Port Walter Seaplane Base

The 2,000-word article about the Port Walter Seaplane Base (IATA: PWR) is located here.

This Story is part of an ongoing series on Seaplane Bases in General Aviation. Title: A visit to the Port Walter (Akhiok) Floatplane Base located geographically below Sitka, AK

Introduction

Hidden in the remotest Alaska, the Port Walter Seaplane Base (IATA: PWR) offers an experience unlike any other. With so many airports spread throughout Alaska, PWR is best known for its natural beauty - and one of the workhorse hubs that keeps access possible to remote communities. But for anyone who flies, is fascinated by aviation or just always wanted to give it a try...a visit to the Port Walter Seaplane Base would be something special.

Airlines and Destinations

Port Walter Seaplane Base is a private-use seaplane base located at Port Walter, in the city of Sitka[1], Alaska with no scheduled airline service. Commercial airline services are not scheduled at this airport, but other air transportation providers use it for sightseeing tours, fishing charters, and fueling of important supply flights to villages around the Snag.

Passengers and Flight Numbers

Because PWR is a very remote location encompassed by the security environment, passenger and flight data are not as readily available. That being said, it also serves a critical role in the region's transportation network by providing general aviation and enabling economic opportunity. The number of flights may vary, depending on seasonal needs (e.g., peak fishing season or tourism seasons).

How to Get Here

Getting into the Port Walter Seaplane Base is an adventure in itself. Named after its remote location, the only way to access this airport is by seaplane or boat as it has no road links with the mainland. Visitors can book private seaplane charters or catch a spot on scheduled flights from either Sitka Rocky Gutierrez Airport (PASI) or Petersburg James A. Johnson Airport (PAPG). The seaplane base has a passenger-only dock for boats coming in, and the airport is very close by.

Parking

As Port Walter Seaplane Base is one-of-a-kind, there are no traditional parking facilities available to keep your car safe during the time of renting an aircraft. Seaplanes and other planes can dock on the water, being parked directly if need be (no designated parking lots). On the water, visitors can use full-service dock facilities managed by the airport, as charter and tour guests may arrange to have their ground transportation arranged through local operators.

Transportation Prices

Vehicles and bicycles are not allowed on the island, so visitors have to expect additional charges for transport to and from the Port Walter Seaplane Base grounds. But booking seaplane charters and renting private boats is very expensive, they cost from hundreds to thousands of dollars depending on the size of the aircraft or boat, number of passengers, and the travelling distance. These can help keep the overall transportation expenses down for those seeking less expensive ways to make the journey by (potentially) booking seats on commercial flights or joining group tours.

Terminal Layout

There is no traditional airport terminal building that can be found in Port Walter Seaplane Base. Rather, the airfield infrastructure is oriented toward its water-operated component with docks and moorings set out on a waterside area of Lake Washington along with an administrative building for support of seaplane operations. Those waiting for a flight, as well as the pilots themselves, will be able to find their way directly from the water into some basic amenities - down below, halfway between you and that man staring at his pole.

Navigate the Airport

How to get in and out of The Port Walter Seaplane Base itself has a basic design - simply follow the path. Visitors who arrive either by seaplane or boat can simply follow the short footpath to access the administrative building and docking facilities. There is signage, and someone there to help you with any questions or requests for assistance. With its small size and absence of convoluted terminal structures, it is straightforward for passengers to navigate the airport.

Getting Between Terminals

Since there are no multi-terminals at the Port Walter Seaplane Base, "movement between terminals" is a non-applicable term. There is one seaplane terminal facility for airport operations and all passenger services. Travelers will only have to make their way from the docks or moorings through an empty space open on foot leading directly to cabins/administrative office for any of these services and amenities.

Services and Amenities

Given that the Port Walter Seaplane Base is a rather small airport, in terms of how busy it gets and also relatively to most other public airports (the largest props can only take 9 pax), services may be limited. There will be a waiting area for airport or aircraft service and a private pilot's lounge where pilots can use as they see fit, similar to an FBO with basic bathroom facilities. There may also be a small admin office, managing the work needed specifically on the property (possibly including conducting interviews from time-to-time) as well as being able to handle visitors. Though limited in offerings, the service range is there to facilitate air transportation first and passenger pleasantries second.

Restaurants and Shops

There are no dedicated restaurants or shops in the small, remote airport. As there are no dining or shopping options at the Port Walter Seaplane Base, visitors should plan to dine in the nearby town of Port Walter (accessible by boat or seaplane). However, the airport does not attract enough trade to justify building such shops there.

Security and Customs

The Port Walter Seaplane Base is not a large airport, so its security measures are much simpler than at major international hubs. If your travel takes you though a point of entry from outside the US, then you will be required to go through customs at that other POE before proceeding on to PWR. Airside security is designed for the safe operation of seaplane/boat flights with minimal passenger screening and processing facilities.

Accessibility

Many of the sites in question, as you might have guessed from some images floating around on Twitter (the undigested data!), would ideally cater to more seaplane and small aircraft operations like that at Port Walter Seaplane Base. The infrastructure of the airport itself may not be as friendly towards disabled or handicapped travelers compared to some larger, more mature airports, but their staff are going to do everything in their power and then some. Visitors should inform the airport in advance of any access requirements so they can accommodate you and make your visit as smooth as possible.

Travel Tips

Here are some important travel tips to consider when planning a trip from the Port Walter Seaplane Base.

• Travel light: Limited transport, plus a lack of the typical airport terminal, will make things much easier if there are fewer suitcases to check in.
• Dress for the weather: While Anchorage is not as cold and snowy during winter months, travelers should be prepared with layers to stay warm at the airport or if you venture outside.
• BYOF (Bring Your Own Food and Water): The dining options at Port Walter Seaplane Base are very limited, so it's smart to pack a few snacks and drinks that will get you through your time at the airport.
• Pre-arrange transportation: You should organize your mode of arrival, whether it is a seaplane or boat taxi, in advance to guarantee you book and save time, and avoid having missed connections from the airport.
• Be proactive: Keep in mind the remote location of Port Walter Seaplane Base and expect delays or schedule changes. Be adventurous and flexible in your travel plans.

We hope that you will be able to take advantage of these day-to-day operations at Port Walter Seaplane Base, an elite and world-class paradise located amidst the magnificent Alaskan wilderness.