Mertarvik Airport (IATA: WWT, ICAO: PAEW) is a public-use airport that serves as the essential air transportation link for the community of Mertarvik on Nelson Island in western Alaska. The airport’s significance is deeply tied to the relocation of the Yup'ik village of Newtok, one of the first American communities to move due to the effects of climate change.
- Vital Community Lifeline: The airport provides an essential link for the remote community, enabling critical travel, the movement of supplies, and indispensable emergency medical evacuations.
- Structured Parking Availability: Despite its isolated location, organized parking options are available, including features like shuttle service, 24/7 security, and covered parking. Booking in advance is recommended for optimal rates.
- Minimal to Non-Existent Facilities and Services: The airport operates as an unattended facility with no services available, meaning travelers should not anticipate typical airport amenities or on-site staff.
- Runway Condition Advisories: Remarks indicate that the "Runway condition is unmaintained" and a visual inspection is recommended prior to use, suggesting potential operational considerations and the need for pilots to exercise caution.
- Limited Commercial Flight Options: Historically, the absence of a commercial airport meant reliance on expensive charter flights for basic necessities. While the airport now exists, its primary function remains essential community support, implying scarce broader commercial passenger services.
- Historical Safety Concerns (Pre-2022 Airport): Prior to the permanent airport's construction, the temporary airstrip was described as narrow, short, unlevel, and dangerous, leading to significant risks for flights, especially medevacs, and tragically resulting in preventable deaths.
Bottom line: In summary, Mertarvik Airport functions as a fundamental and critical piece of infrastructure for its isolated community rather than a conventional commercial travel hub. While it offers essential connectivity and some organized parking, travelers should expect a facility without commercial services or amenities. Its paramount value lies in its vital support for the residents of Mertarvik.
Routes from WWT
1 nonstop destination · 2 airlines.
Airlines at WWT
2 carriers operate scheduled departures.
Route Network Map
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Airport routes
Mertarvik Airport (WWT) offers 2 flight routes operated by 2 airlines. Major carriers include Grant Aviation and others. Popular destinations from Mertarvik include Bethel.
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Common questions about WWT
Quick answers, straight from the schedule data.
How many destinations have nonstop flights from WWT?
Mertarvik Airport has 2 scheduled routes to 1 destinations in 1 countries, operated by 2 airlines.
Which airlines fly from Mertarvik Airport?
2 carriers operate scheduled departures, including Grant Aviation.
Where is Mertarvik Airport located?
Mertarvik Airport is located in Mertarvik, US, at an elevation of 346 ft. Its IATA code is WWT and ICAO code is PAEW.