New Stuyahok Airport (KNW)

New Stuyahok Airport (IATA: KNW, ICAO: PANW) is a state-owned, public-use airport that serves as a critical transportation lifeline for the remote community of New Stuyahok, Alaska. Located in the Dillingham Census Area, the airport provides the primary means of year-round access for residents, connecting them to regional hubs for essential services, cargo, mail, and passenger travel. Due to the region's lack of road connectivity to the rest of the state, the airport’s role in facilitating medical evacuations and the delivery of goods is fundamental to the village's daily life and well-being.

Activated in April 1978, the airport is a vital component of Alaska's rural aviation network. It is situated one nautical mile north of the New Stuyahok central business district. Given the village's small size, the airport is easily accessible, with most travelers arriving on foot or by All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV), the common mode of local transportation. There are no commercial taxi, shuttle, or car rental services available at the airport; ground transportation must be pre-arranged with local contacts or organizations.

Operations at New Stuyahok Airport consist exclusively of domestic, intra-state flights, primarily air taxi and general aviation services. The airport is served by small, regional airlines operating under the federal Essential Air Service (EAS) program, which subsidizes flights to ensure continued connectivity for the community. Carriers such as Grant Aviation provide scheduled passenger service, typically using small propeller-driven aircraft, connecting New Stuyahok with the regional hub of Dillingham (DLG). From Dillingham, travelers can access further flights to Anchorage and other destinations. The airport handles a modest volume of traffic, with Federal Aviation Administration records indicating just over 2,100 passenger enplanements in 2022.

Facilities at the airport are basic and designed for function over comfort. The airfield consists of a single gravel runway (14/32) measuring 3,280 by 75 feet. There is a small building that serves as a simple shelter and waiting area for passengers, but it does not contain amenities such as restaurants, shops, ticket counters, or passenger lounges. Restrooms may be available but are not guaranteed.

Travelers using New Stuyahok Airport should plan accordingly. It is advisable to confirm flight schedules directly with the airline, as weather in the region can cause frequent delays and cancellations. Baggage allowances on small aircraft are strictly enforced and are typically much smaller than on major commercial jets. Passengers should bring any necessary food, water, or other provisions with them, as no services are available for purchase at the airport. Arriving 60 to 90 minutes prior to a scheduled departure is recommended to allow for check-in and baggage handling.