Togiak Airport

Togiak Airport - Your Gateway to Alaskan Wilderness

Introduction

Located in the heart of wilderness Alaska, Togiak Airport (IATA: TOG, ICAO: PATG) is an important lifeline for the nearby village. A critical transportation link for the local community, it is a state-owned airport serving public use. Whether you're starting out on an adventure or just passing by, this airport is a veritable living window into the tough tenacity and tremendous beauty of the Alaskan wilderness.

Airlines and Destinations

The village is served by regional airlines with flights mainly to Anchorage (ANC) and Dillingham, a gateway community roughly an hour away. Local airlines like Ravn Alaska and Grant Aviation offer vital air service to the neighboring communities. Despite the limited route network of this airport, it has an important role in guaranteeing access to that remote region.

Passenger and Flight Numbers

Togiak Airport is one of 14 state-owned airports in Alaska (USA) that the Federal Aviation Administration classifies as a regional airport, and Togiak was included only because it served at least 10,000 passenger boardings each year prior to being categorized under new rules enacted on October 1, 2008. Yet the airport has remained part of the National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems, as a commercial service - non-primary airport with between 2,500 and 10,000 enplanements every year.

How to Get Here

Getting to Togiak Airport can be a bit of an adventure, as it is only accessible by air or sea. The closest major airport is Dillingham Airport (DLG / PADL). The estimated driving time to the lodge is about 80 minutes. Travelers can make their way to Togiak from the regional hubs via regular flights or charter services. Others might prefer to travel by boat since Togiak is positioned on the beaches of Togiak Bay.

Parking

The limited parking at Togiak Airport means only a small lot is available to travelers who arrive in their private vehicles. Yet, as the island is off in a corner of Alaska and travel to other parts of the state usually requires airplane or boat trips (we arrived by air), there was not much need for huge parking lots.

Transportation Prices

These costs will vary based on the travel mode to and from Togiak Airport, as well as the point of origin. Regional flights from main hubs such as Anchorage or Dillingham usually run between $200 to $500 per person; however, charter services and private transportation can be costlier. When planning a visit to this area, visitors should include in their budget the admission fee along with other associated costs.

Terminal Layout

The Terminal at Togiak Airport is a small and efficient facility, catering to the needs of the local community. The amenities are limited to a waiting area, small ticketing counter, and restrooms. More informal than the glitz and glamor of bigger international terminals, it nevertheless performs its desired task of facilitating passenger connection to this far-flung Alaskan city.

Navigate the Airport

It is easy to navigate through the airport as it only has one small terminal. Travelers can easily find the check-in desks, security checkpoint, and boarding gates. Signage is simple, and airport staff are readily available to answer questions or address concerns.

Getting Between Terminals

Because Togiak Airport is a one-terminal facility, there are no individual terminals to navigate. Passengers will be able to go from check-in directly to the boarding gates in one seamless movement, and all service facilities (e.g., shops) are already located only a step away in this compact space.

Services and Amenities

Even though it is a smaller airport, you will find everything that you need here. Expect a small pre-departure area, basic restrooms, and possibly a vending machine or a check-in stand. The airport has more of an essential air transportation to and from the remote village focus.

Restaurants and Shops

As a small, remote airport, there are not many facilities for dining or shopping. There will be a very limited offering, such as a small concession area or vending machines within the terminal, but no full-service restaurants and retail establishments at this facility. The rule here is: you can prepare your food and pack them with you as you visit.

Security and Customs

Togiak Airport is a domestic facility with usual security measures. Passengers will have to go through the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoint, and shoes, belts, and carry-ons will be screened. The airport is only served by domestic flights, so there are no customs or international arrival procedures.

Accessibility

It is the goal of Togiak Airport to meet or exceed all D.O.T. (Department of Transportation) standards for accessibility by persons with disabilities and special needs. It is designed to be accessible with ramps and designated parking, as well as assistance available upon request within the terminal. Passengers requiring special assistance are advised to get in touch with the airport or their airline for a hassle-free journey.

Travel Tips

• Flights should be booked months in advance: As the airport is only being operated sporadically, and because it will take a lot of strain off travel to St. Helena from Europe via South Africa (which has its own rampant COVID-19 problems), book really early for the best prices.
• Dress for the conditions: The weather in Togiak can be harsh with wind, cold temperatures, and rain or snow common. Wear proper warm clothing and bring cold weather gear.
• Carry Important Supplies: As there are very few facilities and services, the passenger will have to carry all eatables or books, etc. which are necessary for them during traveling.
• Flexibility: Be aware that flights in and out of Togiak may be weather-delayed or cancelled. As with any travel at the moment, read up, get ready for some shifting schedules, and have a Plan B.
• A one-of-a-kind experience: Visiting Togiak Airport is a unique opportunity to get acclimated with the rugged beauty and simple lifestyle of rural Alaska, for which there are so few villages left unchanged. Let the journey be more overwhelming and joyful.