Nestled in the rugged beauty of Alaska, Skyland Airpark is more than just an airpark—it’s a gateway to adventure. With a private 1,800-foot gravel/grass runway, access to over 1,000,000 acres of hiking and ATV trails, and a serene lakeside setting, this gated community offers pilots and outdoor enthusiasts a rare opportunity to embrace aviation and the Alaskan wilderness in one place.
To get an inside look, we spoke with Stewart, one of the developers behind Skyland Airpark, about his vision, the community, and what makes this airpark so special.
A Vision Born from Experience
Stewart’s journey into aviation began in 1979 when he first soloed as a pilot. Over the years, he’s flown across different regions, owning multiple hangar homes and experiencing the benefits of airpark living firsthand—all experiences that shaped the foundation of Skyland Airpark.
“I’ve lived in different airparks in Alaska and Texas, and I took the best aspects of each to create Skyland,” Stewart explains. “The goal was to offer a private, secure community where pilots and outdoor lovers could live, play, and explore Alaska’s last great adventure.”
The Community & Lifestyle
Although still in its early stages, Skyland Airpark already has a handful of residents, including its first full-time family, who recently moved from Kansas City. Many others fly in seasonally, escaping the heat of the Lower 48 for Alaska’s long summer days and pristine flying conditions.
“The airpark attracts a mix of airline pilots, outdoor enthusiasts, and aviation lovers,” Stewart says. “But it’s not just for pilots—some residents just love the scenery, the security of a gated subdivision, and the access to outdoor adventure.”
Adventure at Your Doorstep
Beyond aviation, Skyland Lake and the surrounding wilderness offer countless activities:
Fishing & Boating – The lake is home to a run of salmon and large resident fish, making it a paradise for anglers.
Snowmachining & Ice Skating – In winter, the lake transforms into an ice runway and community space for skating and snowmachine gatherings.
Off-Airport Landings – Nearby rivers and mountains offer endless backcountry flying opportunities.
Hunting & Hiking – With direct access to over 4 million acres of untouched wilderness, the opportunities for caribou, moose, and bear hunting are unparalleled.
Build Options
One of Skyland’s standout features is its flexibility in home options. Buyers have two main choices when purchasing property in the community:
Choose a Pre-Designed Home – Skyland offers a chalet package, where buyers can select from pre-designed home options built by the community’s preferred builder. This provides a streamlined process for those who want a move-in-ready home tailored to the airpark’s aesthetic and standards.
Bring Your Own Builder – Buyers can also purchase a vacant lot and work with their own builder to design a custom home, as long as it meets the community’s guidelines and HOA regulations.
Residents also benefit from strict HOA guidelines that maintain the quality and integrity of the community. “We want to keep it clean, quiet, and well-maintained,” Stewart explains. “It’s important that the development adds value to every homeowner.”
A Unique Runway Experience
Skyland Airpark’s 1,800-foot paved runway isn’t just practical—it’s an experience.
“One end of the runway lands over the lake, which is kind of like landing on an aircraft carrier,” Stewart shares. “It’s a beautiful approach with a wide, open area, and the location is unique because we don’t get the harsh winds that other areas in the Mat-Su Valley do.”
Amenities & Future Plans
Skyland Airpark offers over $3 million in shared amenities, including:
A private pavilion with fire pits, grills, and gathering space.
Plans for a future fuel co-op for residents to access aviation fuel at cost.
A mile-long frozen runway on the lake in winter.
Tie-down areas for guest aircraft.
Gated security, ensuring a private and safe environment.
Skyland Airpark plays a vital role in the community by allowing local EMS services to use its runway for emergency medical evacuations. With its well-maintained airstrip and secure access, the airpark provides a critical landing zone for medevac flights, ensuring faster response times for those in need. This service has already been used multiple times, highlighting the airpark’s value as both a residential community and a regional asset.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Skyland
With 90 lots still available, Stewart expects a surge of new residents as roads are fully paved and the final touches are completed this year. The airpark is already drawing interest from pilots in Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico, Idaho, and Texas—many looking for a summer escape with unparalleled flying freedom.
Skyland also plans to host community fly-ins, aerobatic demonstrations, and snowmachine gatherings, fostering a vibrant and active community.
Why Skyland Airpark?
For those dreaming of an authentic Alaskan aviation lifestyle, Skyland Airpark offers freedom, adventure, and a tight-knit community unlike anywhere else. Whether you’re a pilot looking for a summer base or an outdoor lover wanting a secure home with breathtaking views, Skyland is a one-of-a-kind opportunity.
Interested in learning more? Lots and hangar homes are available now. Reach out to Skyland Airpark to secure your piece of Alaska’s last great adventure.
