Your Gateway to the Backcountry: McCarthy Airport
Introduction
Located in the heart of Alaska's beautiful Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, McCarthy Airport [IATA: MXY] serves the western end of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and is a simple, key link between visitors and this wild hinterland. By functioning as the nearest airstrip to the historic mining town of McCarthy, this facility serves a vital need - ensuring easy access to some of America's most pristine regions.
Airlines and Destinations
McCarthy Airport is mostly for private and charter planes with some commercial flights from small regional airlines. Wrangell Mountain Air, a transit provider to travelers flying between Chitina and McCarthy, was there at least three times per day during peak season. Although this airport does not service any major commercial airlines, it is one of the most important access points for travelers looking to explore Wrangell-St. Elias National Park.
Number of Passengers and Flights
McCarthy Airport had 48 enplanements (passenger boardings) in calendar year 2008, and it again did so in CY 2009 but increased to only fifty-four the next two years. While the figures may seem small, they are indicative of both its status as a lifeline for those who live in town and increased interest from the Wrangell-St. Elias region, a hotspot for adventure and outdoor enthusiasts.
How to Get Here
Getting to McCarthy Airport is part of the experience. Due to its location, the airport serves McCarthy, 1 mile northeast, and can be reached by a gravel road leading into the beautiful Alaskan countryside. The same road that is difficult to drive on the journey up makes for a bumpy and uncomfortable cab or shuttle ride from Cordova airport, so most visitors take advantage of this service as well.
Parking
There is a small visitor lot on the McCarthy Airport property. Parking at McCarthy Airport (MXY): On-site parking is somewhat limited due to space constraints on the airport property, and temporary overflow lots may be in use when available spaces become scarce. We suggest that you contact your hotel or tour operator to determine whether transportation services are available, and for the possibility of taking a ride back from the airport.
Transportation Prices
The costs to get out from McCarthy airport can change based on the service and number of passengers. A wide variety of shuttle services (prices range from $10-20 per person for a round trip ride to the town) and one taxi offer rides into McCarthy.
Terminal Layout
McCarthy Airport is a single-terminal small facility serving and hosting private as well as charter flights. The terminal building is an enclosed facility with a passenger waiting area and suitable facilities for arriving/departing passengers as well as limited baggage handling.
Navigate the Airport
The small size of the airport makes it easy to get around McCarthy Airport. With clear signs and the simple layout of the terminal, when passengers arrive, all they have to do is follow the signs directing them either to baggage claim or ground transportation.
Getting Between Terminals
Since McCarthy Airport only has one terminal, you do not have to worry about changing terminals. The facility itself is small, with accommodations for all arrivals and departures.
Services and Amenities
Although small in size and rural by design, there are a few basic services available at McCarthy Airport. These facilities include a lobby, restrooms, and an area for your luggage. These services are not included in the terminal itself, such as restaurants, shops, or other commercial points.
Restaurants and Shops
A small town of McCarthy exists just a mile away from the airport, giving it some dining and shopping options. But they are few and far between due to the town's small year-round resident population. Plan ahead, as there are no supplies or snacks at the airport.
Security and Customs
As an American airport, McCarthy does not have customs or international security capabilities. Passengers will be screened in standard TSA fashion when traveling to or from the airport.
Accessibility
The new McCarthy Airport is intended to serve riders at both ends of the income and age spectrums. The terminal building and car parking are accessible to wheelchairs, with airport staff offering necessary assistance for passengers who may require it.
Travel Tips
As a visitor to Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, you will want to plan ahead due to the remote and wild conditions of this vast region. Pack some warm clothes, your best walking boots, and any other essentials as facilities are limited. Also, keep in mind the airport's limited operational time, so plan your trip accordingly.