Umiat Airport: Your Portal to the Alaskan Backcountry
Introduction
Nestled in the heart of the North Slope, Umiat Airport (IATA: UMV) is simply a lifeline for this most remote center. Located 55 miles away from the nearest town, just outside of Umiat village, this airport has been serving as an essential hub for transportation in the area since its opening soon after World War II. Whether you are going out on an adventure or simply just passing through, Umiat Airport gives individuals a slice of Alaska unfiltered.
Airlines and Destinations
The airport handles private and charter flights but has no scheduled commercial air service. However, the airport is open to all commercial airlines as well as regional carrier flights and private aviation companies. Passengers can easily tap into more distant hubs such as Fairbanks International Airport (FAI) or Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC), offering service to all sorts of other markets.
Passenger and Flight Count
In recent years, air passenger traffic into Umiat Airport has fluctuated. Alpena County Regional Airport (IATA: APN, ICAO: KAPFN) is a county-owned public use airport in Alpena County. The FAA's National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems for 2009-2013 categorized it as a general aviation facility that sees about 49 commercial flights per week through SkyWest Airlines to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne... The total number of flights to and from Umiat alternates between the seasons, contingent upon the needs of the local area.
How to Get Here
Getting to Umiat Airport by air is all fine and good, however the community is situated on a flood plain of the Colville River in Alaska. The Fairbanks International Airport, which is about 350 miles southeast of the airport, is the nearest major airport. Travel is by charter or private aviation to Umiat from there.
Parking
Parking at Umiat Airport is limited as the bulk of available parking spaces are used by customers and guests using the on-site fixed-base operator (FBO) Umiat Enterprises. Guests must call the FBO and inquire about parking as well as any costs.
Transportation Prices
Transportation can be expensive due to the remoteness of Umiat Airport and lack of infrastructure. Charter flights, ground transportation, and other services are at premium rates for the area.
Terminal Layout
It has one terminal, where you can find very few services. The terminal building accommodates the FBO, including public passenger facilities and lobbies. The layout of the terminal is simple, and as perhaps one would expect from an airport like Umiat without any lounge or F&B services, you already walk to your aircraft since there are no gates either.
Navigate the Airport
Umiat Airport is easy to get around. Once on the ground, passengers find their way to the terminal building without difficulty and can quickly make their way to an FBO for help with anything from arranging exit transportation or fuel services. The terminal is visibly signed well, so passengers can easily navigate to the proper destinations.
Getting Between Terminals
Being in its own right a one-terminal hub, there is no need to change terminals for this airport. They conduct all of the passenger services and operations in accordance with only one terminal building.
Services and Amenities
This relatively remote airport is small and with limited services. Umiat Enterprises operates the FBO on-site and offers typical services like fueling, ground handling, passenger aid, etc. Unfortunately, the airport is not equipped for more comprehensive services and amenities.
Restaurants and Shops
Food & Shopping - There are no restaurants or stores in Umiat Airport. Those seeking to continue their travels will need to rely on the inadequate service available at Umiat or perhaps even further afield.
Security and Customs
Umiat Airport is mainly used for private or chartered flights, which means that security and customs procedures in Umiat are simple. Passengers are still expected to conform with the regular security measures and customs clearance where appropriate.
Accessibility
Travelers with disabilities might face difficulty accessing Umiat Airport due to its remote setting and lack of facilities. Airlines and airports should be contacted in advance if any special assistance is needed.
Travel Tips
When you are departing from or landing at Umiat Airport, it is important to be ready for the challenges of such a remote Alaskan location. Honor the fact that weather can cause issues and pack accordingly. Leave plenty of time for your transportation, as it can be a mess when Mother Nature throws curveballs in its own plans, so you don't find yourself stranded due to an act of God or ManBearPig... And expect some delays causing havoc with schedules; better leave early than not at all!