Elim Airport (ELI)

Elim Airport (IATA: ELI, ICAO: PFEL) is a state-owned, public-use airport that serves as a vital transportation link for the city of Elim, a predominantly Inupiaq community on the Seward Peninsula of Alaska. As the primary hub for year-round travel and the transport of mail, food, and essential supplies, the airport is an indispensable lifeline connecting the remote village to regional centers and the rest of the state. Its operation is crucial for local commerce, access to off-site medical care, and personal travel for residents.

Activated in May 1974, the airport was established to provide the community with reliable, modern air access. It is located approximately one nautical mile southwest of Elim's central business district. Given the village's compact size, the airport is easily accessible. Travelers typically reach the runway by walking or using local modes of transport such as all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) in the summer or snowmachines in the winter. Formal taxi services and car rental agencies are not available in the community.

All flights at Elim Airport are domestic, connecting the village with regional hubs, primarily Nome and Unalakleet. Operations are managed by regional air taxi operators, with Bering Air and Ryan Air providing the main scheduled passenger services. These airlines utilize small, durable propeller aircraft, such as the Cessna 208 Caravan, designed to operate from the airport’s single gravel runway. The airport consistently handles over 2,000 passenger enplanements per year, a significant number relative to the village's population.

Facilities at Elim Airport are functional and basic, designed to meet the essential needs of travelers in a remote Arctic environment. A small terminal building or shelter offers a waiting area to protect passengers from inclement weather, but there are no amenities such as restaurants, retail shops, or passenger lounges.

For those traveling through Elim, it is essential to be aware that flight schedules are heavily dependent on weather, and delays or cancellations can occur with little notice. It is recommended to confirm flight status directly with the airline. Arriving 30 to 60 minutes prior to departure is generally sufficient. Passengers should also pack according to the strict weight and size limits for baggage on small aircraft. Any ground transportation from the airport into the village should be arranged in advance.