Allakaket Airport (AET)

Allakaket Airport (IATA: AET, ICAO: PFAL) is a state-owned, public-use airport serving the communities of Allakaket and Alatna in the Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area of Alaska. As the primary transportation hub for this remote region, which is not connected to the statewide road system, it provides an essential connection for residents. The airport is a critical lifeline, facilitating the delivery of mail, cargo, and medical supplies, and enabling passenger travel to larger hubs for essential services.

Activated in December 1959, the airport has been a cornerstone of the community's infrastructure for over six decades. Its significance lies in its ability to overcome the profound geographical isolation of the interior Alaskan Koyukuk River valley. Throughout its history, the airport has ensured a consistent link to the outside world for everything from routine travel and commerce to emergency medical evacuations, playing an indispensable role in the sustainability and well-being of the local population.

The airport is located approximately one nautical mile (about 1.8 km) north of Allakaket's central area. Travelers access the airstrip via local means of transport, which typically consist of all-terrain vehicles during the summer and snowmachines in the winter. There are no commercial taxi services, ride-sharing options, or rental car facilities available; transportation to and from the airport must be arranged in advance with local contacts.

Operations at Allakaket consist exclusively of domestic general aviation and scheduled air taxi services. Regional carriers, such as Wright Air Service, operate regular flights connecting Allakaket with Fairbanks, the primary urban center for the region. These flights are conducted using small, propeller-driven aircraft designed to operate from the airport’s single gravel runway. There are no international flights, and passenger volume is low, reflecting the small size of the communities it serves.

Facilities at Allakaket Airport are minimal and functional, consistent with its role as a remote bush airfield. There is no traditional terminal building. Travelers will not find amenities such as restaurants, shops, or passenger lounges. A small shelter may be available to provide protection from the elements, but visitors should not expect any commercial services on-site.

For those traveling through Allakaket Airport, it is vital to be self-sufficient, carrying any necessary food, water, and weather-appropriate gear. Flight schedules are highly dependent on weather conditions and can change with little notice, so confirming flight status directly with the airline is essential. Arriving with adequate time before a scheduled departure is recommended, but passengers should be prepared for the possibility of waiting outdoors or in a basic shelter.