Kodiak Airport

Overview

Ouzinkie Airport (ICAO: 4K5) is a small public-use airport located on Spruce Island, part of the Kodiak Archipelago in Alaska. The airport serves the village of Ouzinkie, a primarily Alutiiq (Sugpiaq) Native community of fewer than 200 residents. Situated about 15 miles northwest of the city of Kodiak across the Kodiak Strait, the airport is a vital link for transportation, mail, medical evacuation, and cargo to this isolated settlement. The airport's single gravel runway (runway 7/25) is approximately 2,200 feet long, typical for rural Alaskan airstrips designed for small propeller aircraft and floatplane traffic. Ouzinkie Airport is owned by the State of Alaska and operated by the Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities. It primarily handles general aviation and scheduled air taxi services, with flights connecting to Kodiak Airport (ADQ) and other communities in the archipelago.

Amenities

Ouzinkie Airport is classified as a very basic rural facility with no listed passenger amenities. There are no terminal buildings, waiting lounges, restrooms, food concessions, or retail shops on site. Travelers should expect a functional airstrip with only the essential infrastructure for aircraft operations. The airport is primarily used by residents and workers who typically arrange their own transportation and supplies before arrival. Those flying into Ouzinkie should be prepared for an outdoor environment with no shelter beyond the immediate vicinity of the runway. It is advisable to confirm with your airline or agent whether any waiting area is available in nearby community facilities, though none exist directly at the airport.

Peak Hours

Based on available data, Ouzinkie Airport experiences its busiest operations around 11:00 PM and 7:00 AM local time. These peak hours likely correspond to flight schedules for commuting, fishing industry shifts, or regular air taxi services. The early morning departure window (7 AM) is common for Alaskan regional carriers and flightseeing operators, while the late-night peak (11 PM) may reflect cargo or medical flight timings. As a single-runway facility, the airport can handle only one aircraft at a time, and flights are typically coordinated with the airport manager via radio. Travelers should note that flight schedules are subject to change based on weather, demand, and seasonal variations.

Operating Days

Ouzinkie Airport is not open every day of the week. Specific closure days are not standardized, but the facility may be closed on weekends or holidays when flight traffic is minimal. Pilots and passengers should verify operating hours and runway availability directly with the airport manager or their air carrier before planning travel. The airport's status can also be affected by weather conditions—fog, snow, and storms are common in the area and may lead to unscheduled closures. It is essential to build flexibility into travel plans.

Contact Information

For inquiries about airport operations, runway conditions, or flight coordination, travelers or pilots can contact the airport manager via phone: +1 907-487-4952. This number is the primary point of contact for operational updates. No official website or email address is listed for the airport. Local air taxi companies operating in Kodiak can also provide current information about flights to Ouzinkie.

Regional Context

Ouzinkie Airport is one of dozens of small airstrips supporting the remote communities of the Kodiak Archipelago. The village of Ouzinkie is accessible primarily by air and sea, with no road connections to the mainland. The airport plays a critical role in the region's logistics, enabling the transport of groceries, fuel, building materials, mail, and medical supplies. During winter, when seas are rough and barge service is unpredictable, air transportation becomes the lifeline. The airport also supports emergency evacuations, search and rescue operations, and access for healthcare workers and government officials. While modest in scale, Ouzinkie Airport exemplifies the essential infrastructure that connects Alaska's isolated villages to the broader state and nation.