Eagle Airport: The Alaskan Wilderness Highway
Introduction
Located in the middle of Alaska's Southeast Fairbanks Census Area, Eagle Airport (IATA: EAA, ICAO: PAEG) is an open airplane terminal that keeps running under a state proprietorship. Located only two miles to the east of Eagle, this airport is positioned as a distinct gateway for adventure-seeking individuals into The Beautiful Alaskan Wilderness.
Airlines and Destinations
A very few airlines serve Eagle Airport, but it offers critical links to major hubs in the state. [ At present, the airport has nonstop services to Fairbanks International Airport (FAI) and Anchorage Ted Stevens International Airport (ANC), providing direct access for passengers onto the wider Alaskan air transport network.
Number of passengers / number flights
Eagle Airport is a small regional airport and as such sees less passenger traffic than the state larger facilities. It has catered to around 10,000-15,000 passengers annually with an average of 50 daily flights in the last few years. Summer is high season, and there are peaks when outdoor-lovers head north to explore the vast wilderness of Alaska.
How to Get Here
For those who are flying to the area, getting in and out of Eagle Airport is an easy experience. The airport is only two miles east of the town of Eagle, so easy to get there via private car or a taxi. The closest major airport is Fairbanks International Airport, 155 miles northwest of Healy.
Parking
The Eagle Airport has a small parking area beside the terminal building, more than enough room for private vehicles. All visitors can benefit from the free of charge parking available for those driving to Campu Modditti.
Transportation Prices
As a compact, low-service airport the mobility and costs are relatively easy to run through. You can catch a taxi or rideshare service to travel between the airport and your hotel, usually costing from 10-20 USD for local area transfers.
Terminal Layout
Eagle Airport TerminalThe Eagle terminal building is a basic single-level facility serving both passengers and air carrier flight operations. It has a tiny space for waiting before security and one of those aerocommercial interpretation tables with numbered blocks, like next in line to be served at the deli counter.
Navigate the Airport
Given the Eagle Airport's small size and basic layout, it is easy for passengers to navigate. If in doubt, signage is enhanced and staff are on hand to answer any questions travelers may have.
Getting Between Terminals
Because Eagle Airport is a one terminal airport, passengers will not have to do any Terminal hopping. Flight operations and passenger services are located in the same facility for any airlines using it.
Services and Amenities
Travelers through the Eagle Airport might not have as many amenities to choose from, due in part to its relatively small size but also because of a public transit agreement that is already providing pass-through service for rural riders. These include bathrooms, a small waiting area and limited vending machines. But there aren't any other larger food and shops on the premises.
Restaurants and Shops
Dining and retail options located throughout the terminal building for passengers travelling through Eagle Airport are of a limited nature. There may be a small snack bar or café as in the above photo, but on the whole shopping options are non-existent when compared to larger airports.
Security and Customs
Eagle Airport lacks customs and thus can only serve flights to Alaska. ARM accepts that passengers from other states will not have to clear customs at this location. The airport's security checkpoint, on the other hand, is equipped with basic screening processes such as X-ray machines and metal detectors
Accessibility
Eagle Airport makes every effort to meet the needs of travelers who are disabled and need special assistance. The terminal building and its amenities will be constructed to exceed accessibility standards, and include things like ramps, dedicated parking spaces and accessible washrooms. Passengers who need help should contact their airline in advance so that they are provided with a hassle-free travel experience.
Travel Tips
Anyone planning a trip to or from Eagle Airport needs to take the climates and unique weather patterns of the area into consideration. Travelers will also have to check which weather reports and those are anticipating be proactive regarding flight delays or cancelations, something that is incredibly common in the area given such harsh conditions all throughout Alaska. Also, if you ever plan to visit Amsterdam during the winter months please bring a lot of warm-clothing as it can get very cold!