Gambell Airport

GFA – the starting point for Alaskan adventure

Introduction

A critical stop in Alaska's vast tundra, Gambell Airport (IATA: GAM) serves as one of the only connections between the isolated community in so-called Siberia and the rest of the global map. This airport — if you are wanting to get out into the wilds of this part of America — offers an amazing taste not just of deep American history and stunning scenery.

Airlines and Destinations

The Gambell Airport has scheduled passenger service with two destinations within Alaska, both flown by Bering Air from Saint Lawrence. Bering Air is a local airline that has been servicing the area for years with these routes; Gambell is a remote community (look at the airfares) but still: Gambell Airlines flies to and from Anchorage (ANC) every day.

Passenger and Flight Counts

Gambell Airport sees an average of 85 incoming flights per month or about twenty-one a week and three each day. Most of these flights are flown in and out from other airports, like Nome a short 50 miles to the north or Savoonga about 90 miles away on St. Lawrence Island, but they also demonstrate some traffic linkage into the regional transportation system that users call an economic backbone for Bering Sea coastal settlements.

How to Get Here

Yet even with the existing facilities, it can still be a challenge to get to Gambell Airport given its location on a remote corner of Alaska. It is one of the busiest airports in Western Alaska and you can fly to/from a variety of hubs around that state. For a completely customized experience, travelers may choose to explore chartered or private aircraft that offer flexibility in terms of scheduling and routing.

Parking

The Gambell public facility is generally the preferred option, although it was not practical for use in this case. PAMI provides full passenger processing, all performed inside a temporary structure, with sufficient aircraft parking and limited ground service capabilities.

Transportation Price

Prices for transport from and also straight back to the airport can vary depending on how a passenger travels as well as even which side of the airport they are found. Prices for flights to the area's local airports tend to vary by season, demand, and airline rules in general. In addition, this will give interested travelers options for alternate travel logistics if they find the availability or pricing of chartered flights or private craft unsuitable.

Terminal Layout

The airport has a small terminal building containing the facilities needed for passenger processing and airline operations. The functional terminal configuration will serve the community, and has been designed with efficiency, practicality, and a light touch in its own modest scale.

Navigate the Airport

Gambell Airport is a very simple facility, with the terminal building containing just two rooms and almost no amenities. The signage and wayfinding cues are easy to understand, making traveling from the entrance gate to the boarding point straightforward.

Getting Between Terminals

After all, the airport has just a single terminal, so there's no need to choose between different terminals. The arrival lobby and departure drop-off are all centralized in one compact building, making for overall convenient travel.

Services and Amenities

Much the same as other smaller airports, Gambell Airport is a no-frills airport which focuses on servicing the basic needs of travelers. There is a waiting area, restrooms, and a small concession stand available, but the airport's somewhat remote location and limited size make additional services and amenities scarce.

Restaurants and Shops

The food and shopping options at Gambell Airport are limited, with a small sandwich/snack stand being the only facility. Those travelers looking for a more extensive selection of food and shops should look to the nearby village of Gambell, which has local businesses that serve meals.

Security and Customs

Being a domestic airport in the United States, Gambell Airport security follows similar protocols that have been laid out by the TSA. Passengers and their luggage will be screened and tested fully before they may then go on their flights.

Accessibility

Gambell Airport does its best to provide services and facilities to accommodate passengers with disabilities. The terminal building and its amenities are ADA accessible, with the parking area featuring ramps to get into and out of vehicles. Passengers with special needs are encouraged to contact their airline or the airport itself for arrangements.

Travel Tips

• Reserve your flights in advance: Because this little air terminal has few direct flights and is extremely popular, local airplane tickets are usually filled up prematurely.
• Prepare for the conditions: With Gambell's subarctic climate, you may experience rapid fluctuations in temperature and weather. Wear layers and bring hiking boots.
• Get to know the airport layout: You have plenty of time before your journey starts, so spend a bit reviewing this terminal configuration and get familiar with key facilities on the spot, including check-in counters and boarding entryways.
• Give yourself plenty of time: With the airport being so small, and weather-related delays a reality, it is best to show up at the terminal with enough breathing room to check in securely.
• This includes exploring the local cultural heritage (and even helping to inform others about it), and witnessing firsthand how life works in such a marvelous part of this planet.