Beluga Airport

Beluga Airport: Your Pass to Alaskan Backcountry

Introduction

Located in the heart of Alaska's Kenai Peninsula, Beluga Airport (IATA: BVU) is a private-use airport that provides crucial transport access for area communities. The airport has been in operation since July of 1962 and is considered an essential air service for the Basin Operating Area, with flights currently operated by ConocoPhillips.

Airlines and Destinations

Except for the scheduled commercial passenger services, Beluga Airport is used by private and charter flights. Oil and gas companies are the primary users of that airport along with private aviation aircraft owners/operators. The airport has few scheduled flights, though it can take small private planes and larger corporate jets.

Total Passengers and Flights on Different Routes

Beluga Airport has 2,541 enplanements in FY2008, 2,410 in FY2009, and most recently shown as having a decrease to only 2,144 passengers boarding - an outlier amongst Anchorage area airports. (FAA report of Enplanements for CY2010 & Aircraft Movements (PDF)) Though passenger numbers have ebbed slightly over time, the airport operates as an essential component of regional transportation infrastructure.

How to Get Here

Beluga Airport is located in the coastal town of Beluga, 150 miles southwest of Anchorage. The closest major airport is Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (IATA: ANC), approximately a 2.5-hour drive or flight from Beluga. Transportation for visitors to and from the airport is provided by private transport, coach, or taxi.

Parking

There is a limited parking infrastructure in place for visitors and employees at the Beluga Airport. The airport has its own parking space just next to the terminal building, which is very handy for those who are arriving or returning from their trip.

Transportation Price

As it is a private airport, you will have to get in touch with the airlines that operate from this Airport or contact your travel agent, as there are no other detailed information on commuting costs. Contact the airline or charter service for pricing inquiries.

Terminal Layout

At Beluga Airport, the private and charter facilities at this passenger terminal include everything they will need for a relaxing arrival in Alaska. The terminal has a lobby for passenger waiting, an office space used by the ferry's administration team (center to right), and a concession stand "Cafe Santé," located in Ground Zero Cafe, which is operated by Jefferson County favorite Green Eyeshade Coffee as their second location. There are two parallel runways, 1/19 and 9/27, that are next to the terminal building.

Navigate the Airport

Beluga Airport is really easy to get around as it is such a small airport for private-use landing only. The terminal building is easily accessed by passengers who can go directly to their aircraft. There is signage and airport staff on site to help with any inquiries or directions.

Getting Between Terminals

Beluga Airport has just one terminal with no requirement for transferring between terminals. The same facility houses all arriving and departing travelers.

Services and Amenities

As a refuel stop, Beluga Airport does not provide many services and facilities. The terminal building has a small concession stand selling snacks and drinks. No other retail or dining exists on the property. The airport also doesn't have passenger lounges or other luxury services in the terminal.

Restaurants and Shops

The Beluga Airport terminal is small and private, so there are no restaurants or stores inside. Visitors will have to travel elsewhere for dining and shopping – probably in the town of Beluga (pop. 19) or farther into Alaska's Kenai Peninsula Region.

Security and Customs

This is only a private-use airport and lacks the service for security and customs procedures that bigger airline airports offer. There will be simple body and security checks for passengers along with their baggage at the time of boarding. As the airport only serves domestic US flights, there are no customs facilities.

Accessibility

At Beluga Airport, passenger support for those with disabilities has been taken into account. The terminal building and immediate areas are accessible, with available designated parking along with ramps for access. The airport has staff available to assist any passenger who needs help in getting through a crowded area.

Travel Tips

• Private or charter flight bookings need to be done well ahead of time, considering the kind of services the airport has to offer.
• Have enough time to get checked in and go through security checks before your flight.
• Travel lightly, as there is limited space for luggage.
• Also, keep in mind the remoteness and wild aspects of Alaska, and pack accordingly.
• Know the layout of the airport and what services are available to have a seamless, stress-free journey.