Merle K (Mudhole) Smith Airport

Welcome

Merle K (Mudhole) Smith Airport isn't just another small airport. It's uniquely Alaskan, a lifeline to the secluded city of Cordova, serving commercial fishing flights, medevac operations, and the Coast Guard alongside passenger departures. Situated about 13 miles southeast of Cordova, the airport acts as an artery in a region with no road access, making it intensely local and personal compared to other U.S. airports.

At a glance

A vital hub for Alaska Airlines, CDV is more than a passenger terminal; it supports commercial fishing and essential health services. The surrounding wetlands and lush forests provide a dramatic backdrop, enhancing the remote feel of flying into a nature reserve. With fewer daily jet departures and no road escape, CDV’s aviation offering is precious to both locals and visitors alike.

Terminals & layout

The airport has a single terminal that supports a mix of passenger and cargo traffic, heavily reliant on Alaska Airlines’ Essential Air Service route structure. Here, flights can blend passenger and cargo operations, with coolers and boxes often lining up alongside regular bags during peak commercial fishing seasons. The terminal layout, while modest, is functional and purpose-heavy, serving the needs of multiple users.

Getting to and from the city

Without road access to the broader Alaska highway system, ground transport options to and from CDV are limited but critical. The airport lies 13 miles southeast of Cordova, requiring robust planning to avoid missing the sparse flight schedule. Weather, tides, and vehicle issues can disrupt travel plans, making it essential to build buffer time into your schedule.

Traveller essentials

With scheduled services tied to Alaska Airlines, flights are tightly managed to balance passenger, cargo, and essential service needs. Weather can impact operations significantly, with fog and coastal storms leading to delays. If flights cancel, quick rebooking isn’t always an option, so have solid backup plans for accommodation and food in Cordova.

Dining & shopping highlights

CDV lacks traditional dining and shopping amenities, a reflection of its role as a service-focused airport. The local experience shines through in its operations rather than in commercial offerings, with scenic views and the vibrant life of a bustling dock setting the real ambiance.

Lounges

There are no dedicated lounges at CDV, which can be a surprise for travelers accustomed to larger airports. The wait areas, while minimal, offer a taste of local history with a commemorative plaque sharing the story of Merle "Mudhole" Smith. It’s more of a homage to the airport’s deep-rooted connections to Cordova than a space for relaxing before a flight.

Insider tips

• Time: Build in serious buffer time on your way back to CDV—weather, tides, or vehicle issues can muddle schedules, and the airport is 13 miles from Cordova.
• Avoid: Weather treat impacts flights heavily. Avoid tight connections when flying from Anchorage or Juneau.
• Local: Peak fishing seasons influence flight schedules. Expect mixed cargo-passenger runs during these times.
• Quiet: View wildlife from the airport, where wetlands attract diverse species right by the runway.
• Money: Book Alaska Airlines seats early for peak summer; competition from fishermen and tourists is intense.
• Insider: If your flight cancels, reaccommodation is slow. Have a backup plan for accommodations and food in Cordova.
• Time: Approach into CDV offers spectacular views over Prince William Sound’s glaciers and fjords—sit on the window side for the best sights.