Sitka Rocky Gutierrez Airport: Your Port to Alaska's Bewitching Archipelago
Introduction
Sitka Rocky Gutierrez Airport (IATA: SIT, ICAO: PASI) is the primary air access point for Sitka, which lies on Alaska's impressive temperate rainforest coastline. This small hub serves as a crucial launching point, providing the only regularly scheduled service to and from this isolated corner of North America via year-round Alaska Airlines flights (and seasonal Delta Connection) two hours south in Seattle.
Airlines and Destinations
Sitka Rocky Gutierrez Airport has one terminal with jetway and year-round as well as seasonal air service. Alaska Airlines serves flights to Anchorage and Seattle/Tacoma all year, while Delta Connection service by SkyWest Airlines has seasonal operations that are also heading for Seattle/Tacoma.
Passengers and Flights
Sitka Rocky Gutierrez Airport (IATA: SIT, ICAO: PASI) is a state-owned public use airport located west of the central business district of Sitka,[1] a city and borough in Alaska that has no roads going to it. The airport sees about 63 aircraft operations per day, of which 43% are air taxis and the rest is general aviation, scheduled commercial flights, and military.
How to Get Here
The Ride, Sitka's very own public transportation system, makes it easy to get around in town and between the airport. The airport itself offers a bus service from the local area, and certain stops are near popular tourist sites so you can get there easily by using these services.
Parking
Travelers can opt for on-site parking with both short-term and long-term options.
Transportation Prices
The Ride, Sitka's public transportation system, provides cheap alternatives to travel within the city and even runs between the town and the airport!
Terminal Layout
It is home to one terminal with a jetway, making all the operations easy for passengers.
Navigate the Airport
With a small-scale size and a single passenger terminal, it's quick and simple to get around the airport. To assist with navigating through the terminal, signage and wayfinding directs passengers to their gates or other important locations.
Getting Between Terminals
A single terminal means there is no need to shuffle between different terminals at Sitka Rocky Gutierrez Airport.
Services and Amenities
Basic services such as restrooms, seating, and Wi-Fi are available at the airport. There are also information kiosks and staff ready to help passengers.
Restaurants and Shops
Although the airport has minimal dining, retail, and shop options available for travelers, you can expect some small local shops or eateries within the terminal reflecting Sitka's unique personality.
Security and Customs
This airport complies with the US security protocols for domestic flights (although as an international traveler I was still patted down). There are no international flights, so there are no customs services.
Accessibility
With a ramp, an elevator, and specific parking places for passengers with disabilities, the airport is completely accessible.
Travel Tips
Due to the limited options for transportation and accommodations in Sitka, especially during peak seasons, make sure you plan ahead and have everything pre-booked. If you want to ensure that you get the best out of your time and see all the sites, then it is recommended to book a guided tour. Bring layers and pack rain gear as the weather in Sitka's temperate rainforest can change rapidly.