Nome (OME)

Nome, Alaska, is home to the Nome Airport (PAOM/OME/OME), which has a rich history dating back to the early 1900s. The airport is located about three miles west of Nome's downtown area and covers an area of 1,312 acres. It is a public-use airport and is the only airport in the Nome Census Area.

The Nome Airport has two runways: Runway 09/27, which is 6,001 feet long and 150 feet wide, and Runway 03/21, which is 4,500 feet long and 100 feet wide. Both runways are asphalt paved and have instrument approach procedures, making it possible for pilots to fly in all types of weather conditions.

The airport offers a range of facilities and services to travelers, including a terminal building, a restaurant, rental car agencies, and a gift shop. The terminal building features a spacious waiting area, public restrooms, and free Wi-Fi. The restaurant serves a variety of dishes, including fresh seafood and traditional Alaskan cuisine, and is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.

One unique feature of the Nome Airport is its "Airport in the Sky" program. This program allows pilots to participate in a scavenger hunt while flying over the airport. Pilots receive a list of items to look for, and once they have found them all, they can receive a prize.

The history of the Nome Airport is closely tied to the history of Alaska itself. In the early 1900s, the airport served as a hub for transportation during the gold rush. Planes would fly in supplies and equipment, and miners would use the airport to transport themselves and their gold. In the 1920s and 1930s, the airport became a stop on the mail route, and in the 1940s, the airport was used as a military base during World War II.

Today, the Nome Airport continues to play an important role in the transportation and economy of the region. It serves as a gateway to the surrounding communities and is an essential lifeline for those who live and work in the area.

In conclusion, the Nome Airport is a vital part of the infrastructure of Alaska. It offers a range of facilities and services to travelers, including a restaurant, rental car agencies, and a gift shop. Its history is closely intertwined with the history of the region, and it continues to play an important role in the community today.