Nightmute Airport (NME)

Nightmute Airport (PAGT/NME) is a state-owned, public-use airport that serves as an essential lifeline for the remote community of Nightmute, Alaska. Located on Nelson Island in the Bering Sea, the village is inaccessible by road, making the airport the primary conduit for passenger travel, mail, cargo, and medical services. Its role is critical for connecting residents to the regional hub of Bethel and the rest of the state, underpinning the local economy and community well-being. The airport was established to provide a reliable transportation link for the isolated Yup'ik village, a function it continues to fulfill today.

The airport is situated approximately one nautical mile west of the central village. Given the small size of the community and the lack of a road system, access between the village and the airport is typically on foot or by all-terrain vehicle (ATV). There are no conventional ground transportation options such as taxis or rental cars available. Operations at Nightmute Airport are entirely domestic, consisting of short-haul flights operated by small, propeller-driven aircraft. The primary airline serving the community is Grant Aviation, which offers scheduled air taxi services to and from Bethel (BET). These flights are a fundamental part of daily life, and passenger volume is directly related to the needs of the small local population.

Reflecting its function as a basic utility, the airport’s facilities are minimal. It features a single gravel runway and a small, simple shelter or building that serves as a waiting area. Travelers should not expect amenities found at larger airports; there are no restaurants, shops, lounges, or dedicated ticketing counters. All arrangements are handled directly with the airline, often at the aircraft side or within the basic shelter.

For those traveling to or from Nightmute, practical planning is key. Flight schedules are highly dependent on weather conditions, which can be severe and change rapidly. It is essential to confirm flight status directly with the airline and build significant flexibility into any connecting travel plans. Baggage allowances are strictly limited on the small aircraft used for these routes. Upon arrival, travelers should have a pre-arranged plan for transport into the village. Connections to other destinations in Alaska and beyond are made through the Bethel Airport, so allowing ample time between flights in Bethel is crucial to account for potential weather-related delays.