King Cove Airport (KVC)

King Cove Airport (IATA: KVC, ICAO: PAVC) is a state-owned, public-use airport that serves as a vital transportation link for the remote city of King Cove, Alaska. Located on the Alaska Peninsula, the airport provides the community with essential year-round access for passenger travel, mail, cargo, and critical medical evacuations, as the region is not connected to the state's contiguous road system. Its operation is fundamental to the daily life and safety of the area's residents.

Opened in 1998, the airport was constructed to provide a safer alternative to a previous, more hazardous airstrip. Its history is closely tied to the community's long-standing effort to secure a reliable road connection to the nearby all-weather airport in Cold Bay. King Cove Airport is frequently impacted by severe weather, including high crosswinds and fog, which can ground flights for days. This operational challenge underscores its significance in the ongoing debate over the construction of a controversial land-access road through the Izembek National Wildlife Refuge for emergency medical transport.

The airport is situated approximately three miles northeast of the central part of King Cove, accessible via a local gravel road. Travelers typically arrange for private vehicle transport or coordinate with local contacts for pickups, as there are no public transit, taxi services, or rental car agencies available at the facility. The single gravel runway sits in a valley, a location known for turbulent weather conditions.

Operations at King Cove are exclusively domestic, consisting of scheduled and charter flights operated by regional air carriers. The primary airline serving the airport is Grant Aviation, which provides regular service to Cold Bay. From Cold Bay, passengers can connect to larger aircraft for flights to Anchorage and other destinations. The airport handles several thousand passenger enplanements annually.

Facilities for travelers are minimal, reflecting the airport's small scale and utilitarian purpose. The airport consists of a single, small terminal building that houses a waiting area, restrooms, and an airline check-in counter. There are no restaurants, shops, or lounges.

Travelers using King Cove Airport should always be prepared for significant delays. It is crucial to confirm flight status directly with the airline before heading to the airport. Due to the high probability of weather-related cancellations, visitors should pack essential items like medication in their carry-on luggage and maintain a flexible travel schedule. Arranging all ground transportation within King Cove well in advance of arrival is essential.