Tuluksak Airport (TLT)

Tuluksak Airport (TLT) is a state-owned public-use airport that serves as a critical transportation lifeline for the remote community of Tuluksak, Alaska. Located in the Bethel Census Area, the airport provides the village with essential year-round access for passengers, mail, cargo, and medical services, as it is not connected to the state's contiguous road system. Its role is fundamental to the daily life and well-being of the residents, connecting them to the regional hub of Bethel and beyond.

The airport has a significant recent history centered on safety and relocation. The original airstrip was situated on the bank of the Tuluksak River and suffered from severe, persistent erosion that threatened its operational viability. After extensive planning and construction, a new, relocated airport was officially opened in December 2021. This modern facility was built on more stable ground away from the river, ensuring long-term, reliable air service for the community and marking a major infrastructure improvement for the village.

Tuluksak Airport is located approximately one nautical mile northwest of the central village. Given the small size of the community, the airport is easily accessible. Travelers typically reach the airstrip on foot or by using local modes of transportation common in rural Alaska, such as all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) in the summer and snowmachines in the winter. There are no commercial taxi services, rental cars, or public transit options available.

Operations at Tuluksak Airport are entirely domestic, consisting of scheduled and charter air taxi services. Major regional carriers, such as Grant Aviation, operate flights primarily connecting Tuluksak with Bethel Airport (BET), which serves as the main hub for the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta region. Passenger volume is low, corresponding to the small population of the village it serves. All flights are conducted in small single- or twin-engine aircraft suited for short, gravel runways.

Facilities at the airport are minimal and designed for basic functionality. There is no traditional terminal building. Instead, a small shelter provides a waiting area for passengers. Travelers should not expect amenities such as restaurants, shops, ticketing counters, or TSA security checkpoints. Baggage is typically handled directly by the pilot or ground crew on the apron.

For those traveling to or from Tuluksak, it is essential to confirm flight schedules directly with the airline, as weather conditions in western Alaska can cause frequent delays or cancellations. Passengers should arrive at the time recommended by their air carrier. All onward connections to other destinations are made through Bethel, and it is advisable to allow for ample layover time to account for potential weather-related disruptions. Any ground transportation from the airport into the village should be pre-arranged with local contacts.