Eek Airport: A Passage to the Alaskan Wilderness
Introduction
Eek, situated on the vast tundra of Alaska, is a city long dependent upon air transport and Eek Airport (IATA: EEK) connecting this otherwise cut-off area in western North America with its own community outplacement transportation demands being met via civilian or private aircraft. Opening on June 1, 1974, this state-owned public-use airport has been an important link for the people of Wainwright Colony to receive necessary air services and connect its residents with mainland Alaska.
Airlines and Destinations
The sole destination which is accessible via direct flight from Eek Airport is Bethel Airport (BET). At 20 minutes, this flight covers just 24 miles, providing a fast alternative for travelers. The only air service at this airport is subsidized by the Essential Air Service program; the Department of Transportation generally defines Eek as a small community per 2012 guidelines, which means it supports three round trips every week to Anchorage International Airport or Bethel (Alaska) in twin-turboprop aircraft.
Number of Passengers and Flights
Eek Airport is included in the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems, which categorized it as a general aviation facility. As per Federal Aviation Administration records, this airport had 3,759 passenger boardings (enplanements) in calendar year 2007, an increase of 16% from the enplanements recorded for the fiscal year ending on September 30, 2006. Two flights per day, seven days a week are scheduled as shown on the airport page at ADQ during peak season, connecting Eek to the nearby Bethel Airport.
How to Get Here
Eek Airport (Lat: 60.21369 | Long: -162.04389) is located in the United States at an altitude of 57 feet above sea level. It has a runway designated 18/36 with an asphalt surface. The airport can also be reached through private vehicles, taxis, and domestic transport services.
Parking
For visitors, the airport offers short-term and long-term parking options. Hourly parking is great for short-term pick-ups or drop-offs only (no longer than 2 hours) at a rate of $2.00 per hour. Long-term parking (1,471 spaces) is the long-stay lot, so rates are $16.00 per day.
Transportation Price
Transfers to Eek Airport can vary by transportation service type and distance. Riders will find competitive rates with taxis, shuttles, or rideshare services, plus the ability to compare prices and book directly for a perfect online-to-offline experience.
Terminal Layout
Eek Airport has a terminal which is used by all the passengers coming and going through Eek Airport. The well-structured terminal layout includes duty-free, clocks over all check-ins, and monitors for the different departure gates. Once past security, passengers walk straight ahead towards the only departure gate en route to Bethel.
Navigate the Airport
Eek Airport is not difficult to understand. Travelers are expected to merely follow all clearly marked signs, and this will guide them to the location of check-in counters, security checkpoint, and their designated gate. The stress-free facilitation of the flow of passengers through an airport is as significant in the small terminal, just elevated to a different level.
Getting Between Terminals
In Eek, there is only one terminal, so you will not have to take additional terminals. Because the terminal is all split inside, it's like you're going to some other gate when coming and going.
Services and Amenities
Eek Airport is a small facility, but it offers all the services and amenities travelers might need. These include a waiting area, restrooms, and limited passenger services. In addition, passengers will have the option to get a small selection of snacks and beverages.
Restaurants and Shops
No dedicated restaurants or shops exist within the Eek Airport terminal building, as it is very small and gets low passenger traffic. Consequently, travelers are suggested to think carefully about whether or not they carry with them sufficient food and drinks (if any) so that they can keep all of the equipment working well.
Security and Customs
However, Eek Airport does have TSA in place as a domestic airport within the US. There are security checks and inspections for people after they enter the airport. Since it is a regional airport, travelers do not have to go through any customs checks.
Accessibility
Eek Airport is wheelchair accessible. Accordingly, the terminal and its facilities cater to travelers who have various mobility or sensory challenges, as well as some cognitive requirements. We encourage passengers to contact the airport or their airline so that we/staff members/airline can make necessary arrangements ahead of time.
Travel Tips
Flyers are encouraged to plan arriving a few hours before the flight departure in Eek airport for an expedited check-in and security process. Can you check in online and use a boarding pass on your phone? On top of this, taking carry-on luggage and making sure you have your paperwork packed will make for a smooth journey.