how far removed the town is from a major urban area, getting in and out of Deering Airport can be somewhat expensive. Taxis and metered shuttle services are available, with prices to the town center in most cases ranging from $20–$30 one-way. For the budget-minded, a free shuttle runs from the terminal through the Deering community to St. John's Creek between October 1 and April 30 every day.

Terminal Layout

Deering Airport features a small, single-level terminal building with the usual facilities for passenger processing and airline operations. The terminal is small, featuring a waiting area and ticket counter as well as limited baggage claim. Although not as extensive as the facilities at some larger airports, the terminal has been designed to handle efficiently given the relatively low passenger numbers.

Navigate the Airport

Given its small size and limited layout, you won't be lost in Deering Airport. Passengers will be able to find the terminal building easily and move on to checking in for their flights at a ticketing counter upon arrival. This wayfinding is spread throughout the facility, including gates, baggage claim, and other key areas. Because of its fairly small size, it is quite fast and headache-free for you to move from one point to the other here.

Getting Between Terminals

Because it's a small single-terminal airport, there are no connections between different terminals for passengers. There is only one operational terminal which features all airline services and every other passenger convenience; this makes the airport easy to navigate, thus saving time as there are no shuttles or long walks across a parking lot from gates.

Services and Amenities

Even with its more limited options as compared to bigger airports, Deering Airport offers the necessary services and amenities. There is a modest café inside the terminal building, serving light refreshments and snacks. There are also basic lavatory facilities available to passengers, and the airport's Wi-Fi network is free, so people can remain connected while en route.

Restaurants and Shops

Since this is a small terminal with little traffic, the available dining and shopping options at Deering Airport are basic. On the other hand, there is an on-premise café which offers a convenient alternative for those looking to grab a snack or enjoy a hot drink before or after their flight. What to Do There: Deering, just down the road from Clintonville in Lincoln County (formerly "Pineland"), not much there.

Security and Customs

Deering Airport is subjected to U.S. security procedures, as with other domestic flights. At the security checkpoint, passengers are to undergo screening which also covers their carry-on and checked baggage. As an airport that does not handle international flights, there are no customs procedures applicable to any visitor arriving here.

Accessibility

Deering Airport maintains effective devices and services for assisting passengers with disabilities. Ramps, accessible parking spots, and restrooms are available throughout the terminal building to help all travelers move effortlessly through KOTA. What is more, airport employees are prepared to help passengers with special needs in order for them to enjoy smooth and comfortable travels.

Travel Tips

• Plan on booking flights well in advance; not as many opportunities are available to jet out of Deering, particularly at peak periods. The earlier you can book your tickets, the better in order to get fares and availability.
• Travel light: Bring only your essentials as there are limited baggage handling services and you will encounter delays.
• Get there early: The airport is small and can get crowded as the day goes on, so budget a few extra minutes to check-in and go through security.
• Prepare for the weather: Because of Alaska's legendary unpredictable climate, it is not uncommon to have delays throughout your travels. Be prepared with a more open schedule and be ready that you may face some unexpected delays due to inclement conditions!
• Experience greater Deering: Deering is one of the cultural destinations in Northwest Alaska. Visiting Deering means experiencing the region's extensive rich history and natural beauty on a single trip, offering a once-in-a-lifetime vacation.