Elim Airport

The Deadly Ghosts of Elim Airport

Introduction

Plying the heart of Alaska's difficult terrains, Elim Airport (IATA: ELI) provides links between Nome Census Area's distant hamlets. The airport transports passengers and cargo via general aviation, a term for all civil flying with the exception of scheduled commercial airlines. Three nautical miles to the southwest of Elim's central business district lies this state-owned public-use runway that holds significance in providing affordable means to connect outlying communities like Gambell to its mainland hub while sustaining private operations on come-and-go aviation needs prominent up here in Northern Alaska. If you're bound for an adventure or just passing through, a stop at the Elim Airport provides a unique look at the rigors and resilience of life in this corner of the U.S.

Airlines and Destinations

While small, Elim Airport serves as a vital link in the community. The airport functions as a general aviation hub and is used for air transit to Nome (OME) and Golovin (GLV), with no other facilities on the island accessible by plane. Most of the flights in and out are handled by Bering Air, a regional airline that maintains an air service for those close towns.

Refers to How Many Passengers and Flights

Passenger numbers at Elim Airport have been in a state of flux for the past few years. Federal Aviation Administration records say the airport had 2,356 enplanements in 2008, a drop of 26.1 percent from the record high level seen at year-end during previous years (3,189 total passengers boarded flights in the calendar year, up from). Although the facility is categorized as a commercial service - non-primary by the FAA, it remains an important link for area residents' transportation needs.

How to Get Here

Access: Getting to the region

For travelers, reaching Elim Airport is uncomplicated. Elim lies only three nautical miles to the southwest, with quick and easy access by land. Allowing visitors to book a taxi or shuttle directly from the city center will provide them with transportation straight to the airport.

Parking

The fact is that there are very few places for passengers to park their vehicles at Elim Airport. It offers on-site parking but, like the airport itself, is small, so availability may be limited during busy travel times. Officials are encouraging visitors to allow extra time for the trip, and it may be necessary to wait in line at a full parking lot.

Transportation Prices

The cost for the transfer to and from Elim Airport will depend on the service provider as well as how far you are traveling. The city of Elim has cheap intra-city taxi and shuttle services, in the range of $10 - $20 for a one-way ride. Ground transportation cost, especially for those traveling from suburbs to the airport, might be higher, but this continues to be a vital link as it is located far from vicinity communities.

Terminal Layout

The terminal building at Elim Airport is simple and suited to the local communities' use. The terminal supports passenger check-in, baggage handling, and security screening. While the facilities are basic, a dedicated team of airport staff work hard to ensure that all passengers have an enjoyable and efficient journey from beginning to end.

Navigate the Airport

Elim Airport is just a small and easily navigable airport. Check-in counters, security checkpoint, and boarding areas are all just a walkway away. Travelers are greeted with clear signage and helpful staff available to guide passengers through the airport process swiftly, easily, and stress-free.

Getting Between Terminals

This is a one-terminal facility, meaning no need to transfer between terminals. There is no need to switch buildings as all arrivals, departures, and ground transportation services are located in the main building of the airport, making it easy for travelers arriving at Elim Airport.

Services and Amenities

Like mainline international airports, Elim Airport does not offer a plethora of services and amenities; most crucially, however, its facilities are key for the travelling public. Conveniently, the terminal is equipped with basic facilities including washrooms and a small waiting area as well as some limited concession options. They also provide access to important services like weather information or emergency assistance.

Restaurants and Shops

Given the small size and isolated nature of the airport, there are very few dining or shopping options at Elim Airport. While travelers will encounter a little more than the usual small snack bar or vending machines within this terminal, no full dining and retail offerings are found on-site. Visitors travelling from Guthemaia can get a better variety of services in the nearby city Elim.

Security and Customs

Being a domestic airport, the security of Elim Airport is handled by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in accordance with their standards. Travelers should be prepared for typical airport screenings such as carry-on and checked baggage inspections. Elim Airport has no international flights, and so it does not contain customs rules classifiers.

Accessibility

The Elim Airport ensures that all of its facilities and services are easily made available for passengers with disabilities. The airport terminal and infrastructure have been built to be supportive of the needs of both disabled passengers with limited mobility, sense, or intellect. Support can be provided if needed, and the airport partners with local disability groups to help improve travel for everyone.

Travel Tips

• Book flights far out: Given the sparse flight options available through Elim Airport, your best bet in receiving a competitive fare and having abundant availability is to do what you can to lock down travel plans as quickly into the future as possible.
• Get there early: Because the airport is small and in a far location from town, try to get there an hour before your flight just so that you go through check-in and security quickly.
• Travel with hand luggage: Elim Airport has limited baggage handling and space, so pack only what you need and see if you can avoid checking in a suitcase.
• Prepare for weather delays: Alaska can be more unpredictable, and sometimes due to rain or other factors, the planes cannot fly, which may cause some flights to be delayed as a result. Passengers should have a flexible itinerary to get from A to B.
• Immerse yourself in the surrounding community: With more time on your hands at Elim Airport, consider exploring a bit of what its neighboring village and surroundings have to offer culturally and naturally. Not the least part of which is an airport that has to be one of America's quirkiest gateways to a truly singular and compelling region in Alaska.