Annette Island Airport is a public airport located on Annette Island, in the Alexander Archipelago of southeastern Alaska, United States. The airport serves the nearby community of Metlakatla and is owned by the Metlakatla Indian Community. It has a single asphalt runway designated 12/30 with a length of 6,400 feet, making it capable of handling small to medium-sized aircraft.
Originally constructed during World War II by the US Navy as a military airfield, Annette Island Airport was transferred to the Bureau of Indian Affairs in 1947 and has since been used for civilian purposes. The airport plays a crucial role in providing air transportation services to the residents of Metlakatla and serves as a gateway to the isolated island community.
Facilities at Annette Island Airport include a terminal building with basic amenities for passengers, such as seating areas and restrooms. There is also a small parking area for vehicles near the terminal. While the airport does not have a control tower, it operates as an uncontrolled airport with pilot-controlled lighting for night operations.
Despite its relatively remote location, Annette Island Airport is an important transportation link for the residents of Metlakatla, providing vital connections to the mainland and other parts of Alaska. The airport supports medical evacuations, cargo shipments, and general aviation operations, contributing to the economic and social well-being of the community.
Overall, Annette Island Airport serves as a lifeline for the residents of Metlakatla, offering essential air access to the outside world and enabling travel for both business and leisure purposes. As a key piece of aviation infrastructure in southeastern Alaska, the airport plays a significant role in connecting the region to the broader transportation network, fostering economic development and facilitating mobility for local residents.