Aur Island Airport (AUL)

Aur Island Airport (AUL) serves the remote Aur Atoll in the Marshall Islands, a low-lying coral atoll in the central Pacific Ocean. This essential airstrip is the primary link for the island community to the capital, Majuro, providing a lifeline for mail, supplies, and inter-island travel. The 'airport' is a minimalist facility, typically comprising a coral dust or compacted sand runway, designed to accommodate small propeller-driven aircraft like the Dornier 228 operated by Air Marshall Islands. There is no conventional terminal building; passengers usually gather at a very basic, often open-sided, shelter or simply wait near the runway, reflecting its role as a vital but rudimentary lifeline.

Operational procedures at AUL are informal and highly dependent on visual flight rules (VFR), local weather, and tidal conditions. There are no security checkpoints, baggage handling systems, or traditional check-in counters. Passengers typically interact directly with the pilot or a local agent to confirm their manifest. Flights are often unscheduled and subject to delays or cancellations due to tropical weather patterns, including heavy rainfall, high winds, or runway conditions. The uniqueness of atoll operations means that pilots need to be highly skilled in operating from short, unpaved strips.

Amenities at Aur Island Airport are non-existent. Travelers should not expect any facilities such as restrooms, food vendors, or retail shops. It is essential for visitors to bring all necessary provisions, including water and snacks, and to be prepared for the hot and humid tropical climate. All arrangements for accommodation and ground transportation within the atoll must be made in advance, as Aur is a small, subsistence-based community with limited public facilities. The airport's sole purpose is to provide critical air access to this isolated island community.