โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
75
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Allen Army Airfield (BIG) is a unique joint-use aviation facility located at Fort Greely, approximately three miles south of Delta Junction, Alaska. Owned and operated by the United States Army, the airfield serves a dual role as a critical logistics hub for military operations in the Arctic and a public-use airport for the local community. This joint-use facility operates at 1,285 feet above sea level with three paved asphalt runways: the impressive 9,000 by 150-foot Runway 1/19, capable of accommodating heavy military cargo aircraft such as the C-17 Globemaster III and C-5A Galaxy (December-April), plus runways 10/28 (6,115 by 150 feet) and 7/25 (4,057 by 90 feet). This strategic infrastructure is essential for the testing of cold-climate equipment and the support of the U.S. Army's mission at Fort Greely.
The passenger facilities at Allen Army Airfield are minimalist, reflecting its primary function as an active military installation. There is no traditional commercial passenger terminal with retail or extensive dining halls. Instead, civilian travelers and personnel using the airfield for charter or private flights will find basic waiting areas and administrative offices. Amenities are limited to the essentials, and there are no restaurants or cafes within the airport territory. Travelers are strongly advised to bring their own provisions, including water and snacks, or to utilize the dining options available in the nearby town of Delta Junction. The airport's layout is focused on operational utility, ensuring the efficient movement of personnel and cargo across the Southeast Fairbanks Census Area.
Operational procedures at BIG are strictly managed by military personnel, and civilian use is governed by a long-standing agreement with the City of Delta Junction. The airfield is generally active from 8 a.m. to midnight, Monday through Friday, with specialized hours for air traffic control and refueling services. Security is a paramount concern, and all civilian visitors must comply with military base access requirements and potential enhanced screening measures. For those arriving on private or charter aircraft, it is recommended to coordinate with the base command well in advance to ensure all necessary permits and clearances are in place. The airport also features a massive 37,600-square-foot hangar capable of housing large helicopters like the CH-47 Chinook.
Ground transportation from the airfield is oriented toward private vehicles and pre-arranged shuttles, as there is no regular public transit serving the base. The drive to the center of Delta Junction typically takes about 5 to 10 minutes via local roads. The airport serves as an important entry point for those visiting the region for military business or for exploring the dramatic landscapes of the Alaskan interior, including the nearby Alaska Range. While the facilities are basic, Allen Army Airfield provides a professional and highly secure environment that reflects its critical role in national defense and regional connectivity. Whether arriving for cold-weather training or as part of a specialized logistical mission, BIG offers a resilient gateway to the heart of Alaska.
๐ Connection Tips
Connecting at Allen Army Airfield (BIG) is a specialized process requiring coordination with military and local authorities. Since the facility has no scheduled commercial services, connections involve transitioning between military or charter flights and ground transport. If arriving on an authorized flight and needing to reach Fairbanks, allow a buffer for security delays associated with exiting a military base. Pre-arrange your ground transport through your sponsoring organization at Fort Greely or a trusted local provider. If your itinerary requires a connection from BIG to a scheduled commercial flight, utilize ground transport to reach a larger hub.
The primary connection point is Fairbanks International Airport (FAI), 100 miles northwest. This journey takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes via the Richardson Highway. Pre-arrange a private shuttle or car service, as ride-sharing is unavailable in Delta Junction. Factor in at least four hours for this transition to account for the drive and security procedures at Fairbanks. For pilots using BIG as a technical connection, remember that refueling and ground services have specific hours and require prior authorization.
Verify the latest NOTAMs and maintain communication with base air traffic control. While the airport has significant runway capabilities, the local airspace requires high vigilance. By leveraging the airfieldโs strategic location and military support, users can maximize the efficiency of logistical connections in the Arctic. The airport is a critical link for specialized missions in the Alaskan interior. Always carry essential supplies and be prepared for cold-climate operations.
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
60
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE), located in Allentown, Pennsylvania, serves as a vital regional gateway to the Lehigh Valley and Eastern Pennsylvania. It offers a less congested and more convenient travel experience compared to larger metropolitan hubs. The airport features a single, modern terminal building spread across two levels, designed for efficient passenger processing and easy navigation. The lower level is dedicated to arrivals, housing baggage claim, car rental counters, and exits to ground transportation. The upper level manages departures, with ticket counters, airline check-in desks, and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screening checkpoint.
The airport continually invests in enhancing its passenger facilities. A recent TSA Checkpoint Terminal Connector Project has significantly upgraded the security area, incorporating up to four screening lanes, modern escalators and elevators, and an enhanced air purification system. The terminal is structured with two main concourses: Concourse A on the ground level serves airlines like Allegiant Air, American Airlines, and Delta Air Lines, while Concourse B on the upper level is utilized by United Airlines and Frontier Airlines.
Amenities at ABE are well-appointed for a regional facility, including several cafes and snack bars, shops for essentials and souvenirs, and free Wi-Fi throughout. ABE also offers family-friendly amenities such as a children's play area, a sensory room, and a therapy dog program, along with occasional live music performances, creating a welcoming atmosphere for all travelers.
๐ Connection Tips
Connecting through Lehigh Valley International Airport provides efficient access to Pennsylvania's fourth-busiest passenger facility serving 14 nonstop destinations through Allegiant Air, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and Frontier Airlines from its renovated single terminal with two-level design. The airport's 14 gates split between ground-level Concourse A (8 gates) and upper-level Concourse B (6 gates) enable quick connections with minimal walking distances, while recent TSA Checkpoint Terminal Connector Project upgrades include four screening lanes, modern escalators, and enhanced air purification systems reducing security wait times to 3-8 minutes with PreCheck or CLEAR enrollment.
Domestic connections benefit from ABE's position as an alternative to crowded Philadelphia, Newark, and JFK airports, offering reliable connectivity to major hubs including Atlanta via Delta, Charlotte via American, Chicago O'Hare via United, and Detroit via Delta for onward domestic and international connections. Regional destinations include popular leisure markets such as Fort Lauderdale, Orlando Sanford, Myrtle Beach, Nashville, and Florida Gulf Coast cities through Allegiant's low-cost network, while business travelers utilize American's Charlotte hub and United's Newark and Chicago services for broader network access.
Weather-related disruptions during Northeast winter storms can impact operations, though ABE's modern runway and de-icing equipment maintain better reliability than larger metropolitan airports. Ground transportation includes rental cars, taxis, and ride-sharing services for the 65-mile drive to Philadelphia or 90-mile journey to New York City, while regional bus connections serve Allentown, Bethlehem, and Easton. The airport's family-friendly amenities including children's play areas, sensory rooms, and therapy dog programs create comfortable connection environments, while free WiFi and dining options support extended layovers in this efficiently designed regional aviation facility.
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