Alakanuk Airport (AUK)

Alakanuk Airport (IATA: AUK, ICAO: PAUK) is a state-owned, public-use airport that serves as a vital transportation link for the remote village of Alakanuk, Alaska. Located in the Kusilvak Census Area on the shore of the Alakanuk River, the airport provides the primary means of access for residents, cargo, and mail, as the community is not connected to the state's contiguous road system. Its role is essential for connecting this isolated Yup'ik village to regional hubs and essential services, functioning as a non-negotiable lifeline to the outside world.

First activated in April 1948, the airport has a history defined by its challenging environment. A significant event in its recent history was its complete relocation. Due to persistent erosion from the adjacent river threatening the original airstrip, a new airport with a 4,000-foot gravel runway was constructed approximately one mile southwest of the village, with the project completing around 2012. This move ensured the long-term viability of Alakanuk's air service and the safety of its operations.

The airport is situated about one nautical mile from the central part of Alakanuk. Travelers typically reach the facility from the village on foot or by using all-terrain vehicles in the summer and snowmobiles in the winter. There are no taxis, ride-sharing services, or rental car agencies available; transportation should be coordinated in advance with local contacts.

Operations at Alakanuk Airport are exclusively domestic, consisting of scheduled passenger flights and general aviation services. Regional carriers such as Grant Aviation and Ryan Air Alaska are the primary operators, offering flights that connect Alakanuk with regional hubs, most notably Bethel (BET). From these hubs, passengers can connect to Anchorage and other destinations. The airport handles a modest volume of traffic, with Federal Aviation Administration records showing just under 4,500 passenger enplanements in 2018.

Facilities at the airport are basic and align with its small scale and remote location. A simple terminal building provides a heated waiting area and restrooms for passengers. There are no restaurants, shops, or passenger lounges on-site. Boarding is conducted directly from the tarmac onto the aircraft.

For those traveling through Alakanuk Airport, it is advisable to check with the airline for recommended arrival times, though 60 minutes prior to departure is often sufficient. Given the unpredictability of Alaskan weather, flight delays and cancellations can occur, so building flexibility into travel itineraries is crucial. Baggage allowances on smaller regional aircraft are often more restrictive than on major carriers, so travelers should verify weight and size limits before their journey.