Alaska is full of dramatic landscapes, rugged terrain, and breathtaking travel experiences that are unlike anywhere else in the world. One place that truly captures this adventurous spirit is the Ketchikan International Airport (KTN). Unlike many airports that are seamlessly connected to their towns, Ketchikan’s airport sits on Gravina Island, separated from the main town by the Tongass Narrows Strait.

With its 7,500-foot runway dramatically positioned on a rugged island, it is one of the most unique and fascinating airports in the United States. To get from the town of Ketchikan to the airport, you don’t simply hop in a cab — you board a ferry.

This unusual setup has made Ketchikan Airport both a logistical marvel and a tourist curiosity, drawing attention from aviation enthusiasts and travelers alike.

In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the fascinating story of Ketchikan International Airport, exploring its history, location, operations, and the unusual experience of traveling through it. We’ll also examine its role in Alaskan aviation, the unique challenges it faces due to its geography, and what makes it a standout destination for those who love exploring remote and extraordinary places.

Inside Ketchikan’s Dramatic Alaska Airport: The 7500-Foot Runway On An Island Across The Strait

The Dramatic Location of Ketchikan Airport

Ketchikan International Airport is located on Gravina Island, directly across from the town of Ketchikan. To reach it, passengers must take a short ferry ride across the Tongass Narrows. This simple fact makes the airport one of the most unusual in the United States. While most airports rely on roadways, bridges, or tunnels, Ketchikan’s connection is purely maritime.

The location is not just unique but also strategic. The runway is 7,500 feet long, allowing it to handle a wide range of aircraft, including commercial flights and cargo planes. Its dramatic positioning means it is surrounded by water on both sides, creating a beautiful yet challenging approach for pilots. The landing and takeoff views are some of the most scenic in the world, offering glimpses of lush green islands, rugged mountains, and endless stretches of ocean.

For aviation enthusiasts, Ketchikan is a must-see. The airport’s design and placement symbolize Alaska’s spirit of adaptability, where infrastructure meets geography head-on.

Historical Background

Ketchikan Airport opened in 1973 to replace a seaplane base that once served the community. Before the airport, Ketchikan was one of the busiest seaplane ports in the United States, as water-based air travel was the only option. The development of the new airport marked a significant milestone in Alaska’s aviation history, providing the town with reliable air service and connections to the rest of the country.

The choice of Gravina Island as the location was controversial at the time. Critics argued that building an airport across a strait would complicate travel for passengers. However, the island offered the necessary space for a large runway, something that the tight and rugged town of Ketchikan simply could not accommodate. Over the years, the ferry system became a familiar part of the travel process, and today it is considered one of the quirks that makes Ketchikan Airport special.

The Ferry Ride Experience

Unlike any other major airport in the U.S., Ketchikan International requires travelers to hop aboard a ferry to get to their flights. The ferry runs regularly, carrying passengers, baggage, and even vehicles between Ketchikan and Gravina Island. This adds an extra layer of adventure to the journey, making it feel like more than just another trip through security and boarding gates.

The ferry ride takes only about 5 to 7 minutes, but it provides sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. For many travelers, it is a highlight of the trip. Watching planes take off and land as fishing boats glide by in the Narrows creates an unforgettable travel memory. While some critics see the ferry as an inconvenience, others view it as a unique charm that sets Ketchikan apart from every other airport.

Aviation Challenges and Weather

Like much of Alaska, Ketchikan faces unique challenges due to weather and geography. The region is known for its heavy rainfall, fog, and sometimes turbulent winds. These conditions can make flying in and out of Ketchikan tricky, requiring experienced pilots and careful navigation. The airport’s location on an island surrounded by water only adds to the challenge, with crosswinds often coming into play during takeoff and landing.

Despite these challenges, Ketchikan has earned a reputation for safety and reliability. The runway length of 7,500 feet provides enough space for large aircraft to land safely, while advanced navigation systems help pilots manage difficult weather. For passengers, the dramatic approach is both thrilling and awe-inspiring, offering a glimpse into the rugged beauty of Southeast Alaska.

The “Bridge to Nowhere” Controversy

One of the most famous political debates connected to Ketchikan Airport was the proposed “Bridge to Nowhere.” In the mid-2000s, a plan emerged to build a $398 million bridge connecting the town of Ketchikan directly to Gravina Island and the airport. Supporters argued that it would provide easier access and boost economic development. Critics, however, saw it as an unnecessary and wasteful project, especially given Ketchikan’s relatively small population.

The debate gained national attention, becoming a symbol of government spending excess. Ultimately, the project was canceled, and the ferry remains the only way to access the airport. Today, the “Bridge to Nowhere” lives on in political lore, forever tying Ketchikan Airport to a chapter of American infrastructure debates.

Ketchikan Airport Today

Today, Ketchikan International Airport serves as a vital hub for Southeast Alaska. It handles regular flights to and from Seattle, Anchorage, and other Alaskan communities. Airlines like Alaska Airlines and Delta operate here, connecting residents and visitors to the wider world.

The airport is also an important cargo hub, ensuring that supplies, mail, and goods reach the island communities of Alaska. Beyond its practical role, the airport is a point of pride for locals, symbolizing both independence and connection in a region defined by isolation and rugged landscapes.

For travelers, flying into Ketchikan is an unforgettable experience. The combination of natural beauty, unusual logistics, and rich history makes it one of the most unique airports in North America.

Tourism and Ketchikan’s Charm

Ketchikan itself is a charming destination, often referred to as the “Salmon Capital of the World.” Thousands of cruise ship passengers visit each year, and the airport plays an important role in connecting this remote town with the rest of the United States. Beyond aviation, Ketchikan offers rich Native Alaskan heritage, breathtaking natural beauty, and countless opportunities for outdoor adventure.

The airport is more than just a gateway — it is a symbol of how travel in Alaska is always a little more adventurous and memorable than elsewhere. For those who arrive through Ketchikan Airport, the journey becomes part of the destination.

FAQs

1. Why is Ketchikan Airport located on an island?
The airport was built on Gravina Island because the main town of Ketchikan lacked flat, open land for a large runway. The island provided the necessary space, even though it required a ferry connection.

2. How long is Ketchikan Airport’s runway?
The runway is 7,500 feet long, allowing it to handle large commercial aircraft as well as cargo planes.

3. How do you get to Ketchikan Airport from town?
Travelers take a ferry across the Tongass Narrows. The ride takes about 5–7 minutes and operates regularly throughout the day.

4. What airlines fly to Ketchikan Airport?
Alaska Airlines, Delta, and several regional carriers operate flights to and from Ketchikan, connecting it with Seattle, Anchorage, and other Alaskan destinations.

5. What was the “Bridge to Nowhere”?
It was a proposed $398 million bridge project intended to connect Ketchikan with Gravina Island and the airport. It was canceled after public criticism.

6. Is it safe to fly into Ketchikan Airport?
Yes. While the weather can be challenging, the airport is equipped with modern navigation systems, and pilots are well-trained to handle local conditions.

7. Why is Ketchikan Airport considered unique?
Its location on an island, the required ferry ride, its dramatic runway, and its connection to the “Bridge to Nowhere” controversy all make it a truly unique airport.

Conclusion

Ketchikan International Airport is far more than just a place where planes land and take off. Its dramatic setting, 7,500-foot runway, and unique ferry connection across the strait make it one of the most fascinating airports in the world. The story of Ketchikan Airport is one of resilience, adaptation, and innovation — reflecting Alaska’s rugged character and adventurous spirit.

For travelers, it is not just an entry point but a memorable experience that adds depth to any visit to Alaska. Whether you’re flying in to explore the wild beauty of Ketchikan or just passing through, the journey will stay with you long after you leave.

If you’re planning a trip to Alaska, don’t miss the chance to fly into Ketchikan and experience this dramatic airport firsthand. It’s more than transportation — it’s an adventure in itself. Book your flight, ride the ferry, and discover why Ketchikan International Airport is one of America’s most unforgettable gateways.