Merle K. (Mudhole) Smith Airport, located in Cordova, Alaska, is a small airport that serves the surrounding community and provides essential air transportation services to the region. Named after an Alaska Aviation Hall of Fame inductee, Merle Smith, the airport plays a crucial role in connecting Cordova to the rest of the state and beyond.

Cordova is a remote and isolated community located in the Prince William Sound region of Alaska, making air transportation one of the primary modes of access for residents and visitors alike. The airport serves as a vital link between Cordova and other communities in Alaska, as well as the Lower 48, providing essential goods, services, and connections to the outside world.

The airport features a single asphalt runway, measuring 6,100 feet in length, which is capable of accommodating a range of aircraft sizes, including small private planes, commercial jets, and cargo planes. The airport is equipped with modern navigation and communication systems, allowing for safe and efficient operations in all weather conditions. Additionally, the airport has a full-service fixed-base operator (FBO) that provides fueling, maintenance, and other services to aircraft operators and passengers.

In addition to serving as a gateway to Cordova, Merle K. Smith Airport also plays a key role in supporting the local economy and community. The airport is a hub for commercial air traffic, including passenger flights, cargo shipments, and air taxi services, which help to connect Cordova to the broader economy and facilitate the movement of people and goods in and out of the region.

The airport is also an important asset for emergency response and disaster relief efforts in the area. In times of crisis, the airport serves as a critical lifeline for the community, providing access to essential supplies, medical care, and other resources. The airport's strategic location and capabilities make it a key resource for local authorities and organizations responding to emergencies and natural disasters in the region.

Due to its remote location and challenging weather conditions, operating an airport in Cordova presents unique challenges and requires a high level of expertise and skill. The airport's staff, including air traffic controllers, maintenance personnel, and other employees, work diligently to ensure the safety and efficiency of operations at the airport. Their dedication and professionalism are essential in maintaining the airport's high standards of safety and service.

Despite its relatively small size and remote location, Merle K. (Mudhole) Smith Airport plays a critical role in supporting the community of Cordova and connecting it to the rest of Alaska and the world. The airport's facilities, services, and staff work together to provide reliable and efficient air transportation services to residents, visitors, businesses, and emergency responders in the region. As a vital lifeline for Cordova, Merle K. Smith Airport continues to be an essential resource for the community and a key contributor to the region's economic, social, and cultural well-being.