Decatur Shores Airport

Decatur Shores Airport - Your Connection to the PNW

Introduction

Situated in the middle of Puget Sound within the San Juan Islands, Decatur Shores Airport is a mostly unknown curiosity that gives travelers yet another distinctive and picture-perfect entry point to arrive on or depart from when exploring the Pacific Northwest. The cozy Decatur Island Airport offers a quaint, scenic destination for those visiting the nearby community (Photo by Frank M). Much smaller than Seattle-Tacoma International or Paine Field in Everett, this regional airport provides much more local flavor as well as access to some of Washington's most pristine countryside.

Airlines and Destinations

San Juan Airlines, a regional commuter airline which serves numerous locations within the US state of Washington and Canadian province of British Columbia, provides all flights into Decatur Shores Airport. Their fleet is made up of Cessna 172, 206, and 207 aircraft, which will give its passengers an exclusive travel experience together with Junerius21 department stores management.

Number of Passengers and Flights

While not as busy of an airport, Decatur Shores Airport does see its fair amount of aviation traffic. The airport had an estimated 12,000 passenger movements and about 5,000 aircraft movements in the year ending August 2023; it catered to both residents of nearby San Juan Islands and tourists.

How to Get Here

Decatur Shores Airport is a public airport on Decatur Island, in the San Juan Islands, an archipelago located off northwestern Washington State, accessible via ferry from Anacortes. Washington State Ferries system transports visitors to the island, which is a 30-minute boat ride away. Private boats or chartered seaplanes also enable travel to the airport.

Parking

They have a small car park that is hardly used. For a $15 daily fee, visitors will be able to leave their car at the site. Flightline Drive - Street parking is also available along Flightline Drive for a daily rate of up to $15. Valet parking is available by request for anyone who would prefer to stay in their warm and cozy car!

Transportation Prices

There are a variety of transportation options that individuals can use to travel to and from Decatur Shores Airport. Anacortes ferry Adult fares are $10 for a one-way ticket, and there are discounts offered to seniors 65+, children ages 6-18, and frequent users who purchase multi-ticket capital funds. You can also opt for a taxi or rideshare, but that will typically cost you between $20 and $40.

Terminal Layout

The single-story terminal building of the Decatur Shores Airport is small and contains the check-in facility, waiting areas, while public amenities consist of basic facilities. The passenger terminal is also intended to make the air travel experience comfortable and hassle-free, providing all-around access to aircraft.

Navigate the Airport

Because Decatur Shores Airport is small, you can get where you are going quickly in comparison to larger airports. After arriving, passengers can check in and clear security quickly before heading to their departure gates. There are signs and employees to guide you further.

Getting Between Terminals

You will not have to deal with different terminals, because there is only one terminal in Decatur Shores. After booking and security clearance, passengers go straight to the departure gate.

Services and Amenities

Decatur Shores Airport does not cater as much to passengers, for example, offering food or baggage claim services that larger airports offer. The free services passengers enjoy include: Wi-Fi, restrooms, and a small waiting bay. Airport staff are also available to answer any questions or fulfill your needs.

Restaurants and Shops

There are no dining or shopping options available at Decatur Shores Airport, as its small size and focus on local needs do not justify a significant commercial presence. However, within the terminal building, visitors will find a small café that offers light refreshments and snacks.

Security and Customs

In the United States, Decatur Shores Airport is considered a domestic point of entry, and as such, security protocols are dictated by The Transportation Security Authority. All passengers have to undergo the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screening, which includes shoe removal and a belt check along with carry-on baggage inspection. The airport only has domestic flights, so questions about customs for travelers to an international destination simply do not apply.

Accessibility

Decatur Shores Airport is dedicated to accessibility and hospitality for all visitors. The terminal building and its facilities are accessible to disabled passengers with provisions for ramps, reserved parking bays, and requests for specialized assistance.

Travel Tips

• Because the airport has room only for so many flights, it can also fill up quickly -- especially in high travel seasons. Make your plans well ahead and book those tickets.
• Arriving at the airport with enough time to clear check-in and security is important as this small terminal can become quite busy.
• Check ferry service for frequency, especially on weekends and holidays.
• Since this is a small airport, the size of any large or oversized/bulky luggage that you bring may find it tough to fit.
• As you can imagine, the beautiful rural aspect of this little air park on an island in Puget Sound offers a wonderful experience for pilots who might be more used to the hustle and bustle (not currently; COVID-19) that often accompanies flying at bigger airports.