About Island Air Service
Island Air Service is a regional airline based in Kodiak, Alaska, United States, operating under the legal name Redemption Inc. Established in 1980, the airline holds IATA code 2O and has built a strong reputation as a dependable carrier serving the remote communities of Kodiak Island. With over four decades of continuous operations, Island Air Service provides scheduled passenger flights, on-demand charter services, air cargo transport, scenic flightseeing excursions, and bear viewing tours across the rugged Alaskan wilderness.
The airline's primary hub is Kodiak Airport (ADQ), also known as Kodiak Benny Benson State Airport, for its wheel plane operations. Float plane services are based out of Kodiak Trident Basin, a seaplane terminal located on Near Island across from downtown Kodiak. Island Air Service plays a vital role in connecting isolated villages and lodges that are otherwise inaccessible by road, making air travel the essential lifeline for residents and visitors to the Kodiak Archipelago.
Whether you are a traveller seeking an adventure in the Alaskan wilderness, a resident commuting between Kodiak Island communities, or a business looking for reliable cargo transport, Island Air Service offers flexible and dependable air connectivity throughout the region.
Airline Overview and History
Island Air Service has a rich history spanning more than four decades of dedicated service to Alaska's Kodiak Island region. Below are some key milestones in the airline's journey:
- 1980 – Island Air Service was founded in Kodiak, Alaska, as a charter carrier registered under the corporate name Redemption Inc.
- Early 1980s – The airline began providing scheduled passenger services connecting Kodiak to surrounding island communities that lacked road access.
- 1990s – Island Air Service expanded its fleet and route network, adding float plane operations from the Kodiak Trident Basin to serve remote fishing lodges, hunting camps, and wilderness areas.
- 2000s – The airline introduced bear viewing tours, which have become one of its signature offerings, taking visitors to observe Kodiak brown bears at Frazer Lake and the Katmai Coast.
- 2010s – Fleet modernisation efforts brought turbine-powered Cessna 208 Caravans into service, improving reliability and passenger capacity on wheel plane routes.
- Present – With over 40 years of experience, Island Air Service continues to operate as a vital transportation link for Kodiak Island, maintaining scheduled flights to six communities alongside charter, cargo, and tourism services.
The airline's headquarters and main operations remain at 1420 Airport Way, Kodiak, AK 99615. Its mission centres on providing safe, reliable air transportation to Alaska's remote communities while showcasing the stunning natural beauty of the Kodiak Archipelago through its tourism offerings.
Fleet and Aircraft
Island Air Service operates a diverse fleet of small aircraft suited to the unique demands of Alaskan bush flying. The fleet is divided between wheel planes for runway-equipped destinations and float planes for water-access-only locations.
Wheel Plane Fleet
- Piper Cherokee 6 (PA-32) – The airline operates five Piper Cherokee 6 aircraft, which are single-engine piston planes ideal for short-haul flights between Kodiak Island communities. These rugged and reliable aircraft are well-suited to Alaska's demanding conditions and shorter runways.
- Cessna 208 Caravan – Island Air Service has two turbine-powered Cessna 208 Caravans in its fleet. The Caravan is a versatile single-engine turboprop known for its excellent short-field performance, higher passenger capacity, and ability to carry heavier cargo loads. It is the workhorse of the fleet for busier scheduled routes.
Float Plane Fleet
- De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver – The airline operates four DHC-2 Beavers on floats. The Beaver is one of the most iconic bush planes ever built, legendary for its short takeoff and landing capabilities on water. These aircraft are used for serving remote lodges, fishing camps, and wilderness destinations that can only be reached by floatplane.
- Cessna 206 – One Cessna 206 floatplane complements the Beaver fleet, offering additional flexibility for smaller charter flights and cargo runs to water-access destinations.
All aircraft in the fleet are maintained to strict safety standards, ensuring reliable operations in Alaska's challenging weather conditions. The combination of piston and turbine aircraft allows Island Air Service to match the right equipment to each route's requirements in terms of passenger demand, runway length, and cargo needs.
Top Flight Routes
Island Air Service connects Kodiak to six outlying communities on Kodiak Island via scheduled wheel plane services, as well as numerous remote locations via float plane. Here are some of the airline's most popular routes:
Scheduled Wheel Plane Routes from Kodiak
- Kodiak to Old Harbor – One of the most travelled routes, connecting Kodiak to the village of Old Harbor on the southeast coast of Kodiak Island. This route provides a vital link for residents and visitors exploring the area's rich Alutiiq cultural heritage.
- Kodiak to Akhiok – Serving the remote village of Akhiok at the southern tip of Kodiak Island, this route is essential for community access. Interconnecting service between Old Harbor and Akhiok is also available.
- Kodiak to Larsen Bay – Connecting Kodiak to the fishing village of Larsen Bay on the west coast, popular with sport fishermen during the salmon season.
- Kodiak to Karluk – Serving the historic village of Karluk, once the largest salmon-producing area in the world. Interconnecting flights between Karluk and Larsen Bay are offered.
- Kodiak to Port Lions – Linking Kodiak to Port Lions on the north coast of the island, a community rebuilt after the 1964 earthquake and tsunami.
- Kodiak to Ouzinkie – A short hop from Kodiak to the village of Ouzinkie on nearby Spruce Island. Interconnecting service between Ouzinkie and Port Lions is also available.
Float Plane Destinations
Island Air Service also provides float plane access to remote locations including Kitoi Bay, Seal Bay, Port William, Port Bailey, West Point, Zachar Bay, Olga Bay, Moser Bay, Alitak/Lazy Bay, Uganik Cannery, and Amook. These destinations serve fishing lodges, research stations, and wilderness camps across the Kodiak Archipelago.
For travellers connecting through Malaysia, you can search for Alaska-bound flights on Traveloka to plan your journey. Check available routes at Traveloka Flights and monitor real-time updates via the Flight Status page.
Baggage Allowance and Policies
Island Air Service has specific baggage allowances that reflect the weight limitations of small aircraft operations in remote Alaska. Passengers should carefully review these policies before travelling:
Free Baggage Allowance
- Wheel plane flights: Each passenger is entitled to 50 pounds (approximately 23 kg) of checked luggage at no additional charge.
- Float plane flights: Each passenger receives a free baggage allowance of 40 pounds (approximately 18 kg).
Excess Baggage
- Rate: Excess baggage is charged at USD 0.92 per pound per flight segment. Note that a round trip counts as two flight segments.
- Availability: Excess baggage is carried on a space-available basis and may be transported on a later flight if space is limited on the booked departure.
Packing Recommendations
- Use several soft-sided small bags instead of one large suitcase. Bulky items such as large suitcases, trunks, and ice chests are difficult to load into small aircraft.
- All luggage items must have identification labels attached.
- Hazardous materials and firearms must be declared at check-in.
Given the small aircraft used on these routes, passengers are strongly encouraged to pack light and follow the airline's packing guidelines to ensure smooth operations for all travellers.
Check-in Guide
Island Air Service operates a straightforward check-in process at its terminals in Kodiak. Here is what you need to know:
Check-in Locations
- Wheel plane flights: Check in at the Island Air Service counter at Kodiak Airport (ADQ), located at 1420 Airport Way, Kodiak, AK 99615.
- Float plane flights: Check in at the Trident Basin float plane terminal on Near Island, across from downtown Kodiak.
Check-in Times
- Passengers should arrive and check in at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
- Ensure that all baggage is properly labelled and that any hazardous materials or firearms are declared during check-in.
Office Hours
- Summer season (late May to mid-September): Monday to Saturday, 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM; Sunday, 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
- Winter season (mid-September to late May): Monday to Saturday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM; Sundays closed from January through April.
Contact for Enquiries
- Wheels office (airport terminal): +1-907-487-4596
- Float planes (Trident Basin): +1-907-487-5000
- Email: prior@prior.prior (contact airline directly for current email)
Island Air Service does not currently offer online check-in. All passengers must check in at the relevant terminal counter before departure.
Cabin Classes and In-Flight Experience
As a small regional bush airline operating light aircraft, Island Air Service offers a single cabin class across all its flights:
Economy Class
- Seating configuration: Seats are arranged in a 1x1 or 1x2 configuration depending on the aircraft type. The Piper Cherokee 6 accommodates up to five passengers, while the Cessna 208 Caravan can carry up to nine passengers. Float plane DHC-2 Beavers seat up to six passengers.
- Legroom and comfort: Seating is functional and practical, designed for relatively short flights typically lasting between 15 and 45 minutes.
In-Flight Experience
- Meals and beverages: No food or drink service is provided on scheduled flights. Passengers are welcome to bring their own refreshments.
- In-flight entertainment: There is no in-flight entertainment system or Wi-Fi. However, the spectacular Alaskan scenery visible from the aircraft windows provides a memorable experience in itself, with views of mountains, glaciers, coastlines, and wildlife.
- Bear viewing tours: On the signature bear viewing tours (available June to September, starting from USD 950 per person), the airline provides drinks, snacks, and hip boots for the 4.5-hour excursion to Frazer Lake or the Katmai Coast.
While the in-flight experience is basic compared to major commercial airlines, the unmatched views of Alaska's rugged wilderness more than compensate, making every flight a scenic adventure.
Passenger Policies and Special Services
Island Air Service operates small aircraft in remote Alaskan conditions, which means certain passenger policies differ from those of larger commercial carriers:
Children and Infants
- Children of all ages are welcome on Island Air Service flights.
- Infants under two years of age may travel on a parent's lap at no additional charge, subject to seat availability and safety considerations.
- Child car seats are recommended for young children and must be secured properly in the aircraft.
Pregnant Passengers
- Pregnant passengers are generally welcome to fly. However, due to the nature of small aircraft operations in remote areas with limited medical facilities, passengers in the late stages of pregnancy are advised to consult their doctor before travelling.
- Passengers should inform the airline of any special medical conditions at the time of booking.
Special Assistance
- Passengers requiring special assistance should contact Island Air Service in advance at +1-907-487-4596 to discuss their needs.
- Due to the small size of the aircraft, wheelchair access is limited. The airline will make every effort to accommodate passengers with mobility challenges, but advance notice is essential.
- Service animals may be permitted on board; contact the airline for specific policies.
Pets and Animals
- Small pets may be transported in the cabin on certain flights, subject to advance arrangement and space availability.
- Hunting dogs and larger animals can be accommodated on charter flights; discuss arrangements with the airline at the time of booking.
Frequent Flyer Programme
Island Air Service does not currently operate a formal frequent flyer or loyalty rewards programme. As a small regional carrier, the airline focuses on providing reliable, personalised service to its regular customers and the communities it serves on Kodiak Island.
However, travellers who regularly use Island Air Service may benefit from:
- Personalised service: As a small airline, Island Air Service builds strong relationships with its regular passengers, often providing flexible scheduling and personalised travel arrangements.
- Charter discounts: Frequent charter customers may be able to negotiate preferential rates for repeat bookings. Contact the airline directly for more details.
- Traveloka rewards: When you book flights through Traveloka, you can earn Traveloka Points on eligible bookings, which can be redeemed for discounts on future travel purchases including flights, hotels, and activities.
For the latest information on any loyalty offerings, contact Island Air Service directly or check the Traveloka Flights page for available promotions and rewards when booking.
Why Book Island Air Service Flights on Traveloka
Traveloka makes it convenient for Malaysian travellers to search, compare, and book flights to destinations around the world, including regional carriers like Island Air Service. Here are the top reasons to book through Traveloka:
- Comprehensive flight search: Traveloka aggregates flights from hundreds of airlines worldwide, allowing you to compare fares and find the best deals for your Alaska adventure.
- Flexible payment options: Pay using your preferred method, including credit and debit cards, bank transfers, and popular Malaysian e-wallets such as Touch 'n Go, Boost, GrabPay, and ShopeePay.
- Prices in RM: View flight prices in Malaysian Ringgit (RM) for easy comparison and budgeting.
- Instant e-ticket: Receive your electronic ticket immediately upon booking, with no need to visit a physical counter.
- 24/7 customer support: Traveloka's customer service team is available around the clock to assist with bookings, changes, and enquiries.
- Traveloka Points: Earn reward points on eligible bookings that can be used for discounts on future travel purchases.
- Price alerts: Set up price alerts to be notified when fares drop on your preferred routes, helping you secure the best deal.
- Bundle and save: Combine your flight booking with hotels, airport transfers, and travel insurance for additional savings through Traveloka's bundling options.
Island Air Service Promotions and Deals on Traveloka
Traveloka regularly features promotional offers and exclusive deals that can help you save on flight bookings. Here are some tips to find the best Island Air Service deals:
- Seasonal promotions: Look out for Traveloka's major sale events such as the Epic Sale, Year-End Sale, and Travel Fair promotions, which often include discounted fares on flights to North American destinations.
- Promo codes: Check the Traveloka app and website for active promo codes and coupon offers that can be applied to your flight booking for instant discounts.
- Flash sales: Traveloka runs limited-time flash sales with significant markdowns on selected routes. Enable push notifications on the Traveloka app to be alerted when these sales go live.
- E-wallet cashback: Paying with Malaysian e-wallets like Touch 'n Go, Boost, GrabPay, or ShopeePay may qualify you for additional cashback offers and rewards.
- Credit card promotions: Selected Malaysian bank credit cards offer additional discounts or instalment payment plans when used on Traveloka.
- Price alerts: Use Traveloka's Price Alert feature to monitor fare changes on your preferred routes and book when prices are at their lowest.
Visit Traveloka Flights to browse current promotions and start planning your Alaskan adventure at the best available price.
How to Book Island Air Service Tickets on Traveloka
Booking flights on Traveloka is quick and straightforward. Follow these simple steps to secure your Island Air Service tickets:
- Visit Traveloka: Open the Traveloka app or go to traveloka.com/en-my/flight on your web browser.
- Enter your trip details: Select your departure city, destination, travel dates, number of passengers, and preferred cabin class. For Island Air Service routes, your destination will typically be Kodiak (ADQ) or connecting airports in Alaska.
- Search and compare: Tap the search button to view available flights. Use the filters to sort by price, departure time, number of stops, or airline to find the best option for your journey.
- Select your flight: Choose your preferred flight from the results. Review the fare details, baggage allowance, and any applicable policies before proceeding.
- Enter passenger details: Fill in the required passenger information including full name (as it appears on your passport), date of birth, and contact details.
- Choose add-ons: Select any optional extras such as travel insurance, airport transfers, or hotel accommodation to complement your flight booking.
- Make payment: Choose your preferred payment method. Traveloka accepts credit and debit cards, online banking, and Malaysian e-wallets including Touch 'n Go, Boost, GrabPay, and ShopeePay.
- Receive your e-ticket: Once payment is confirmed, your electronic ticket will be sent to your registered email and will also be accessible in the Traveloka app under your bookings.
For any assistance during the booking process, Traveloka's customer support team is available 24/7 to help. You can also track flight schedules and updates through the Traveloka Flight Status page.