Unalaska Airport closed due to weekend storm surge

UNALASKA, Alaska (KTUU) - The state closed the Unalaska Airport over the weekend due to storm impacts that included tons of beach debris that washed up on the runway.

The airport is expected to reopen Tuesday at 9 a.m. after being approved for use, according to an update on the city’s Facebook page.

Sonny Mauricio, Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities south coast region public information officer, said the storm winds and waves washed and blew beach debris, including heavy rocks, onto the runway.

“[In addition] large ocean waves are splashing up onto the runway, which is making cleanup operations hazardous and unsafe for planes to arrive or depart,” Mauricio said.

Crews will be assessing conditions, conducting inspections and completing repairs to ensure the runway and airfield systems are safe for operations, Mauricio says.

Alaska DOT is coordinating with Unalaska officials to respond to broader storm impacts, including high surf and reported disruptions to communications services.

“Our material engineers have assessed the damage, and so far they found no damage to the active runway pavement structure. It appears the damage is located on the shoulder of the runway, and currently our electrical contractor is on-site to repair those electrical components,” Mauricio said. “They are anticipating the repair to those electrical components will be completed [Monday], provided there are no further hiccups.

“Currently, we’re working with appropriate authorities to ensure compliance before we provide an estimate before reopening.”

Travelers are advised to contact their airline for flight status, rebooking and travel options.

In addition, they are asked to use caution around coastal roads and low-lying areas where wave overtopping and flooding may occur.

A photo provided by the Alaska DOT shows debris littering the runway following the storm over the weekend. Alaska DOT will provide additional updates as assessments are completed and repair timelines are confirmed, according to Mauricio.

“We are actively assessing the damage. Our goal is to keep Alaska moving,” he said. “As soon as we’re able to put out an update and estimation as to when the airport will reopen, we will put that out, and thank you everyone for your patience and understanding.”

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