Crooked Creek Airport (CKD)

Crooked Creek Airport (IATA: CJX, FAA LID: CKD) is a state-owned, public-use airport that serves as a vital transportation link for the remote community of Crooked Creek, Alaska. Located in the Bethel Census Area, the airport provides the primary means of access for residents, cargo, mail, and medical services, as the village is not connected to the state's contiguous road system. Its role is essential for connecting the community to regional hubs and the outside world.

Established and activated in April 1978, the airport's significance lies in its continuous operation as part of the federal Essential Air Service (EAS) program. This subsidy ensures that Crooked Creek maintains scheduled air transport, which is critical for its economic and social stability. The airport’s history is one of practical necessity rather than major events, consistently providing a lifeline to an isolated Alaskan population.

The airport is situated approximately one mile southwest of the Crooked Creek village center. Given the community’s small size and lack of a road network, access between the village and the airport is typically accomplished on foot or by all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). There are no commercial taxi, shuttle, or ride-sharing services available.

Operations at Crooked Creek Airport are exclusively domestic, consisting of scheduled passenger and cargo flights to regional transportation centers like Aniak. Ryan Air Service is the primary airline providing scheduled flights under the EAS contract. The airport handles a very low volume of traffic, typically serving a few hundred passengers annually, which reflects its function as a basic service point for a small, isolated population.

Traveler facilities at the airport are extremely limited, consistent with its role and location. The airport features a single, unpaved gravel runway. There is no traditional terminal building; instead, a basic shelter may be available for passengers to wait for their flights. Travelers should not expect amenities such as restaurants, retail shops, lounges, Wi-Fi, or car rental counters. All essential services are located within the village itself.

For those traveling through Crooked Creek Airport, it is crucial to confirm flight schedules directly with the airline, as weather can frequently cause delays or cancellations in rural Alaska. Passengers should arrive for check-in at the time specified by the carrier, but be prepared for a very informal process. All ground transportation must be arranged privately. Connections to other destinations require flying to a regional hub, and travelers should be aware of the strict weight and size limitations for baggage on the small aircraft that serve the route.