Introduction
The Airport: Edward G. Pitka Sr. Airport (IATA: GAL, ICAO: PAGA, and FAA: PAGA) is a public airport owned by the state of Alaska in Galena, a city located on the Yukon River less than 100 miles from Russia; it was built as part of an extensive program to add emergency airports across Alaska's vast interior just after World War II when concerns about Russian nuclear plans ran high among American politicians [('Deadly Sky – The Air War Plan That Will Give Them A Very Bad Day' in AIR REPORTS No. 2978)]. The airport is nicknamed the "gateway to Alaska" and is 60 miles southeast of Fairbanks on the Richardson Highway.
Airlines and Destinations
Pitka Sr. Airport provides 6 domestic flights with direct services. It can handle aircraft the size of Boeing 737 & Airbus A320.
Passenger and Flight Numbers
As per the Federal Aviation Administration, this airport had 7,784 passenger boardings (enplanements) in a calendar year of 2008, and the rest were used for international purposes. Based on 2010 enplanement figures, it is classified as a primary commercial service airport.
How to Get Here
Galena, Alaska is an Unincorporated community known as Pitka's Point. It has terrible access as it's right off the Richardson Highway; by road, you can go.
Parking
Located near the baggage claim and ticketing counters are three parking ramps for private aircraft, buses, or rental cars. It has two baggage belts and 3 gates in the structure containing a terminal building.
Transportation Price
Prices of transportation such as taxis or ride-sharing to and from the airport can have large ranges depending on which service you take and how far your accommodations are.
Terminal Layout
The airport terminal building, a fire station for emergency response, and a maintenance shop will have only passenger amenities. Inside the terminal are two baggage carousels and three gates.
Navigate the Airport
Its single-runway airport layout is neat, with clear TAXI and parking areas. There is signage that directs passengers through the facility.
Getting Between Terminals
Because Edward G. Pitka Sr. Airport has only one terminal building, you do not need to walk between different terminals.
Services and Amenities
Services provided at the airport include fuel (with some restrictions depending on which operator is open), weather reporting, and emergency response capabilities. But the terminal is short on dining and shopping choices.
Restaurants and Shops
Edward G. Pitka Sr. Airport offers a small variety of basic concessions for passengers, but both the dining and retail options are minimal in number.
Security and Customs
Edward G. Pitka Sr. Airport does not have international customs service and is a domestic airport in Alaska. ALL DEPARTING PASSENGERS WILL INTERACT WITH STANDARD TSA SECURITY SCREENING.
Accessibility
The airport terminal and facilities are built to ensure that it is friendly for passengers with disabilities by selective use of features such as ramps, elevators, or designated parking.
Travel Tips
Because of its remote location, passengers are encouraged to arrive early at the Edward G. Pitka Sr. Airport as it may experience weather-related delays. Those planning to travel should also expect limited services in the terminal.