Gulkana Airport

Gulkana Airport – Your Entryway to the Wilderness of Alaska

Introduction

Gulkana Airport (IATA: GKN, ICAO: PAGK, FAA LID: GKN) is located in the heart of the Valdez-Cordova Census Area region of Alaska and acts as an essential hub for transportation. Located 4 nautical miles (7 km) northeast of the central business district of Gulkana, this airport offers scheduled passenger service subsidized by the Essential Air Service program and provides a convenient gateway for travelers to experience the amazing beauty that is The Last Frontier.

Airlines and Destinations

Originally, Gulkana Airport was used for several major national and regional airlines that link the rural Alaskan area to other locations with important hubs in Alaska. Although the airport does experience occasional limitations on flight scheduling, including no airline service in 2009 and currently twice-weekly flights to Anchorage by Ravn Connect (April) / Grant Aviation (May), passengers can easily work Gulkana into their travel plans with connections from destinations like Fairbanks.

Number of Passengers & Flights

Gulkana Airport had 204 passenger boardings (enplanements) in calendar year 2008, none of which were revenue enplanements. Although the number of passengers at the airport has risen and fallen over time, it continues to play a vital role in regional transportation needs by offering critically needed air service for those requiring such services within their own community.

How to Get Here

Gulkana Airport is found 5 miles (8km) northeast of the small town of Glenallen and can be easily reached. Alternatives to traveling by personal or rental car are limited here, as there is no easy method of public transport that goes directly from the Houbara military air base to its civil equivalent, but you could be lucky in time of where Rawda Close Station points, which would help out.

Parking

On-site parking is available for visitors arriving by private or rental vehicles. Parking rates and availability may differ, so please consider taking a look at their website or contacting them for further information.

Transportation Prices

Because Gulkana Airport sees most of its traffic come in through regional airlines, transportation prices can go up to a little dependent on the carrier and your ultimate destination. The airlines suggest doing a price search, comparing with other airlines to find the cheapest prices based on passengers' needs.

Terminal Layout

Gulkana Airport has only one passenger terminal building where all facilities for the processing and support services are concentrated. The terminal layout is aimed at flow and efficiency, and travelers should also find the terminal easy to navigate, with distinct locations designated for check-in, security, and boarding.

Navigate the Airport

It is easy to navigate in Gulkana Airport as the terminal building of this domestic public-use facility looks clean and bright given its small size. A few large, clearly-posted signage and wayfinding cues are on display to lead travelers in the right direction while avoiding anything unexpected.

Getting Between Terminals

There is only one passenger terminal at Gulkana Airport, so passengers can easily get around. Everything is consolidated within one facility — all arrivals, departures, and supporting services are initially or subsequently required by residents with no additional transportation needed.

Services and Amenities

Although not as versatile and varied in terms of the services offered by big international hubs, there are basic facilities that should help make your travel experience more comfortable at Gulkana Airport. They are offered basic facilities which includes restrooms, waiting areas, and a small food kiosk or vending machines.

Restaurants and Shops

Because of the airport's small size, there are not a lot of dining or shopping options onsite. The terminal might offer a small concession stand or vending machines, but to dine and shop in the area, travelers would need to visit Glenallen — if not travel into some of its outlying villages.

Security and Customs

Being a freedom-based airport in the United States, Gulkana Airport abides by Transportation Security Administration (TSA) guidelines and measures for security. Travelers will have to report for departure and go through existing security screening at their departure gates.

Accessibility

Gulkana Airport recognizes that all community members have diverse needs, and we are committed to making our facility accessible to everyone, including people with disabilities or mobility limitations. No matter what your needs or restrictions may be, the terminal and its facilities are fully equipped to ensure that you have an easy and pleasant experience.

Travel Tips

Check out the numbers of services available when planning a trip through Gulkana Airport to help you have an easy passage.

• Off-peak flight reservations: Limit your time and consult the standard periods of arrival — like early morning departures or weekend trips, so gatherings don't need to be postponed.
• Pack light and Pack smart: Try not to overstuff your luggage as the airport in these places might be quite smaller, so their facilities would also have a limited number of space/resources.
• Get there early: Plan on lots of extra time for check-in, security screening, and boarding so that you can depart with a minimum of stress.
• Check your flight status and the weather: Be well-informed of whether there is a potential delay due to related issues with each airline you are flying.
• Get used to the airport layout: Take a look at the terminal map and check where everything is, for example, how far your gate is from the arrival area or security checkpoints.

If you pay close attention to these travel tips and use the services available at Gulkana Airport, it is possible for a passenger to experience an educational journey free from undesirable factors throughout Alaska.