Whittier, located in the beautiful state of Alaska, is a small town popular among tourists for its breathtaking scenery and rich wildlife. If you’re planning a trip to Whittier, one of the first things you need to consider is the airport you’ll be flying into.
The closest airport to Whittier is the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, located approximately 60 miles away. This airport is the main transportation hub for the region and serves as a gateway to various destinations in Alaska. With its modern facilities and range of services, it offers a convenient and comfortable travel experience for visitors arriving in the area.
Getting from Anchorage to Whittier is relatively easy, with several transportation options available. One popular choice is taking a scenic train ride on the Alaska Railroad, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Another option is to rent a car and drive along the scenic Seward Highway, known for its picturesque vistas and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
In conclusion, if you’re planning a trip to Whittier, Alaska, the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport is the closest airport and the most convenient option for reaching this charming town. Whether you choose to take a scenic train ride or drive along the breathtaking Seward Highway, you’re sure to be captivated by the natural beauty that awaits you in Whittier.
Best Airports Near Whittier Alaska
Whittier, Alaska is a popular destination for tourists looking to explore the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife of the Prince William Sound. If you’re planning a trip to Whittier, you’ll need to know which airports are the best options for getting there. Here are some of the best airports near Whittier, Alaska:
| Airport | Distance from Whittier | Transportation Options |
|---|---|---|
| Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) | 61 miles | – Take a shuttle bus or taxi from the airport to Whittier
– Rent a car at the airport and drive to Whittier – Take a train from the airport to Whittier (during summer months only) |
| Merrill Field Airport (MRI) | 63 miles | – Rent a car at the airport and drive to Whittier
– Take a shuttle bus or taxi from the airport to Whittier – Take a train from the airport to Whittier (during summer months only) |
| Girdwood Airport (AQY) | 39 miles | – Rent a car at the airport and drive to Whittier
– Take a shuttle bus or taxi from the airport to Whittier – Take a train from the airport to Whittier (during summer months only) |
| Kenai Municipal Airport (ENA) | 88 miles | – Rent a car at the airport and drive to Whittier
– Take a shuttle bus or taxi from the airport to Whittier – Take a train from the airport to Whittier (during summer months only) |
These airports offer a variety of transportation options to get you from the airport to Whittier. Whether you prefer to rent a car, take a shuttle bus or taxi, or hop on a train, you’ll have no trouble finding a convenient way to reach your destination. Keep in mind that during the summer months, the train is a popular and scenic option for traveling to Whittier.
When planning your trip to Whittier, Alaska, consider these airports as your starting point. Each one offers its own unique benefits and transportation options to make your journey as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport
Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport is the closest major airport to Whittier, Alaska. Located approximately 60 miles northwest of Whittier, the airport is a key transportation hub for travelers visiting the region.
As the largest airport in Alaska, Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport offers a wide range of domestic and international flights. It serves as a major connection point for travelers coming from various destinations, including major cities in the United States, Canada, and Asia.
Passenger amenities at the airport include restaurants, shops, and car rental services. The airport also provides convenient ground transportation options, such as taxis, shuttles, and rental cars, making it easy for passengers to reach their final destination in Whittier.
Once in Whittier, visitors can explore the charming coastal town and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. From fishing and kayaking to glacier tours and wildlife viewing, there are plenty of opportunities to experience the natural beauty of the area.
Overall, Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport offers convenient access to Whittier, making it an excellent starting point for travelers looking to explore this picturesque Alaskan destination.
Girdwood Airport
Girdwood Airport, also known as Girdwood Seaplane Base, is the closest airport to Whittier, Alaska. It is located in Girdwood, a small town about 25 miles northeast of Whittier. Girdwood Airport primarily serves as a seaplane base, with floatplanes being the main mode of transportation to and from Whittier.
Floatplanes are popular in Alaska due to the abundance of lakes and waterways in the region. They provide a convenient and efficient way for travelers to reach remote destinations, such as Whittier, that may not be easily accessible by road. Girdwood Airport offers a variety of floatplane services, including scenic flights, transportation to fishing lodges, and charters to other nearby locations.
While Girdwood Airport is primarily a seaplane base, it does have a small runway that is used by land-based aircraft. However, the runway is not suitable for large commercial airlines and is mainly used by small private planes and helicopter operators.
If you are planning a trip to Whittier, Alaska, and prefer to fly, Girdwood Airport is the closest option available. From there, you can take a floatplane or arrange for transportation to Whittier. Alternatively, if you prefer to drive, the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, also known as the Whittier Tunnel, is the main access point to Whittier. The tunnel is open to vehicle traffic at specified times throughout the day.
Merrill Field Airport
Merrill Field Airport, located in Anchorage, Alaska, is the closest airport to Whittier. It is situated approximately 60 miles northeast of the city and offers convenient access to Whittier via ground transportation options.
Merrill Field Airport is a general aviation airport that primarily serves private and charter aircraft. It features a single asphalt runway and a variety of services and amenities for pilots and passengers.
Ground transportation from Merrill Field Airport to Whittier is available through taxi services and car rental companies. The journey typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
| Airport | Distance from Whittier | Transportation Options |
|---|---|---|
| Merrill Field Airport | Approximately 60 miles | Taxi services, car rentals |
While Merrill Field Airport is the closest airport to Whittier, it’s important to note that it primarily serves general aviation traffic. If you are looking for commercial airline options, the nearest major airport is Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, which is located approximately 70 miles north of Whittier.
Elmendorf Air Force Base
The Elmendorf Air Force Base is a United States military base located near Anchorage, Alaska. It is home to the 673d Air Base Wing and the 3rd Wing. Originally established in 1940 as the Elmendorf Field, it was renamed Elmendorf Air Force Base in 1950.
Elmendorf Air Force Base plays a crucial role in Alaska’s defense and support missions. It provides airfield infrastructure, essential services, and support for various military units. The base is strategically located, allowing for rapid deployment and response, making it an important asset in the region.
Since its establishment, Elmendorf Air Force Base has been involved in numerous military operations and exercises. It has a long history of supporting air superiority, air defense, and air mobility missions. The base has also played a key role in disaster relief efforts and international partnerships.
In addition to its military operations, Elmendorf Air Force Base is actively engaged in the local community. It collaborates with various organizations and participates in outreach programs to foster good relations and support the well-being of the surrounding area.
Visitors to Alaska might catch a glimpse of Elmendorf Air Force Base while flying in or out of Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, as the base is located adjacent to the airport. However, it is important to note that the base itself is not open to the public, and access is restricted to authorized personnel.
Lake Hood Seaplane Base
Lake Hood Seaplane Base is the world’s busiest seaplane base and is located in Anchorage, Alaska. It is about 63 miles northeast of Whittier, making it the closest seaplane base to the town.
The seaplane base is situated on Lake Hood, which covers an area of 1,524 acres. It is a hub of activity during the summer months when tourists and locals alike flock to the area to enjoy the scenic beauty of Alaska from the air.
Lake Hood Seaplane Base is home to over 800 floatplanes and is surrounded by stunning mountain ranges. It offers facilities such as fueling services, aircraft repair and maintenance, and a variety of aviation-related businesses.
For those visiting or residing in Whittier, Lake Hood Seaplane Base provides a convenient option for traveling to and from the town. Floatplanes offer a unique and thrilling way to experience Alaska’s natural beauty and are a popular mode of transportation in the region.
Whether you’re planning a scenic flight over the glaciers or using a floatplane to reach remote fishing spots, Lake Hood Seaplane Base serves as the gateway to adventure in Alaska. With its close proximity to Whittier, it is the ideal starting point for exploring the wonders of this picturesque region.
Whittier Airport
The Whittier Airport, also known as the Whittier Harbor Seaplane Base, is the closest airport to the town of Whittier, Alaska. It is a public airport located on the western side of the Prince William Sound, providing convenient access for residents and visitors alike.
The airport serves as a major gateway to Whittier, connecting the town with other parts of Alaska and the United States. It is primarily used for general aviation purposes, with seaplanes being the most common type of aircraft operated from the airport.
Due to its location in the Prince William Sound, Whittier Airport offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, glaciers, and marine wildlife. It provides a unique and memorable flying experience for travelers arriving or departing from the airport.
Whittier Airport features one runway, which is paved and measures approximately 3,300 feet in length. The runway can accommodate small aircraft and seaplanes, making it well-suited for the types of aircraft commonly used in the area.
Passengers flying into or out of Whittier Airport can expect a small and welcoming facility. While there are limited amenities available at the airport, such as restrooms and a waiting area, it offers the convenience of a quick and efficient arrival or departure process.
It is worth noting that Whittier Airport does not offer commercial airline service. Travelers looking to visit Whittier by air typically fly into one of the larger airports in Alaska, such as Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport or Merrill Field, and then connect to Whittier via a smaller aircraft or ferry.
Overall, Whittier Airport plays a crucial role in connecting the small town of Whittier with the rest of Alaska. Whether you are visiting for recreational purposes or are a resident traveling for business or personal reasons, the airport provides a convenient transportation option.
