Akhiok Airport

Akhiok Airport: Your Path to Wilderness Alaska

Introduction

Akhiok Airport (IATA: AKK, ICAO: PAKH) is an important link for the tiny community it serves in the heart of Kodiak Island district in Alaska. Prominently serving the village of Akhiok, it is well a cornerstone in community life, offering invaluable access to services and supplies that local residents depend on for their day-to-day routine needs.

Airlines and Destinations

Currently, there is only one non-stop flight from Akhiok Airport to Kodiak (ADQ). It is a 45-minute, 85-mile island-hopping flight on Island Air Services, which has been serving the Akhiok community for over three decades. Island Air Services also offers unscheduled charter flights, providing travelers a way to tailor their travel plans.

Number of PAX and Number of Flights

From the National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems for 2011–2015, which categorized it as a general aviation facility, Akhiok had 1,220 enplanements in calendar year 2008, and this was increased to over five thousand passengers boarded by Horizon Air following its entry into the Essential Air Service program between October and November. Although these numbers may not seem impressive, they underline how crucial the airport is to Akhiok. The airport is a general aviation facility, meaning that it does not fit within the commercial service category of at least 2,500 enplanements per year.

How to Get Here

Getting to Akhiok Airport is just a short process, as it is located only 1 nautical mile (2 km) southwest of the central business district of Akhiok. This airport can only be reached by air, as it has no roads connecting it to other parts of the island or the mainland.

Parking

The airport provides minimal parking space for its passengers. It has a handful of covered spots, but the size limits its capacity. Visitors are encouraged to carefully review their transportation plans and consider options like being dropped off or taking local transit.

Transportation Price

The cost of traveling to and from Akhiok Airport can vary depending on the transport provider, but prices are quite comparable. Flights with Island Air Services are scheduled and subsidized by the U.S. Department of Transportation's Essential Air Service program, offering reliable access to affordable air travel for local residents. For those who need more flexibility, there is the option to purchase charter flights at an additional fee.

Terminal Layout

Akhiok Airport is small and is a single-terminal airport. It contains facilities like a waiting room, cargo handling area, and other such amenities. Even though it's quite small, the airport aims to give all travelers a relaxed and efficient journey.

Navigate the Airport

The Akhiok Airport is relatively small, so it's not hard to figure out where you need to go. Passengers are also informed to check-in, clear security, and reach their gate with enough time. Airport staff are on hand to help you and answer any airport-related questions.

Getting Between Terminals

There is only one terminal at Akhiok Airport, so passengers do not need to pass between terminals. Its entire official name is Akhiok Airport, and it operates only a single terminal building for arrivals and departures.

Services and Amenities

If you are traveling through Akhiok Airport, then it is safe to say that this small airport does not have much (if any) in the way of services and amenities offered by a major hub. The terminal will include a waiting area, minimal restroom facilities, and limited concessions for passengers. The airport also provides ground transportation services, including taxis or local shuttles to help travelers get close to their final destinations.

Restaurants and Shops

As the airport is small in size and not urbanized, there are no specific restaurants or shops at the terminal premises. There will be no food, beverages, or personal items available for purchase, so travelers are asked to plan ahead and bring any snacks, refreshments, etc. they anticipate needing during their time at the airport due to long wait times, as there is also a lack of seating in that restricted area near security.

Security and Customs

Being a domestic airport, Akhiok Airport does not have dedicated customs and international security checkpoints. Those traveling to and from the airport will be subject to standard Transportation Security Administration (TSA) security measures, including baggage and personal item searches.

Accessibility

Akhiok Airport aims to accommodate the needs of all their passengers and provide them with a pleasant experience. The amenities at the terminal building are designed to be inclusive for all passengers, including those with disabilities, and the airport strives to keep their travel experience as comfortable and convenient as possible.

Travel Tips

• Reserve your flights early — And speaking of that limited flight schedule at the airport, it can also sell out quickly during busier times of year.
• Pack luggage lightly and wisely because the facility has only a few lockers for baggage and no place available for repacking at the airport.
• Similar to the size of your departure plane, allow for some extra time at the airport in case you get turned around trying to check in or clear security.
• Expect weather-related delays and cancellations; Alaska's unique climate may impose operational impacts.
• Research the layout, amenities, and services available at Akhiok Airport in advance of your trip so you know what to expect as far as where everything is located within the terminal building; this helps make finding direction easier once inside the airport premises and saves time waiting around hoping someone can direct you towards something else they were simply pointing toward without much explanation beforehand.