Nome Airport

Nome Airport is not merely a regional transport hub, but a true "lifeline" for the Seward Peninsula, where standard highways end and the territory of wild nature begins. Located on the rugged coast of the Bering Sea, this air port serves as the main gateway for modern-day adventurers, participants of the legendary Iditarod dog sled race, and travellers seeking to witness the true Arctic. Here, at the edge of the continent, aviation remains the only reliable means of connection with the outside world, giving every arrival and departure special significance.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

Nome Airport plays a critically important role in the logistics of all Western Alaska, acting as a hub for many small, remote settlements. Its main advantage is reliable infrastructure in the conditions of the Far North. The airfield is equipped with two asphalt runways, one of which is nearly 2 kilometres long. This allows it to accommodate not only small aircraft but also medium-haul jet liners, such as the Boeing 737, ensuring regular connections with Anchorage.

A unique feature of this air harbour is its atmosphere, steeped in the spirit of adventure. In the terminal, one can often meet bush pilots who masterfully operate aircraft in the most difficult weather conditions. Furthermore, the airport is distinguished by its exceptional proximity to the city: the journey to the centre takes just a few minutes, which is very convenient for tourists. Despite its modest size, the airport is renowned for the efficient work of its ground services, capable of quickly preparing the runway to receive flights even after heavy snowfalls.

To obtain the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the operation of Nome Airport (OME), it is recommended to refer to official sources. Below are the main contact details.

• Official Website: All essential information about the airport's operations, including schedules and services, can be found on the official website managed by the Alaska Department of Transportation: dot.alaska.gov/ome/.
• Information Desk Phone: To contact the airport administration, you may use the number: (907) 443-2500.
• Airport Address: 221 West Front Street, Nome, Alaska 99762, USA.
• Email: There is no specialised email address for general passenger inquiries. It is recommended to use the telephone or contact forms on airline websites for communication.
• Social Media: Nome Airport does not maintain official pages on social networks. All verified information is published on the official website.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage has been lost or damaged during the flight, you should immediately contact your airline's representative. For items left within the terminal building, please contact the airport administration at the phone number listed above.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For questions related to tickets, flight check-in, special services on board, or schedule changes, please contact your airline's support service directly.

Getting to Nome Airport (OME) from the city of the same name is effortless, as it is located just a few kilometres west of the centre. Given the remote location and compact size of Nome, transport options here differ from those offered by major metropolises in the USA. The trip from the city centre to the terminal usually takes no more than 5-10 minutes.

Taxis and Transfers are the most common and convenient way to reach the airport. There are several taxi services operating in the city that will quickly take you to your flight. The cost of the trip is moderate, but it is recommended to check rates when booking. We strongly advise booking a car in advance, especially if you have an early morning or late evening departure, as the number of available vehicles is limited. Some hotels also offer transfer services for their guests, which is worth checking when booking accommodation.

Car Rental is an excellent option for travellers planning to explore the unique road network around Nome. You can rent a car in the city, use it for trips around the surrounding area, and then return it at the airport before departure. Nome Airport has a car park where you can leave both personal and rented vehicles. Issues with finding free spaces generally do not arise.

Public Transport in the traditional sense (regular buses, metro, or trains) is absent in Nome. The main method of movement for tourists and locals is private transport, taxis, or pre-arranged shuttles. Theoretically, due to the close distance to the airport, one could walk, but this option is suitable only for travellers with minimal luggage and in favourable weather conditions, which is not always characteristic of Alaska.

Nome Airport (OME) is distinguished by a simple and clear structure, making it very convenient for travellers. It consists of one passenger terminal that serves all flights, both scheduled and charter. Thanks to its compact dimensions, navigating here is easy, and passengers usually face no difficulties finding the necessary zones.

All airport infrastructure is located in a single building. The airport layout is extremely simple: after entering, you find yourself in a general hall where airline check-in counters are located. Departure and arrival zones are clearly separated but are within walking distance of each other. The concept of "transfer between terminals" does not exist here, as all functional zones are located under one roof, and moving between them takes just a few minutes.

One of the main advantages of Nome Airport is the speed of passing all pre-flight procedures. Flight check-in and security screening usually take much less time than in major airports. On average, all formalities take no more than 30-40 minutes. Nevertheless, it is always recommended to arrive at the airport well in advance, especially during peak seasons or in case of adverse weather conditions that may affect flight schedules.

To navigate the terminal, simply follow the clear and understandable signs leading to all key points: check-in counters, security checkpoints, boarding gates, and the baggage claim area. Thanks to the small size of the building, getting lost here is practically impossible. If you have questions, the friendly airport staff are always ready to help and direct you.

The history of Nome Airport (OME) is closely intertwined with the most important events of the 20th century in Alaska. The airport was built during World War II and originally functioned as a military airfield named Marks Army Airfield. Its strategic location made it a key link in the Lend-Lease programme. Through the airfield in Nome passed one of the main routes for ferrying thousands of American aircraft to the Soviet Union, which became an outstanding logistical achievement of that time.

After the war ended, the airfield was transferred to civil use and became the main transport hub for the entire region. Its role as a vital artery connecting the isolated city with Anchorage and the rest of the world only grew. In subsequent decades, the airport was modernized repeatedly to meet growing needs. Runways were paved, allowing for the reception of larger and more modern aircraft, and infrastructure for passenger and cargo handling was improved.

Today, Nome Airport is not just a transport facility, but also a symbol of resilience and connection with the outside world for the residents of Western Alaska. An interesting fact: the airport plays an important role in hosting the famous Iditarod dog sled race, the finish line of which is in Nome. Every year, it welcomes hundreds of participants, journalists, and tourists arriving to become part of this unique event, continuing the historical tradition of the USA in exploring the harsh northern lands.

Nome Airport (OME) is a small regional aviation hub, so the range of services here corresponds to its size and is oriented towards meeting the basic needs of passengers. Travellers should note that most services are available in the city of Nome itself, located nearby.

Dining and Shopping. In the terminal building, the choice of catering establishments and shops is very limited. Typically, one can find vending machines with drinks and light snacks here. For a full meal or shopping, it is better to head into the city. Please note that specific dietary options, such as Halal food, may not be available in the vending machines.

Waiting Areas and Amenities. The airport has a general waiting hall for all passengers. Specialised VIP halls or business lounges are absent. For the convenience of travellers, there are public toilets in the terminal. In the waiting hall, you can find sockets for charging mobile devices, though their number may be limited. Access to the Wi-Fi network is generally provided, but it is better to check the terms on-site.

Financial and Other Services. An ATM may be installed in the terminal, but full-service bank branches or currency exchange points are absent, as the airport primarily serves domestic flights within the USA. Medical assistance is limited to basic first aid supplies. Business services, such as conference rooms, are not provided at the airport.

Special Services and Accommodation. An accessible environment has been created for passengers with reduced mobility. If you require special assistance, such as a wheelchair, it is necessary to arrange this in advance with your airline. For families with small children, changing tables may be provided in the restrooms. There are no hotels directly on the airport territory, but various accommodation options can easily be found in the city of Nome. Note that there are no dedicated prayer rooms (Musallas) within the terminal.

When planning a departure from Nome Airport (OME), it is important to consider that this is a small regional airport, and dining options here are quite limited. The infrastructure is designed to provide for the basic needs of passengers awaiting their flights.

Typically, a small snack bar or café operates in the airport's single terminal. Do not expect a large selection of restaurants or fast-food chains. The main assortment usually includes pre-packaged sandwiches, crisps, pastries, chocolate, as well as hot and cold drinks such as coffee, tea, and sparkling water. Sometimes simple hot dishes, such as soup of the day or hot dogs, can be found on the menu.

All food points are located in the general area before passing security control (landside). After screening, the choice will likely be limited to vending machines. The café's operating hours are directly linked to the flight schedule and usually cover periods before the departure of main aircraft. At night or between flights, the establishment may be closed.

Passengers with specific dietary requirements (vegetarians, vegans, or those requiring Halal options) are strongly recommended to bring food with them. The choice of suitable dishes at the airport is extremely unlikely. For a full lunch or dinner, it is better to eat at one of the establishments in the city of Nome before travelling to the airport. Prices for food and drinks at the airport may be higher than average due to the region's remote location.

Planning a trip through the airport of Nome requires taking into account its regional features. To ensure your journey goes smoothly, familiarise yourself with our tips. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 1.5–2 hours before the departure of a domestic flight. This time is usually sufficient to pass all procedures without rushing, even taking into account possible small queues.

To save time, complete online check-in for your flight in advance and save the boarding pass on your mobile device. Although the airport is small, security screening rules are standard for the USA. Liquids in hand luggage must be in containers up to 100 ml and packed in a transparent bag. Ensure you do not have prohibited items, such as knives or other sharp objects.

Since flights to this part of Alaska are often operated on small aircraft, choosing a window seat will gift you with unforgettable views of the harsh and beautiful nature. When booking a ticket, check the type of aircraft and select a seat in advance if such an option is available. Passengers with connections, most often in Anchorage, should allow sufficient time between flights, as the weather in the region can be unpredictable and affect the schedule.

Nome Airport serves mainly domestic flights, so international customs control is absent here. Passengers arriving from abroad undergo it at the first airport of entry into the country. To save money, bring an empty water bottle with you, which can be filled after screening, as well as light snacks, since the selection in small airports may be limited.

In case of a flight delay, which is not uncommon due to weather conditions, remain calm. Clarify information with your airline representative, and find out about your rights to compensation or provision of services. Have a charged power bank, a book, or downloaded films with you to pass the waiting time. It is always useful to check your flight status online in advance before leaving for the airport.