“From Metlakatla to the Misty Fjords — A Day in the Life of an Alaskan Bush Pilot”
By Alex Atkinson Jr.
Back in the 1980s, I had the honor—and I do mean honor—of flying as a commercial seaplane pilot in Southeast Alaska. I was based out of Metlakatla and kept my aircraft docked there five days a week.
My days started early. Real early. I’d be up at 5:00 a.m., and head down to the dock where the airplane—usually a DeHavilland Beaver or sometimes a 185—had spent the night tied up, resting after a long day before. The quiet of those early mornings, the dock creaking softly, the scent of saltwater and spruce in the air—it was something special. I’d perform my preflight check while the world was still half-asleep.
Once ready, I’d fire up the engine while still tied to the dock, letting her warm up for that first flight of the day. By 6:30 a.m., I’d taxi the aircraft out into the open bay, perform my pre-takeoff checks, and begin my takeoff run. Within moments, I’d lift off the water, leaving Metlakatla behind and heading for Ketchikan—a short 12-minute hop over some of the most stunning terrain on the planet.
Ketchikan’s harbor would already be humming by the time I landed and taxied in. I’d tie up, refuel, and prepare for the first tour flight of the day. On busy mornings, our operation was a well-oiled machine: up to 10 planes heading out in the first rotation to the Misty Fjords National Monument.
We had a fleet that could move people. The DeHavilland Beavers carried five passengers. The Otters took ten. The Cessna 185s held three. Each flight lasted about 75 minutes, and we’d brief our passengers before departure—headsets on, smiles wide, cameras ready.
Then came the show.
One by one, aircraft would taxi out and line up, ready to depart for the Fjords. It was a ballet of sorts—15 planes moving in rhythm over the water, headed into what we all knew was God’s country.
As we climbed to cruising altitude—anywhere from 1,500 to 4,000 feet—we’d begin our narration, chatting with our guests over the intercom. We’d round Mountain Point, heading toward Rudyard Bay, the entryway into the Misty Fjords.
Flying beside towering cliffs and deep green valleys, we’d point out waterfalls, ridgelines, glaciers, and wildlife. Eagles. Bears. Maybe even a whale breaching in the distance.
The highlight? Landing on a secluded bay or alpine lake, shutting the engine down, and letting the passengers step out onto the pontoons. The looks on their faces—pure wonder. They’d take photos, videos, breathe in the stillness. Ask questions. Soak it all in.
After 5 to 10 minutes, we’d load everyone back up, take off once again, and make the return trip to Ketchikan.
When we landed, there were always smiles. Always thank-yous. They had just experienced something few people in the world ever will—Alaska, seen from the sky, felt on the water.
It’s hard to describe the feeling you get flying seaplanes in Southeast Alaska. The scenery never gets old. The job, though demanding, was more like a calling. A life of adventure, of responsibility, of deep connection to this place.
Looking back now, I realize how lucky I was. The life of an Alaskan Seaplane Pilot was more than a career—it was a front-row seat to something truly magnificent. And I wouldn’t trade that experience for anything.
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In the small coastal town of Harbor’s Edge, the winds of change blew fiercely every four years. The townsfolk would gather in the square, casting their votes for the next leader of their community. This year was no different. The election had been heated, with passionate debates dividing neighbors and friends. When the results were announced, half the town cheered, while the other half felt a heavy weight settle in their chests.
Among them was Clara, a young woman who had poured her heart into campaigning for a candidate who promised to protect the town’s lighthouse—a symbol of hope and guidance for generations. But her candidate had lost, and the new leader had plans to modernize the town, even if it meant dismantling the old lighthouse.
Clara felt a storm of emotions—fear for the future, anger at the outcome, and a creeping sense of despair. She retreated to the lighthouse, climbing its spiral staircase to the very top. As she gazed out at the endless sea, she remembered her grandfather’s words: “The lighthouse doesn’t control the storm, Clara. It simply stands firm, shining its light, no matter how dark the night.”
Those words echoed in her mind as she wrestled with her feelings. She realized that while she couldn’t control the election’s outcome, she could control how she responded to it. She didn’t have to let fear, anger, or hatred consume her. She could still be a light in the darkness.
The next morning, Clara gathered her friends—some who had voted for the winning candidate and some who hadn’t. She proposed an idea: instead of fighting against the new leader’s plans, they would work together to preserve the lighthouse’s legacy in a new way. They would create a community center nearby, where the stories of the lighthouse and its keepers could be shared, and where people could come together to discuss ideas and find common ground.
At first, not everyone was on board. Some were too bitter, while others were skeptical. But Clara persisted, reminding them that their voices still mattered, that they could still make a difference. Slowly, the town began to unite. They held fundraisers, shared their skills, and even reached out to the new leader, who, to their surprise, agreed to support their project.
The community center became a beacon of hope, just like the lighthouse. It stood as a reminder that even in times of division, people could come together to create something beautiful. Clara realized that change didn’t have to come from the top down—it could start with her, right where she was.
Years later, as another election approached, Clara stood in the square, watching the townsfolk debate once more. This time, she felt no fear or anger. She knew that no matter the outcome, she could be a positive influence, a lightkeeper in her own way. And as the sun set over Harbor’s Edge, the lighthouse’s beam cut through the gathering dusk, a steady reminder that even in the darkest nights, hope could always shine.
This story emphasizes the importance of staying true to oneself, being a positive force for change, and not letting fear or anger dictate one’s actions. It encourages resilience and unity, even in the face of disappointment.
In the small coastal town of Harbor’s Edge, the winds of change blew fiercely every four years. The townsfolk would gather in the square, casting their votes for the next leader of their community. This year was no different. The election had been heated, with passionate debates dividing neighbors and friends. When the results were announced, half the town cheered, while the other half felt a heavy weight settle in their chests.
Among them was Clara, a young woman who had poured her heart into campaigning for a candidate who promised to protect the town’s lighthouse—a symbol of hope and guidance for generations. But her candidate had lost, and the new leader had plans to modernize the town, even if it meant dismantling the old lighthouse.
Clara felt a storm of emotions—fear for the future, anger at the outcome, and a creeping sense of despair. She retreated to the lighthouse, climbing its spiral staircase to the very top. As she gazed out at the endless sea, she remembered her grandfather’s words: “The lighthouse doesn’t control the storm, Clara. It simply stands firm, shining its light, no matter how dark the night.”
Those words echoed in her mind as she wrestled with her feelings. She realized that while she couldn’t control the election’s outcome, she could control how she responded to it. She didn’t have to let fear, anger, or hatred consume her. She could still be a light in the darkness.
The next morning, Clara gathered her friends—some who had voted for the winning candidate and some who hadn’t. She proposed an idea: instead of fighting against the new leader’s plans, they would work together to preserve the lighthouse’s legacy in a new way. They would create a community center nearby, where the stories of the lighthouse and its keepers could be shared, and where people could come together to discuss ideas and find common ground.
At first, not everyone was on board. Some were too bitter, while others were skeptical. But Clara persisted, reminding them that their voices still mattered, that they could still make a difference. Slowly, the town began to unite. They held fundraisers, shared their skills, and even reached out to the new leader, who, to their surprise, agreed to support their project.
The community center became a beacon of hope, just like the lighthouse. It stood as a reminder that even in times of division, people could come together to create something beautiful. Clara realized that change didn’t have to come from the top down—it could start with her, right where she was.
Years later, as another election approached, Clara stood in the square, watching the townsfolk debate once more. This time, she felt no fear or anger. She knew that no matter the outcome, she could be a positive influence, a lightkeeper in her own way. And as the sun set over Harbor’s Edge, the lighthouse’s beam cut through the gathering dusk, a steady reminder that even in the darkest nights, hope could always shine.
This story emphasizes the importance of staying true to oneself, being a positive force for change, and not letting fear or anger dictate one’s actions. It encourages resilience and unity, even in the face of disappointment.
Embracing Adventure and Culture: Discover Metlakatla’s New Horizons in 2025
The small yet vibrant town of Metlakatla, Alaska, is gearing up for a transformative summer. Known for its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty, Metlakatla is poised to become a hub of seasonal business opportunities, drawing tourists and providing employment for the local community.
Bike Tours and Electric Bikes
Imagine cruising through the scenic landscapes of Metlakatla on a guided bike tour. Starting at the Breakwater, tourists can pedal their way through various landmarks—visiting the Long House, the casino, the picturesque Head of the Bay, the graveyard, and the serene trails around Big Lake. There’s even a route that leads to the secluded Canoe Cove. Electric bikes, already popular in other tourist towns, could revolutionize these tours. With the help of grants, the community can acquire these bikes, enhancing the experience for tourists and creating summer jobs for locals.
Eco-Tourism: Kayaking and Canoe Tours
Building on the eco-tourism trend, kayaking and canoeing offer another way to explore Metlakatla’s natural wonders. Guided tours could take visitors through the bay or out to various lakes, combining the thrill of adventure with the tranquility of nature. Imagine a kayak and casino tour or a heritage tour that includes stops at the Long House, the Artist Village, and performances by the local native dance group. These tours would not only be a unique attraction but also a source of pride for the community.
Culinary and Cultural Experiences
For those with a taste for local flavors, a shop selling smoked salmon provided by the Alaska Independent Producers Company (AIPC) could be a delightful addition. Visitors can tour the plant, learn about its history, and see firsthand how this facility has been a cornerstone of the community for years.
2025: A Year to Remember
With these innovative ideas, 2025 is set to be a year of new opportunities for Metlakatla. By tapping into its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and the entrepreneurial spirit of its residents, Metlakatla can offer memorable experiences for tourists while boosting the local economy. These initiatives are not just possible—they are within reach and ready to be realized.
Together, let’s make 2025 a year to remember in Metlakatla—a year of growth, adventure, and new beginnings. 🌟
Building a Future: Metlakatla’s Path to Independence
In the serene, misty town of Metlakatla, Alaska, where towering evergreens whispered ancient secrets and the ocean tides carried tales from afar, a quiet yet transformative revolution was stirring. The townsfolk had long relied on the Federal Government to meet their needs, a dependency that had seeped into their lives, casting a shadow over the community’s spirit.
One chilly evening, beneath the soft glow of the northern lights, the townspeople gathered in the community hall. Elders, children, fishermen, artisans, and everyone in between came together, united by a shared question: How dependent should we, as a community, be on the Federal Government? The room buzzed with excitement and apprehension as voices rose, each echoing a desire for self-sufficiency and true self-governance.
Mayor Elowen, a wise woman with eyes that gleamed with determination, stood at the front. “Do we want to depend on the government for everything?” she asked, her voice firm yet inviting. “Or do we want to find ways to be self-sufficient and create our own opportunities?”
The question hung in the air, a challenge and a promise. The town had been stuck in a cycle of dependency, and it was time to break free. Elowen’s vision was clear: the road to independence would not be easy. It would require hard work, risk-taking, and constant learning. But the reward would be a community that could stand proudly on its own, resilient and thriving.
“But is it even possible?” someone asked from the back of the room.
“Yes, it is possible,” Elowen replied with unwavering conviction. “Will it be easy? Of course not. It will take dedication and perseverance. And no, you do not need a college education to achieve this. Yes, in some areas, technical knowledge will be essential, but for most of it, it will be about learning by doing.”
Inspired by her words, the community embarked on a journey of transformation. They began by identifying the skills and resources already present in Metlakatla. Fishermen shared their knowledge of sustainable fishing practices, artisans taught traditional crafts, and farmers explored innovative ways to grow crops in the challenging Alaskan climate.
Local entrepreneurs rose to the occasion, starting small businesses that catered to the town’s needs and tapped into the rich cultural heritage of Metlakatla. The town’s youth, eager and passionate, took on leadership roles, infusing the community with fresh ideas and boundless energy.
Workshops and mentorship programs flourished, fostering a spirit of collaboration and mutual support. Elders shared their wisdom, and everyone, regardless of age or background, had a role to play in the community’s growth.
As the months turned into years, Metlakatla began to change. The town was no longer defined by its reliance on the Federal Government. Instead, it became a beacon of self-reliance and ingenuity. The people of Metlakatla had not only learned to meet their own needs but had also built a community that celebrated its unique identity and strengths.
Standing by the shore, watching the waves dance under the northern lights, Mayor Elowen felt a deep sense of pride. Metlakatla had strived, struggled, and succeeded. They had become a truly self-governing community, one that future generations would look up to as a shining example of what could be achieved through hard work, unity, and a shared vision.
And so, the tale of Metlakatla was passed down through the ages, a testament to the power of community and the indomitable human spirit. The town had not just survived; it had thrived, proving that with determination and collective effort, anything was possible.
Breathing New Life into Heritage: The Journey of Rebuilding the William Duncan Memorial Church
In July of 2023, I found myself back in my hometown of Metlakatla, Alaska, surrounded by the familiar faces of my family and the comforting embrace of memories. Yet, amidst the warmth of homecoming, I encountered a disheartening sight: the William Duncan Memorial Church, once a beacon of community spirit and heritage, was in a state of disrepair. The dilapidated condition of the church broke my heart, igniting a resolve within me to restore it to its former glory.
Thus began my journey into uncharted territory—a restoration project of daunting magnitude, filled with countless moving parts. Despite my limited knowledge in such endeavors, I felt a deep-seated conviction that this was the right thing to do. With determination and a willingness to learn, I embarked on this mission, understanding that every significant journey begins with a single step.
The Plan Unfolds
The first step was research—understanding what it would take to breathe new life into this historic building. Through this research, a comprehensive plan began to take shape, outlining the necessary steps to restore the church to its original condition. Given the scope of the project, we set an initial timeline of five years, from 2023 to 2028, with regular updates to keep everyone in the loop on our progress.
Roof Replacement: The church’s roof, weathered by time and elements, was in dire need of replacement. Scheduled for the spring of 2025, the town of Metlakatla graciously offered to donate both materials and manpower for this crucial task.
Interior Repairs: Next on the agenda were the interior repairs—addressing mitigation, cleanup, and necessary restorations to the church’s once-beautiful interior.
Heating System: The outdated heating system required immediate attention. Plans were made not only to get it up and running again but also to eventually replace it with a more efficient system.
Restroom Updates: Modernizing the men’s and women’s restrooms was another essential component of the project, ensuring they met contemporary standards of comfort and accessibility.
Elevator Installation: Considering the possibility of installing an elevator to link the main floor with the basement was an exciting prospect, aiming to enhance the building’s accessibility for all.
The Challenge of Fundraising
A project of this scale required substantial funding, and fundraising became a critical aspect of our efforts. I initiated communications and began the application process with two organizations interested in supporting our cause. Their potential involvement brought hope and momentum to our mission.
A Community United
Though the restoration of the William Duncan Memorial Church presented significant challenges, the journey was marked by a profound sense of community and shared purpose. The people of Metlakatla rallied together, contributing their time, skills, and resources to breathe new life into a cherished landmark.
As the project continues to move forward, I am filled with gratitude for the unwavering support and dedication of everyone involved. This endeavor, born from a moment of heartbreak, has transformed into a testament to the power of community and the enduring spirit of Metlakatla.
Keeping Everyone Updated
Throughout this five-year project, we commit to providing regular updates to keep everyone in the loop on our progress. This way, our community remains informed and engaged as we journey together toward the restoration of our beloved church.
As I stepped into the William Duncan Memorial Church, my heart broke. The once proud and beautiful building, an emblem of our community’s heritage, now stands tired, run-down, and alone. The condition of the exterior and interior is heartbreaking, and I will be sharing photos on my Facebook page and future blog articles to show the extent of the damage.
The sanctuary, fellowship hall, and the front of the church where the steeples are located have all suffered significant water damage. As I moved slowly, assessing the situation, the memories of how it used to be came flooding back. Standing in the sanctuary, I visualized the church filled with people, vibrant with life and joy. Tears welled up as I saw the extent of the damage—my heart ached to see it in this state.
Despite the pain, there is a glimmer of hope. This is not the end for our beloved 80-year-old church. I am working tirelessly to get the building restored and revitalized. My goal and vision are to see the church once again filled with song, laughter, joy, hope, and unity. The church was built with pride, love, and honor by our forefathers, and it’s time to bring back that spirit.
I am excited to be part of the Restoring History Foundation, dedicated to this mission. It is time for the next generation to enjoy the beautiful building that our families built with so much vision and dreams. We need to pick up that vision and fulfill the dreams that once were.
While it hurts to see the church in its current state, I am filled with hope and determination. Together, we can restore the William Duncan Memorial Church to its former glory and create new memories that will last for generations to come.
The Heart of Metlakatla: A Legacy of Unity, Faith, and Community
Nestled on the island of Metlakatla, Alaska, the Metlakatla Duncan Memorial Church stands as a testament to the enduring spirit and unity of the community. This grand edifice, often affectionately referred to as “The Big Church,” has been a cornerstone of Metlakatla since its construction in the 1940s. Rich in history and cultural significance, the church symbolizes the collective efforts, faith, and traditions of the people who call this beautiful island home.
The journey of the Metlakatla Duncan Memorial Church began with the vision of a community united in purpose. The residents of Metlakatla, inspired by a shared dream, came together to build this magnificent structure. Each brick, each beam, and each stroke of paint reflect the labor of love and dedication from countless hands. Men, women, and children alike contributed their skills, time, and resources, creating a sanctuary that would serve as the heart of the community for generations to come.
Over the decades, the church has been the site of numerous significant events and ceremonies. It has witnessed the joyous union of countless couples in marriage, the heartfelt dedication of babies, and the solemn farewells during funeral services. It has echoed with the harmonious sounds of singspirations, where the community gathered to celebrate their faith through song. Each event added to the rich tapestry of memories and emotions that have been woven into the fabric of the church’s history.
The Metlakatla Duncan Memorial Church is more than just a building; it is a living chronicle of the community’s journey. It has been a place of solace and celebration, a venue where stories are told, and traditions are passed down. The church’s architecture, with its timeless beauty, stands as a tribute to the craftsmanship and artistic vision of those who built it. Inside its walls, one can feel the presence of history, the whisper of past congregations, and the enduring legacy of faith and fellowship.
Beyond the church, Metlakatla is home to other historical buildings, each with its own story to tell. The WDMC, Town Hall, and various cottages are all integral parts of the island’s heritage, showcasing the community’s resilience, creativity, and pride. These structures, along with the church, create a rich historical landscape that offers a glimpse into the lives and experiences of those who have shaped Metlakatla over the years.
As we look to the future, the Metlakatla Duncan Memorial Church remains a beacon of hope and inspiration. It continues to serve as a gathering place for worship, reflection, and community events, nurturing the bonds that unite the people of Metlakatla. The church stands as a symbol of the enduring values of faith, community, and tradition, a testament to the rich history and pride that define this remarkable island.
In celebrating the story of the Metlakatla Duncan Memorial Church, we honor the legacy of those who built it and the countless memories that have been created within its walls. It is a place where history comes alive, where the past and present converge, and where the spirit of Metlakatla continues to thrive.
what would it take to reopen the annette island airport?
Reopening Annette Island Airport would involve several key steps and considerations:
1. Infrastructure Assessment and Repairs: o Runway and Taxiway Maintenance: The runways, especially the asphalt surface of Runway 12/30 and the gravel surface of Runway 2/20, would need thorough inspection and repairs1. o Facilities and Equipment: Ensuring that all airport facilities, including lighting, signage, and communication systems, are operational and up to current standards1.
2. Regulatory Compliance: o FAA Certification: The airport would need to meet Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requirements for safety and operations1. o Environmental Impact Assessments: Conducting necessary environmental reviews to comply with federal and state regulations1.
3. Operational Readiness: o Staffing: Hiring and training staff for airport operations, including ground handling, security, and air traffic control (if applicable)1. o Emergency Services: Establishing or updating emergency response protocols and ensuring the availability of emergency services1.
4. Community and Stakeholder Engagement: o Local Support: Engaging with the Metlakatla Indian Community and other local stakeholders to gain support and address any concerns1. o Funding and Investment: Securing funding for the necessary upgrades and ongoing operations, possibly through federal grants, private investment, or tribal funding1.
5. Marketing and Partnerships: o Airline Partnerships: Negotiating with airlines to establish routes and services to and from the airport1. o Promotion: Marketing the airport to potential users, including tourists, businesses, and cargo operators1.
A little History of Annette Island Airport:
Annette Island Airport (IATA: ANN, ICAO: PANT, FAA LID: ANN) is located on Annette Island in the Prince of Wales – Hyder Census Area of the U.S. state of Alaska.[1] It is located 5 nautical miles (9 km) south of Metlakatla, Alaska.[2] The airport was established as the Annette Island Army Airfield during World War II and initially served as a military airbase.
Facilities and aircraft [edit] Annette Island Airport has two runways: 12/30 is 7,493 by 150 feet (2,284 x 46 m) with an asphalt surface and 2/20 is 5,709 by 150 feet (1,740 x 46 m) with a gravel surface. For the 12-month period ending January 16, 1990, the airport had 8,400 aircraft operations, an average of 23 per day: 64% general aviation, 24% military, and 12% air taxi.[1]
Historical airline service [edit] Prior to the opening of the Ketchikan International Airport (KTN) in 1973, the Annette Island Airport served as the primary airfield for scheduled passenger service for Ketchikan which is located approximately 20 air miles to the north. In 1947, Pan American World Airways was operating daily nonstop service to Seattle and Juneau with Douglas DC-4 prop aircraft with no change of plane flights operated twice a week to Whitehorse in the Yukon Territory of Canada via Juneau and then continuing on to Fairbanks, Galena and Nome in Alaska.[3] Pan Am later operated Douglas DC-6B and Boeing 377 Stratocruiser aircraft into the airport.[4] During the late 1950s, Pacific Northern Airlines (PNA, the successor of Woodley Airways) served the airport with Lockheed Constellation propliners with nonstop service to Seattle and Juneau as well as direct, no change of plane flights to Anchorage, Cordova and Yakutat.[5] The airport’s first jet service arrived during the early 1960s. In 1963, Pan Am was flying Boeing 707 jetliners into the airport with a daily roundtrip routing of Seattle – Annette Island – Juneau.[6] By 1965, Pacific Northern was operating Boeing 720 jetliners on nonstop flights to Seattle and Juneau as well as on direct services to Anchorage via Juneau.[7] In 1967, Pacific Northern was acquired by and merged into Western Airlines which continued to operate jet service into the airport.[8] By 1968, Western was serving the airport with Boeing 720B jetliners with nonstop service to Seattle and Juneau as well as direct, no change of plane flights to Portland, OR, San Francisco and Los Angeles.[9] In 1971, the federal Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) awarded Alaska Airlines new route authority which enabled this air carrier to begin jet service into Annette Island Airport thus replacing Western.
With the opening of the Ketchikan International Airport in 1973, Annette Island lost all scheduled passenger jet flights as such airline service then moved to the then-new Ketchikan airport. Prior to the opening of the Ketchikan airport in 1973, Alaska Airlines was also operating scheduled flights with Super Catalina and Grumman Goose prop-driven amphibian aircraft on the short hop between Annette Island Airport and the Ketchikan Harbor Seaplane Base serving Ketchikan as well as to other local destinations in southeast Alaska.[10]
See also Annette Island Airport (IATA: ANN, ICAO: PANT, FAA LID: ANN) is located on Annette Island in the Prince of Wales – Hyder Census Area of the U.S. state of Alaska.[1] It is located 5 nautical miles (9 km) south of Metlakatla, Alaska.[2] The airport was established as the Annette Island Army Airfield during World War II and initially served as a military airbase.
Facilities and aircraft [edit] Annette Island Airport has two runways: 12/30 is 7,493 by 150 feet (2,284 x 46 m) with an asphalt surface and 2/20 is 5,709 by 150 feet (1,740 x 46 m) with a gravel surface. For the 12-month period ending January 16, 1990, the airport had 8,400 aircraft operations, an average of 23 per day: 64% general aviation, 24% military, and 12% air taxi.[1]
Historical airline service [edit] Prior to the opening of the Ketchikan International Airport (KTN) in 1973, the Annette Island Airport served as the primary airfield for scheduled passenger service for Ketchikan which is located approximately 20 air miles to the north. In 1947, Pan American World Airways was operating daily nonstop service to Seattle and Juneau with Douglas DC-4 prop aircraft with no change of plane flights operated twice a week to Whitehorse in the Yukon Territory of Canada via Juneau and then continuing on to Fairbanks, Galena and Nome in Alaska.[3] Pan Am later operated Douglas DC-6B and Boeing 377 Stratocruiser aircraft into the airport.[4] During the late 1950s, Pacific Northern Airlines (PNA, the successor of Woodley Airways) served the airport with Lockheed Constellation propliners with nonstop service to Seattle and Juneau as well as direct, no change of plane flights to Anchorage, Cordova and Yakutat.[5] The airport’s first jet service arrived during the early 1960s. In 1963, Pan Am was flying Boeing 707 jetliners into the airport with a daily roundtrip routing of Seattle – Annette Island – Juneau.[6] By 1965, Pacific Northern was operating Boeing 720 jetliners on nonstop flights to Seattle and Juneau as well as on direct services to Anchorage via Juneau.[7] In 1967, Pacific Northern was acquired by and merged into Western Airlines which continued to operate jet service into the airport.[8] By 1968, Western was serving the airport with Boeing 720B jetliners with nonstop service to Seattle and Juneau as well as direct, no change of plane flights to Portland, OR, San Francisco and Los Angeles.[9] In 1971, the federal Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) awarded Alaska Airlines new route authority which enabled this air carrier to begin jet service into Annette Island Airport thus replacing Western.
With the opening of the Ketchikan International Airport in 1973, Annette Island lost all scheduled passenger jet flights as such airline service then moved to the then-new Ketchikan airport. Prior to the opening of the Ketchikan airport in 1973, Alaska Airlines was also operating scheduled flights with Super Catalina and Grumman Goose prop-driven amphibian aircraft on the short hop between Annette Island Airport and the Ketchikan Harbor Seaplane Base serving Ketchikan as well as to other local destinations in southeast Alaska.[10]
In the heart of the Annette Islands, nestled amidst the serene beauty of Alaska, lies the vibrant community of Metlakatla. This is a place where the whispers of the past blend harmoniously with the aspirations of the future. The Tsimshian people, with their deep-rooted traditions and unwavering spirit, have called this land home for generations. Today, Metlakatla stands on the brink of a new dawn, a time of celebration and opportunity.
The sun rose over the tranquil waters, casting a golden hue on the bustling village below. The air was filled with the sounds of laughter and song as the community gathered for the annual Heritage Festival. This year, the festival held a special significance. It was not just a celebration of their rich culture and history, but also a beacon of hope for the future.
Elders shared stories of their ancestors, recounting tales of resilience and unity. The younger generation listened intently, their hearts swelling with pride. They knew that the strength of their community lay in these stories, in the lessons passed down through the ages. As the day progressed, traditional dances and songs filled the air, a testament to the enduring spirit of the Tsimshian people.
As the festival drew to a close, the community gathered around a bonfire, their faces illuminated by its warm glow. The Tribal Council members spoke of the bright future that lay ahead, a future built on the foundations of their rich heritage and the collective efforts of every member of the community. They spoke of the new jobs that would be created, the businesses that would thrive, and the opportunities that would ensure a better life for all.
In that moment, under the starlit sky, the people of Metlakatla felt a renewed sense of purpose and unity. They knew that by honoring their past and embracing the future, they could create a thriving community for generations to come. The journey ahead was filled with promise, and together, they would make Metlakatla a beacon of hope and prosperity.
Notes from Alex 