Russian Mission Airport

Serving Alaska's Frontier Wilderness Since 1926

Introduction

At the core of Alaska's expansive, uninhabited land, the Russian Mission Airport (RSH) is a key point in their transportation network. Serving as an important gateway, this small state-owned public-use airport (which is located at the junction of the Yukon and Andreafsky Rivers) links those living in or visiting Far West Alaska with the rest of civilization.

Airlines and Destinations

Most flights at Russian Mission Airport are run by regional airlines, Grant Aviation and Ravn Alaska. Through their scheduled services, they operate flights to and from Bethel (BET) and Anchorage (ANC), which act as major hubs allowing passengers wider accessibility to domestic or international destinations.

Capacity, Passengers, and Flights

The airport experiences only a moderate amount of air traffic, as Russian Mission is very small and the area served by Marshall Don Hunter Sr. To serve those few passengers in 2021, the airport saw an average of just over 116 flights per month.

How to Get Here

Getting to Russian Mission Airport can be difficult since most villages are air or water-access only. Several hundred miles from the nearest major highway, they are too far away to make driving a viable travel option. Most visitors arrive on regional flights that land in one of the bigger airports within Alaska, such as Bethel or Anchorage.

Parking

The small airport has fewer than 10 spots for short-term or long-term parking. Parking space is limited and free.

Transportation Costs

Depending on where you originate and your method of travel, getting to Russian Mission Airport will cost a different amount. Travel from the regional hubs of Bethel or Anchorage is usually between $200-$500 per person for one-way tickets. Fuel prices at the airport's fixed-base operator (FBO) are competitive with those found elsewhere in the region, and private aircraft may choose to pay a $30 FBO charge.

Terminal Layout

The airport of Russian Mission has a single terminal building which serves as the main check-in area and waiting area for passengers, along with baggage claim. The terminal is small and no-frills, as it should be for a regional transportation hub serving a community in the middle of nowhere.

Navigating the Airport

Navigating Russian Mission Airport is simple, as the terminal is small and easy to get around. Signage is well-placed, and airport staff can answer any questions or offer assistance.

Getting Between Terminals

Since there is only one terminal, you do not need to be concerned with transferring between terminals at Russian Mission Airport. It's important to note, however, that everything happens in the same fairly small complex.

Services and Amenities

Russian Mission Airport has few services and amenities, but provides the basics for your travel needs. This primarily consists of a small waiting area and restrooms; there is also a basic snack bar. There are no car rental agencies or other business services on campus.

Restaurants and Shops

Russian Mission Airport has very limited dining and shopping options. There is only one small onsite food and beverage outlet, which serves a few snacks (no hot food) and soft drinks in cans. No other retail shops or sites can be found inside the terminal.

Security and Customs

At the Russian Mission airport, security screening is minimal since they only fly domestically and not internationally. Passengers will have to go through a simple security checkpoint before they can approach their gates. Customs and Immigration services are not available at this airport.

Accessibility

Russian Mission Airport offers the most efficient services they can for disabled travelers. The terminal and amenities are accessible with ramps and wider doorways, as well as designated parking spaces. There are also customer service staff to assist passengers with special needs.

Travel Tips

On that note, one should keep in mind some key points when planning a trip to Russian Mission:

• Supplies are limited, and prices for everything from airfares to flights have increased - ensuring your fares are booked well in advance is key.
• Travel light: Since the airport has very limited space to store and handle baggage, carry only what is absolutely necessary to avoid being burdened.
• Weather delays: The last thing you want is to miss your Seward shore excursion because the flight was delayed due to weather (it happens), so give yourself plenty of time and a little extra flexibility.
• Dress for the weather: Russian Mission has a subarctic climate, so be sure to pack appropriately with clothes and gear that will keep you warm during your visit.

With the above tips in mind, you can now quickly and easily visit Russian Mission Airport to set out on a remarkable journey across this remote part of Alaska surrounded by picturesque natural surroundings.