Considering a Trip to the Alaskan Wilderness: False Pass Airport Is Your Doorway
Introduction
False Pass is a remote island community situated on the Aleutian Islands, falling under Alaska territory, and False Pass Airport (IATA: KFP) serves as an essential transportation link. The public-use airport is owned by the state and serves as a vital link for this region, which goes far beyond what many imagine. The joint civilian-military airport of False Pass Airport makes your journey by air to or from this remote location in the Aleutians East Borough, Alaska, an interesting and unforgettable experience.
Airlines and Destinations
Scheduled service is available to Cold Bay Airport (IATA: CDB) and Akutan Airport (IATA: AKU), both operated by the regional airline Peninsula Airways. These connections enable airline travelers access to a more extensive system of flights and destinations throughout Alaska and beyond.
How Many Passengers and Flights?
False Pass Airport is included in the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems, which categorizes it as a general aviation facility. Based on 2009–2010 FAA data, this airport had 482 passenger boardings (enplanements) in calendar year 2009 and no enplanements in 2010. The airport is classified as a general aviation facility, but it is an important part of the transportation infrastructure in the Aleutian Islands.
How to Get Here
While getting to the False Pass Airport involves a bit of an adventure itself, the beauty of the natural landscape tends to remind you that this is part and parcel of traveling in these distant corners. False Pass Airport is located about 3 miles southwest of the unincorporated community and can be reached by water or small aircraft. Visitors may also fly to other regional airports such as Cold Bay Airport or Akutan Airport and arrange for ground transportation from there to False Pass.
Parking
Visitors have limited parking options at False Pass Airport. While there are a few parking spaces located directly in the vicinity of the terminal, it is common to find them filling up during peak travel times. Travelers are being warned to get there early and plan accordingly.
Transportation Prices
Everything — from the transportation to get to False Pass Airport and back, if you're not flying in previous paths of travel — it's all about how far away you are! Pro Tip: Consider the potential for a boat/marine in/out or small aircraft charter (the route used during your trip) and ground transportation options within the region.
Terminal Layout
The terminal building at False Pass Airport is equipped with passenger processing services and airline operational facilities. This small and efficient terminal is passenger-friendly.
Navigate the Airport
Traveling through False Pass Airport is fairly easy. The simple and graceful terminal building has a layout designed to provide quick, efficient service for its passengers. There is plenty of signage, and airport staff are located at various key points throughout the terminal to help answer any questions.
Getting Between Terminals
There is only 1 terminal – False Pass Airport being a single-terminal facility more often than not eliminates the hassle of navigating from one part to another. Everything happens in the same building, from arrival to exit.
Services and Amenities
Though False Pass Airport is relatively small, it does feature the fundamental amenities needed by travelers. This area now has a waiting room, restrooms, and what boasts to be the smallest concession stand in America. Passengers are advised to plan ahead and carry the required amount of supplies or food with them.
Restaurants and Shops
Dining and shopping options at False Pass Airport are limited. A concession stand at the airport provides basic snacks and beverages, but there are no onsite full-service restaurants or retail shops. Travelers could bring their own food and entertainment for the days they have to stay at the airport.
Security and Customs
As a domestic airport in the United States, False Pass Airport does not have common passenger screening procedures by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). All passengers will have to undergo requisite health screening procedures prior to boarding.
Accessibility
The False Pass Airport works to provide accessibility for travelers with disabilities. The terminal building and its facilities are wheelchair-friendly, with available personnel to help passengers who require special assistance.
Travel Tips
Tips to Focus on while you are at False Pass Airport
- Budget airline tickets during quieter times: Avoid the Monday morning chaos and fly at less busy hours to have a much more pleasant start to your journey.
- Do your best to pack light: Since there are fewer options for transportation and with very few amenities on the road, packing appropriately can ensure that you have a smoother journey.
- Take some necessities: As dining and shopping selections are less abundant, make sure you bring a snack or basic essentials.
- Plan extra time: Include real travel time getting to and from the airport, weather delays, or anything whose occurrence was unforeseen in your itinerary.
- Local Transportation Research: Know what kind of ground transportation is available from the airport to your final destination (i.e., boat or small aircraft charters).