Introduction
Hughes Airport[1] (IATA: HUS, ICAO: PAHU) is a state-owned public-use airport located in the rural village of Hughes,[2][3] in the Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area of Alaska. This airport serves a local populace, offering fundamental air transport benefits both for property holders and travelers. Located 300 miles (500 kilometers) from state capital Juneau, the small community of Hughes finds itself in one of Alaska's most remote corners and thanks to its airport.
Airlines and Destinations
Today, Hughes Airport is served by only one airline, Wright Air Service. It is a local carrier providing service to and from four sites within Alaska: Fairbanks (FAI), Galena (GAL), Huslia, and Tanana. These connections are vital to the people of Hughes, even though many may be limited by a smaller route network.
How Many Passengers and Flights
Hughes Airport had 1,148 enplanements in the calendar year of 2007, an increase of 1% over the prior year's total of 1,137. Although these numbers may seem small, they demonstrate the airport's significance to local residents. Because it is off the road system and has a tiny population, consistent air service to Hughes is vital.
How to Get Here
Hughes Airport is a bit difficult to get into as it can only be accessed by air or boat. The nearest major airport is Fairbanks International Airport (FAI), about 275 miles to the northeast. Travelers can catch a short regional flight from Fairbanks to connect on Wright Air Service planes headed for Hughes. For those more courageous, Hughes can even be reached by boat as it is located on the Koyukuk River.
Parking
The airport has a very basic parking setup, with just the small lot in front of its existing terminal. There is no charge for the lot, and it has plenty of room to park private vehicles with some spaces set aside for larger commercial or charter aircraft. Visitors are generally able to find a good spot since the airport is on the smaller side and has pretty light traffic.
Transportation Prices
Transport to and from Hughes Airport prices may differ based on the travel mode. One-way tickets from Fairbanks to Hughes usually cost between $200 and $400, depending on seasonality and availability. Boat expenses can range depending on the vessel, number of passengers, and the route.
Terminal Layout
Hughes Airport itself is home to a single airside one-level passenger terminal, equipped with the facilities required for processing passengers and airline operations. A small waiting area, ticket counter, and basic baggage claim are part of the terminal. The setup works, but the terminal was designed to accommodate a relatively modest number of travelers using essentially just between-flight amenities that are also commonplace at smaller airports and missing what bigger city airports commonly provide.
Navigate the Airport
Because of its small size and basic layout, Hughes Airport is very easy for passengers to navigate around the terminal. At the airport, travelers can go straight to their ticketing counter and check-in for their flights. Then they can proceed to the departures lounge where, when their departure is ready for boarding, they can go to the appropriate gate. The airport is small enough that travelers should be able to get between the various parts of it without getting lost or turned around.
Getting Between Terminals
Hughes Airport has just one terminal, so passengers do not have to move between terminals. Airline operations and passenger services are all housed in a single building, allowing for a smooth flow to and from the gate.
Services and Amenities
As Hughes Airport is a smaller airport with fewer passengers, the services and amenities that it offers have an equally limited range. As a general rule, travelers can count on a basic air travel facility, including a small waiting lounge, ticket counter, and security check-in station (if needed), a few gates with jet bridges, and a basic baggage claim area. This terminal does not have any stores or other amenities like a restaurant; however, Hughes provides for the basic provisions of food and facilities.
Restaurants and Shops
A short drive from the airport, Hughes offers a smattering of down-to-earth places to eat and shop for travelers. Among them, a small newsstand and variety store stocked with frozen burritos, the only restaurant within 10 miles in any direction that offers take-out, and some businesses tailored to meet rural residents' needs. Yet, there are limited choices, so visitors should prepare if they need more complete services or amenities.
Security and Customs
Since Hughes Airport is a domestic airport which serves in-state destinations only, there are no security or customs checks. The screening and processing required for passengers on international flights won't be necessary for travel between the airport and nearby destinations. The latter notwithstanding, the airport still has basic security programs in place to uphold the safety of all passengers and employees.
Accessibility
Hughes Airport is handicap and special needs friendly. The terminal containing arrival and departure buildings, the access road network to the airport is equipped with lateral verges in order to obtain compliant stone mastic asphalt accessible ramps leading down from each of them. Parking areas have designated spaces and other accommodations to ensure all passengers can operate there without any obstacles. Care, assistance, and support are offered to passengers that may need more help in their journey, as trained airport staff provides guidance.
Travel Tips
- Book flights ahead of time, as seats and slots are not readily available during peak travel seasons.
- Pack light, as space and bag compartments in the terminal area are limited.
- Arrive earlier to the airport: check-in and boarding can take longer than at a larger airport.
- Plan for weather-related delays and cancellations, as Hughes is more prone to interruptions due to its remote location.
- Plan your trip through the airport to avoid delays and stress.
Knowing these tips can help travelers get the most out of their experience at Hughes Airport, connecting them to all that Alaska has to offer in a smooth and scenic way.