Your Guide To The Alaskan Wilderness – Thorne Bay Seaplane Base
Introduction
Located in the center of Alaska's wilds, Thorne Bay Seaplane Base (IATA: KTB) serves both the community and travelers. A state-owned public-use seaplane base, the port allows access to Thorne Bay by water and offers an alternative way for residents or tourists of Southeast Alaska to hop around between islands as well as enjoy a scenic tour of the Southcentral region.
Airlines and Destinations
The site is currently being served by one Alaskan airline called Taquan Air that operates flights within the U.S. domestically. The airline provides scheduled flights connecting Thorne Bay with Ketchikan (IATA: KTN) and the Craig Seaplane Base (IATA: CGA).
Passengers and Flights
Federal Aviation Administration records say that for the calendar years 2008 and 2010, Thorne Bay Seaplane Base had, respectively, an average of about seven passenger boardings (as enplanements are called) per year. It is considered a non-primary commercial service as per the National Plan of Integrated Airport System by the Federal Aviation Administration. The airport has 2,500 to 10,000 enplanements per year, which were based on passenger boardings from July to June of each calendar year.
How to Get Here
There are several ways to get to Thorne Bay: take a flight or the Alaska state ferry, or you can drive from Gravina Island via logging roads. The town is served by the Thorne Bay Seaplane Base, providing flights to other towns and villages on a regular schedule. If you are traveling by land, the town may be accessed via Thorne Bay Road, which can be connected to a bigger road network.
Parking
Parking at the Thorne Bay Seaplane Base is limited. Although there are limited spots near the seaplane dock, parking could be scarce due to high travel volume.
Transportation Price
The price of getting to and returning from the Thorne Bay Seaplane Base relies on whether you are taking a trip via airplane, driving your own automobile there, or employing an exclusive shuttle. The cost of seaplane flights is typically between $100 to $300 per person, while ground transportation options such as taxis or shuttle services may be offered at an additional fee.
Terminal Layout
Thorne Bay Seaplane Base is a small facility, equipped with one seaplane dock and one very modest terminal building. The terminal can also house an arrival waiting area, ticketing counters, and some basic facilities for the passengers.
Navigate the Airport
Thorne Bay Seaplane Base — Thorne Bay, Alaska is a straightforward and easy-to-use facility. Passengers can head directly from the seaplane dock to the terminal building for check-in and boarding of their flights. The mural may still be there today, though other signs and additional staff can answer any questions or point you in the right direction.
Getting Between Terminals
Given that it is a single-terminal facility in Thorne Bay, there are no terminals to navigate. The seaplane dock is within walking distance of the terminal building, so that passengers can just stroll over from one to the other.
Services and Amenities
Thorne Bay Seaplane Base Amenities: There are limited services and amenities at Thorne Bay Seaplane Base. The construction of a new terminal building provides a waiting area and toilet facilities, along with a small shop for souvenir purchases. No other large features or amenities exist in this location.
Restaurants and Shops
The Thorne Bay Seaplane Base does not have restaurants or retail businesses in its building. Although the closest town, Thorne Bay, has a number of dining and shopping opportunities for those who prefer to get off-grid.
Security and Customs
There are hardly any security or customs procedures because it is only a domestic airport. But before passengers board, they will also have to go through standard security screening.
Accessibility
PASSENGERS WITH DISABILITIES: The Thorne Bay Seaplane Base is accessible to passengers with disabilities. The terminal building and seaplane dock have ramps as well as other utilities designed to help guests with mobility concerns.
Travel Tips
Important Note: Plan in advance when you are going to be passing the Thorne Bay Seaplane Base, as it may take time for your travels. Flights on seaplanes can easily be delayed due to weather, so this is important, as you never know when they might not take off. Also, by the same token, be ready for Alaskan weather and dress appropriately.