False Pass Airport (KFP)

False Pass Airport (PAKF/KFP) is a state-owned, public-use airport that serves as a critical transportation link for the remote community of False Pass, Alaska. Located on the eastern shore of Unimak Island in the Aleutians East Borough, the airport provides essential, year-round access for residents, connecting them to the rest of the state for medical services, cargo, mail, and passenger travel. Given the community's isolation from the contiguous road system, air travel is not a luxury but a lifeline. The airport is situated adjacent to the small village, making it easily accessible on foot or by all-terrain vehicle (ATV), the common modes of transport in the area.

Opened in 1990, the airport represented a significant advancement for the community, which had previously relied on more weather-sensitive floatplanes. A pivotal moment in its history occurred in 2012 when its single gravel runway was paved. This major upgrade improved operational safety and reliability, especially during the region’s often harsh weather conditions, and allowed for more consistent service by larger and more modern aircraft. The airport’s existence and subsequent improvements have been fundamental to the sustainability of the False Pass community.

Operations at False Pass Airport are exclusively domestic and consist of scheduled air taxi services and charter flights. The primary carrier is Grant Aviation, which provides regular flights to Cold Bay Airport (CDB), the regional hub. From Cold Bay, travelers can connect to Anchorage and other destinations. Passenger volume is low, with several hundred enplanements annually, reflecting the small population it serves. The airport's facilities are basic and functional, designed to meet the essential needs of a remote outpost. There is no traditional terminal building; instead, a small shelter provides a waiting area for passengers. Amenities such as restaurants, shops, or lounges are not available. The facility consists of a single asphalt runway measuring approximately 3,900 feet in length.

Travelers using False Pass Airport should plan for a rustic experience. It is advisable to arrive 30 to 60 minutes before a scheduled flight, but always confirm timing directly with the airline. There are no rental cars, taxis, or public transportation options; arrangements for pickup should be made in advance if required. Due to the notoriously unpredictable Aleutian weather, including high winds, fog, and precipitation, flight delays and cancellations are common. Passengers connecting through Cold Bay should book flights with ample layover time and be prepared with contingency plans. It is essential to bring your own food, water, and any other necessities, as no services are available at the airport.