The Alaskan Wilds by Way of Eagle Airport
Introduction
Eagle Airport (IATA: EAA, ICAO: PAEG), a state-owned public airport, is located in the heart of the remote Alaskan wilderness and as such plays an essential role for troops stationed there. Modeled after what would be expected at Eagle Army Casualty Staging Facility — most likely also home to base operating support functions — which held its Grand Opening at Fort Wainwright on Feb. 25. (U.S. Army Headquarters) Located 2 miles east of the picturesque town of Eagle, this airport is a wonderful and beautiful introduction to the Last Frontier's great landscapes.
Airlines and Destinations
Eagle Airport is a regional airport, with service limited mainly to domestic destinations in Alaska. As of now, the airfield does not have any commercial flights; it is only used for private and charter aircraft, as well as general aviation. With its single runway, 7/25, it is also equipped to handle a wide range of aircraft types, which makes the airport a favorite amongst those who are heading out into some of Alaska's more remote areas.
Passenger and Flight Counts
Because the airport is quite small, and because it serves such a sparsely populated area nearby, Eagle County Regional does not have all that many passengers or flights compared to some other larger airports. The airport has served some 5,000 to 10,000 passengers a year on average during the past few years and handled an equivalent number of aircraft movements. Not a very large transportation hub, but it certainly serves its purpose to the surrounding community for travel around Alaska and overseas.
How to Get Here
Eagle Airport is easy to get in and out of, as it sits only a short distance from the town of Eagle. The airport can also be reached by road, using Eldon Wilson Road which connects it to the local highway system. Closer airports, such as Fairbanks International (FAI), can get buried in snow, 155 miles northwest.
Parking
Parking: Weekly Car Toll $35 - Payable on arrival at Eagle Airport. Car Parking For Short and Long Term Visitors. Passenger parking is located near the terminal building. The cost of parking here is free, which are likely the reasons why people decide to stop at this location.
Transportation Price
Eagle Airport Options - Although the Eagle airport is a small regional one, so your only transportation options are having someone fetch you or getting an Eagle Transportation. But visitors can also book private hotel shuttles or car rentals for travel to and from the airport. While prices vary between providers and according to distance, these services are generally quite affordable for area travelers.
Terminal Layout
Eagle Airport Terminal: The small, single-level terminal building (providing passenger processing and support services) has a small waiting area, the check-in and security counter. The terminal itself is not nearly as large as those at major airports, but it serves the modest number of passengers that pass through efficiently.
Navigate the Airport
Eagle Airport is tiny, so getting around it is quite easy. The airport is relatively small, and the compact terminal design results in an easy experience for passengers to navigate quickly. The signage is clear and precise, leading passengers to the front desks, security checkpoint area, or departure gates.
Getting Between Terminals
Passengers can easily move from one terminal to another because Eagle Airport has only one terminal. All flights are handled in one contained building, with the international and domestic arrivals located on different levels of this same compact terminal, making for a seamless travel experience.
Services and Amenities
Although not nearly as high-tech or large in size, connectivity, and offerings as the bigger airports, Eagle Airport makes available what is necessary for its travelers. It also supplies basic services, including restrooms and vending machines in a small waiting area for passengers. The airport has free Wi-Fi, providing visitors with internet access during their stay on site.
Restaurants and Shops
Eagle Airport has little in the way of dining and shopping choices, being such a small airport handling limited passenger traffic only. The town of Eagle is also nearby and has several nice restaurants, as well as local shops that allow you to experience the personality of the people in Colorado.
Security and Customs
As it is a US internal airport, Eagle Airport has no border control or customs examination facilities. Travelers coming from other countries will need to clear customs wherever they enter the country, with Eagle as their final destination. Operated by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), this airport enforces all standard security measures for domestic air travel at its checkpoint.
Accessibility
Eagle Airport provides facilities and services for disabled travelers. The terminal building, as well as its associated amenities, were designed to meet all Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines and help ensure that the airport is welcoming for everyone.
Travel Tips
With these travel tips, your trip to Eagle County Airport will be smooth and problem-free.
- Tip 2: Fly during off-peak hours: Skip busy flight times, such as at the crack of dawn and on weekends.
- Plan to be Early: Get there on time and allow extra time for parking, checking in when it's extremely busy seasons.
- Pack lightly: Limited airport amenities and terminal space make it a good idea to only bring what you need.
- Look into local transportation: Learn about the airport shuttle services, car rentals, and other methods of getting to or from a nearby city.
- For the latest updates on flight schedules, weather, and changes, check with your airline or visit its website.
If you keep these tips in mind, expect to optimize your experience at Eagle Airport and have a smooth transition into whatever Alaskan adventure awaits.