โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
60
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Chena Hot Springs Airport (CEX), identified by its FAA LID AK13, is a private-use airport located in Chena Hot Springs, Alaska, USA. Owned by the Resort at Chena Hot Springs, this airport primarily serves the resort's operational needs and private aviation, facilitating access to one of Alaska's unique year-round recreational destinations. As a private facility, prior permission is required for landing, and it plays a crucial role in connecting this remote area with Fairbanks and other points in Alaska, supporting tourism and local activities.
As an unattended, private-use airfield, Chena Hot Springs Airport offers extremely minimal facilities, with no dedicated terminal building or conventional commercial amenities such as retail shops, restaurants, or lounges. Travelers should anticipate a very basic setup, as there are no on-site services for fuel, airframe repair, engine repair, or oxygen. It is imperative for pilots and passengers to be entirely self-sufficient and to make all necessary arrangements with the resort or private charter operators in advance for any ground services or supplies needed upon arrival.
Operational aspects of CEX are characterized by its remote location and unique runway conditions. The airport features one gravel/dirt runway, 08/26, measuring 3,880 feet long, which is noted for its poor condition, including loose rocks and ruts, and is not maintained in winter. Operations are also affected by strong crosswinds, and the presence of animals and machinery on the runway is common, necessitating a visual inspection before use. The airport lacks runway lighting and a control tower, restricting operations to daylight hours. Despite these challenges, its existence is vital for supporting the Chena Hot Springs Resort, offering a unique aviation experience in the Alaskan wilderness.
๐ Connection Tips
Chena Hot Springs Airport (CEX), identified as AK13, is a private-use gravel airstrip located directly at the Chena Hot Springs Resort in interior Alaska. Because the airport lacks scheduled commercial flights, "connecting" here requires a focus on private aviation or the transition from commercial travel at Fairbanks International Airport (FAI). Fairbanks is the primary gateway, located approximately 60 miles (75 minutes) to the west. If you are arriving in Fairbanks on a major carrier like Alaska Airlines, the most reliable way to reach Chena is via the resortโs dedicated shuttle service. This shuttle typically requires at least 72 hours' notice and coordinates pickups from FAI Baggage Claim 1. For those preferring to fly directly into the CEX airstrip, Wright Air Service provides the most frequent private charter options from Fairbanks. If you choose this route, it is essential to allow a minimum buffer of 3 hours in Fairbanks to transfer to the General Aviation side of the airport and manage the strict 40-pound baggage weight limit typical for bush aircraft. It is a mandatory requirement to obtain prior landing permission from the resort management before arrival, as the unlit gravel runway is not maintained during winter months and can be prone to ruts and wildlife hazards. Upon arrival at the basic CEX terminal, onward transport to your room is provided by resort staff. Always check the latest local weather and runway NOTAMs, as spring "break-up" or heavy snowfall can make the airstrip unusable. Additionally, ensure you have all essential supplies from Fairbanks, as there are no grocery or retail stores at the remote resort location.
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
Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE) is primarily a domestic airport, with most connections occurring within the United States. Its compact single-terminal design significantly simplifies the connection process, as there's no need for shuttle buses or trains between terminals, and walking times between gates are typically short. However, all connecting passengers, including those on domestic flights, must pass through a TSA security checkpoint. Travelers should be prepared to place all electronics and liquids (up to 2 liters) in separate trays for X-ray screening, as per TSA regulations.\n\nFor any onward domestic flights, it's recommended to allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours between flights, especially during peak travel times or early morning departures, to ensure ample time for security and gate transfers. While ABE does not handle international immigration or customs directly, passengers connecting from an international flight at a larger gateway (like Philadelphia or Newark) to ABE should account for the time required to clear those formalities at their initial point of entry into the U.S.\n\nABE offers convenient options for expedited security screening, including dedicated lanes for TSA PreCheck and the CLEAR program, which can significantly reduce wait times. Ground transportation to and from the airport is readily available, with taxis, ride-sharing services, and car rental companies all operating on-site. Local LANTA bus services also connect the airport to various points in the Lehigh Valley.
โ Back to Chena Hot Springs Airport