Wales Airport (WAA)

Wales Airport (PAIW/WAA) is a state-owned, public-use airport that serves as a critical lifeline for the remote Inupiat village of Wales, Alaska. Located on the westernmost tip of the Seward Peninsula, overlooking the Bering Strait, the airport provides the community's only year-round connection to the rest of the state. Because Wales is not connected to any road system, the airport is essential for passenger travel, mail delivery, cargo shipments, and medical evacuations. Its role is fundamental to the daily life and sustainability of the village's residents.

Activated in February 1952, the airport has a long history of serving the region. Its significance is tied directly to the isolation of its location. Operations are focused entirely on domestic travel, with no international flights. The primary carrier, Bering Air, operates scheduled passenger and charter flights connecting Wales with the regional hub of Nome (OME), which is approximately 110 miles to the southeast. These flights are the main artery for travel and supplies. The airport is small in scale, handling approximately 1,350 passenger enplanements annually, reflecting the village's small population. The facility operates without a control tower, with pilots coordinating directly via radio.

The airport is situated just northeast of the main village area, making access straightforward for residents and visitors. Transportation to and from the runway is typically accomplished on foot or by personal all-terrain vehicles or snowmobiles, as there are no taxis, ride-sharing services, or car rentals available. The airport itself consists of a single gravel runway and a basic shelter or small building that serves as a waiting area. Facilities are extremely limited, and travelers should not expect amenities such as restaurants, shops, or lounges.

For those traveling to or from Wales, practical planning is essential. Flight schedules are highly susceptible to delays or cancellations due to the region's severe and unpredictable weather, especially during winter. It is crucial to confirm flight status directly with the airline and build significant flexibility into any travel itinerary. When making connections through Nome, travelers should allow for ample buffer time. Visitors must arrive self-sufficiently, bringing any necessary food, water, and other provisions, as no supplies are available for purchase at the airport and services within the village are minimal.