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Central Airport (IATA: CEM, ICAO: PACE) is a state-owned public-use gravel airstrip located about one mile northwest of Central, Alaska, in the Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area. It primarily supports general aviation, air taxis, and seasonal mining and subsistence travel in Alaska's remote Interior. The airport has a single gravel runway and no scheduled commercial airline service.
💡 Local Tip
Frequent visitors know to ask locals about the latest runway condition before landing—the gravel surface can be soft or rutted after heavy rain, and there is no on-site fuel or automated weather reporting at the field.
🚖 Getting There
Central Airport is just off the Steese Highway, so the most practical ground access is by private vehicle or a pre-arranged shuttle from Central or nearby communities. There is no public transit or taxi stand at the airport; travelers should confirm pickup arrangements before flying in. In winter, road and runway conditions can be challenging, so allow extra time and check local forecasts.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What airlines fly to Central Airport?
A: There is no scheduled commercial airline service; access is typically via private aircraft or air taxi from Fairbanks or other Interior Alaska hubs.
Q: What facilities are available at Central Airport?
A: The airport is a basic small airstrip with a gravel runway and limited or no terminal services; pilots should plan for self-sufficiency and check current conditions before arrival.
Q: Can I rent a car at Central Airport?
A: No, there are no rental car counters at the airport; ground transportation is very limited, so arrange rides or use the Steese Highway access in advance.
Q: Is Central Airport open year-round?
A: Yes, but weather and runway conditions can change quickly; winter operations may require ski-equipped aircraft or careful evaluation of snow and ice on the gravel strip.
AI-generated content · Generated Oct 1, 2026 · deepseek-v4.1-flash