Chenega Bay Airport (NCN)

Chenega Bay Airport (IATA: NCN, ICAO: PFCB) is a state-owned, public-use airstrip that serves as a vital transportation lifeline for the remote community of Chenega, Alaska. Located on Evans Island in Prince William Sound, the airport is not a commercial hub but an essential link for residents, providing access to supplies, mail, and medical services. Its primary importance lies in connecting this isolated village to larger Alaskan cities, as there are no roads leading to Chenega.

The airport's history is deeply intertwined with the story of the Chenega people. The original village of Chenega, located on the southern tip of Chenega Island, was completely destroyed by a tsunami generated by the 1964 Good Friday earthquake. Survivors relocated, and the current community of Chenega Bay was established in its present location in the early 1980s. The airport was constructed as part of this modern settlement, making it a critical piece of infrastructure that enabled the community's resettlement and continued existence.

Situated approximately one nautical mile southeast of the central village, the airport is easily accessible to residents. Given the small size of the community, travelers typically reach the airstrip on foot or by a short ride on an all-terrain vehicle. There are no taxis, ride-sharing services, or car rentals available. All on-ground transportation must be arranged privately and in advance with local contacts or hosts.

Operations at Chenega Bay Airport are limited to general aviation and scheduled air taxi services, often subsidized through the federal Essential Air Service (EAS) program. Small, single-engine aircraft are the standard, connecting Chenega with cities like Anchorage and Cordova. There are no international flights, and passenger volume is minimal, consisting almost entirely of local residents and occasional visitors or contract workers.

Facilities at the airport are rudimentary, reflecting its functional purpose. It features a single, unpaved gravel runway. There is no terminal building, waiting lounge, restaurant, or shop. Travelers should not expect any amenities upon arrival or departure; the airport is simply a landing strip with basic shelter at most.

For those traveling to Chenega, planning is essential. Flights must be booked well in advance directly with the air taxi operator serving the route. Schedules are highly susceptible to weather conditions in Prince William Sound, and delays or cancellations are common, so a flexible travel itinerary is crucial. Visitors must bring all necessary supplies, food, and water, as services at both the airport and in the village are extremely limited. It is imperative to coordinate your arrival and pickup with your host in the village before you travel.