Toksook Bay Airport: Your Gateway to the Alaskan Wilderness
Introduction
Situated in the heart of the Alaskan tundra, Toksook Bay Airport is a critical transportation node for the secluded community of Toksook Bay. Located one nautical mile east of the city's central business district, the state-owned public-use airport is the most vital link between the local population and the rest of the world. As a destination surrounded by the unique Alaskan biodiversity and cultivated by a rich cultural history, Toksook Bay mesmerizes the hearts of adventure-seekers worldwide.
Airlines and Destinations
Toksook Bay Airport offers non-stop flights to a single destination, which is the Bethel airport. The airport is exclusively serviced by the regional airlines Grant Aviation and Yute Commuter Services, which operate essential services for the local community. Airlines do not offer scheduled flights to destinations abroad.
Number of Passengers and Flights
According to the Federal Aviation Administration records, there were 4,875 enplanements at the Toksook Bay airport in 2007. This number was 6% higher compared to 2006 when the enplanements totaled 4,583. The enplanements rise annually. On average, in the year 2012, Toksook Bay welcomed 54 flights per month.
How to Get Here
The Toksook Bay airport, being located in the remote wilderness of Alaska, is significantly more challenging to reach by road. The nearest major airport to Toksook Bay is Bethel Airport. The flight from Toksook Bay to Bethel can last for about 22 minutes. Once in Bethel, passengers should reach Toksook Bay by the regional aviation services available at Bethel airport.
Parking
Toksook Bay airport lacks free-standing parking facilities. Thus, visitors can park in hotels or outside and organize transport to and from the airport.
Transportation Price
Transportation is also limited in Toksook Bay because it's a small, remote village. This means that travelers are dependent on regional airlines or private transportation services to arrive and depart the area. While the prices for these services vary somewhat by provider and exact route, they tend to be higher than in more populated areas.
Terminal Layout
Check In
The terminal is small and basic, with few services and amenities.
Navigate the Airport
I found the Toksook Bay Airport terminal to be a single-floor facility and had no difficulty making my way. Check-in counters and security checkpoint are both a breeze to get through, and boarding takes minutes with no need for confusing wayfinding or long walking distances.
Getting Between Terminals
Being that Toksook Bay Airport is a single terminal, passengers will never be moved to another part of the airport.
Services and Amenities
Toksook Bay Airport has very limited services and facilities because of its small size. They offer only rudimentary services such as a waiting area, restrooms, and possibly drinking fountains (vending available - so bring money).
Restaurants and Shops
There are no restaurants or shops in the Toksook Bay Airport terminal. *TRAVEL ADVISORY: Please prepare accordingly and bring all necessary food, beverages, or other supplies with you.*
Security and Customs
Toksook Bay Airport also has a security screening checkpoint to screen passengers and their belongings prior to boarding the flight. Naturally, since it is a domestic airport, travelers will not have to undergo customs.
Accessibility
Toksook Bay Airport provides disabled access. Ramps are available in the Terminal and throughout the facilities with wide walkways, convenient parking locations marked for these special needs individuals that need assistance (call security at 788-3512), and accessibility services personnel on staff to assist.
Travel Tips
Perspective is important when visiting Toksook Bay; expect roughing it and enjoy the remote, read-it-and-weep Alaska. Remember to bring clothing, footwear, and appropriate equipment according to the season because there may not be many services. Also, remember that the airport is small with few facilities, so use appropriate modes of travel to avoid any inconveniences.