Golovin Airport (GLV)

Golovin Airport (IATA: GLV, ICAO: PAGL) is a state-owned, public-use airport that serves as a critical transportation lifeline for the remote Iñupiat village of Golovin, Alaska. Located on the Seward Peninsula, the airport provides the community with essential year-round access for passengers, mail, cargo, and medical services, connecting it to the rest of the state and the nation in a region where road networks are nonexistent. Its primary role is to ensure the reliable movement of people and goods, supporting both daily life and the local economy.

Established to serve the isolated community, the airport has been a cornerstone of Golovin's connection to the outside world for decades. As a public facility operated by the Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities, its significance lies in its consistent, functional role rather than specific historical events. The airport is situated one nautical mile northeast of Golovin's central business district, on the coast of Golovin Bay. Given the village's small size, the airport is easily accessible. Travelers typically arrive by foot, all-terrain vehicle, or snowmachine, as there are no taxi services or public transportation options available in the community.

Operations at Golovin Airport consist exclusively of unscheduled, domestic air taxi services. There are no international flights. The primary carrier is Bering Air, which operates regular flights to regional hubs, most notably Nome (OME), providing a vital link for connecting flights to Anchorage and other destinations. The airport handles a modest number of passengers, with Federal Aviation Administration records indicating just over 1,200 enplanements annually, underscoring its status as a small but essential community airstrip. It features a single gravel runway designated 2/20, measuring 4,000 by 75 feet.

Facilities at Golovin Airport are minimal, reflecting its function as a basic transit point. The airport consists of a small, simple shelter that serves as a terminal building, providing a waiting area for passengers. Travelers should not expect amenities such as restaurants, gift shops, or airline lounges. There are no TSA security checkpoints for flights departing from Golovin.

For those traveling through Golovin Airport, practical planning is key. It is advisable to arrive approximately 60 minutes before a scheduled departure to allow time for check-in and weighing of baggage. Passengers should confirm flight schedules directly with the airline, as they are subject to change due to severe weather, a common occurrence in the region. All ground transportation to and from the airport must be arranged in advance. Baggage allowances on the small aircraft serving Golovin are often stricter than on major commercial flights, so it is important to verify weight and size limits beforehand.