Savoonga Airport

Savoonga Airport is not merely a transport hub; it is a true "lifeline" for the residents of St. Lawrence Island in the harsh Bering Sea. Here, amidst the Arctic winds and the wild nature of Alaska, the runway serves as the only reliable connection to the mainland. Travellers arriving here are not greeted by the shine of glass terminals, but by the authentic atmosphere of the "Walrus Capital of the World" and incredible landscapes at the edge of the earth.

Features of Savoonga Airport:

The airport plays a critically important role for the local community, ensuring the delivery of mail, groceries, and medicine, as maritime navigation is only available for a short period each year. Due to its location on an island in the Bering Sea, the operation of the air harbour is heavily dependent on weather conditions: fog and strong winds often force adjustments to the schedule.

The airport infrastructure is modest but functional. There are no Duty-Free shops or business lounges familiar to city dwellers here. The runway has a gravel surface, which requires special skill from pilots. For tourists, this airport becomes the first point of contact with the unique culture of the Yupik Eskimos and the severe beauty of the Arctic tundra.

• Official Airport Website: The airport does not have its own separate website. Official information is posted on the Alaska Department of Transportation (Alaska DOT&PF) portal: dot.alaska.gov.
• Inquiry Service Phone: +1 907-443-3444 (Department of Transportation Office in Nome, responsible for operations). For questions about flights, call Bering Air: +1 907-443-5464.
• Airport Address: Savoonga Airport, Savoonga, AK 99769, USA (approximately 2 km from the settlement centre).
• Email: There is no direct email address for the airport administration. It is recommended to use the contact forms on the air carriers' websites.
• Airport Social Media: Official accounts are absent. Current news can be searched for on the Bering Air pages.
• Lost Luggage Information: The airport does not have its own baggage tracing service. In case of lost items, you must immediately contact a representative of your airline (Bering Air or Ryan Air).
• Passenger Support Contacts: Main support is provided by airline agents in the village or the central Bering Air office in Nome: +1 800-478-5422 (toll-free within Alaska).

Transport logistics in Savoonga are radically different from what residents of major metropolises are used to. Since the settlement is located on the isolated St. Lawrence Island, there are no familiar highways, railway stations, or taxi services like Uber. The airport is located just 2 kilometres from the residential area, making the journey quick, but it requires prior planning.

Public Transport

There is a complete absence of public transport in Savoonga: there are no buses, trains, or shuttle taxis here. The village is compact, and most facilities are within walking distance. However, considering the harsh Arctic climate and strong winds, walking with luggage from the runway to your accommodation can be a serious challenge.

Transfers and Taxis

There are no official taxi services in the village. The main way to get from the plane steps to the village is by arrangement with your host. If you are flying as part of a tour group or heading to local guides, you will certainly be met. Locals use pickup trucks for transfers, as well as specific vehicles adapted to the tundra.

The cost of the transfer is usually included in the price of accommodation or the tour. If you are travelling independently, you can ask locals for help upon arrival — it is customary on the island to help guests, and you might be given a lift for a symbolic fee or for free.

Transport Rental

There are no chain car rental agencies (Hertz, Avis, etc.) here. However, unofficial rental of vehicles suitable for off-road conditions is developed in Savoonga:

• All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs): The most popular type of transport in summer and the off-season.
• Snowmobiles: The only means of transport in winter when the tundra is covered with snow.

Renting such equipment is possible only through personal arrangements with local residents. Prices vary and are discussed individually.

Parking at the Airport

Near the runway, there is a small dirt area serving as parking. It is free and unguarded. Locals often leave their ATVs or snowmobiles here while meeting flights. Leaving vehicles for a long term is not recommended due to unpredictable weather conditions.

Important Recommendations

When planning your trip, consider that the travel time from the settlement centre to the airport by vehicle takes 5–10 minutes, and on foot — about 20–30 minutes (in good weather). Always have a backup plan and the contacts of your host, as mobile reception may work intermittently.

Nearby Transport Hubs

Air travel in Alaska is a complex network where small airports are connected to larger hubs. Savoonga's nearest "neighbour" is Gambell Airport, located at the other end of the island (about 62 km in a straight line). Flights between these two villages are often performed in a single "loop" from the mainland.

The main transit hub for reaching Savoonga is Nome Airport. It is through here that the main flow of passengers and cargo passes (distance about 262 km). From Nome, you can also reach other remote points in the region, such as Chevak Airport or Unalakleet Airport. Another important regional centre is St. Mary's Airport, although there are usually no direct flights from there to Savoonga.

Terminal Structure and Airport Layout

Unlike large international hubs, Savoonga Airport (SVA) is distinguished by extreme conciseness and simplicity. The entire airport complex is represented by one small single-storey building. There is no division into multiple terminals (A, B, C, etc.), long walkways, or travelators. All infrastructure is concentrated in a single compact space, serving simultaneously as a waiting room, check-in area, and luggage section.

Departure and Arrival Zones

The concepts of "departure zone" and "arrival zone" are quite nominal here. Inside the building, there is a common area for passengers awaiting their flight and those meeting them. Due to the small size of the room, navigation is intuitive: entering through the main door, you immediately find yourself at the check-in counter.

• Check-in: The airline counter (usually Bering Air or Ryan Air) is located right in the main hall. The procedure includes document checks and mandatory weighing of luggage and hand carry. Often, passengers themselves are weighed for precise balance calculations of the small aircraft.
• Arrival: There is no luggage claim carousel here. Luggage is unloaded from the plane manually and either handed to passengers right at the aircraft side or brought into the terminal building where it can be collected.

Movement Scheme and Transitions

The airport lacks jet bridges or buses for transport to the aircraft. Boarding and disembarking are carried out on foot. Planes stop in immediate proximity to the terminal building (usually 20–50 metres away). Passengers walk across the gravel apron directly to the aircraft steps.

Important: Be careful when moving across the airfield, especially in winter or windy weather. The surface can be slippery or uneven. Always follow the instructions of ground staff or the pilot and do not stray far from the group.

Security Procedures and Check-in Time

Since the airport serves small aviation and local flights, there are no strict TSA security zones with X-ray scanners and metal detector frames typical of big cities. However, safety remains a priority:

• Arrival Time: It is recommended to arrive at the airport 45–60 minutes before departure. This time is sufficient for processing documents and weighing cargo.
• Screening Features: Control is carried out visually by airline staff. There are strict restrictions on the transport of dangerous goods. Given the specifics of the region, the transport of hunting weapons and equipment is permitted but requires prior approval and proper packaging.

Amenities and Waiting Features

The terminal interior is modest and utilitarian. Its main function is to provide warm shelter from the harsh Arctic winds. The waiting room has seating, but there is no entertainment, cafes, or shops. A restroom is generally available, but the comfort level is basic. Passengers are advised to take care of snacks and water in advance if a long wait for the flight is expected due to weather conditions.

Navigation Recommendations

It is impossible to get lost in Savoonga Airport. The only route is the path from the building entrance to the check-in counter, and then to the exit door onto the airfield. The main advice for tourists: stay close to your airline representative. In conditions where the schedule can change instantly due to fog, voice announcements from the staff member in the hall are the most reliable source of information.

The history of Savoonga Airport is inextricably linked with the founding of the settlement itself in 1916. While many Alaskan towns emerged during the Gold Rush, Savoonga appeared thanks to reindeer herding. For many years, connection with the outside world was maintained exclusively by sea and dog sleds, but with the development of polar aviation in the mid-20th century, an acute need for a permanent air harbour arose.

Stages of Formation and Development

Initially, the landing strip was a levelled patch of tundra that could only be used by light aircraft of "bush pilots." The airport received official status and regular maintenance later when it came under the management of the State of Alaska. This allowed for the establishment of stable delivery of cargo and mail, which became a true revolution for the isolated community on St. Lawrence Island.

A key stage of modernization was the strengthening and profiling of the runway. Given the marshy soil and permafrost, engineers had to apply special embankment technologies so the strip wouldn't "shift" in summer. Today, runway 05/23 has a gravel surface and a length of about 1,341 metres (4,400 feet), which allows it to accommodate medium-sized turboprop aircraft.

Interesting Historical Facts

• Strategic Importance: During the Cold War era, St. Lawrence Island was in immediate proximity to the "Iron Curtain." Although the main military base was located at Northeast Cape, Savoonga Airport also played an important role in regional logistics, being just a few dozen kilometres from the border with the USSR (now Russia).
• Reindeer Aviation: In the early years of air travel, planes were often used to support reindeer herding — the main economic sector of the village. Pilots helped track herds from the air and transport veterinarians.
• Evolution of Lighting: One of the most vital upgrades was the installation of a modern approach lighting system. In the conditions of the polar night and frequent Bering Sea fogs, high-quality lighting equipment became the key to flight safety, turning the airport from a "daytime strip" into a round-the-clock facility.

Modernity and Achievements

Over the past decades, the airport has repeatedly undergone routine repairs related to combating soil erosion and the impact of harsh winds. The main achievement of Savoonga Airport is considered its incredible reliability: despite extreme climatic conditions, it ensures one of the highest flight completion rates among small Arctic airports.

Today, the airport is not just a historical object, but the gateway to the "Walrus Capital of the World," as Savoonga is often called. It is through this airport that tourists and collectors take out the famous walrus ivory carvings created by local artisans, continuing the centuries-old traditions of the region.

The infrastructure of Savoonga Airport (SVA) reflects its status as a remote Arctic outpost. You will not find the variety of services typical of international hubs here. The air terminal is created exclusively to ensure safety and basic shelter from bad weather before departure. Travellers should prepare for the trip in advance, not counting on purchasing goods or services directly in the terminal building.

Dining and Shops

The airport building is completely devoid of cafes, restaurants, vending machines, or shops. You cannot buy even a bottle of water or coffee here. Given the possibility of flight delays due to fog or wind, passengers are strongly advised to:

• Bring a supply of food (snacks, sandwiches) and water purchased in advance in Nome or Anchorage.
• If you are in the village of Savoonga itself, visit the local General Store before heading to the airport.
• Do not count on buying souvenirs in the terminal — the famous walrus ivory items can only be purchased in the village itself from local artisans.

Connectivity and Electronics

The airport does not provide public Wi-Fi. Mobile reception on St. Lawrence Island works, but coverage can be unstable and depends on your operator (GCI works best). There are no specialized charging stations for gadgets. A free power outlet might be found in the waiting room, but their number is limited, so it is better to have a fully charged power bank with you.

Lounges and VIP Services

There are no business lounges or VIP zones at the airport. The only waiting room is common to all passengers. It is a small heated room with several rows of seats. The comfort level is basic, designed for a short wait before boarding.

Financial Services

ATMs, currency exchange points, and bank branches are absent in the terminal. Most transactions on the island, especially when buying souvenirs from private individuals or paying for unofficial transfers, are done in cash. It is recommended to withdraw the necessary amount of US Dollars in advance, before flying to the island.

Medical Assistance

There is no medical centre or pharmacy at the airport. First aid kits are available with airline staff. In case of serious health problems, it is necessary to contact the clinic in the village of Savoonga, where paramedics and health aides work. Emergency evacuation is carried out by medevac flights to Nome.

Services for Passengers with Children

Specialized mother-and-child rooms or play areas are not provided. Due to the compactness of the terminal, children are always under parental supervision. It is recommended to bring warm clothes, books, or toys, as entertaining a child in an empty waiting room can be challenging.

Passengers with Reduced Mobility

The infrastructure has natural limitations. Although the building is single-story and has no stairs inside, boarding the plane is done from the ground via the aircraft steps, which may cause difficulties for passengers with reduced mobility.
Important: Be sure to notify the airline (Bering Air or Ryan Air) of your needs when booking your ticket. Pilots and ground staff in Alaska are famous for their responsiveness and always personally help passengers board.

Accommodation: Hotels

There are no hotels on the airport territory. Sleeping in the terminal is prohibited and technically impossible (it closes at night). Accommodation options are located in the village itself (2 km from the strip):

• City Apartments: There are several accommodation options in Savoonga, often managed by the city council or local corporation. These are simple rooms with minimal amenities.
• School Accommodation: Often, tour groups or scientific expeditions are accommodated in the local school building (by prior arrangement), where sleeping bags can be laid out in the gym.

Accommodation must be booked well in advance of arrival via phone calls to the settlement administration, as online booking (Booking, Expedia, etc.) does not work here.

Business Services

Conference rooms or business centres are absent at the airport. If you need to hold a meeting or send documents, the only option might be the administrative building of the City Office in the centre of the village, where there is usually access to office equipment and a fax.

Important Warning Regarding Food

Travellers heading to Savoonga need to adjust their expectations regarding service. Savoonga Airport (SVA) is a remote infrastructure facility where food service points are completely absent. There are no restaurants, cafeterias, coffee points, or even vending machines with snacks or water here. The terminal is not divided into zones with food courts; it is a single room for waiting where it is impossible to buy food.

Where to Find Food: Village Shops

The only opportunity to purchase groceries before departure is to visit shops in the village of Savoonga itself before arriving at the airport. The main place for trade is the Savoonga Native Store (local general store).

• Assortment: Basic food products are sold here (canned goods, bread, cereals, frozen semi-finished products, snacks, fizzy drinks). Fresh vegetables and fruits are rare and sell out quickly.
• Prices: Be prepared for prices to be 2–3 times higher than on the mainland due to complex aviation logistics. A simple bottle of water or a pack of biscuits can cost significantly more than usual.
• Opening Hours: The shop operates on a reduced schedule, often closing at lunchtime and early in the evening, as well as on Sundays.

Local Cuisine and Delicacies

There are no restaurants of local cuisine in Savoonga in the usual sense. However, being the "Walrus Capital," the island offers a unique gastronomic experience based on the traditional lifestyle of the Yupik Eskimos. You can try these dishes only as a guest of local residents or at community festivals:

• Muktuk: Whale or walrus skin with a layer of blubber. This is a main source of energy and vitamins in the Arctic. It is consumed raw, frozen, or boiled.
• Reindeer: Reindeer meat is the basis of the diet. It is often dried or boiled.
• Berries: In season (late summer), cloudberries (aqpik) gathered in the tundra are popular.

Tip: If locals treat you to traditional food, accepting it is a sign of respect. However, be careful, as the stomach of an unprepared tourist may react specifically to fermented meat or fatty food.

Specialized Diets (Vegetarian, Vegan, Halal)

Finding specialized food on the island is extremely difficult. Concepts like "vegan" or "gluten-free" menus are not applied here. The basis of the local diet is the meat of marine mammals.

• For Vegetarians and Vegans: It is strongly recommended to bring your entire food supply with you from Nome or Anchorage. In the local shop, the choice will be limited to canned vegetables, crisps, and pasta.
• Halal and Kosher: Products certified according to religious standards are not available for sale.

Recommendations Before Flight

Given the unpredictability of the weather, departure may be delayed for several hours or even days. To avoid remaining hungry in an empty terminal:

1. For a quick snack: Always have energy bars, nuts, chocolate, or dried fruits in your hand luggage. This is a compact and high-calorie reserve in case of waiting.

2. For a full meal: If you are staying in apartments with a kitchen, prepare a substantial meal before leaving for the airport. Take a thermos with hot tea or coffee with you — in a cold waiting room, this will be the most valuable resource, as there is nowhere to get boiling water at the airport.

Water and Drinks

There are no drinking fountains at the airport. Drinking tap water from the toilet (if the plumbing is functioning) without boiling is not recommended. Be sure to buy a supply of bottled water at the village store before heading for your flight.

A trip to Savoonga is an expedition to one of the most remote corners of the world. The rules of large international hubs do not apply here, and the rhythm of life is set by the harsh nature of the Arctic. To ensure your trip goes smoothly, we have prepared a list of practical tips based on the specifics of local small aviation.

Arrival Time: Balance Between Punctuality and Waiting

Although the airport is tiny, being late is not accepted here. It is recommended to arrive at the terminal 45–60 minutes before departure. This time is necessary for pilots and ground staff to weigh all passengers and cargo to correctly distribute the weight in the aircraft. At the same time, be mentally prepared that departure may be delayed indefinitely due to sudden fog.

Check-in and Security: Forget About Scanners

The control procedure here looks completely different from in metropolises. You will not see metal detector frames or belts for X-raying bags (TSA).

• Total Weighing: This is the most important part of check-in. You will be asked to stand on the scales together with your hand luggage. Do not be offended or hide your real weight — this is a matter of flight safety on a light aircraft.
• Visual Inspection: An airline employee may ask you to open your bag for a visual check.
• Documents: Despite the informal atmosphere, a passport or ID is mandatory for verification before boarding.

Choosing a Seat on the Plane: Best Views

In small aviation aircraft (usually Cessna or Piper), a "free seating" rule often applies, but the final word always belongs to the pilot. They may move passengers to balance the vessel.

• Best View: Try to sit by the window. A flight over the Bering Sea is a unique chance to see whales, walruses, and drifting ice from a bird's eye view.
• Watching the Pilot: If you are interested in aircraft control, take seats in the first row (often right behind the pilot's back), from where the instrument panel is visible.

Hand Luggage: Compactness and Softness

Luggage compartments in bush planes are very small and have an irregular shape. Hard suitcases on wheels ("cabin size") are extremely inconvenient here and may simply not fit.

• What is allowed: Use soft sports bags or backpacks that are easy to compress. Be sure to take vital medicines, a camera, and documents into the cabin (or keep them in your pockets).
• What is forbidden: It is strictly forbidden to transport fuel for burners, bear spray, and unregistered weapons in the cabin. These items must be checked in and processed accordingly.

Tips for Transit Passengers

Most flights to Savoonga go through Nome. The main rule is do not plan "tight" connections.

• If you have a connecting flight to Anchorage or Seattle from Nome, allow a buffer of at least 4–6 hours, or better yet — an overnight stay. Weather on the island changes instantly, and the plane from Savoonga may not take off on time.
• When buying tickets (usually these are separate tickets for local airlines and mainline flights like Alaska Airlines), remember that in case of bad weather, the large airline is not responsible for the lateness of your "bush flight."

Customs Control and Souvenirs

Savoonga is US territory, so there is no classic customs upon arrival. However, departure has its own features due to the status of the "Walrus Capital."

If you have purchased items made of walrus ivory (carvings, jewellery), ensure you have the "Silver Hand" tag or a certificate of authenticity. This confirms that the item was made by an Alaska Native and its export is legal. Exporting raw ivory or items without proof of origin may lead to confiscation and fines according to the Marine Mammal Protection Act.

How to Save Time and Money

• Cash is King: Card terminals may not work due to connection problems. Always have a supply of cash US Dollars (small bills) to pay for excess baggage or emergency transfers.
• Your Own Food: As mentioned earlier, there is no food at the airport. Buying snacks in Nome before flying to Savoonga will cost 2–3 times less than in the local store on the island.
• Group Transfer: If you see other tourists who arrived with you, agree on a shared transfer to the village on an ATV or pickup truck — this will help split the costs.

Action Plan for Flight Delays

Delays and cancellations of flights in Alaska are part of the adventure, not force majeure. If the flight is postponed:

1. Do not panic and do not get angry at the staff. The decision is made by the pilot based on safety. No amount of persuasion will make a plane take off into "milk" fog.

2. Stay in touch with your accommodation. Do not check out from your place of residence in the village until the plane has definitely taken off from Nome to get you. Returning to a warm house is better than sitting for hours in a cold terminal.

3. Entertainment and Charging. Have a book, downloaded films, and a fully charged power bank at hand. There are few outlets in the waiting room, and there is absolutely nothing to do there.