Huslia Airport

Your Huslia Airport to Alatna River Bush Landing

Introduction

Situated in the middle of miles and miles of Alaska wilderness, at Huslia Airport (IATA: HSL) a very important role will be played by air transport for the remote community with which it is connected. The airport is one nautical mile (2 km) east of the city, and allows some residents and visitors access to Great Lakes Central Airways. If you are taking an adventure from the wilderness or simply just driving through, Huslia Airport provides a wonderful and unique insight into what Alaska has to offer.

Airlines and Destinations

Huslia Airport (IATA: HSL, ICAO: PAHS) is served by a small number of airlines, including Alaska Airlines and Frontier Flying Service, which use it as a base for different local populations. Most traffic at the airport is from Wright Air Service flights between Tanana (TAL) and Fairbanks (FAI). Although the airport supports a relatively modest route network, it is critical for Huslia residents in providing reliable air transportation to necessary services and points beyond.

Passengers and Flights

Because of the small size of Huslia's population, the airport only has a few passenger flights and flight operations. Annual passenger numbers through the airport have averaged about 5,000 over recent years, with corresponding flight movements. Although these numbers may seem meager, the same data is essential for Huslia since it operates as a local population hub with the airport being practically its only way of getting in and out.

How to Get Here

Huslia Airport is easily accessible, a short distance from the city center. Visitors can easily get to the airport by available modes of transport like private vehicles, taxi service, or even by walking. The remote location of the airport also makes it an excellent starting point for those flying in from other parts of Alaska to connect to flights left and right, or head straight out into the true Alaskan wilderness outside its borders.

Parking

For such a small airport, the parking facilities at Huslia Airport are quite limited for both residents and visitors. There is a small free parking area on the property for visitors. Although the parking lots are modest, they can accommodate the travel demand for a relatively quieter airport.

Transportation Prices

Most flights to Huslia Airport are fairly cheap and convenient, with many different travel providers offering a variety of pricing options depending on your personal preferences. The taxi services in the city are quite cheap and can be a convenient option for those difficult to travel otherwise. Those who find that option a bit too pricey can also walk to the airport as it is within reasonable walking distance from the city center.

Terminal Layout

The airport has a small terminal building that houses all arriving and departing passengers. The terminal itself is basic and uncomplicated, with an open check-in area leading to a small waiting lounge that transitions into the baggage carousel area. The terminal may not have the services, scale, or architecture of larger airports, but it is well-run and designed to efficiently handle the linked-in traffic, with seating just outside the airside area as well.

Navigate the Airport

Passengers can easily orient themselves at Huslia Airport and find their way through the compact terminal layout due to its size. The signage is easy to understand and directs travelers towards information about where to go for check-in counters, security checkpoint, and boarding gates.

Getting Between Terminals

Huslia Airport has a primary terminal facility, with only one passenger and cargo flight per day to Fort Yukon Airport on Wright Air Service. All arrivals and departures are facilitated in the same small facility, which made our transitions throughout the airport fluid and uneventful.

Services and Amenities

Though Huslia Airport may not have all the services and amenities of larger airports, it does provide some basic services for travelers. It also contains a small lounge for passengers to relax and wait for their flights. The airport also provides some rudimentary bathroom facilities and a small concession stand to serve its through passengers.

Restaurants and Shops

Huslia Airport has limited dining or shopping options, typical of airports serving mostly local clientele. With one concession stand, a few packaged snacks, and some light beverages available, passengers could opt to bring their own. Anyone who wants a complete visit to the grocery store or eating out at one of the few local places will have to head into Huslia, the nearby city.

Security and Customs

Security and customs are easy at Huslia Airport, which primarily serves regional flights. Here, passengers undergo a standard security check — their belongings and person are screened for banned substances. This airport is not an international terminal, so travelers do not have to pass through customs upon entry or departure.

Accessibility

Huslia Airport strives to ensure available facilities and services for all passengers, including those with disabilities. The terminal building and its facilities are designed to meet the needs of passengers with mobility limitations, visual impairments, or other special requirements. Help is available if requested, and the airport staff has been given sensitivity training to ensure all passengers feel welcomed.

Travel Tips

• Check-in and security can take a while at the tiny airport as it operates with limited staff, so give yourself plenty of time.
• Keep luggage down to only a few pieces you have to check: the airport is restricted on how many bags it can handle.
• Be prepared for the weather, as flying days in Alaska can be affected by unforeseen conditions.
• Know the airport layout and services to make your trip more comfortable.
• Chat with the helpful people at the temporary counter, who can show you around and give recommendations for exploring Huslia, including some great nearby wilderness areas.

By following these helpful hints, travelers can optimize their time at Huslia Airport and ensure a hassle-free trip to or from the Alaskan bush.