Stony River 2 Airport (SRV)

Stony River 2 Airport (SRV) is a state-owned, public-use airport that serves as a critical transportation link for the remote community of Stony River, Alaska. Its primary role is not for tourism but as an essential lifeline, providing residents with access to supplies, mail, medical services, and personal travel to larger regional hubs. The airport is fundamental to the community's connection with the rest of the state and the country.

Activated in May 1978, the airport's significance lies in its continuous function as the primary access point for this isolated village. Located one nautical mile east of the Stony River census-designated place, the airport is immediately adjacent to the small community it serves. Given the village's isolation from the state road system, travelers and residents typically access the airstrip on foot or by all-terrain vehicle from their homes or lodging.

Operations at SRV consist exclusively of unscheduled general aviation and air taxi services. There are no major commercial airlines with regularly scheduled flights. Instead, small, local charter operators provide on-demand flights, connecting Stony River with larger airports such as Anchorage (ANC) or McGrath (MCG). Passenger volume is very low and corresponds directly with the needs of the small local population and occasional visitors.

Reflecting its function as a remote bush airstrip, the airport’s facilities are minimal. Travelers should not expect a traditional terminal building, security screening, lounges, retail shops, or restaurants. The infrastructure consists of a single gravel runway and basic navigational aids. Any necessary amenities, including restrooms and shelter, are found within the village itself rather than at the airstrip.

For individuals planning travel to Stony River, advance coordination is essential. Flights must be booked directly with an air taxi service, and schedules are highly dependent on weather and daylight conditions, requiring significant flexibility. Upon arrival, there are no rental cars, shuttles, or public transportation services. All ground transport and lodging arrangements must be made privately before travel. When connecting from SRV through a larger airport, it is highly advisable to build in ample buffer time, potentially an overnight stay, to account for the common weather-related delays associated with remote Alaskan aviation.