Atqasuk Edward Burnell Sr Memorial Airport (ATK)

Atqasuk Edward Burnell Sr. Airport (ATK) serves the remote Inupiat village of Atqasuk, situated on the North Slope of Alaska, inland from the Arctic Ocean. This essential airport is the community's primary link to the outside world, as there is no road access, particularly during the long, harsh winter months. The facility consists of a single gravel runway, designed to accommodate propeller-driven aircraft, and a very basic, often unheated shelter that serves as the 'terminal' building. Its operations are critical for delivering mail, food, medical supplies, and connecting residents to larger hubs like Utqiagvik (Barrow) or Fairbanks.

Operational procedures at ATK are characteristic of Alaskan bush aviation. There are no security checkpoints, ticket counters, or baggage belts. Passengers typically interact directly with the pilot or ground agent (often a local village coordinator) to check in and load their luggage and cargo. Due to the extreme weather conditions of the Arctic, including high winds, blowing snow, and freezing temperatures, flights are highly dependent on visual flight rules (VFR) and are frequently subject to delays or cancellations. Pilots are specially trained for challenging conditions, and aircraft are equipped for gravel runway operations.

Amenities at Atqasuk Airport are non-existent. Travelers should not expect any services such as restrooms, food vendors, or retail shops. It is imperative for visitors to be completely self-sufficient, bringing all necessary provisions and dressing appropriately for extreme cold. All arrangements for accommodation and ground transportation within the village must be made in advance, as Atqasuk is a small subsistence community with limited public facilities. The airport's sole purpose is to provide critical air access to this isolated Arctic community.