Farewell Airport

Goodbye Airport: Your Door to Alaska Backcountry

Introduction

Deep in the Alaskan wilderness, Farewell Airport (IATA: FWL) is a crucial connection point for some of this state's most isolated towns. Despite its humble stature, this airport with an IATA code of FWL plays a critical role in linking the remote landscapes across Alaska to global markets. While you're on the road, Farewell Airport will be an experience like no other.

Airlines and Destinations

Farewell Airport functions mostly as a general aviation airport, accommodating private and charter activities designed to serve the transportation needs of the nearby community and tourist traffic traveling into Alaskan bush country. Though it has no commercial airline services flown in, the airport can handle a mix of private and chartered aircraft with sizes from small props to helicopters. Airlines can be arranged by specialized aviation companies or private charter.

Passenger Flights

Farewell Airport has less passenger traffic than that at larger international hubs as this area is remote and sparsely populated. Nevertheless, the traffic in and out of Farewell Airport can change dramatically based on seasonal demands presented by this local community. Those summer months generally see the airport's traffic increase, due to an inflow of passengers as well as more planes entering and exiting.

How to Get Here

Getting to Farewell Airport is hard because the city itself isn't on a real road. The major access to the airport is via flying with private air charter that are scheduled out of larger Alaska airports such as Anchorage International Airport (ANC) or Fairbanks International Airport (FAI). Boat access: Located along the stretch of Kuskokwim River, those coming from different parts of Alaska can opt to take a boat to Farewell.

Parking

Parking at Farewell Airport is very minimal with a small lot for visitors and locals. The parking is complimentary and first-come, first-served. As the airport is quite remote, we recommend arranging transportation beforehand (be that a pick-up service or car rental), or liaising directly with your airline.

Transportation Prices

Farewell Airport fares are down. According to a 2017 fare study, travel was relatively reasonable at the airport where limited transportation options and its remote location tend to drive costs up. The cost of private or chartering flights can vary and depends on your departure location, the size of aircraft, etc. Airfare into and out of Farewell is expected to be a comparatively safe place for travelers, but prices may reflect that perception.

Terminal Layout

The terminal building at Farewell Airport is efficient and elegant in its asymmetric design, to serve the local community as well as a very few visitors. The terminal has a small gate waiting area, a very basic ticketing counter, and baggage claim. Although the services were limited, they sufficed for layover passengers.

Navigate the Airport

The terminal is small here too, making Farewell Airport an easy one to navigate. Travelers should be able to get off their plane and instantly know where they are going: bags that way, parking lot out the door. The airline is important for passengers with connecting flights or another type of transportation that information, they said.

Getting Between Terminals

Since Farewell Airport consists of just one terminal, you do not have to worry about switching between terminals. They all arrive and depart out of the one, small building which makes it simple for onward flights.

Services and Amenities

It may not have all the extensive services and amenities of behemoth international hubs, but Farewell Airport does offer those essentials for globe-trotters. In the terminal building, you will just find a tiny waiting area and toilets together with an extremely simple concession stand. So you may need to bring some stuff yourself or prepare accordingly with time.

Restaurants and Shops

What to Eat At Farewell Airport: Restaurants, Cafes & Shopping in the LGA Terminal Concession Stand: Whether you need a snack, soft drink, or basic travel essentials, the concession stand in Elberon is open for passengers using this unique train station. Those wanting a broader array of dining options and shops will have to leave the airport, via detour with a driving service provider or by exploring nearby Farewell.

Security and Customs

Since Farewell Airport is a small, regional airport, the security and customs process are relatively simple. In the case of travelers, they should proceed to a basic security checkpoint where their property and identification will be verified. The customs procedures are likely to be more complex for international flights, and because of that, arriving at the airport well in advance is recommended.

Accessibility

Farewell Airport welcomes travelers with disabilities and special needs. Ramps, however, are available to ease movement in the terminal building, and facilities have been designed with entrance points, carpark spaces, and amenities within restrooms to cater to the needs of those with mobility challenges. Anyone needing additional assistance or a wheelchair should call the airport or their airline in advance to ensure an easy, smooth flight.

Travel Tips

• Book flights far ahead, as options and availability can be relatively scarce
• Get to the airport early — security and customs can be slower than those at big airports.
• These are the only amenities you need access to at your site, so pack light and bring any necessary supplies.
• There are limited parking options, so make sure you arrange transportation to and from the airport.
• Keep current with weather forecasts, as the volatile environment may affect flight schedules.

Farewell Airport visitors taking these travel tips to heart will benefit from a smooth and pleasant journey, whether they are hiking Alaska's wild interior or simply passing through this unique transport link.