Dillingham Airport

Overview

Twin Hills Airport (A63) is a small public-use airport serving the remote community of Twin Hills in southwestern Alaska. Situated in the Dillingham Census Area, the airport is a vital link for residents and visitors to this isolated village, which is not connected to the state’s road system. The facility primarily handles general aviation and scheduled commuter flights operated by regional air carriers, as well as cargo, medical evacuations, and seasonal passenger traffic. With no control tower, pilots rely on common traffic advisory frequencies to coordinate arrivals and departures. The airport plays a key role in providing access to subsistence hunting and fishing grounds, as well as connecting the village to larger hubs like Dillingham and Anchorage for supplies, healthcare, and education.

Location & Access

Twin Hills Airport is located approximately 1 mile northwest of the village centre, along the banks of the Twin Hills River near its confluence with the Goodnews River. The airfield sits at an elevation of about 85 feet above sea level. Because no roads link Twin Hills to the rest of Alaska, air travel is the primary year-round means of reaching the community. In summer, boat access via the Goodnews River is possible, but most travellers arrive by air. The nearest major airport is Dillingham Airport (DLG), about 30 miles to the northeast, which offers flights to Anchorage and other regional destinations. From Dillingham, connecting flights on small bush planes or charter services bring passengers directly to Twin Hills. The airport’s single gravel runway (oriented 11/29) is about 2,500 feet long, suitable for light aircraft such as the Cessna 208 Caravan or Piper Navajo. Taxis or private vehicles are not available at the airport; village residents often arrange pickups in advance or walk into town.

Facilities

Twin Hills Airport offers minimal facilities, reflecting its remote character. The confirmed amenity is a wheelchair-accessible car park, which ensures that passengers with mobility challenges can park close to the terminal area. There is no terminal building per se; operations are handled from a small shelter or shack that provides basic passenger waiting space and luggage storage. Restrooms are not officially listed as available, so passengers should plan accordingly. There are no food or beverage concessions, no shops, and no ATMs. Wi-Fi and charging stations are not present. The airport does not have a control tower, and there is no on-site fuel service for private aircraft (pilots must arrange fuel in advance from Dillingham). For any services, travellers must rely on the village itself, which has a small general store and basic accommodations.

About the Region

The Twin Hills region lies within the vast Bristol Bay watershed, an area renowned for its world-class salmon runs—especially sockeye—and pristine wilderness. The local economy is centred on subsistence fishing, hunting, and berry picking, supplemented by seasonal commercial fishing. The village of Twin Hills (population roughly 70–100) is predominantly Yup’ik, and the culture remains deeply tied to the land and rivers. Visitors typically come for sport fishing, wildlife viewing (brown bears, moose, migratory birds), or to experience the remote Alaskan bush. The nearby Togiak National Wildlife Refuge and the Goodnews River offer exceptional opportunities for rafting and fly-fishing. Weather in the region is maritime-influenced, with cool summers, frequent rain, and long, cold winters. Limited daylight in winter and fog can affect flight schedules, so flexibility is key.

Practical Information

• Hours of Operation: The airport is not staffed on a full-time basis and may be considered “open” only when flights are scheduled. The noted peak hours are 9 pm and 10 pm, likely corresponding to the arrival of the last commuter flight of the day. The facility does not operate every day; services may be limited to specific days of the week. Travellers should confirm schedules with their airline.
• Contact & Website: No official phone number or website is publicly listed for Twin Hills Airport. For information, contact the local tribal council or the airline operating the flight (e.g., Ravn Alaska, Grant Aviation, or other regional carriers).
• Accessibility: The wheelchair-accessible car park is available, but the rest of the airport (including the shelter and runway apron) may have uneven surfaces. Passengers requiring assistance should notify their airline in advance.
• Navigation: The airport’s identifier is A63. It operates under visual flight rules (VFR) during daylight hours; no instrument approach procedures are published.
• Parking: There is a small unpaved lot adjacent to the landing area. Long-term parking is not secured.
• Baggage: Given the small size of aircraft, baggage allowances are strictly limited. Heavy or bulky items (e.g., fishing gear, coolers) should be pre-arranged with the carrier.

Passengers flying to Twin Hills should come prepared for a truly off-the-grid experience. Bring all necessary supplies, including food, water, and medication, as village resources are limited. Confirm flight times with your operator, as weather and demand can cause last-minute changes.