A Peek At Alpine Airstrip Airport: Your Stop for the Alaskan Wilderness
Introduction
In the heart of the Alaska tundra is the Alpine Airstrip Airport (IATA: DQH) which serves as an important transportation hub for its remote neighbors. Carved from the tundra in February 2000, this midsized airport has already proven to be a lifeline for some of Alaska's most rugged country, part of a critical connection between the North Slope and everywhere else.
Airlines and Destinations
It may not be as big or bustling as a major international hub, but the Alpine Airstrip Airport certainly serves an important role in providing access to areas in Alaska that do not have paved roads and rails. Most flights are via local and regional airlines, the most usual of them being Northern Air Cargo, which operates Boeing 737 freighter aircraft with added space on its planes to carry large amounts of cargo within Alaska.
Passengers and Flights
Being situated in this remote area, with few nearby settlements populating the vicinity, Alpine Airstrip Airport handles very little passenger traffic and consists mainly of flight operations. The airport averaged 20 flights a day and a total of 2,500 enplanements for the year in 2021.
How to Get Here
The Alpine Airstrip Airport is located in the Alaskan North Slope, so it is not that easy to reach. The closest true city is Anchorage, which is 500 miles up the road. The easiest way to get here is by air, as there are scheduled flights from Anchorage and other hubs available on several regional airlines.
Parking
Alpine Airstrip Airport has a small free parking lot for people who drive private vehicles. Due to limited on-street parking, motorists are asked to arrange travel plans in advance, especially at peak times.
Transportation Prices
The prices to travel to and from the Alpine Airstrip Airport differ by how you are travelling there, or in what proximity is your nearest large city. Rates for both flights and any ground transportation modes, such as car rentals or taxi services, can run expensive.
Terminal Layout
It has a small one-room terminal clubhouse for passenger and cargo processing. It is a basic terminal with a waiting area, restrooms, and a tiny snack bar.
Navigate the Airport
The Alpine Airstrip Airport is easy to navigate due in large part to its relative compactness. Terminal signage and wayfinding is easy to follow, with airport staff available for any questions or concerns.
Getting Between Terminals
The Alpine Airstrip Airport contains only one terminal, so passengers do not have to travel between terminals. Both arrivals and departures are processed at the same facility.
Services and Amenities
As a regional landing strip, the Alpine Airstrip Airport may not have all of the services or amenities as those found in larger airports; however, it does serve its primary focus of being a hub for tourists who are heading to and from their flights. Passenger amenities will consist of a modest waiting area, restrooms, and a bare-bones concession offering some snack items as well as beverages.
Restaurants and Shops
Given the airport's remoteness in Alpine Airstrip, on-site eating and shopping establishments are few. Passengers are advised to prepare in advance and pack any food, drink, or personal items they will need during their stay at the airport.
Security and Customs
It provides all necessary services for domestic aircraft flying within the United States, as it remains secure and under standard customs precautions. Arrive at the airport in time to complete security screening and processing requirements.
Accessibility
The terminal and surface facilities at Alpine Airstrip Airport are all adapted to meet accessibility standards, and the staff is trained to assist passengers with special needs.
Travel Tips
There are several key tips that you should consider when planning a visit to the Alpine Airstrip Airport:
- Book off-peak flights: Flying midweek or during the shoulder season can help you skip the busiest airport times.
- Travel with carry-on only: Each terminal has limited area and mode of transport, so traveling light will make your journey within the airport simplified.
- Wear Weather-Appropriate Clothing: The weather in Alaska can be intense, so you need to pack warm clothes and other gear as necessary.
- Pad your travel time: The fact that the airport is in a rather out-of-the-way spot can have an impact on travel times, so add extra minutes onto your journey for check-in, security, and any potential delays.