Middleton Island Airport

Paurus Creek: A Gateway to the Alaskan Wilderness

Introduction

Middleton Island Airport (IATA: MDO, ICAO: PAMD), located in the Gulf of Alaska, is a small yet highly unique destination for those who like more intrepid travel. Serving the remote and ruggedly beautiful Middleton Island, a speck of land in Alaskan waters some 75 miles southwest of Cordova, it is home to this public-use airport.

Airlines and Destinations

Middleton Island Airport services private and charter flights mostly for the residents of Middleton Island who use it to get their daily supplies. Although no commercial flights will be scheduled to fly in or out, the airport's gravel runways are capable of landing a variety of aircraft such as small private planes and helicopters.

Passengers And Flights

Middleton Island Airport serves a remote location for passenger traffic, due to the low level of infrastructure in place. The number of people flying planes and the number of flights obviously changes over the year, with summer being the busiest due to a lot of activities taking place during that period as visitors come to the island for things like outdoor adventures or wildlife viewing.

How to Get Here

Since the island is only reachable by plane or boat, traveling to Middleton Island can be daunting. Middleton Island, Alaska is an uninhabited island in the Gulf of Alaska, about 75 miles northeast of Cordova. The nearest major airport with regional airline service to Middleton Island would be in Cordova. Visitors can charter a private flight or take boat transport to make it out to the island from Cordova.

Parking

Middleton Island Airport has few parking spaces and is designed to accommodate private aircraft as well as park visitors. No parking lots or garages are present here, so spaces are available on a first-come basis. Charter and private flight providers are asked to coordinate with the airport authority for parking information, while those driving their own vehicles should plan such that they do not block roads or intersections.

Transportation Price

Transportation costs can be higher given Middleton Island's remote location. Depending on the aircraft size and the number of passengers in your party, private charter flights to this island from Cordova can cost as much as $1000 or more. You might even be able to take a boat, but transport prices may vary.

Terminal Layout

Lastly, Middleton Island Airport is a small and no longer manned airport with only very basic terminal structure. The terminal building consists of a waiting area, an administrative office, and minimal facilities for passengers. Runways 02/20 and 13/31 are gravel runways that enable aircraft operations.

Navigate the Airport

Middleton Island Airport is a simple facility, and you can easily make your way around the site. Passengers are able to enter the terminal buildings where they may go to check in and board their flight. The design of the airport and its signage makes for an easy in-and-out experience.

Getting Between Terminals

There is only one terminal at Middleton Island Airport. The airport operates from a single passenger terminal, which means all arriving and departing passengers share the same access points within the terminal.

Services and Amenities

Located in a remote area, the airport has very limited services and facilities. There is a small terminal building that serves as a waiting area and restroom, but no restaurants, shops, or any other commercial activity in the immediate vicinity. A sign tells visitors to come prepared with the supplies they need.

Restaurants and Shops

Luckily, there are no restaurants or stores at Middleton Island Airport. Eating and beverage facilities will not be available at the airport, so visitors are required to bring their own food and beverages. There are no amenities near the property; Cordova, the nearest large town, is only accessible by air or sea.

Security and Customs

Middleton Island Airport is a small, unattended airport and has no security or customs. The passengers must hold appropriate travel documents and comply with health requirements, customs regulations, and laws. But the fact is, fewer people use this airport compared to others, and it was so far away from town (12 miles) that security risks were less.

Accessibility

Possibly, because while Middleton Island Airport is set up to cater to disabled travelers (for example, in consideration of its remote location and limited facilities), a wide variety of other factors may also come into play. The terminal building and environs are accessible, and services that may be arranged through direct contact with the airport staff or personnel assistance. Those visiting are requested to let the airport know of any accessibility considerations in good time so that they can be accommodated as best as possible.

Travel Tips

• Come prepared: The island is quite isolated, and access to anything more than the bare essentials you bring with you will be limited.
• Check the weather: Alaskan climate is known to be a bit tricky, so make sure you are dressed accordingly.
• Arrange transport in and out of the island: There are private charter flights or boat rides available (details to be provided later) but these need to also be booked in advance.
• Protect the environment: This is a sensitive location and it should be treated as such, abide by local rules and regulations.
• Leave your normal life behind: Seek out all of the natural wonders that make up this serene island and touch back with rugged Alaska Outdoor circuits.