Red Devil Airport - Your Gateway To The Alaskan Wild
Introduction
Despite being extremely remote - located deep within the Alaska wilderness more than 260 miles west of Anchorage and southwest from McGrath, Red Devil Airport (IATA: RDV) is at the heart of this isolated community. An important link from this public-use airport, which is situated one nautical mile northwest of the town's central business district, to people living in some other regions as well as visitors traversing through a wide air transport industry network. Whether you are beginning an adventure in the vast Alaskan wilderness or simply passing through, Red Devil Airport provides a distinctive and genuine version of what this landscape is all about.
Airlines and Destinations
Red Devil Airport (ICAO: PADL, FAA LID: RDV) is a state-owned public-use airport located in Red Devil, in the Dillingham Census Area of the U.S. But the airport does serve as a gateway of sorts to some general aviation operations, including smaller private planes and bush aircraft that are critical for transportation in this isolated part of Alaska. Red Devil is served by nearby regional airports, such as Aniak Airport (IATA: ANI) and Sleetmute Airport (IATA: PASL), which allow pilots and passengers to access the region from larger hubs like Anchorage International Airport (ANC).
Pax & Flights
Because of its small size and remote location, Red Devil Airport has a much lower volume of air traffic than major airports in the state. Passenger and flight details are difficult to come by too, because Red Devil does not report commercial enplanement numbers to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Yet the airport continues to serve as a critical lifeline for area residents, enabling essential cargo deliveries, medical evacuation, and general aviation activity that underlie the economic base and way-of-life of this region.
How to Get Here
Getting to Red Devil Airport is easy for those flying into the area. Opened in October 1962, the airport is just over a mile (1 nmi; 1.6 km) northwest of the central business district of town and easily accessible to both residents and visitors. Aircraft with private charters land directly at the airport, while those who come via commercial air service must be met groundside, but there are several nearby airports where passengers can arrive and make arrangements to get shuttled out.
Parking
Some areas near Red Devil Airport offer very limited parking for the general aviation public. Because it is a small airport, there are only a few spaces left to park near the terminal building. Plan your own transportation or share a car with someone else, but do the shuttle unless you plan on getting there another way as parking is so limited.
Transportation Prices
Red Devil is a small regional airport, and neither of those facilities has robust infrastructure or offers many options to travel to the facility. You need to plan ahead, grab a cab or use rideshare apps like Uber, and public transportation is virtually nonexistent. In more rural areas, visitors may need to rent a car or take private shuttles, which are often pricier than they would be in large cities. These services can be obtained at a range of competitive prices, which may vary depending on the provider and distance travelled.
Terminal Layout
The second half of crafting a terminal building was easy; the simple, single-story structure does everything necessary for passenger processing and support services. The terminal comes equipped with a modest waiting area, ticketing desk, and facilities such as washrooms. As a result of the limited size and scope, there are no separate concourses or terminals, as all passenger activities take place within the main terminal building.
Navigate the Airport
Red Devil Airport itself is relatively small and simple to traverse as well. After arriving, passengers can enter the terminal building and proceed to buy a ticket or wait in the waiting room. Navigation is easy because the terminal is small, so there are fewer signs and wayfinding than larger terminals. Due to the airport procedures - check-in, security, and departure gate being unpredictable - as well as remote and often harsh weather conditions in Patagonia, all passengers are encouraged to arrive at least with plenty of time granted by Aeropuertos 2000 catalogue for check-in before respective flights take off or lose their booking; Privium members receive privilege, however, the amount is not specified.
Getting Between Terminals
Red Devil Airport has one of the smallest terminal buildings in all airports, meaning there is no navigation required between terminals or concourses. Check-in, security, and boarding for all airport operations are done in a single main terminal building. This means that passengers can walk around the terminal from one space to another, eliminating additional transport or any connection.
Services and Amenities
Like all the other airports in Grand Theft Auto V, the features of Red Devil Airport are limited so as not to feel too big. The terminal building contains only the most basic passenger amenities, such as restrooms and a small waiting area; there are no other services available here (no restaurants, shops, or lounges). Be forewarned and come prepared, as food/beverage/merchandise options at the airport are slim - passengers with long layovers should pack supplies.
Restaurants and Shops
Red Devil Airport has no permanently staffed restaurants or shops within (or in the vicinity of) the terminal area. Because the airport is so remote and small, these are services that do not exist. Passengers should also plan to travel appropriately and carry with them the only snacks, meals, or other materials they may need during their stay at the airport, as food is not available in stores there.
Security and Customs
Since this is a small, regional airport, Red Devil Airport is not held to the same level of security and customs process as larger international airports. Passengers will still have to pass through standard security, which requires them to take off shoes and remove laptops from carry-on bags for inspection. However, a low number of travelers means the process is somewhat easier and quicker. Red Devil Airport does not have customs facilities, because it is an airport that handles no international flights.
Accessibility
While it is a tiny facility, with limited resources on hand (so there may be some challenges), Red Devil Airport aims to welcome those travelers who are dealing with disabilities. The terminal includes accessible building design features as well as parking areas providing spaces and ramps to the main entrance. Airside: inside the terminal, toilets and a rest point are available. But the smaller-sized airport may not be able to provide the same level of specialist services or equipment as larger airports, so passengers with specific needs should plan ahead and liaise with their airlines or tour guides.
Travel Tips
- Book flights early: The limited number of airlines that serve the airport and its distant location means seating is consistently tight seasonally. The earlier you book your tickets, the better fares and availability.
- Check in early: Give yourself enough time to book, get through security, and board the plane - depending on requirements, these smaller airports might take a little longer. The weather can surprise you, as well, with other operations at the airport.
- Bring essentials: Since not all amenities will be open in the airport, pack anything you might use at home, such as snacks, drinks, and personal items.
- Ditch the car: If flying is not in your plans but navigating through roadways to access airports inconveniences you, renting a car or using one of the many shuttle services could be highly practical.
- Keep updated: Be sure to find out about flight times and weather conditions from the airport website or airline, which could impact your decision.
So, just remember these tips and tricks to prepare for anything related while out at Red Devil Airport, whether you are visiting or flight training.