Sitka Airport

Sitka Rocky Gutierrez Airport is not just an air gateway to Baranof Island in Alaska, but a true work of engineering art. Built on an artificial causeway connected to the neighboring Japonski Island, it offers passengers breathtaking views of the ocean and mountains during takeoff and landing. Located in a picturesque corner of the USA, this airport serves as a key transport hub for the city of the same name and the entire region.

The main feature of the airport, named after the city's former mayor Rocky Gutierrez, is its single runway surrounded by water. This creates an unforgettable sensation for travellers, akin to landing on an aircraft carrier. Despite its modest size, the airport plays a crucial role in the lives of the local population and the development of tourism. Its proximity to the city centre of Sitka makes it very convenient for arrivals: hotels and attractions can be reached in just a few minutes by taxi or local bus. The main carriers serving the airport are Alaska Airlines and Delta Air Lines, connecting Sitka with other Alaskan cities and major hubs in the USA.

Below you will find the main contact information for Sitka Rocky Gutierrez Airport (SIT).

• Official Website: Current information about the airport can be found on the official portal of the City and Borough of Sitka, in the section dedicated to the airport.
• Help Desk Phone: The main contact number for airport administration is: +1 (907) 966-2960.
• Airport Address: 605 Airport Rd, Sitka, AK 99835, USA.
• Email: To contact the administration, it is recommended to use the contact forms on the official Sitka city website, as a direct email for general inquiries is usually not published.
• Social Media: The airport does not have its own official social media pages. Important updates may appear on the pages of the city of Sitka.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage was lost or damaged during the flight, you must contact your airline directly. For items left in the terminal building, contact the airport administration at the phone number listed above.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For all questions related to ticket purchase or exchange, flight check-in, and special services, please contact the support service of the airline you are flying with.

Getting to Sitka Rocky Gutierrez Airport (SIT) from the city centre of Sitka, in the USA, is quite simple due to its close proximity. The airport is located on Japonski Island, connected to the main part of the city by the scenic O'Connell Bridge. The trip from the centre takes just 5–10 minutes by car. Here are the main ways to cover this distance.

The most budget-friendly option is public transport. The city operates a bus system called The RIDE. Although buses do not always pull up directly to the terminal, their stops are within walking distance. This is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travellers without heavy luggage. Be sure to check the schedule and route in advance, as they may change.

The most convenient and fastest method is a taxi or private transfer booking. A car can be called by phone or via an app. This option is ideal if you have many suitcases, are travelling with family, or simply value comfort. The ride will be quick and will deliver you right to the departure zone entrance, though it will cost more than other options.

For those planning to actively explore the surroundings of Sitka, renting a car is a good solution. Rental company counters can be found right at the airport. If you are getting to the airport in your own or a rented vehicle, short-term and long-term parking is at your service. This is convenient if you are flying away for a few days and want to leave the car in a secure place.

A unique feature of Sitka is the ability to walk to the airport. If you are travelling light and the weather permits, the walk from the city centre across the bridge will take about 20–30 minutes. This is not only free but also allows you to enjoy stunning views of the sound and surrounding mountains — a beautiful start or end to your journey.

Sitka Rocky Gutierrez Airport (SIT), located in the city of Sitka, USA, is a small and very passenger-friendly aviation hub. Its main feature is that it consists of one passenger terminal. This single building serves all domestic flights, both arrivals and departures, making navigation through the airport maximally simple and fast.

The terminal structure is intuitive. Immediately at the entrance, you will find airline check-in counters and baggage drop-off points. After completing registration, passengers proceed to the single security checkpoint, beyond which lies a small waiting hall with boarding gates. The arrivals area with a baggage claim belt is also located in this same building, within walking distance. Since there is only one terminal, no transfers between terminals are required.

Thanks to the airport's compact size, completing all pre-flight procedures usually does not take much time. Flight check-in and security screening happen quite quickly. As a rule, for domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 60–90 minutes before departure. During the peak tourist season (summer months), passenger flow may increase, so it is worth allowing a little extra time for potential queues.

Orienting yourself in the Sitka airport terminal is extremely easy. All key zones — from check-in to the boarding gate — are within a few minutes' walk of each other. Clear signs will help you quickly find the necessary counter, gate, or baggage claim area. Even if you are here for the first time, getting lost is practically impossible, making travel through this airport comfortable and stress-free.

The history of Sitka Airport (SIT), officially known as Sitka Rocky Gutierrez Airport, is closely intertwined with the military history of the USA. Its construction began during World War II, and in 1942, it was opened as a U.S. Navy airfield. The base's primary task was the defense of the Alaskan coast. After the war ended, the facility was transferred for civil use, becoming a vital transport hub for the isolated city.

The main engineering achievement and a key stage in the airport's development was its creation itself. To accommodate a runway of sufficient length, an artificial peninsula was built, literally cutting into Sitka Sound. This bold decision allowed the airport to eventually start accepting jet aircraft, such as the Boeing 737, which radically changed the region's transport accessibility and contributed to its economic growth.

Over the decades, the airport has undergone several stages of modernization. Renovations included updating the passenger terminal to increase comfort and safety, as well as improving navigation equipment, which is critically important for flights in the complex weather conditions of Southeast Alaska. In 2000, the airport was named after Rocky Gutierrez, a former mayor of Sitka and a pilot who made a significant contribution to the development of local aviation.

One of the most interesting facts about the airport is its location on the separate Japonski Island, which is connected to the main part of the city by the O'Connell Bridge. Thanks to this, landing in Sitka is considered one of the most scenic in the world: the aircraft approaches the runway directly over the water against a backdrop of majestic mountains and volcanoes. Today, the airport not only serves scheduled passenger and cargo flights but is also an important base for air ambulance services and charter tours.

Sitka Airport (SIT), being an important transport hub for the region, provides passengers with all necessary basic services for a comfortable wait for their flight. It is important to understand that this is a small regional airport, so the range of amenities corresponds to its size and passenger traffic.

Inside the terminal, there is a small café or snack bar where you can have a bite to eat, drink coffee, or purchase beverages and snacks for the road. There may also be a souvenir shop offering locally made goods and memorable gifts. The selection of dining establishments and shops is limited.

Free Wi-Fi is available for all passengers, allowing you to stay connected or work while waiting for departure. Power outlets for charging electronic devices are provided in the general waiting area. Specialized luxury waiting halls or VIP lounges are absent at the airport.

Financial services are represented by ATMs. However, currency exchange points are generally not provided in the terminal, so tourists are advised to take care of money exchange in the city of Sitka in advance. Medical assistance, if needed, is provided by airport personnel who can administer first aid or call emergency services.

The airport is equipped to meet the needs of passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps and specially equipped restrooms. Passengers requiring assistance with movement or boarding can request an escort service through their airline. For travellers with small children, there are changing tables in the restrooms.

There are no hotels within the airport building itself, but several accommodation options are located in the immediate vicinity, in the city. You can reach them by taxi or shuttle. Specialized business centres and conference rooms for holding business meetings are not provided at Sitka Airport.

Sitka Airport (SIT) is a compact airport with one terminal, so the choice of dining establishments here is quite predictable and concentrated in one place. Travellers won't have to search long for a place to eat, but one should not expect a wide variety. The main and, effectively, the only full-service establishment is The Nugget Restaurant.

A key point for planning: the restaurant is located in the main terminal building, before the security checkpoint (landside). This means you must eat or have coffee before you go through screening. In the "secure" zone (airside), dining options are generally absent. The restaurant's operating hours depend directly on the flight schedule; it is open to serve passengers of departing and arriving flights.

The menu at The Nugget Restaurant offers American cuisine classics popular throughout the USA: omelettes and pastries are served for breakfast, while burgers, sandwiches, soups, and salads are available for lunch and dinner. Given the location in Alaska, dishes made from local seafood, such as halibut or salmon, sometimes appear on the menu. This is an excellent opportunity to taste the region's gifts before departure. The establishment is suitable for both a full lunch and a quick snack with a cup of coffee.

Passengers with specific dietary needs should be prepared for a limited selection. Specialized vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free menus are likely unavailable here. However, you can check with the staff about the possibility of adapting existing dishes — for example, ordering a salad or a dish without certain ingredients. Alternatively, vending machines with beverages and light snacks may be installed in the terminal building.

Planning a trip through the airport of Sitka city (SIT) is the first step towards an unforgettable adventure in Alaska. To ensure your journey goes smoothly, make use of our tips. The airport here is small and usually less busy than major hubs, but it is better not to take risks. Arrive 1.5-2 hours before the departure of a domestic flight. This time is sufficient to check in, drop off luggage, and pass security control without rushing. If possible, check in for your flight online to save time.

The screening procedure at Sitka Airport complies with the general rules of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) of the USA. Liquids in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag, are allowed in carry-on luggage. All electronic devices larger than a mobile phone may need to be removed from your bag. If you plan to bring local fish as a souvenir, check the transportation rules with the airline in advance. To get the best views during the flight, choose a window seat — the landscapes of islands and mountains during takeoff and landing are simply mesmerizing.

Most flights from Sitka are connecting flights via larger airports such as Seattle (SEA) or Anchorage (ANC). When planning a transfer, allow enough time between flights, especially if you are flying with different airlines. Customs control at Sitka Airport is practically non-existent as it primarily serves domestic flights. If you arrive on a rare international charter, you will undergo standard US border control procedures.

The weather in Southeast Alaska can be unpredictable, which may lead to flight delays or cancellations. Always check the status of your flight before leaving for the airport. In case of a delay, contact your airline representative for information and possible options. Since the airport is small, the range of services within it is limited. To save money, bring a water bottle with you (it can be filled after security) and light snacks. Booking flight tickets and accommodation in advance, especially during the peak summer season, will also help significantly reduce expenses.