Shishmaref Airport, Your Arctic Gateway to Alaska
Introduction
Deep in the Alaskan wilderness lies Shishmaref Airport (IATA: SHH), an important regional transportation link for the village of Shishmaref. The airport, situated one nautical mile (1.85 km) south of the central business district of a tiny town and providing an important airlink to the outside world for that community, is nestled between the intercontinental Arctic colossus cities of Nome and Barrow.
Airlines and Destinations
Shishmaref Airport (SHH) is a small airport with domestic flights only. Still, two carriers are flying to and from the airport today. Its longest non-stop route is 75 miles (121 km) long and takes just under an hour to Nome (IATA: OME).
Passengers and Flights
Shishmaref Airport served 5,040 commercial passenger boardings (enplanements) in calendar year 2006 and one fewer enplanement the following year. This is a commercial service - non-primary airport by the National Transportation Safety Board.
How to Get Here
The Shishmaref Airport is situated on Sarichef Island, which lies in the Chukchi Sea off the coast of Alaska just north of the Bering Strait and five miles west of Goodhope Bay. Shishmaref is not connected to the outside world by road, and therefore you can only get there or leave it by light aircraft.
Parking
Shishmaref Airport is located a good 2-mile trek from town and restaurants, but there are no parking facilities. Passengers have organized to-and-from airport transportation or private vehicle parking, with limited options available.
Transportation Price
Due to the remote location, transportation fees from Shishmaref Airport can be variable. Chartered flights, boat transportation, or other specialized services may be required, which can be rather pricey for visitors.
Terminal Layout
The airport is home to a single terminal building, making it easy to understand. The terminal has the required spaces for passenger check-ins, security screenings, and boarding.
Navigate the Airport
Shishmaref Airport (SHH) is small enough that it's not a difficult place to navigate. Check-in to the boarding gates is an easy one-way passage, facilitated by ample signage and a clear linear terminal configuration.
Getting Between Terminals
Shishmaref Airport is a one-terminal facility, so the only time you will have to move around terminals is if you need to connect between an international and domestic flight.
Services and Amenities
There are very few services or amenities at the airport; basically just a waiting room with bathrooms and a small snack bar. The offerings are limited due to the remote location and small size of the airport.
Restaurants and Shops
The airport does not offer restaurants or shops at the terminal building, and customers are encouraged to prepare with food, drink, or any other items they may need while traveling.
Security and Customs
Shishmaref Airport is a state-owned, public-use airport which requires adherence to domestic travel regulations of the United States. Before passengers can board any flights, they will need to pass through screening and security.
Accessibility
The airport is built ADA compliant and offers ramps, disability parking spaces near exits (please ring to ensure a spot), and help upon request.
Travel Tips
Traveling to Shishmaref Airport takes some planning and travel advice because it is in an isolated, rugged area. Come properly dressed for the Arctic weather, bring any needed supplies, and be flexible on your travel dates because flight schedules are naturally subject to influencing factors like climate.