Clarks Point Airport (CLP)

Clarks Point Airport (IATA: CLP, ICAO: PFCL) is a state-owned, public-use airport that serves as the essential aviation link for the remote community of Clarks Point, Alaska. Located in the Dillingham Census Area, the airport provides vital year-round access for residents and seasonal workers, facilitating the transport of passengers, mail, cargo, and medical supplies to a village not connected to the state's contiguous road system. Its role is particularly crucial for the local fishing industry, which forms the backbone of the community's economy.

Activated in December 1948, the airport has a long history of connecting this isolated Bristol Bay community with regional hubs. Its development and continued operation reflect the critical importance of air travel in rural Alaska. The airport is situated one nautical mile north of the central business district of Clarks Point. Travelers typically reach the facility via local unpaved roads, and since there are no public transit, taxi, or ride-sharing services available, all ground transportation must be arranged in advance with local contacts, lodges, or employers.

Operations at Clarks Point Airport consist exclusively of domestic, intra-state flights operated by regional air taxi services. Grant Aviation is the primary carrier offering scheduled passenger service, connecting Clarks Point with the regional hub of Dillingham (DLG), which provides further connections to Anchorage and other destinations. The airport handles a modest volume of traffic, with Federal Aviation Administration data recording 631 passenger enplanements in 2022. All flights operate from a single gravel runway, designated 18/36, which measures 3,200 by 75 feet.

Facilities at the airport are minimal and designed for basic functionality. There is no traditional terminal building with passenger amenities. Instead, a small, basic shelter is available for waiting passengers. Travelers will not find restaurants, cafes, retail shops, or lounges on-site. Restroom facilities may be limited or non-existent.

For those traveling through Clarks Point Airport, practical planning is key. Passengers should arrive at the time specified by their airline, typically 30 to 60 minutes before departure. It is essential to confirm ground transportation prior to arrival in the village. Due to the region's unpredictable weather, flight delays and cancellations are common, so travelers connecting through Dillingham should build significant buffer time into their itineraries. Given the lack of airport amenities, it is advisable to bring personal snacks, drinks, and any necessary entertainment.