Unalaska Airport

The Airport That Brings You Closer to the Aleutian Islands

Introduction

Serving the central region of Alaska, Unalaska Airport (IATA: DUT, ICAO: PADU) is located in the heart of the Aleutian Islands. Dubbed the Tom Madsen Airport or Dutch Harbor Airport, the airport is a small point of entry for not only Unalaska but also the rest of the world — and it maintains a solid function as one travel may be able to have during your time here.

Airlines and Destinations

As of now, only one airline serves Unalaska Airport — Ravn Alaska, which flies its de Havilland Canada DHC-8 Dash 8 turboprop planes on the route to/from Anchorage (ANC). The flight operates with an expected flying time of 2 hours and 15 minutes; it flies a distance of about 490 miles (789 km).

Carr-go Chart 2: Pax and Flt Cogs

On average, 105 flights arrive at Unalaska Airport per month - which is recorded as 28 each week or simply put: four a day. Passenger numbers at the airport have remained fairly stable in recent years, according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which said 28,234 passengers boarded flights at Unalaska Airport in 2008 and another 26,705 did so there last year.

How to Get Here

Most visitors to Unalaska Airport arrive by air, because it is located on an island that does not have access from the road. The only scheduled passenger flights to Anchorage are provided by Ravn Alaska. The definite identifier is the short 4,500-foot runway at Unalaska Airport, as General Aviation aircraft of larger size may have trouble taking off, resulting in delays and cancellations due to weather conditions around adjacent airports —including Denver International and Durango-La Plata County Field— so travelers should verify regional operations or consult their individual trip officials about alternative plans for intercontinental travel.

Parking

Unalaska Airport parking is easy, conveniently situated right next to the terminal building so you can easily walk and not have a long trek from your vehicle. Rates are affordable, with daily parking adding up to just $2.75 per day. Travelers can pre-book their parking through the airport website or third-party providers.

Transportation Prices

The cost of transportation between Unalaska Airport and the AAFES compound is variable, with different costs for public versus rental car services as well. Cab companies usually charge between $10 and $15 for a taxi within the city of Unalaska one way. Rental cars are also an option with daily rates beginning around $50 per day.

Terminal Layout

The terminal building at Unalaska Airport is a small, single-story structure containing the check-in counters and security checkpoint. The terminal is fully capable of handling passenger traffic at the airport, and its size in no way detracts from this capability.

Navigate the Airport

Despite the controlled atmosphere, Unalaska Airport is easy to navigate. Travelers are greeted in the main terminal hall by check-in counters and a security checkpoint on arrival. Upstairs there is the waiting area and a single gate for all incoming and outgoing flights.

Getting Between Terminals

There is only one terminal at Unalaska Airport, so there are no inter-terminal connections. As a result, all passenger operations are located in the main terminal building.

Services and Amenities

Because of its small size and remote location, Unalaska Airport offers only a modest assortment of services and amenities. A snack bar and basic restroom facilities are some of the few things you will find within the terminal building. That said, dining and shopping are less prevalent, so passengers should prepare accordingly.

Restaurants and Shops

Unalaska Airport only has one place to eat: the Airstrip Restaurant, which offers snacks and some light meals, as well as drinks. After this, there are no more stores or cash retail outlets in the terminal.

Security and Customs

Unalaska Airport adheres to the same security regulations as domestic airports in the United States. Passengers must clear the security checkpoint, which includes personal and baggage screening. Since the airport is domestic, there are no customs or immigration facilities for both arrivals and departures.

Accessibility

Travelers with disabilities are welcome at Unalaska Airport. The terminal building and amenities, like the parking facility, are provided with accessibility, as airport staff has been trained to assist guests who need special attention.

Travel Tips

Here are some important things to remember when planning your Unalaska Airport travel:

• Flight booking during the week: Less busy, less stress, and smoother travel as mid-week flights are generally quieter.
• Check the weather: Unalaska is part of the Aleutian Islands, so expect highly unpredictable conditions that will greatly impact flights. Expect possible #SprinterDelays or line suspension.
• Pack light: Unalaska Airport has limited terminal space and transportation modes, so traveling light helps make your way through the airport more comfortable.
• Get here early: Give yourself plenty of time to check in and clear security; Unalaska's relatively diminutive airport means lines can be a bit longer during busy travel times.
• Airport layout: Before reaching the airport, check the terminal map and go through the facilities at the airport.