Hooper Bay Airport (HPB)

Hooper Bay Airport (IATA: HPB, ICAO: PAHP) is a state-owned, public-use airport that serves as a vital transportation lifeline for the city of Hooper Bay, a remote Yup'ik community in the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta region of western Alaska. As the community is not connected to the statewide road system, the airport provides essential year-round access for residents, delivering mail, cargo, medical services, and passenger transit. Its primary role is connecting Hooper Bay with regional hubs, ensuring the flow of people and critical supplies.

Activated in July 1959, the airport has been a cornerstone of the community's infrastructure for decades. It is located approximately three nautical miles south of Hooper Bay’s central business district. Given the remote setting, access between the town and the airport is typically accomplished via all-terrain vehicles, snowmachines in the winter, or pre-arranged local transportation. There are no conventional taxi services or public transit options available, so travelers should coordinate their ground transport in advance of their arrival.

Operations at Hooper Bay Airport consist exclusively of domestic, regional flights. There are no international services. Scheduled passenger flights are operated by regional air carriers such as Grant Aviation, which provide regular service to and from Bethel (BET), the primary air hub for the region. From Bethel, travelers can connect to Anchorage and other destinations across Alaska. The airport facilitates several thousand passenger enplanements annually and handles significant volumes of mail and freight essential for daily life in the village.

Facilities at the airport are basic and functional, designed to meet the essential needs of regional air travel. The airport consists of a single gravel runway and a small terminal building. Inside the terminal, passengers will find a modest waiting area and restrooms. Travelers should not expect amenities such as restaurants, retail shops, or rental car agencies. All necessary supplies or food should be acquired before traveling to the airport.

For those traveling through Hooper Bay Airport, it is advisable to arrive at least 90 minutes before a scheduled departure to allow ample time for check-in and baggage procedures. Flights in this region are highly susceptible to delays or cancellations due to weather, so travelers should maintain a flexible schedule. Baggage allowances on the small aircraft that serve the airport are typically stricter than on major commercial jets. It is crucial to confirm weight and size limits with the airline prior to travel to avoid unexpected fees or complications.