Ketchikan International Airport
Ketchikan, US · 1 nmi (2 km; 1 mi) west of Ketchikan
Getting to the city
| Mode | Time |
|---|---|
| Airport ferry Water ferry | 5 minutes |
| Hotel shuttle Hotel shuttle | — |
| Water taxi Water taxi | — |
Insider notes
Stay flexible with your itinerary due to the reliance on ferry timing to connect with the town and the airport.
Save a few dollars by taking advantage of the free baggage carts instead of opting for porter services.
Expect the airport to be open from around 6:15 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Plan accordingly, especially for arrivals and departures.
Welcome
At Ketchikan International Airport (KTN), your journey begins with a unique twist: a ferry crossing. Nestled on Gravina Island, the airport is separated from Ketchikan by the Tongass Narrows. This means the real first leg of your trip is across water, not a road, making KTN feel more like a remote transport outpost than a typical regional airport.
At a glance
Handling approximately 260,000 passengers annually, Ketchikan International consists of just one terminal, offering a simple and straightforward experience. The airport doesn’t serve as a hub for any airline, but it accommodates Alaska Airlines and Delta Air Lines. KTN is located 1 nautical mile west of Ketchikan, a quick ferry ride away.
Terminals & layout
The single terminal at KTN is functional and compact. With basic amenities including a Snack Bar and a Cocktail Lounge located in the main area, passengers should not expect an extensive array of services. Facilities like the Aero Services passenger lounge add a small touch of comfort despite the airport’s utilitarian reputation.
Getting to and from the city
The defining feature of transportation from KTN is its dependence on the five-minute airport ferry across the Tongass Narrows. Water taxis provide an alternative for more private travel across the water. Once on the mainland, hotel shuttles are available, reducing logistical concerns about multiple transport stages.
Traveller essentials
Parking options at KTN include public parking on both Revillagigedo and Gravina sides with varying rates from $3.50 to $5.85 per day. The airport operates approximately from 6:15 AM to 9:30 PM, so consider your scheduling needs accordingly. Free Wi-Fi is available but only for a brief 10-minute session; extended access comes with a fee.
Dining & shopping highlights
Dining options at KTN are quite limited. The Snack Bar and Cocktail Lounge offer basic refreshments but with limited hours and options. For shopping, there's a small Gift Shop on-site. Given the minimal food and retail facilities, it’s advisable to plan meals and purchases before heading to the airport.
Lounges
The closest thing to a lounge at KTN is the Aero Services passenger lounge. This facility provides a modest space for relaxation or conducting quick business matters. However, it’s not a full-fledged lounge offering that you'd expect in larger airports.
Insider tips
- Insider: Stay flexible with your itinerary due to the reliance on ferry timing to connect with the town and the airport.
- Money: Save a few dollars by taking advantage of the free baggage carts instead of opting for porter services.
- Time: Expect the airport to be open from around 6:15 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Plan accordingly, especially for arrivals and departures.
- Avoid: Don't plan for a lengthy meal or extensive shopping at the airport, as facilities are sparse.
- Local: Utilize hotel shuttles for a more seamless transition once you’re on the mainland following the ferry trip.
- Quiet: Aero Services lounge is your best bet for a quiet spot in the airport, although it's more basic than typical lounges.
- Time: The airport offers only 10 minutes of free Wi‑Fi, so plan for limited connectivity or bring your own internet solution.