About flights from Ketchikan (KTN)
Ketchikan International sits on Gravina Island, which means before you even board a plane, you're taking a short ferry across the Tongass Narrows to reach it. That alone tells you something about this place. It's small, it's Alaskan, and it operates on its own terms. Flying out of KTN isn't like rolling through a major hub — it's a reminder that some airports exist not just for convenience, but because the geography basically demands it.
Quick stats for KTN
- Direct destinations: 18
- Countries served: 1
- Continents reached: 1 of 6
- Average flight distance: 178 km
- Longest non-stop: Seattle (SEA) — 1,093 km (~1h 22m)
- Shortest non-stop: Metlakatla (MTM) — 26 km (~2 min)
- Reach score: 45/99
Why fly to Ketchikan?
Alaska's southernmost city is the hub to some genuinely wild country, and the flight connections reflect that. All 18 routes out of KTN stay domestic, which makes sense given where it sits — deep in the Alaska Panhandle, closer to British Columbia than to Anchorage. Seattle is your main lifeline to the rest of the world, a 1,093 km hop that Alaska Airlines runs regularly and that opens up virtually every connecting flight you'd need. On the other end of the spectrum, the 26 km puddle jump to Metlakatla is one of the shortest commercial routes in the country — it serves a community that has no road access whatsoever. That contrast says everything about why flying here actually matters. This isn't discretionary travel infrastructure. For a lot of people, it's the only way in or out.
Longest non-stop flights from KTN
The furthest destinations you can reach non-stop from Ketchikan:
- Seattle, USA (SEA) — 1,093 km, approximately 1h 22m
- Juneau, USA (JNU) — 377 km, approximately 28 min
- Sitka, USA (SIT) — 294 km, approximately 22 min
- Point Baker, USA (KPB) — 163 km, approximately 12 min
- Port Protection, USA (PPV) — 161 km, approximately 12 min
Short-haul flights from KTN
Quick getaway options with the shortest flights from Ketchikan:
- Metlakatla, USA (MTM) — 26 km, approximately 2 min
- Kasaan, USA (KXA) — 48 km, approximately 4 min
- Meyers Chuck, USA (WMK) — 55 km, approximately 4 min
- Hollis, USA (HYL) — 60 km, approximately 5 min
- Thorne Bay, USA (KTB) — 64 km, approximately 5 min
Tips for travelers at KTN
Don't forget the ferry. The airport is on a separate island, so budget an extra 20-30 minutes to catch the water taxi across the Narrows before your flight. Missing that connection is a real thing that happens to real people. Weather in Southeast Alaska can shift fast, especially in fall and winter, so check conditions and build buffer time into any tight connections through Seattle. Summer brings the cruise ship crowds to town, which can affect accommodation prices and general availability if you're spending a night before flying out. Pack layers regardless of season.
Airlines operating from KTN
The following airlines offer non-stop flights from Ketchikan International:
AS, I4, K3, X4
Frequently asked questions about flying to Ketchikan
How do I get from Ketchikan International Airport to downtown Ketchikan?
The airport is only about 2.5 miles from downtown, so you can take a taxi for around $15-20, use a ride-sharing service, or rent a car if you're planning to explore the area. Many hotels also offer shuttle services, so it's worth checking with yours when you book.
What's the best time to fly to or from Ketchikan?
Summer (June-August) is peak season with the best weather and most flights, but it's also the most expensive and crowded. If you prefer fewer tourists and lower prices, late spring (May) or early fall (September) offer great weather with smaller crowds.
How many destinations can I fly to directly from Ketchikan?
Ketchikan International Airport offers 18 direct destinations, connecting you to major hubs like Seattle, Anchorage, and other Alaska communities without needing to change planes.
Do I need a visa or passport to fly into Ketchikan?
If you're a U.S. citizen flying domestically, you just need a valid government ID like a driver's license. International visitors should check their country's entry requirements and have a valid passport, as some may need a U.S. visa depending on their nationality.
What's a helpful tip about Ketchikan International Airport?
The airport is quite small and easy to get through, so you won't need much time to get through security or find your gate. Just note that it's a remote location, so double-check your flight times and arrive early since weather can occasionally cause delays.
How expensive are flights from Ketchikan compared to other Alaska airports?
Flights from Ketchikan tend to be pricier than from larger hubs like Anchorage or Juneau, but booking in advance and flying during shoulder seasons can help you save significantly. Consider flying out of Anchorage if you have flexibility, as you'll often find better fares there.
Plan your trip from Ketchikan
Browse the complete list of 18 destinations below to find your next flight from Ketchikan International. Each route page includes distance, estimated flight time, and airline information to help you plan your trip.