Circle City Airport: Providing Access to Alaska's Interior
Introduction
Circle City Airport (IATA: IRC), also known as Circle City or New Circle Airport, is a public use airport located in the community of Circle City, which is named after Circle Hot Springs. Owned and operated as a public, general aviation airport in the Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area, this airport is classified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems for 2019–2023. It provides an essential air service to rural communities throughout Alaska and other regional destinations outside state borders.
Airlines and Destinations
It is a community which has only one airline, whose flights are subsidized by the Essential Air Service program. It is known as a little city with big connections, allowing passengers to connect onto flights at bigger hubs like Fairbanks International Airport (FAI) and Anchorage's Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC).
Passengers & Flights
Federal Aviation Administration records say Circle City Airport had 303 passenger boardings (enplanements) in 2008, 367 enplanements in 2009, and 378 enplanements in 2010. Sited as a GA airport, it still provides vital points of connectivity in the regional air transportation infrastructure.
How to Get Here
Circle City Airport is located right off of the Steese Highway, making for convenient road access. The airport is accessible by vehicle for visitors throughout the region, including from Steele Creek, Badger, and Farmers Loop. For master air travel, the top cutting-edge of Aniak Airport is IRC, also known as its ICAO code PACR.
Parking
Guests who need to park during their stay can take advantage of the airport's on-site parking and are allocated an available space on a first-come-first-served basis, so you may not get as lucky tomorrow if it is already mostly full today. It has free parking, so it is good for those coming or going to the Circle City.
Transportation Prices
The services available for getting to or away from the airport are few, but visitors can expect inexpensive rates when it comes to taxi and shuttle service. Prices vary by service and location.
Terminal Layout
Circle City Airport Terminal & Facilities
Circle City Regional Airport has a single airport terminal building, which provides facilities for passenger processing and departure. The layout of the terminal is intended to create a smooth, time-saving experience for passengers.
Navigate the Airport
At an almost minimalist size, Circle City Airport is quite efficient for passengers to get through. Travelers follow signage and wayfinding cues from the parking area to the terminal through each checkpoint.
Getting Between Terminals
Because Circle City Airport only has one terminal, passengers will not have to commute between other terminals. The station, baggage claim, and parking are on the same level for arrivals and departures.
Services and Amenities
While the airport is not full-service, passengers arriving there should be able to use basic facilities such as washrooms and a small waiting area. Regardless, there are no on-property dining or shopping, but the community of Circle features a variety of locally owned options.
Restaurants and Shops
Located within a short distance of the airport, Circle has hosts of dining and shopping available to travelers. Guests can taste the local culture by having something to eat in a traditional hotel and shopping at special stores.
Security and Customs
Circle City Airport adheres to the same security standards as domestic flights in much of the U.S. Passengers should arrive at the airport in time to allow for appropriate screening of baggage and personnel before scheduled departure.
Accessibility
The airport terminal and facilities are designed for accessibility and to serve the needs of disabled travelers. There will be accessible parking, pathways leading to the platforms, and restrooms available for all passengers.
Travel Tips
Remember when considering your options for booking a trip to Circle City that there are few scheduled flights coming in or out, and the area is not close to anywhere. Travelers should plan accordingly and make way for possible transportation delays or cancellations due to weather.