Connecting You to the Better Parts of Remote Alaska: Yakataga Airport
Introduction
Located on the shores of the Gulf of Alaska, Yakataga Airport (IATA: CYT) is an essential general aviation link to this small community in western Alaska. The airport is owned by the Federal Aviation Administration and serves as a lifeline for those who live there year-round, while providing an essential hub of transportation to world travelers looking to explore one of the most remote areas left in North America.
Airlines and Destinations
As of yet, there are no scheduled passenger carriers that fly to Yakataga Airport. Previously, Alsek Air Service served the Yakutat Airport until 2012 when the flights permanently ended because of the United States Department of Transportation rescinding Essential Air Service funds.
Passengers and Flights
Yakataga Airport has no scheduled passenger service, and therefore sees few passengers or flights. Because of the airport's distance and lack of infrastructure, it is mostly used for private, charter flights or general aviation operations.
How to Get Here
Yakataga Airport is located in the western Yakutat Borough, Alaska. The Yakutat Airport (IATA: YAK) is the closest major airport, about 100 miles away. Yakataga is accessible by private vehicle, charter flight, or provided services from local transportation.
Parking
There are few parking options available at Yakataga Airport. Parking is informal and principally off the local access roads, with no actual lots or structures near/on-airport to park in.
Transportation Prices
Transportation costs range greatly depending on the type of travel arrangement, as Yakataga Airport has no scheduled passenger service. Also, because the airport is in a very remote area, charter flights and private transportation services can be costly.
Terminal Layout
It contains a small, basic terminal building serving the local community and general aviation users in this part of Alaska. The terminal has basic services and facilities, including a waiting area, but does not have the comprehensive range of services offered by larger airports.
Navigate the Airport
Yakataga Airport is relatively easy to get around, thanks in part to its small size and lack of related infrastructure. There's not much signage and wayfinding within the terminal, but the size is such that you're able to meander around at will.
Getting Between Terminals
Since Yakataga Airport is equipped with a single terminal, passengers do not need to switch terminals.
Services and Amenities
The airport is tiny, and very few services are available. The terminal building has a relatively small waiting area, but there are no restaurants or shops of any kind in the vicinity. Travelers should plan and pack accordingly with any needed supplies or refreshments.
Restaurants and Shops
Yakataga Airport (CYT) is located in a remote region, and therefore the services available within its terminal are currently limited to no scheduled passenger service.
Security and Customs
There are no security or customs facilities at Yakataga Airport. Passengers on international flights will have to go through customs and immigration at their point of entry or exit (this is typically the hub airport for all larger commercial airports in Alaska, such as Anchorage International Airport).
Accessibility
The size of the Yakataga Airport does preclude handicap accessibility or other amenities for travelers with a disability. There are no separate special services at the airport, so disadvantaged passengers should take care to coordinate with their transport provider.
Travel Tips
Travel Tips for the Yakataga Airport
- Booking transportation in advance may be scarce and expensive as well.
- Pack water, snacks, or food, as there are no facilities here.
- Understand that it offers limited services and basic airport facilities.
- Weather and flight conditions — The airport is in a remote location prone to poor weather.
- If you need further assistance, contact your transport or local provider with the most up-to-date information.