Bering Air8E

Bering Air is an Alaskan bush carrier headquartered in Nome, serving remote communities across Western Alaska that are off the road system. Founded in 1979, the airline has grown to become a lifeline for over 30 villages in one of the most challenging aviation environments in the world.

The airline operates from three hubs in Nome (OME), Kotzebue (OTZ), and Unalakleet (UNK), providing scheduled passenger service, air cargo, charter flights, helicopter services, and air ambulance operations. Bering Air's mixed fleet of turboprop aircraft carries passengers, essential supplies, and mail to communities that have no road access and often limited alternatives for transportation.

Bering Air holds a unique place in aviation history: in May 1988, a company aircraft lifted the 41-year "Ice Curtain" between Alaska and the Soviet Union with the first Friendship Flight from Nome to Provideniya, Russia. This historic flight helped reconnect indigenous communities separated by the Cold War and opened regular cross-Bering Strait service.

Included Allowance

Free Baggage (June 2025 policy):

• One checked bag plus one small personal item
• Combined weight up to 50 lbs (23 kg) included free
• Additional 50 lbs may be transported space-available at no charge

Additional Bags

Important: Single pieces weighing over 50 lbs cannot be checked as baggage and must be shipped through Bering Air's freight counter at freight rates.

Special Items (Free)

The following items are exempt from weight limits and travel free:

• Strollers
• Mobility aids (wheelchairs, walkers)
• Medical devices (CPAP, oxygen concentrators)

Baggage Handling Notes

• Baggage must match the passenger's ticket name
• Village agents do not handle baggage delivery - arrange your own ground transportation
• Oversized items (small boats, snowmachines, ATVs) ship as freight on CASA 212 aircraft

Fees updated May 2025. Verify current rates at beringair.com/faqs before traveling.

Before Booking:

• Understand that bush flying means flexible schedules - never book tight connections through Anchorage
• Consider weather patterns: summer has long days but fog; winter has short days and storms
• Book early during peak seasons (summer tourism, holiday travel)

Packing:

• Pack light - weight matters on small aircraft
• Bring layers - terminal buildings and aircraft temperatures vary
• Keep essentials (medications, important documents) in your personal item
• Soft-sided bags are easier to fit in small aircraft cargo areas

At the Airport:

• Arrive early and confirm your flight status
• Departure times are estimates - check with agents on travel day
• Village agents don't deliver bags - arrange pickup in advance
• Bring snacks and entertainment for potential weather delays

Weather Delays:

• Delays are common and not the airline's fault
• Have a backup plan and patience
• Keep phone numbers for village agents and accommodations
• Consider travel insurance for extended trips

Unique Experiences:

• Request a window seat for spectacular Arctic scenery
• Little Diomede flights offer views of both U.S. and Russian territory
• Summer flights north of the Arctic Circle feature midnight sun
• The airline delivers Airport Pizza from Nome to remote villages for free

For Freight:

• Large items (boats, snowmachines, ATVs) can ship on CASA 212 aircraft
• Contact the cargo department for oversized shipments
• Freight rates may be more economical than excess baggage fees for heavy items