Coldfoot Airport

Turn to Coldfoot Airport, Everyman, for Easy Access into the Alaskan Bush

Introduction

Located deep in the heart of Alaska's Interior, Coldfoot Airport (IATA: CXF) is an essential connection to the outside world for remote settlements across northwest Yukon-Koyukuk. The airport opened its gates on January 1971 and is therefore a midsized airport and an important link for the rough nature of the north. Coldfoot Airport offers an experience you will not soon forget, whether you are on the beginning part of your journey or just passing through.

Airlines and Destinations

The Coldfoot Airport primarily handles private and charter flights coming to the settlement of the same name, along with servicing those visiting this expansive wilderness location. Though no commercial flights are currently scheduled, the airport's single runway (2/20) is capable of handling a range of aircraft from light private planes to larger turboprop and jet types.

People and Flights

Because the airport is so small, serves a relatively uncommon operation, and is isolated in that it's located with no nearby destinations for most people, we were unable to get precise head counts of total passengers deplaned (flights) from the runways. Despite its small size, Coldfoot Airport is indispensable to traveling in the area, delivering critical services and access to some of Alaska's most beautiful wildernesses that attract adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts globally.

How to Get Here

Getting to Coldfoot Airport is an adventure in itself, as it's located near the bottom of Alaska over 300 air miles north of Fairbanks. One of the easily missed aspects of Alaska is its airport—quite literally one can access it through driving on some iconic and arduous roads for hours, such as Dalton Highway. Alternatively, anyone in need of a quicker way can book flights to the airport on private or chartered jets.

Parking

Parking is limited to private and charter aircraft at Coldfoot Airport. It is advisable to prepare in advance when visiting by road here because an area near the airport terminal for parking does exist, but not too large and can get filled up during its rush hours.

Transportation Price

It is a remote airport with differing options for transportation and pricing. Depending on your location and the size of your group, ground transfers may have to be arranged as private or chartered, which will also incur costs for transportation. You should always take care to do due research and plan your transport well ahead before thinking of making this journey as easy and cheap.

Terminal Layout

The small terminal building still does its job of serving the needs of both locals and travelers passing through. It contains basic services like a waiting area, restrooms, and a snack stand—just the essentials for those simply making their way through.

Navigate the Airport

The small size of the airport and minimal extra facilities make it easy to navigate your way at Coldfoot Airport. There is good signage within the terminal and a user-friendly layout. Passengers will be able to reach the check-in areas, security controls, as well as gates swiftly.

Getting Between Terminals

Since there is only one terminal at Coldfoot Airport, this obviates the need to switch planes between separate terminals. The terminal building is small with all facilities available conveniently to the passengers.

Services and Amenities

Coldfoot Airport may only have basic services, but those should be enough to get travelers started. This has restrooms, a small concession stand (barely), and the seating seems to be pretty limited. The airport also provides limited ground transportation coordination, helping arriving guests secure private or chartered ground transport for their remaining journeys.

Restaurants and Shops

Passengers who pass by the airport can avail of limited snacks, drinks, and light refreshments in the concession stand. Instead, for those who want a deeper taste of dining and shopping life on the island, eating out in Los Angeles County or buying anything topside will involve clearing security.

Security and Customs

Being a domestic airport in the United States, you are to follow standard security protocols and procedures. As part of the process, passengers will go through a screening and security check before they get into the boarding area. Since the airport does not operate international flights, there are no customs or other such processes to be completed.

Accessibility

We try to meet the requirements of all passengers at Coldfoot Airport. The terminal building and amenities are designed to be accessible, with raised walkways, handicapped parking spots, and designated restrooms. But guests with disabilities should plan ahead and request assistance if needed, as the location is remote.

Travel Tips

• Flights and means of traveling within Alaska tend to be limited, so plan ahead.
• Dress for the weather — Alaskan summers can be unpredictable and cold, so make sure you have layers.
• Get to know the layout and services available at Coldfoot, as its lack of amenities means you can make the most of your time there.
• Due to the remoteness of its location, one should be prepared in case there are potential delays or disruptions due to bad weather.
• Coldfoot Airport and the Alaska wilderness that surrounds it are unique enough, making for a truly memorable travel experience.