Yakataga Airport

Overview

Yakataga Airport (IATA: CYT) is a small public-use airport located on the remote south-central coast of Alaska, near the Gulf of Alaska. It serves as a vital transportation link for the isolated community of Cape Yakataga and the surrounding region. Unlike major commercial airports, Yakataga is primarily used by general aviation, including air taxi services, charter flights, and private pilots. The airport plays a key role in supporting local residents, seasonal workers, and visitors seeking access to some of Alaska's most pristine wilderness areas. Given its remote setting, the airport is not served by scheduled airlines in the traditional sense; rather, flights are typically arranged through small operators based in hubs like Cordova or Yakutat. The airport's single gravel runway handles light aircraft, and operations are heavily weather-dependent due to coastal fog and wind conditions.

Location & Access

Yakataga Airport sits on the southeastern edge of the Chugach Mountains, along the coastline of the Gulf of Alaska. It is located approximately 100 miles southeast of Cordova and about 70 miles northwest of Yakutat. The nearest community is the small settlement of Cape Yakataga, which consists of a handful of homes and a lodge. There are no roads connecting the airport to any major highway system; the only access is by air or by boat, with seaplane and skiff options available via the coast. Travellers typically reach Yakataga by booking a flight from Cordova or Yakutat through air taxi operators. The airport itself is not staffed continuously, and passengers should coordinate arrival times with their pilot or charter service. The peak hours of 3 pm to 4 pm suggest that most scheduled flights or charter arrivals occur in the afternoon, likely due to optimal weather windows.

Facilities

Yakataga Airport is an extremely basic facility with no confirmed amenities for passengers. There is no terminal building, no restrooms, no waiting area, and no food or beverage services. The airport consists of a gravel airstrip, a windsock, and basic navigation aids. Travellers should come prepared for the elements, including rain gear, food, water, and any necessary supplies, as there is no shelter or support on site. The airport is not open every day; operations are limited, and the phone number listed (+1 907-271-2216) can be used to inquire about current conditions or permissions, though it may connect to a regional airport office rather than a local operator. Given the lack of facilities, passengers should plan to arrive shortly before their flight and depart promptly after landing. If you are flying in for a wilderness trip, your pilot or lodge operator will typically meet you on the airstrip.

About the Region

The region surrounding Yakataga Airport is one of the most spectacular and untouched areas of coastal Alaska. The airport lies within the boundary of the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve, the largest national park in the United States, covering over 13 million acres. This area is renowned for its massive glaciers, including the nearby Bering Glacier and Malaspina Glacier, some of the largest outside the polar ice caps. The coastline is rugged and heavily forested with temperate rainforest, while the Chugach Mountains rise dramatically inland. Wildlife is abundant: brown bears, black bears, moose, wolves, and bald eagles are commonly seen, and the coastal waters host sea otters, seals, and humpback whales. The region is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as flightseeing, glacier trekking, kayaking, fishing (especially for salmon and halibut), and wildlife photography. However, the remote nature means that travel requires careful planning and self-sufficiency. The nearest services are in Cordova or Yakutat, so visitors often base themselves at wilderness lodges or camping sites.

Practical Information

• Hours: Yakataga Airport is not open all days. Peak hours are listed as 3 pm to 4 pm, suggesting that flight operations are concentrated in a short afternoon window. It is likely closed on weekends or during poor weather, but specific schedules are not publicly available. Travellers should confirm availability with their air taxi operator.
• Contact: For general inquiries or permission to use the airport, call +1 907-271-2216. This number may reach a regional Alaska Department of Transportation office (which manages many rural airports), not a local agent.
• Website: No official website is available for Yakataga Airport. Travel information is best obtained through charter companies or the Alaska DOT website.
• Tips: Because there are no facilities, bring all essentials. Arrange transportation to and from the airstrip in advance. Check weather conditions before travel, as fog and rain often delay flights. The airport parking is minimal and informal.