โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
60
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Central Airport (CEM), also known by its ICAO code PACE, is a remote and essential state-owned aviation facility serving the community of Central in the Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area of Alaska. Situated at the end of the Steese Highway, the airport acts as a critical lifeline for this isolated region, providing the only reliable year-round transport for passengers, mail, and medical emergencies. The airfield is positioned in a rugged valley and serves as a primary hub for the small population centers along the upper Yukon River drainage.
The 'terminal' facilities at Central are extremely basic, reflecting its status as an unattended backcountry airstrip. There is no traditional passenger terminal building, check-in counter, or sheltered waiting zone; instead, travelers are typically met on the airfield by local residents or lodge vehicles. The facility consists of a single 2,782-foot gravel and dirt runway (08/26) that is maintained by the Alaska Department of Transportation. While it features pilot-activated lighting for safety, there is no control tower or permanent on-site staff. Travelers utilizing this airfield must be entirely self-sufficient, as there are no public facilities, food services, or restrooms within the airport perimeter.
Operational capacity at CEM is primarily focused on air taxi services, private charters, and general aviation. Historically, the airport has been part of the federal Essential Air Service (EAS) program, with flights connecting Central to Fairbanks (FAI). These flights are fundamental to the regional economy, facilitating the movement of essential parts, supplies, and personnel for the local mining and tourism industries. The airfield is also a key base for private bush pilots and acts as a gateway for visitors exploring the nearby Circle Hot Springs and the Yukon-Charley Rivers National Preserve. Ground transportation is limited to local transfers, and pilots are advised to perform a visual inspection of the runway before landing, as conditions can vary significantly with the seasonal Alaskan weather.
๐ Connection Tips
Central Airport (CEM), officially identified as PACE, serves as a remote state-owned lifeline for the isolated community of Central in the Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area. Because the airport does not host regularly scheduled commercial airline services, "connecting" here requires specialized coordination with regional bush carriers at Fairbanks International Airport (FAI). The primary air links are provided by Warbelowโs Air Ventures and Wright Air Service, which often combine passenger travel with Essential Air Service (EAS) mail flights. If you are arriving in Fairbanks on a major carrier like Alaska Airlines or Delta, it is essential to allow a minimum buffer of 3 to 4 hours. Regional bush carriers typically operate out of separate hangars on the East Ramp rather than the main FAI passenger terminal, requiring a taxi or rideshare transfer between facilities. If you are not arriving by air, ground transportation involves a significant journey along the Steese Highway. The village of Central is approximately 120 miles northeast of Fairbanks at the highway's terminus. During the winter months from October to April, this route is subject to extreme Alaskan weather, with heavy snowfall and whiteout conditions frequently occurring near Eagle Summit. Always check the latest Alaska 511 road reports before departing, and ensure your vehicle is equipped with a winter survival kit. Upon arrival at the basic CEM gravel strip, you must have pre-arranged your pickup with a local contact or lodge, as the airfield is unattended and lacks public facilities. Be mindful of strict 40-pound baggage weight limits typical for bush aircraft, and carry sufficient food and water, as the terminal area provides no amenities. For backcountry expeditions, confirm your "flag stop" status directly with the air taxi operator at least 48 hours in advance.
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
75
minutes
International โ Domestic
75
minutes
International โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) is the primary international airport serving New Mexico, located just three miles southeast of downtown Albuquerque. The airport boasts a distinctive Pueblo-style architectural terminal, which is both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional. This single, multi-level terminal efficiently manages all arrivals and departures, featuring a logical layout designed for passenger convenience. The lower level is dedicated to arriving passengers, housing baggage claim areas (three in total to serve Concourses A and B) and providing direct exits to ground transportation.
The upper level of the terminal is the departure zone, where travelers will find airline ticketing counters, security checkpoints, and access to the two main concourses, Concourse A and Concourse B. Concourse A primarily serves American Airlines, Delta, and United, while Southwest Airlines predominantly operates out of Concourse B. The terminal has a total of 22 gates, ensuring ample capacity for its scheduled domestic flights and limited international services. Recent upgrades include a TSA Checkpoint Terminal Connector Project, which has enhanced security screening with up to four lanes and modern passenger amenities like new escalators and elevators.
Amenities at ABQ are comprehensive for a regional international facility. Passengers can enjoy free Wi-Fi, numerous charging stations, a variety of shops (including those offering local artisanal gifts), and diverse dining options ranging from cafes and fast-food outlets to restaurants serving New Mexican cuisine. Additional facilities like a Meditation Room and an observation deck contribute to a comfortable travel experience, complemented by a notable art collection displayed throughout the terminal.
๐ Connection Tips
Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) is predominantly a domestic airport, offering non-stop passenger flights to 31 destinations within the United States. Key airlines operating at ABQ include Southwest, American, Delta, United, and Alaska Airlines, providing crucial connections to major hubs such as Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), Denver (DEN), Houston (IAH), Phoenix (PHX), and Los Angeles (LAX). While ABQ is designated as an international airport, direct international flight routes are limited.\n\nFor domestic connections, ABQ's single-terminal design and compact layout contribute to efficient transfers. A minimum connection time of 45-60 minutes is generally sufficient for domestic-to-domestic transfers, but it is always recommended to allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours, especially during peak travel times or early morning departures. All connecting passengers must pass through TSA security, and ABE offers TSA PreCheck and CLEAR lanes to expedite this process.\n\nIf connecting from an international flight, passengers will typically route through larger US international airports (e.g., DFW, LAX) where they will clear U.S. Customs and Immigration. They would then proceed to their connecting domestic flight to ABQ. Conversely, for international departures from ABQ, travelers would typically connect via a major hub. It is essential to check luggage policies with individual airlines, as interline transfers are common but require careful coordination if separate tickets are involved.
โ Back to Central Airport