Yakutat (YAK)

Yakutat, Alaska is a small town located in the southeastern part of the state. It is known for its natural beauty, world-class fishing, and outdoor activities. The town is also home to the Yakutat Airport, which has a rich history and offers a range of facilities and services to travelers.

The Yakutat Airport, also known as PAYA or YAK, was built in the 1940s as a military airport. During World War II, the airport was used by the US Army Air Corps as a refueling stop for planes traveling between the United States and Asia. After the war, the airport was transferred to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and became a civilian airport.

Today, the airport is a hub for commercial and private flights in the region. It is located on the west side of Yakutat, about 4 miles from the town center. The airport has a single runway that is 7,700 feet long and 150 feet wide, capable of accommodating large aircraft such as Boeing 747s. The airport is open 24 hours a day and is equipped with modern navigational aids and lighting systems.

The airport offers a range of facilities and services to travelers, including a terminal building with a comfortable waiting area, restrooms, and vending machines. The terminal also has a small gift shop where visitors can purchase Alaska-themed souvenirs and gifts. There is also a restaurant located just outside the terminal building that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

One unique feature of the Yakutat Airport is the presence of a glider club. The Yakutat Glider Club is a non-profit organization that operates out of the airport and offers glider flights to visitors. The gliders are launched using a tow plane and can stay aloft for hours, providing passengers with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

In conclusion, the Yakutat Airport is an important transportation hub for the region and has a rich history dating back to World War II. The airport offers modern facilities and services to travelers, including a comfortable terminal building, restaurant, and gift shop. Visitors can also take advantage of the unique opportunity to go gliding with the Yakutat Glider Club.