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
Ambler Airport (ABL) is a remote, state-owned public-use airport located in the Native Alaskan village of Ambler, within the Northwest Arctic Borough. It serves as an indispensable lifeline for this isolated community, as there are no connecting roads. The airport's infrastructure is extremely basic, reflecting its role as a bush airport. There is no traditional terminal building; instead, operations are conducted from a small, heated shelter or a designated waiting area adjacent to the gravel runway. This single facility serves as the waiting lounge, check-in area, and baggage claim point.
The airport is equipped with two gravel runways, the longest measuring 3,000 feet, operating at an elevation of 334 feet above mean sea level. This design accommodates the small aircraft, typically Twin Otters or Cessnas, that are vital for connecting Ambler to larger regional hubs. Passengers should anticipate a highly informal process, with direct interactions with pilots and airline representatives from operators like Bering Air.
Amenities at Ambler Airport are exceptionally sparse. There are no cafes, restaurants, vending machines, or shops on-site. Travelers are strongly advised to bring all necessary provisions, including food, water, and personal supplies. Security procedures are minimal, consistent with bush flying operations in remote Alaska, focusing on adherence to general aviation safety guidelines.
๐ Connection Tips
Connections at Ambler Airport are exclusively through domestic bush flights, with Bering Air being the primary operator. These flights are crucial for linking Ambler with larger regional centers like Kotzebue (OTZ) and, occasionally, Shungnak (SHG). Kotzebue's Ralph Wien Memorial Airport serves as the main hub from which most flights to Ambler originate, providing essential connections to Anchorage and other Alaskan cities. This ensures vital access for supplies and personnel to the remote community.\n\nTravel to Ambler is highly dependent on weather conditions and daylight hours. Flights are often subject to delays or cancellations due to adverse weather, including snow, fog, or high winds, which are common in arctic Alaska. It is crucial to maintain flexible travel plans and to confirm your flight status directly with Bering Air or your charter operator. There are no inter-airline baggage transfer services; all luggage is handled manually upon arrival and departure. Always prepare for the unexpected in this challenging environment.\n\nGround transportation in Ambler is limited and primarily relies on local community members or pre-arranged pickups. There are no taxis or rental cars readily available at the airport. Given the extreme conditions and isolation, self-sufficiency is paramount. It is vital to coordinate all onward travel details, including accommodation and local transport, well in advance of your arrival. Having a clear plan for your ground logistics is as important as your flight plan when traveling to such a remote destination.
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