Ketchikan International Airport

Ketchikan International Airport, Bench to Bedside in Southeast Alaska

Introduction

Located on Gravina Island in Southeast Alaska, Ketchikan International Airport (KTN) has a history that dovetails with the expansion of aviation into this part of America. From a mere seaplane stopover to a major airspace facility, KTN has grown in step with the demands of both local and global travelers. This article tells the story of how Ketchikan International Airport has evolved and become a statewide leader in essential air services.

Airlines and Destinations

Alaska Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines operate regularly scheduled passenger service to Ketchikan through the airport. The direct flights operate through these carriers to different destinations like Seattle, Anchorage, and other parts of Alaska. Its strategic positioning launches many travelers into the vibrant communities and stunning landscapes of Southeast Alaska.

Weekly Passengers and Flights

Ketchikan International Airport passenger boardings totaled 108,837 in 2008 (96,000). The airport has undergone passenger growth, serving 103,136 enplanements in the calendar year 2012, making it a primary commercial service (nonhub) airport per FAA regulations. Demand for air travel from both residents and visitors has grown substantially as a result of the bountiful natural beauty Ketchikan is known to offer, while preserving its rich cultural community.

How to Get Here

Gravina Island is home to Ketchikan International Airport, located west of the city of Ketchikan on the other side of Tongass Narrows. The town and airport to which passengers must take a seven-minute ferry ride. This setup, although unique in its geography, which creates a logistical issue for the airport to manage, is also what makes coming and going from Ketchikan an adventure.

Parking

Nearby facilities at the airport include a number of options for parking, and passengers can choose from short-term or long-term lots. You can check the rates and availability on the website or other websites. Passengers are also instructed to plan and pre-book parking to help the passenger flow of arriving and departing.

Transportation Price

Located in the southeasternmost tip of Alaska and just a short ferry ride from Ketchikan is an airport with fares so low that people actually choose to fly into Canada instead. There are also local taxi and shuttle services to the airport, giving you a variety of ways in which to get there.

Terminal Layout

The KTN terminal now has a one-story passenger building, housing all services and facilities at close hand in the Departing Terminal. Efficient passenger flow and minimal congestion have been kept in mind while designing the layout of the terminal to provide passengers a smooth travel experience.

Navigate the Airport

Ketchikan International Airport has clear signage and markers leading passengers through each portion of the terminal. There are also airport staff who can offer help or answer any questions travelers may have.

Getting Between Terminals

Ketchikan International Airport is a single terminal structure, so you don't have to walk between terminals. Every arrival and departure is consolidated into a singular facility, which simplifies arriving at the airport.

Services and Amenities

Services and amenities at Ketchikan International Airport include a business center, free WiFi, and various food & beverage offerings. Facilities for disabled passengers are also available, making the airport inclusive and accessible.

Restaurants and Shops

Visitors are then led into a terminal filled with dining and shopping spots; there, they can grab local cuisine or buy from specialty stores. They are a taste of Ketchikan's unique culture and give passengers time to discover the area before or after their flights.

Security and Customs

Ketchikan International Airport observes standard federal security and customs regulations. They are telling passengers to arrive as early as possible at the airport, and passing these checkpoints can surely help speed up boarding.

Accessibility

The airport is dedicated to ensuring a welcoming experience for travelers. Passengers with disabilities or special requirements can make use of accommodations and assistance to ensure they are safe, find comfort, and experience inclusivity.

Travel Tips

Travelers should also remember the Ketchikan airport is located on its own little island, so they may need to take a ferry once arriving by Alaska Airlines. Prepaid transportation and parking before you arrive specifying so makes the arrival/departure process a lot smoother. Moreover, if you pack carefully for the mostly rainy weather in this region and add some fashion sense to it all, then your travel experience would become delightful.