Ketchikan International Airport

Ketchikan International Airport (KTN) is not just an air harbour, but a true gateway to the world of wildlife and adventure on America's "Last Frontier". Located on the separate Gravina Island, it offers passengers a unique experience: to reach the city, one must take a short but scenic seven-minute ferry journey across the Tongass Narrows. This airport is a key transport hub for tourists arriving in Alaska and a starting point for exploring the famous fjords and dense forests of Southeast Alaska.

The main feature of Ketchikan Airport is its location on Gravina Island, which separates it from the city itself, located on Revillagigedo Island. This creates an unforgettable first impression of the journey: the ferry crossing becomes an integral part of the route. The airport plays an important role in the region's transport system, ranking as the fifth busiest in Alaska. It serves not only regular passenger flights connecting Ketchikan with major cities such as Seattle and Anchorage, but also acts as a base for numerous charter and excursion seaplanes offering tourists breathtaking flights over the Misty Fjords National Monument.

For your convenience, we have compiled the essential contact information for Ketchikan International Airport (KTN).

• Official Website: https://www.kgbak.us/182/Airport. The airport is managed by the Ketchikan Gateway Borough, and all official information is published on this portal.
• Information Desk Phone: +1 (907) 225-6800. This is the main number for the airport administration, where most queries can be clarified.
• Airport Address: 1000 Airport Terminal Rd, Ketchikan, AK 99901, USA.
• Email: A direct email address for general passenger inquiries is not provided. It is recommended to use the telephone for communication.
• Social Media: The airport does not maintain official pages on social media. The most reliable information is always available on the official website.
• Lost and Found Information: If you have lost items within the terminal building, please contact the airport manager's office at +1 (907) 225-6800. For luggage lost on board the aircraft, you should contact your airline directly.
• Customer Support Contacts: For general information and support regarding terminal operations, please use the main airport phone number: +1 (907) 225-6800.

Ketchikan International Airport (KTN) has a unique location — it is situated on Gravina Island, while the city of Ketchikan itself is located on the neighbouring Revillagigedo Island. They are separated by the Tongass Narrows, so a key element of any trip to the airport is a short ferry journey. Be sure to consider this factor when planning your route.

Public Transport and Ferry

The most common and budget-friendly way to get to the airport is a combination of ground transport and the ferry. In Ketchikan, city buses operate that can take you to the ferry terminal. From there, a dedicated airport ferry regularly crosses the channel. The journey takes just about 5-7 minutes. Ferries depart frequently, approximately every 15-30 minutes throughout the day. The cost for a foot passenger is low, and upon arrival on Gravina Island, the airport building is just a few minutes' walk from the pier.

Taxi and Transfers

A taxi is a convenient option to reach the ferry terminal with all your luggage. The trip from the city centre will take no more than 10 minutes. Most travellers take a taxi to the pier, cross on the ferry as foot passengers, and then walk to the terminal. Additionally, many hotels in Ketchikan offer transfers (shuttles) for their guests, delivering you directly to the ferry. This is one of the simplest and most comfortable ways to organise your trip.

Car Rental and Parking

If you plan to actively move around the region, renting a car is an excellent choice. Rental company offices are located directly in the airport building on Gravina Island. You can pick up the car immediately upon arrival and take it on the ferry to the city. Note that the fare for transporting a vehicle on the ferry is higher than for a foot passenger. For those driving to the airport in their own car, short-term and long-term parking is available on Gravina Island.

Total Time and Recommendations

When planning a departure from Ketchikan, always allocate extra time for the ferry crossing. The total travel time from the city centre to the airport terminal, including waiting for the ferry and the crossing itself, is usually about 25-35 minutes. For most tourists, the most convenient option is to take a taxi or hotel shuttle to the ferry and cross as a foot passenger — it is quick, inexpensive, and convenient, as the airport terminal is located very close to the pier on Gravina Island.

Ketchikan International Airport (KTN) is a compact and convenient aviation hub, distinguished by its simple and clear structure. The airport consists of one main terminal serving all domestic flights — both arrivals and departures. Due to its small size, navigation is intuitive, and getting lost here is practically impossible.

The main feature of the airport lies in its location: it is situated on Gravina Island, while the city of Ketchikan is on Revillagigedo Island. A short ferry (journey time about 5-7 minutes) runs between them, which is an integral part of travelling to or from the city. Arrivals and departures areas are in the same building. After collecting baggage, passengers exit towards the ferry crossing and taxi or shuttle stands.

Inside the terminal, everything is arranged as simply as possible. The general area houses airline check-in counters and car rental desks. After check-in, passengers pass through a single security checkpoint to enter the sterile departure area. Here you will find boarding gates, a small waiting lounge, a café for refreshments, and a souvenir shop. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal.

Completing all formalities usually does not take much time. For domestic flights within the USA, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 90 minutes before departure. During the peak summer season, which coincides with the cruise ship season, it is worth allowing a little more time — up to 2 hours — to check in, drop off luggage, and pass through security without rushing. Given the simple layout of the terminal, orienting yourself is easy, and all necessary information is duplicated on signs and displays.

The history of Ketchikan International Airport (KTN) is inextricably linked to the city's unique geographical position. For a long time, Ketchikan, located on Revillagigedo Island, was served by seaplanes landing in the Tongass Narrows. However, with the growth of air travel in the USA, there was an acute need for a proper airfield with a runway capable of accepting jet liners.

Since the terrain around the city itself is too steep, the only suitable place for construction turned out to be the neighbouring Gravina Island. The airport was built and officially opened on August 4, 1973. From the very first day, its main feature became the necessity to use a ferry to get from the terminal to the city and back — a short but scenic seven-minute journey across the channel became the airport's trademark.

Since opening, the airport has undergone several stages of modernisation, including runway expansion and terminal renovation, to meet the growing passenger flow, especially during the peak tourist season. It plays a key role in the life of the entire region, ensuring not only tourist transport but also the delivery of mail and cargo, serving as a vital link for residents of remote settlements.

The most famous and curious fact in the airport's history was the project to build a bridge that was supposed to connect Gravina Island with Ketchikan. In the early 2000s, this project received widespread publicity in the national media and became known as the "Bridge to Nowhere". Due to high costs and public criticism, the project was ultimately cancelled, and the ferry crossing remains the only way to connect the airport with the city, giving the journey a special local flavour.

Ketchikan International Airport (KTN), despite its compact size, offers passengers all the necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. The terminal features a restaurant and café where you can have a snack before departure, as well as a souvenir shop where you will find memorable gifts from your trip to Alaska.

For those for whom staying connected is important, free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the airport. Power outlets and mobile device charging stations are also available in the waiting lounges. There are no specialised currency exchange points at the airport, but ATMs are available for cash withdrawals.

The airport is fully equipped for the needs of passengers with reduced mobility — there are ramps, accessible restrooms, and the option to request special assistance from airline representatives. Basic conditions for a comfortable stay have also been created for travellers with children. Although there are no VIP lounges at the airport, the general waiting areas are sufficiently comfortable.

There are no hotels, business centres, or conference halls within the airport building. The nearest hotels are located in the city of Ketchikan, which is regularly accessible via ferry from the terminal. If first aid is required, please contact airport staff, who will summon medical services.

Ketchikan International Airport (KTN) is a small and cosy airport, so the choice of dining establishments here is quite predictable and focused on the main terminal. Passengers should not expect a wide variety, but having a snack or a full lunch before departure is entirely possible.

The main place to eat is the Airport Lounge & Snack Bar. It is located in the secure area, meaning after passing through security control, which is convenient for those waiting for their flight. This establishment combines the functions of a café and snack bar, offering passengers both hot meals and light snacks.

For a full meal, you can order classic American dishes here: burgers, sandwiches, soups, and salads. If time is limited, ready-made snacks, pastries, chips, and sweets are excellent for a quick bite. A special recommendation for those appreciating local flavour is the opportunity to try local Alaskan beverages at the establishment — a wonderful way to conclude your journey through the region.

Regarding special dietary requests, options here are limited. Vegetarians may find a salad or meat-free sandwich, but specialised vegan, gluten-free, or Halal menus are not available. Passengers with strict dietary requirements are recommended to arrange food in advance. The café's opening hours usually coincide with the flight schedule, and prices are at an average level for airports.

Travelling through Ketchikan International Airport (KTN) is the gateway to adventure in Alaska. To ensure your trip starts smoothly, use these tips. The main feature of the airport is its location on Gravina Island, which can only be reached from the city of Ketchikan by ferry. Keep this in mind when planning: arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before a domestic flight departure, but allow an additional 30-40 minutes for waiting and the ferry crossing.

To save time, complete online check-in and print your boarding pass or save it on your phone. Security screening procedures at the airport comply with the Transportation Security Administration (USA) standards (TSA). Although the airport is small, queues can be longer during the peak tourist season (summer), so do not arrive at the last minute.

When choosing a seat on the plane, try to get a window seat. Flights in this region are famous for breathtaking views of the fjords, islands, and mountains of the Inside Passage — do not miss the opportunity to take stunning photos! Regarding hand luggage, standard rules apply: liquids in containers no larger than 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag; no sharp objects. Always check the current baggage allowance on your airline's website.

If you have a connecting flight, clarify at check-in whether your luggage will be automatically transferred to the final destination. Ketchikan Airport mainly serves domestic flights. Although it holds international status, regular international flights are limited, so most passengers will not have to pass through customs or border control. If you are arriving from another country, be prepared for standard immigration procedures.

The weather in Alaska is unpredictable, and flight delays due to fog or heavy rain are not uncommon. Be sure to check your flight status before leaving for the airport. In case of a delay, have a book, a charged power bank for gadgets, and a light snack with you, as the choice of cafés and shops in the terminal is limited. This will also help save money, as prices at airports are usually higher.