About Alaska Seaplanes
Alaska Seaplanes is a regional commuter airline based in Juneau, Alaska, United States, operating under IATA code J5. Founded in 1997 by Craig and Aral Loken, the airline has deep roots in Alaskan bush aviation. The Loken family's aviation heritage traces back to the 1950s when Craig's father, Ken Loken, founded Juneau Air Taxi (later Channel Flying), which grew to become one of the largest seaplane operators in the world. Alaska Seaplanes provides year-round scheduled passenger services, charter flights, and adventure tours across Southeast Alaska's remote island communities and coastal towns.
The airline serves as a vital transportation link for communities in Southeast Alaska that are inaccessible by road. With its fleet of versatile floatplanes and wheeled aircraft, Alaska Seaplanes connects passengers to some of the most breathtaking and isolated destinations in the region, from glacier-fed fjords to dense temperate rainforests. In 2011, the airline was acquired by former Wings of Alaska managers Mike Stedman and Kent Craford, who have continued to expand operations while maintaining the airline's commitment to safe, reliable bush aviation.
Airline Overview and History
Alaska Seaplanes has played a central role in connecting the communities of Southeast Alaska for over two decades. Key milestones in the airline's history include:
- 1997 — Founded by Craig and Aral Loken in Juneau, Alaska, drawing on decades of family experience in bush aviation
- Late 1990s — Established scheduled services connecting Juneau with Haines, Skagway, and other communities in Southeast Alaska
- 2000s — Expanded route network to include Angoon, Tenakee Springs, Pelican, and Elfin Cove
- 2011 — Acquired by Mike Stedman and Kent Craford, former managers of Wings of Alaska
- 2010s — Added wheeled aircraft to complement seaplane operations, enabling service to more communities
- 2020s — Continued expansion to serve Sitka, Ketchikan, Klawock, Kake, and Gustavus on a year-round basis
The airline's primary hub is Juneau International Airport, which serves as the gateway to Alaska's capital city and the broader Inside Passage region. From Juneau, Alaska Seaplanes connects passengers to remote communities across the Alexander Archipelago. The airline's mission is to provide safe, reliable, and affordable air transportation to the communities of Southeast Alaska, many of which depend on air service as their primary means of travel to the outside world.
Fleet and Aircraft
Alaska Seaplanes operates a diverse fleet of more than 10 aircraft, carefully selected for the unique demands of bush aviation in Southeast Alaska. The fleet includes:
- Pilatus PC-12 — A high-performance single-engine turboprop capable of carrying up to nine passengers, used on longer routes and in varied weather conditions
- Cessna 208B Grand Caravan — A versatile turboprop workhorse popular for both wheeled and float operations, seating up to nine passengers
- Cessna 208 Caravan — A rugged utility aircraft used on scheduled and charter flights throughout the region
- Cessna 207 — A piston-engine aircraft used for smaller community routes
- Cessna 206 — A reliable single-engine aircraft suited for short-haul flights and floatplane operations
- de Havilland DHC-2 Beaver — An iconic bush plane known for its exceptional short-takeoff-and-landing performance on water and unprepared airstrips
Each aircraft in the fleet is maintained to the highest standards in accordance with the United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations. The airline selects aircraft types that can operate safely in Southeast Alaska's challenging conditions, including short runways, float docks, unpredictable weather, and remote airstrips surrounded by mountains and water.
Top Flight Routes
Alaska Seaplanes operates scheduled services connecting communities across Southeast Alaska. Popular routes include:
- Juneau to Skagway — A scenic route to the historic Gold Rush town at the head of the Lynn Canal, popular with cruise ship visitors and history enthusiasts
- Juneau to Haines — Connecting the state capital with this gateway to the Chilkat Valley, known for bald eagle viewing and outdoor recreation
- Juneau to Gustavus — The primary access point for Glacier Bay National Park, one of Alaska's most popular wilderness destinations
- Juneau to Hoonah — Serving the Tlingit community of Hoonah and nearby Icy Strait Point, a popular cruise port
- Juneau to Sitka — Connecting Alaska's capital with the former Russian colonial capital, known for its rich cultural heritage
- Juneau to Angoon — Providing essential air service to the Tlingit village of Angoon on Admiralty Island
- Juneau to Tenakee Springs — Serving this remote hot springs community accessible only by air or boat
- Juneau to Pelican — Connecting the small fishing community of Pelican on Chichagof Island
- Sitka to Ketchikan — Linking two of Southeast Alaska's most significant communities
- Sitka to Klawock — Connecting Sitka with Prince of Wales Island
For Malaysian travellers looking to explore Alaska, you can fly from Kuala Lumpur to major US gateways and then connect to Juneau for Alaska Seaplanes services. Explore these related routes on Traveloka:
Travellers can check the latest available routes and schedules directly on Traveloka, where real-time flight availability and pricing are displayed for all operational routes.
Baggage Allowance and Policies
Understanding Alaska Seaplanes' baggage rules is essential before you travel, as bush aircraft have strict weight and space limitations.
Checked Baggage
- Free allowance: Each ticketed passenger is allowed up to 50 pounds (approximately 23 kg) of checked baggage
- Excess baggage: Items exceeding the 50-pound limit are subject to excess baggage fees
- Important note: Excess or oversized baggage may not fit on the same flight as the passenger due to aircraft weight and space limitations, and may be transported on the next available flight
Cabin Baggage
- Carry-on baggage is not permitted aboard any Alaska Seaplanes aircraft — all baggage must be checked
- Essential personal items such as medications and valuables should be communicated to staff for proper handling
Packing Recommendations
- Use several smaller, soft-sided bags rather than one large suitcase for easier loading into aircraft compartments
- Large or heavy items such as golf clubs, coolers, steamer trunks, skis, bicycles, and large pet carriers may not fit without prior arrangement
- Contact the local Alaska Seaplanes Station Manager or email info@flyalaskaseaplanes.com in advance for oversized items
Prohibited and Restricted Items
Alaska Seaplanes follows FAA regulations regarding prohibited items. Hazardous materials, flammable substances, and items that could endanger flight safety are strictly prohibited in all baggage. Firearms must be declared and transported in accordance with federal regulations.
Check-in Guide
Airport and Floatplane Dock Check-in
Check-in for Alaska Seaplanes flights takes place at the airline's terminal facilities and floatplane docks. Recommended arrival procedures include:
- Arrive at least 30 to 45 minutes before your scheduled departure time
- Check in at the Alaska Seaplanes counter, where staff will weigh your baggage and issue your boarding pass
- Seaplane flights depart from floatplane docks, while wheeled aircraft flights depart from airport terminals
Because bush aviation in Alaska is weather-dependent, passengers should be prepared for schedule adjustments. Alaska Seaplanes will communicate any changes as early as possible and work to accommodate affected passengers on the next available flight.
Online Booking
Passengers can book flights online through the Alaska Seaplanes website or through travel platforms. Online check-in is not available for bush aviation services — all passengers must check in at the departure facility on the day of travel.
Cabin Classes and In-Flight Experience
Single-Class Configuration
Alaska Seaplanes operates an all-economy, single-class configuration on all aircraft. Depending on the aircraft type, seating ranges from 3 to 9 passengers. Features include:
- Window views of Southeast Alaska's spectacular scenery, including glaciers, fjords, rainforests, and wildlife
- Professional pilots with extensive bush aviation experience
- Attentive service from ground staff at each destination
In-Flight Experience
Due to the short duration of most flights (typically 20 to 60 minutes) and the small size of the aircraft, in-flight meal and beverage service is not provided. However, the scenic views of Southeast Alaska's stunning landscapes — including the Juneau Icefield, Glacier Bay, and the Inside Passage — make every flight an unforgettable experience. Passengers are encouraged to bring water and snacks for their journey.
Adventure Tours
In addition to scheduled services, Alaska Seaplanes offers flightseeing tours and adventure packages that showcase the region's natural beauty, including glacier landings, bear viewing, and remote fishing lodge transfers.
Passenger Policies and Special Services
Travelling with Children and Infants
- Children (2–11 years): Must be accompanied by an adult and require their own seat and ticket
- Infants (under 2 years): May travel on an accompanying adult's lap — contact the airline for specific arrangements
- Required documents: Valid identification for all passengers as required by TSA regulations
Pregnant Passengers
- Passengers in early to mid stages of pregnancy can generally fly without restriction
- Passengers in advanced stages of pregnancy should consult their healthcare provider and inform the airline at the time of booking
- A medical fitness-to-fly certificate may be recommended for passengers beyond 36 weeks of pregnancy
Passengers Requiring Special Assistance
Alaska Seaplanes will make reasonable accommodations for passengers with reduced mobility or special needs. Due to the small size of bush aircraft, some physical assistance limitations may apply. Passengers who require special assistance should:
- Contact the airline at least 48 hours before departure to discuss specific needs
- Be aware that some aircraft types may have limited accessibility for wheelchair users
- Coordinate with station staff for boarding and disembarkation assistance
Unaccompanied Minors
- Unaccompanied minor services may be available on select routes — contact the airline directly to arrange
- A responsible adult must be present at both departure and arrival points
Reschedule, Cancellation, and Refund Policy
Rescheduling Flights
To reschedule an Alaska Seaplanes flight booked through Traveloka:
- Open the Traveloka app or website and go to My Booking
- Select the booking you wish to modify
- Choose the reschedule option and select a new flight
- Pay any applicable rescheduling fees or fare differences
Alaska Seaplanes understands that weather and seasonal conditions may require schedule flexibility, and the airline works with passengers to find suitable alternatives when changes are needed.
Cancellations and Refunds
Refund eligibility depends on your ticket type:
- Standard fares: May be eligible for a full or partial refund depending on the cancellation timeline
- Promotional fares: May have stricter cancellation terms
- Weather-related cancellations: The airline will rebook passengers on the next available flight at no additional charge
To request a cancellation or refund, visit your booking details on Traveloka and follow the guided process. Refund processing typically takes 7 to 30 business days depending on the payment method.
Why Book Alaska Seaplanes Flights on Traveloka
Booking Alaska Seaplanes flights through Traveloka offers several advantages:
- Competitive pricing — Access exclusive deals and promotional fares not available elsewhere
- Easy comparison — Sort and filter flights by price, departure time, duration, and stops
- Flexible payment — Pay with credit/debit cards, bank transfers, Touch 'n Go eWallet, Boost, GrabPay, ShopeePay, or instalment plans
- Instant e-ticket — Receive your booking confirmation immediately via email and the Traveloka app
- 24/7 customer support — Multilingual support team available for any booking issues or travel queries
- Loyalty rewards — Earn points, enjoy cashback, and access member-exclusive deals
- Bundled savings — Combine flights with hotels and activities for additional discounts on your Alaska adventure
Tips for Finding Cheap Flights on Traveloka
Use these strategies to secure the best fares on Alaska Seaplanes flights:
- Book early — Ticket prices generally increase closer to the departure date, especially during peak summer travel season in Alaska
- Be flexible with dates — Use Traveloka's fare calendar to compare prices across different days
- Fly midweek — Tuesdays and Wednesdays tend to offer lower fares than weekends
- Set Price Alerts — Get notified instantly when fares drop on your preferred route
- Check promotions — Visit Traveloka's promo page regularly for flash sales and exclusive promo codes
- Travel off-peak — Avoid the peak summer months of June through August for lower fares; shoulder seasons in May and September offer good weather at reduced prices
- Bundle your trip — Book flights and hotels together for additional savings on your Alaska adventure
How to Book Flight Tickets on Traveloka
Follow these steps to book your Alaska Seaplanes flight on Traveloka:
- Visit traveloka.com or open the Traveloka app and navigate to the Flights section
- Enter your departure city and destination, select your travel dates, and specify the number of passengers
- Tap the search button to view all available flights for your route
- Sort results by price, departure time, or duration and select your preferred flight
- Enter passenger details — full name (as on ID or passport), date of birth, nationality, and contact information
- Add optional extras such as travel insurance
- Review your booking summary including total fare, taxes, and add-ons
- Choose your preferred payment method and complete the transaction
- Receive your e-ticket instantly via email and the Traveloka app
Save or print your e-ticket for reference at the airport or floatplane dock, and you are all set to fly with Alaska Seaplanes across the stunning landscapes of Southeast Alaska.