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Mertarvik Airport (IATA: WWT, ICAO: PAEW) is a small public-use gravel airstrip serving Mertarvik, a Yup'ik village on Nelson Island in western Alaska. The airport supports the relocated community of Newtok, which moved inland due to severe erosion and flooding. It is a lifeline link to Bethel and other Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta communities, with no road connection to the rest of Alaska.
💡 Local Tip
Frequent visitors know to pack for both wind and rain and to keep a flexible schedule: fog, crosswinds, and soft gravel can delay or cancel flights, and cargo priority may bump passengers.
🚖 Getting There
Mertarvik is not connected to Alaska's road system, so nearly all visitors arrive by small plane from Bethel or another delta community. From the airstrip, the village is a short walk or ATV/snowmachine ride; arrange a pickup with your host or the village council in advance. In summer, boats may also be used for local travel, but river and sea conditions can change quickly.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where is Mertarvik Airport located?
A: It is on Nelson Island in western Alaska, near the village of Mertarvik and about 9 miles south of the old Newtok site. Coordinates are approximately 60.810° N, 164.500° W.
Q: What airlines fly to Mertarvik Airport?
A: Service is typically provided by small regional air carriers and charter operators from Bethel and nearby villages. Schedules vary by season and weather, so confirm with the carrier before travel.
Q: Does Mertarvik Airport have scheduled passenger service?
A: Yes, but it is limited and weather-dependent. Most flights are in small single- or twin-engine aircraft; cargo and mail often share the same flights.
Q: What facilities are available at the airport?
A: Expect basic facilities only—a gravel runway and minimal shelter. There is no full terminal, restaurant, or rental car service; plan ahead for food, water, and weather protection.
AI-generated content · Generated Oct 1, 2026 · deepseek-v4.1-flash