Pedro Bay Airport (PDB)

Pedro Bay Airport (IATA: PDB, FAA LID: 4K0) is a state-owned, public-use airport serving the remote community of Pedro Bay in the Lake and Peninsula Borough of Alaska. As the village is not connected to the contiguous road system, the airport functions as an essential lifeline, providing critical access for residents, visitors, mail, and cargo. Its primary role is to connect the small, predominantly Alutiiq community to larger regional hubs, ensuring the flow of supplies, enabling travel, and facilitating medical and emergency services.

Established in the mid-20th century, the airport's significance is rooted in its consistent, functional service rather than specific historical events. For decades, it has been the primary gateway to Pedro Bay, supporting subsistence lifestyles, local industries like fishing and lodging, and government services. Its existence is fundamental to the community's viability and connection to the outside world.

The airport is located approximately one nautical mile northeast of the central part of Pedro Bay, situated near the eastern end of Iliamna Lake. Given the village's small size, access to and from the airstrip is typically on foot or by all-terrain vehicle (ATV). There are no commercial taxi services, car rentals, or public transit options available; travelers must pre-arrange any necessary ground transportation with their local contacts, such as a fishing lodge or private host.

Operations at Pedro Bay Airport consist exclusively of unscheduled air taxi services and general aviation flights. No major commercial airlines operate here. Regional carriers, such as Iliamna Air Taxi, provide on-demand charter flights that connect Pedro Bay with nearby hubs like Iliamna (ILI) and, less directly, to major centers like Anchorage. Passenger volume is modest, consisting mainly of local residents and seasonal visitors such as fishermen, hunters, and researchers. The airport features a single gravel runway.

Facilities at Pedro Bay Airport are minimal, reflecting its utilitarian purpose. There is no terminal building, passenger lounge, or security screening area. Amenities such as restaurants, shops, and public restrooms are not available on-site. Baggage is typically handled directly between the traveler and the pilot on the tarmac.

For travelers, practical planning is key. Flights are highly susceptible to weather conditions, and delays or cancellations are common, so flexibility is essential. It is not necessary to arrive hours in advance; coordinating arrival time directly with the air taxi operator is standard practice. Visitors should confirm their ground transportation from the airport before they depart for Pedro Bay. All necessary supplies, including food and water, should be brought with you or arranged for in the village, as no services are available at the airstrip itself.